Storiesonline.net
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                             The Defenceman
                              by Cold Creek

Copyright© 2009 by Cold Creek


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Description: Michael Stewart, a Canadian at the University of Michigan on a Computer Science scholarship, is seen shooting at a free skate and is asked to try out for the U of M Men's hockey team. This story follows Mike's first year as he tries to fit hockey into a busy school schedule and a possible new girl friend.

Codes: MF FF Ff Mult cons rom celeb sch
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Chapter 1


Does it rain at every funeral? The three I had previously attended had been damp and wet affairs, but today it was coming down in buckets. At least it hid the few tears I couldn't stop, as I stood listening to the next insincere condolence from yet another unknown person. I tried hard not to show them any emotion and get through the final part as quick as possible. My plan was to leave this town as soon as I could as there was nothing left for me here except sorrow and anger.

I said my own goodbyes privately to them when all of the others left. At least they were together, my father now with my mother, who had died from cancer six months earlier after a long two year battle. He had never been the same since she died and the accident at the mill had only hastened a predictable death from a broken heart.

I thanked the preacher and the funeral director and left the cemetery in my car. I drove home and changed into jeans and a t-shirt and finished packing what I wanted to bring with me. I loaded everything into the car and locked up the house. I backed up the car and pulled out onto the highway going into town. I stopped by the real estate office that was handling the sale of the house for me and gave them the keys. Then I quickly dropped into the office of the lawyer handling all the legal matters with the death of my father to let him know I was leaving and gave him my forwarding address and contact information at school. Finally I grabbed a burger combo to eat on the road. I pulled out of town heading south in the early afternoon on a Saturday in late August with no relatives or friends there to see me off.

I hit the U.S. border and crossed into Minnesota and kept driving south until I hit Duluth and found a hotel for the night. I got up early, had a good breakfast and got back on the road heading south east through Wisconsin and into Illinois. I grabbed a late lunch in Chicago and then drove around Lake Michigan until I hit Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan and now my residence for the next four years. It was late so rather than heading to my basement apartment, I found a hotel for the night. The next morning I ate in the hotel restaurant and then drove over to the house where the apartment was.

I found the street and slowly drove down it looking for the address. I had been here once back in June but all the houses looked the same. The street was lined with old two storey homes that had seen better days. Since the street was close to the University, a lot of the houses had been turned into multiple apartment rentals by their owners, with either the owner living in one of the apartments or one of the tenants would act as the manager for the owner. In this case the owner, a Mrs Sullivan, still lived in the building on the main floor but had two apartments upstairs and two downstairs in the basement. I had managed to rent the smallest basement apartment which basically had one room for a bedroom/living room, a small washroom and a small kitchen. The two basement apartments shared an outside entrance that also led to the laundry room for all four apartments and Mrs. Sullivan.

I located the house and pulled into the driveway so I could unpack what little I had brought with me. The apartment came with a bed, a dresser and a small desk in the bedroom, and a table and two chairs for the kitchen, so luckily I didn't need to spend much to get settled in. I knocked on the main front door and looked around while waiting for Mrs. Sullivan to answer. She answered the door and smiled as she recognized me.

"Michael, you made it. How was the trip down from Canada?" she asked.

"It was good Mrs. Sullivan, but long. It's good to be here finally" I replied with a small smile.

"I hope you didn't drive all night to get here this morning?" she asked with a worried look.

"No, I came in late last night and stayed in a hotel down the road" I said.

"That's good. Ok, let's get your keys and get you set up downstairs"

She grabbed a set of keys and we walked to the back of the house where the downstairs entrance was. Mrs. Sullivan used one key to open that door and we walked down the stairs into a well lit hallway. My apartment was on the left, another on the right, with the laundry room located at the far end of the hallway. She opened my apartment with the second key and then gave me the set. We went in and she went over the rules quickly, no drugs, alcohol, or loud music or parties. Guests were allowed, but noise levels had to be kept down. Laundry room privileges were included except I had to provide detergent. The rent included utilities, but I had to keep usage moderate or rent would increase. I asked about parking the car and she showed me the small parking area in the back. They were assigned by apartment so she showed me where to park after I was done looking around.

I told her I no problem with any of those rules so she left me to move in after we settled up on the first and last months' rent. I just had a few garbage bags of clothes, a couple boxes of books, my laptop, a small TV and DVD player and some keepsakes and pictures. I had one box of kitchen dishes, pots and pans and a box of cleaning and laundry supplies. There wasn't room for much else in either my car or the apartment.

It took me about a half hour to get everything inside and park the car. I hung up the clothes in the small closet and put the rest in the dresser. I unpacked the dishes and the supplies but let the books and the keepsakes in their boxes until I could get a couple of shelves hung and pick up a cheap bookcase. The TV and DVD went on the top of the dresser to be watched from the bed.

It was lunch time when I got through unpacking everything so I grabbed my keys and drove to a burger joint and got a combo meal and ate it while driving to a grocery store nearby. I loaded up on some cheap groceries, hot dogs, Mac & Cheese, bulk French fries, bulk toilet paper and the like. Until some money could come in from the sale of the house or from the lawyer I had to make do with my savings. I went back to the apartment and put the groceries away and relaxed for a bit. I set up the laptop on the desk but couldn't find a plug for the internet. I found a wireless network present but didn't have the password. I went to ask Mrs Sullivan but she told me to ask Vicky in the other downstairs apartment as she dealt with that for her.

I knocked on Vicky's door and she opened up her door with a puzzled look. She was a cute, thin, tall brunette, about five foot eight or so and dressed in some ragged t-shirt and old sweat shorts.

"Hi, you're Vicky right?" I asked.

"Yes, and you are?" she replied.

"Hi I'm Mike Stewart, I just moved into the other apartment down here. Mrs. Sullivan told me you were the one to talk to about the internet access code on the wireless network."

"Oh hi Mike, nice to meet you, I'm Vicky Waters" she said happily. "It's good to finally have someone else down here. It gets a little lonely down here all by myself."

"I can imagine that it could be a bit freaky to be by yourself in this old basement. Have you been here long?"

"This is going on my second year here. Mrs. Sullivan is a pretty good landlord and this is probably one of the cheapest places in the city. Ok, let me write down the stuff you will need. It's an n wireless router which all four apartments can attach to. You have a wireless ready laptop?"

"Yes. I picked up the network but need the password" I replied.

"You'll need to pay ten a month to use it to cover the costs of the network and internet service ok?" she asked.

"No problem Vicky; let me go get you a cheque for the whole year so it's taken care of."

"I really appreciate it Mike, I got ripped off by the last guy who didn't pay anything. I had to pay for it all up front."

I went and got my cheque book and wrote her a cheque and she handed me a slip of paper with the password on it.

"Maybe we can eat together sometimes if you like, it's hard to cook for one person all the time and the two guys upstairs never bother with me down here" she asked me with a tentative smile.

"Sounds good to me, I just got some cheap and quick foods but you're welcome to join me anytime. Mi Casa es Su Casa" I replied with a smile.

"Great!" she said enthusiastically with a big smile.

"See you for supper over at my place about five thirty?" I asked.

"Sure Mike, thanks"

I went back to my apartment and logged onto the network and accessed the internet and my email account. I checked the University website and confirmed an appointment for tomorrow morning to register and get my books through the scholarship I was awarded in Computer Science.

I logged out about five from the network and looked in the fridge and freezer to see what I could make us. I grabbed the hot dogs, fries and buns from the freezer and a bag salad from the fridge and started the fries going in the oven and the hot dogs on the stove. I rinsed the lettuce and let it sit in the colander to drain while I went to change my clothes for something a bit better for a female guest.

The fries were done in about 20 minutes and the hot dogs were turned down on the stove while I put the buns in the oven to warm up while I waited for Vicky. I had just put the salad into a bowl on the table with a couple of choices of dressings when I heard a knock on the door.

I went to open it and she stood there shyly. She had changed into a nice dress and had done her hair up and put some makeup on. She had a covered plate in her hands.

"Wow, Vicky, you clean up real nice. Come on in" I said, stepping back to let her in.

"Thanks Mike, you do too" she replied with a smile. "Here are some cookies I made for desert".

"They smell great; just put them on the counter for now. Thanks" I said.

We sat down and learned a bit about each other as we ate; she was a second year chemistry student from Dearborn Michigan. I was nervous as I had barely talked to a girl in the last couple of years, let be alone with a girl. She seemed nervous as well but we eventually had a nice time. We ate a few cookies while cleaning up and then she said she had to go after thanking me for a nice meal. She said tomorrow night was at her place at six but we had to dress just real casual like we would normally. She said not to expect her to dress up like that every day. Too bad I thought.

I wished her a good night and I got changed and turned on the TV and watched an old war movie. I shut the TV off, set the alarm and ended a long stressful week falling asleep dreaming of Vicky in her dress.



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Chapter 2


Monday morning came too soon. I couldn't get to sleep in a new place until I was real tired so I only got a few hours sleep. I grabbed a glass of diet coke and hurriedly cleaned up and got dressed. I walked down to the registration office and met with the councillor. We went through the scholarship details and got me signed up for the appropriate classes and set me up with a voucher to get my textbooks. I went to the campus bookstore and got them and lugged them back to my apartment. I grabbed a quick lunch and then went back to the University to attend a couple of mandatory freshman seminars and orientation activities. They had booths set up for all the fraternities and sororities but I had no interest in them. I did sign up for some intramural hockey as I had brought my skates, stick, gloves and helmet in case I could find somewhere to play. I would have to pick up some used shin guards, elbow pads and shoulder pads and pants.

I looked at my watch and saw that it was already pretty late, so I walked back and put away my stuff. I grabbed a frozen cake from the freezer and knocked on Vicky's door. She opened up with a smile and invited me in. She was wearing a t-shirt and shorts as was I; the difference is she looked good in hers. We were having home-made lasagne and garlic bread and it smelled and looked delicious. I was starving from the long day and we dug in. We talked about our day, mostly mine, since she had stayed home as she was already registered and didn't need to attend any orientation. She told me stories of her week last year when a friend had tried to get her to join a sorority. She was glad she didn't with all the homework she had but the friend did and they didn't see much of each other anymore. She seemed pretty lonely by herself and I wondered why she didn't have a boyfriend but I was too shy to ask.

We cleaned up the kitchen and I thanked her and left when she started getting nervous. I found a textbook and started reading it in advance to get ahead. After a bit I logged into the network and looked up the intramural hockey site to get some information on game times as well as open ice times to get some practice in. I found time in the early mornings every day that I could get to before my first class. That would get me some exercise without having to join a gym.

I called it a day a little early and tried to fall asleep, this time with Vicky in her shorts teasing me.

I got up early Tuesday morning and drove to the Yost Ice Arena which was an old barn style arena that had two rows of windows in the front two storey part of the building. The brown bricks made it look very stately for an arena and it looked like it had been renovated a few times. I walked in up the stairs and went into the front lobby to look around. There were a bunch of bulletin boards listing public skating times, intramural league schedules and display cases highlighting both the men's and women's Wolverines hockey teams' accomplishments.

I looked at the rink through the windows and saw a practice just ending for a girl's team and the Zamboni coming on to clean the ice. A couple of people were at the rink's door waiting for him to finish. I looked around for a change room and followed some signs to a hallway down some stairs. I followed a guy into a room and asked him if this was for the free skate and he said yes. I quickly put my skates on and asked if sticks and pucks were allowed and he said the rink was split in half so those that wanted to could just skate, and the other half you could have pucks and shoot at the net. Sometimes there was a goalie who wanted some practice. I thanked him and grabbed my gloves and stick and a couple of pucks and went out.

It had been about four months since I had been on the ice and a couple years since I had played in any type of game situation. We had a small rink at our house that my Dad and I would skate on and practice shooting but nothing beats playing to keep you in shape. I stepped on the ice and slowly skated around the entire rink until the halves were sectioned off. I put a puck down and started handling it while continuing to skate around the half rink. A goalie was stretching at the side of the rink while a couple of us were stick handling and taking soft shots at the empty net. Eventually he got in the net and the other guys started shooting at him or going in to try and deke him.

I felt warmed up a little but stopped skating and stretched until I finally felt ready and joined the two guys. They didn't seem to have a hard shot but the younger short one seemed to be able to move and deke well. The older one seemed to be just fooling around and talked to both the goalie and the younger guy. I asked if I could take a few shots in between and they said go ahead. I waited until they were off to the side and took a couple of slap shots from the blue line at about half strength. I wanted to make sure they were on target rather than to go for power at first. We alternated for a bit as I started feeling more comfortable. I started putting a bit more power into the shots and tried to pick the corners top and bottom to make the goalie have to move a bit rather than just stay in the middle. He seemed to be able to stop most of them easily so I started putting a bit more power to them. A couple got past him high on the stick side and over his glove shoulder finally. He seemed to bear down a bit more when I shot so I put a few at him at almost full power. One missed high and banged loud against the glass behind him attracting a few looks from around the arena. Finally I started skating in and deking him as well; starting slow with a couple of moves I used to use or just wristing a shot for the open side when he moved. He stopped more than he let in. He asked me to take a few more shots before the time was up so I went back to shooting on him. I put in my full power at the end and blew a few by him, banging a couple off the goal posts and cross bar and missing on a few. He had a real good glove hand but his weakness was his stick side so I shot for that side at the end and put three in top, middle and low corner before the buzzer sounded. I thanked them for letting me shoot with them and said I would see them around. The three stayed on for a minute while I skated off and walked through the players waiting to get on after the Zamboni cleaned the ice.

I quickly took off my skates and packed up my stuff and was walking out when the older guy came in.

"That was some shooting out there young man" he said.

"Thanks, it's been awhile since I had any practice. It's nice to be able to get some in without a lot of people in the way."

"Where did you learn to shoot like that?" he asked.

"Oh, up in Northern Ontario on our rink my Dad and I built every year" I replied.

"And the deking?" he asked.

"Same place, either we would shoot at holes in a target or go one on one with each other and then have to put it in with the target there" I said.

"Well it seems to have paid off. Are you here to try out for the team?" he inquired.

"Team, what team? I thought it was just a free skate out there" I replied confused.

"Oh, I thought you might be trying out for the University team — the Wolverines" he said.

I laughed and said "Sorry no, I signed up for intramural hockey yesterday but I didn't have any plans to try out for the University team."

"Hmmm, maybe you should, that was the starting goalie for the team and one of the centres out there getting a bit of practice"

"He was a pretty good goalie that's for sure, he just needs some practice on his stick side and he should do well. Maybe I'll see you tomorrow; I need to get in shape for the league that starts next week. Thanks again."

"Ok, see you tomorrow" he said.

I went home and had a shower and relaxed a bit before having to go and attend another orientation for freshman, this time about Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Sexual Harassment and proper behaviour. I didn't have much to worry about as my track record with girls was batting zero for zero. I wasn't much to look at, being tall and skinny, and I was pretty shy around girls, always had been.

I had some lunch and went home to grab my car and went to a sports store that specialized in used equipment and scrounged around until I found some shoulder pads, shin pads and elbow pads that fit and didn't cost much. I grabbed a pair of hockey pants, a couple of jerseys, one white and one dark and a hockey bag and paid for the lot. I stopped on the way home and got a spray bottle of Febreze and sprayed the whole lot of it outside and let them air out. It was an old trick to get rid of the musty smell and the sweat from the equipment I wore today.

Vicky rounded the corner in a tight pair of shorts and a cute tank top and saw me spraying the equipment.

"Hey Mike, what ya doing?" she asked.

"I'm just spraying my hockey equipment to get rid of the smell. I joined an intramural hockey league and went for a free skate this morning for a bit of exercise and practice" I told her.

"Oh, that sounds fun, I'll have to come watch you play sometime" she said with a smile.

"Sure, as soon as I know when they are I will let you know" I replied. "So are you coming over for dinner tonight?" I asked.

She looked at me and said with a grin "Of course, it is your turn!"

"Well, you are in for a treat, Macaronis et Fromage, real French Canadian masterpiece will await your arrival, let's say at five" I boasted.

"It sounds delicious, I hope it won't take too long for you to make" she said.

"Nothing is too long for you, mon petite fille" I replied, exhausting my grade nine high school French vocabulary.

She looked at me funny and said she would see me at five. I grabbed a textbook and read outside for a while until I got too hot. I packed the equipment in the bag and brought it in and put in on the other side of my bed.

I had a quick shower and then started the dinner. I had some big Kaiser buns so I cut them in half, buttered each side and put some garlic powder on them and toasted them in the oven. I put some cheese on a couple to make garlic cheese bread but left a few just with the butter in case she didn't want so much cheese. I made a pitcher of grape juice and put out a checker patterned paper table cloth and poured the grape juice into a couple of glasses. I found a small stump of a candle and stuck it on a plate and lit it just before five. It looked like a fancy dining room table at first glance. I put the main course in a shallow square pan and covered it and then pulled out the garlic buns and put them on a plate beside the pan. I quickly changed and was waiting when she knocked.

"Bonjour Mon petite fille, so good of you to join us in our French restaurant tonight" I said in a horrible French accent.

"Why thank you kind sir, this looks marvellous!" she exclaimed. "You weren't supposed to spend a lot of time on this!"

"It is not a bother for the best chef in the entire entire basement" I said pompously. "Please sit" I directed her as I pulled her chair out. She sat down and I pushed her chair in and then placed a napkin on her lap. I sat down across from her and raised my glass and said "A toast! To a beginning friendship — may it last and grow into a beautiful friendship".

She echoed "To friendship" and we both had a drink. She smiled when she tasted the grape juice and I winked.

"And now, the piece de resistance... 'Macaronis et Fromage'" I pontificated as I took the top off the pan.

She broke out in laughter and nearly drenched the table in grape juice.

"Mac and Cheese! Here I'm expecting some fancy French dish —oooh, you are so going to get it Mister" she threatened with a smile.

"And homemade Garlic buns and Cheese Garlic buns too" I retorted, taking the cover off the plate.

"Well, ok then, you might have saved yourself" she laughed.

I dished out some for her and then myself and we had a nice meal with more conversation than ever before. She had incredible large eyes that sparkled when she laughed and she was witty and very smart. I enjoyed spending time with her as a person and forgot she was a pretty girl. I think she forgot for a while that I was a boy and we talked for a much longer time than usual. The candle sputtered out and we realized at the same time that we were still sitting at the table two hours later.

We got up and cleaned up the dishes and put the leftovers away. I didn't want this evening to end but I didn't know how to keep it going without it getting awkward. She was just finishing drying the last dish so I had a little bit of time before she got nervous too. Maybe we can watch a DVD I thought, so I sort of told her rather than asked her.

"Let's go get a DVD down at the store ok" I said as I grabbed her hand and lightly pulled her to the door. She came along without a fuss, surprising me and I think her as well. We went up the stairs with me holding her hand and the door with the other hand and we walked up the driveway holding hands. I tried to keep the conversation going with questions on what she would like to see, a romantic comedy, an action, a thriller, a drama or a horror and we talked about some of the movies that were out. I didn't get a weird vibe from her or even worse an amused vibe so that was good. I was starting to get very attracted to her and wanted to get to know her better, even though she was older.

We entered the variety store and I had to let her hand go as we went in. When she wasn't looking I wiped off my hand, it seemed to have gotten wet somehow. We looked at what was available and I let her talk me into some romantic comedy with Reese Witherspoon in it. We grabbed some pop and chips and I paid for everything after I signed up to be allowed to rent from them. We walked back pretty close to each other and she had her hand close to mine so I took the next step and grabbed it and held it as we walked back. She looked at me and gave me a little smile and I smiled back at her. She squeezed my hand a little bit and looked ok with it, not too happy but not mad either.

We got back to my apartment and went inside. I saw a problem as soon as we walked in the door. The only place to sit was on the bed to watch the TV which sat on the dresser. I ignored that as I gave her the movie while I poured the drinks and got a big bowl for the chips and a couple of napkins. She had put the DVD in and had the remote in her hand while sitting on the edge of the bed skimming through the old trailers. I sat down at the edge of the bed holding both drinks after putting the bowl between us. She slipped her runners off and wiggled back to the head of the bed and then had me hand her the bowl and her glass. I did this by standing up and moving closer to her. I walked to the other side of the bed and pried my shoes off with the other foot and then sat down with my back against the wall beside her. She put the bowl between us and started the movie.

We watched the movie without touching except a few times when we both reached for chips at the same time. I tried to look at her from the side of my eyes but she always seemed to be watching the movie so I couldn't get a good read on her. All too soon the movie was over and she was getting up. She stretched her lanky body and her breasts strained against her tank top and her bare midriff that was showing as her top crept up. She looked so good I just stared at her.

She held that position for a bit while my eyes roamed up her body until I got to her face and saw that she was smiling that she caught me. I blushed a beet red and my face got warm.

"You are so cute when you blush" she said with a giggle as I got off the bed in a fluster.

"Sorry about that, It's just that you are very beautiful and I haven't been around many girls" I apologized.

"Hey, don't worry, if I don't want you to look, I'll wear a sweat suit ok?"

"Ummm, ok" I said.

She put her glass in the sink and grabbed her keys. She turned to me and walked up close to me and said "Thanks for the nice evening. I had a really good time". She looked up at me and smiled.

"Thanks for being here. I had a great time too" I replied looking into her eyes.

She waited for a bit, gave me a quick grin and turned around quite close, just brushing me with her body and walked to the door. I followed and watched her as she went to her door and opened it. She looked back and saw me looking and gave me a smile and said goodnight. I said good night and waited until she closed her door before closing mine.

I grabbed a shower and went to bed thinking of Vicky in her short tank top and her bare midriff.

I got up on Wednesday thinking of the same thing that I did when I went to bed. I got up and drove over to the arena to get another skate in. This time I went right to the locker room and got changed and was waiting when the Zamboni was still out on the ice. I did some stretching while waiting to get my stiff muscles warmed up. There didn't seem to be many people there yet but that might be better so I could get in a good skate first. The Zamboni finished up and just a couple of people started on the ice. I started off slow, just doing a few laps around the outside like the others. I switched to skating backwards to see if I could still do it without falling. It came back pretty quickly without any embarrassing falls. It felt real good to be skating again especially with all that had happened in the last year.

I felt warmed up enough so I sped up going forward and putting some effort into it. After a few laps I switched to backwards while at full speed and kept up the speed for a few more laps until I had to take a rest. I slowed up and went into a glide with my stick on my knees sucking wind. I looked up and someone had divided the rink and the same guys were out with the goalie. They had a few more guys out taking some shots today. A couple were big guys, as tall as me but probably twenty or thirty pounds heavier. The others were shorter than me but most had the same build as the taller guys. The older guy from yesterday was there and when I skated up he said "Hi there, here to take a few more shots? My name is Frank by the way."

"Hi Frank, nice to meet you, I'm Mike" I said as I took off my glove to shake his hand. "If you guys don't mind me joining in, I sure could use the practice".

"Nice to meet you Mike" he greeted me. "We don't mind, the more the merrier".

The guys were lined up along the blue line and started taking shots. There were some strong shots and some average ones. No one did any close in shots or deking. When it came to my turn I put one in the top corner on the goalie's stick side at three quarter power. One the big guys took a big wind up and let one rip at the same place but the goalie had adjusted and used his blocker high to deflect it. The second big guy also had a powerful shot but missed the net high and shook the glass behind the net. We went up and down the line about five times with the taller guys and me giving the goalie some good shots to try and stop. One of mine clanged off the crossbar loudly while a couple of theirs hit the backboards and wrapped around the side boards above the ice.

After the fifth time the end guy skated in and took a wrist shot from the middle of the ice at the top of the face of circle. The goalie kicked out his leg to stop it and got back into position to stop the next guy. We all took turns with the wrist shots, trying to pick a corner or go five-hole between his legs. The goalie was good with quick reflexes and a good glove hand like yesterday. I shot low on the stick side when he was moving out from the net so his reaction time would be slower. It got past him but hit the post with a clang. We did this for a while and then the first guy went all the way in and put a nice deke on the goalie and roofed the puck while the goalie could only cover the bottom of the net in a sprawl. The smaller guys were better at this so they were probably all forwards while the big guys did simpler moves or shot when they got close and were most probably defencemen. I beat him with a backhand once and a shot over his glove shoulder in close another time but he stopped me a couple of times too.

We ended it with a few last shots back from the blueline with just the big guys trying to out-muscle each other. We called it a day when the goalie caught a hard shot from one of us in the mask and it knocked him off his feet. We went over to him and made sure he was ok and helped him out.

"Damn guys, I'm going to be black and blue all over from stopping your shots" he said with a grimace.

We laughed and skated off. I thanked them for letting me shoot with them and went to the locker room where I had my stuff. They must have gone to another one. I changed and left to go back to my apartment.

I aired out my equipment and read some more of my textbooks. I had a quick lunch and went to the sports store with my skates to see if they could sharpen them. While they were sharpening them I looked at their sticks. I would need at least a couple more if I was going to keep shooting hard like today. I had always used wood sticks at home with my Dad and my current stick was wood, but I wanted to grab a new style composite stick to see how they felt and shot. I found the longest right hand stick I could find and tried it out. Wow, it was much lighter but cost 200 dollars. I looked for a discount rack with some composite sticks and found some for 65 dollars. Still too much so I picked up two wood ones for 50 dollars total plus seven more for the sharpening.

My lack of money reminded me to check on the status of the house sale and the estate with the realtor and the lawyer tomorrow. Hopefully there was some progress on both fronts. I went to the grocery store and grabbed a few groceries and splurged on a couple of fancier pre-made meals and a couple packages of chicken and ground beef. I found some hamburger helper to mix with the beef to make a cheap meal. I got back and put away the groceries and then sat down and taped up the two sticks. I started to think about supper and wondered if Vicky was going to take her turn or if I should start something and invite her over. I wasn't sure what to do so I thought I would wait and if nothing happened by five just make something simple for myself.

I sat down and thought about Vicky. She was pretty, smart and nice to be around and had a killer body that I couldn't get out of my mind. It was nice to be friends but I thought it would be better to be something more. I wasn't sure if she wanted something more or just wanted to keep being friends. The big problem would be if we weren't on the same page and someone's feelings got hurt, probably mine. It would be bad if we couldn't be friends if something happened and we still had to live in the same basement. I didn't know what to do. I wanted to ask her out but was afraid of rejection or even worse, ridicule. I decided to wait and see how she reacted if I saw her tonight or tomorrow and if she seemed receptive ask her out for dinner on Friday night. I looked at the clock and it was quarter after five. I guess she was eating by herself tonight. I got up and grabbed a can of tomato soup and heated it up on the stove. I was stirring it to keep it from burning when I heard a knock.

I opened to find Vicky standing there with her hands on her hips with a frown on her pretty face. She had on a nice blouse and some snug dress shorts and she looked very pretty.

"Hi Vicky, how's it going?" I asked with a smile. "You look very nice today"

"Don't Hi Vicky me mister! Why aren't you over at my apartment? Dinner's getting cold!"

"Oh, sorry, you didn't invite me over and I didn't want to presume anything" I apologized.

"I didn't? I thought for sure I did and you forgot or just were standing me up" she said.

"Nope, I wouldn't have forgotten an invitation and I most certainly would never stand you up without a good reason and a call to warn you" I defended myself.

"Hmmm, ok. So, are you coming over or what?" she asked.

"Sure, let me shut off the stove and get changed and I will be right over" I quickly replied.

"Ok, I'll leave the door open, just come in" she said and walked back to her place.

I shut off the stove and put the soup in a bowl and put it in the fridge. I quickly washed up and put on a good shirt and dress shorts and went over. I walked in and saw she had a nice table set for us.

"This looks very nice Vicky, sorry we got our wires crossed" I apologized.

"It was probably my fault, I wanted to make everything perfect and just forgot to make sure you were coming over" she said. "The food is still warm so let's dig in".

She had made a pork chop dinner with rice and vegetables and apple sauce to go on top of the chops. It was delicious. While we were eating I noticed she had her hair done in a different style and her makeup was done very nicely. She looked like she had put a lot of effort into the meal and her appearance so I felt good that we both wanted more than to be just friends.

"Vicky, this meal is absolutely delicious, you must have spent hours on it" I complimented her.

"Thanks Mike, I'm glad you like it" she replied.

"And you look quite beautiful today, did you get a haircut or is it a new style?"

"Oh, I just put it up a little different, but thanks for noticing and for the nice compliment. You look handsome tonight as well" she said with a smile.

"Thanks" I replied with a smile.

We finished up with dinner and cleaned up the dishes and pots and pans. When we were done she let me know she got a movie and grabbed my hand and pulled me to her bedroom/living room.

"Put the DVD in will you while I get us some snacks and drinks ok" she directed.

"Sure Vicky" I agreed.

I had the movie all queued up when she came in with a tray that she put on the night stand. She sat down and pulled me down to sit beside her, leaning against the back wall. I started the movie, a romance, and we sat watching it. She offered me some chips but I was still full from dinner so I declined. I loved looking at her long legs stretched out beside me and I wanted so much to reach over and touch her. A pretty tame love scene came on, and I knew she picked a romance movie for a reason, so I reached over and grabbed her hand lying close to mine. She looked at me while I looked at her and then she looked down at my hand on hers and then gave me a small nervous smile. I didn't know how to read that but at least she didn't pull her hand away from me. I was pretty new at this and even though I was in a girls apartment and on her bed alone I wasn't picking up any signs she wanted me to do more. Then again, I'm a guy so a neon sign would have to come from the ceiling and hit me on the head before I could read what a woman is signalling.

My little head was telling me to lean over and kiss her and go for it, while my big head was angry for getting her nervous already. Nobody was happy and I got nervous and my hand started sweating. I think she saw I was getting nervous so she grabbed the remote from between us and paused the movie and looked at me.

"Mike, I think it's time to talk" she said.

Like all men, I know it's time to duck and cover when a woman says that and I looked for the door as I pulled my hand off hers like it was a hot stove. The next thing was automatic as well.

"Sorry, I shouldn't have done that" I apologized and got up off the bed and took off for the door.

I rushed out the door and had my key in the lock when I heard her door open.

"Michael Stewart, where do you think you are going?" she said.

Not good, not good at all. She sounded like every mother I have ever heard when they are ready to drop a load on a kid's head. And she used the full name thing too. I visibly cringed. I looked back at her to see her standing in her doorway with her arms crossed below her breasts with a serious frown on her face.

"Sorry Vicky, it won't happen again" I said trying to calm her down. "Maybe it's best just to stop having dinner together".

She walked up to me and put her hands on her hips again. Shit I was in for it now. I backed up until I hit the door and she followed me until she was right up tight against me looking up into my face. I mentally prepared myself for a knee in the groin she looked so angry. I was more scared of her right then than a six foot eight behemoth just about to put me through the boards - from behind.

She stared at me for a bit and then grabbed my shirt with both hands and pulled herself up while pulling me down until we were eye to eye.

"If you ever, ever do that again I will hunt you down and feed what's left of you to the goldfishes. Do you understand me?" she said in a quiet precise tone that was scarier than if she had screamed at me.

"Yes" I said. Like what else was I going to say? Attila the Hun wouldn't have said anything else either.

She looked at me for a bit then said "You are a clueless dork, you know" and gave me a kiss. A nice long kiss with her whole body right up tight against me. She finally stopped and lowered herself down but kept one hand on my shirt and kept looking at me with the same face.

Ok that was very much unexpected and hit me harder than a check from behind. She waited until my eyes focussed on her again and said with a very small smirk "We will now go back to my apartment and have our talk. If it goes well you might even get another of those, if not my goldfish will be having you for breakfast. Capesh?"

I nodded and allowed myself to relax and let her pull me back into her apartment and sit me down on a kitchen chair. She sat down on the other one and looked at me for a minute. She seemed to come to a decision and started talking.

"Michael, let me talk for a bit and then you can talk ok?" she asked.

I nodded.

"I was a very shy naive girl when I came here last year. When my friend joined the sorority I got very lonely. The guy that was living in your apartment was a much older, experienced man and he saw an opportunity to take advantage of a girl all alone far from home with no one to talk to. He really put on the charm and spent time and money on me until he got what he wanted. After he seduced me and got me into bed he changed. He became abusive, verbally, physically and sexually until I ended up in the hospital over Christmas break. A buddy warned him and he left town before he could be arrested and hasn't been seen since. Mrs. Sullivan helped me get back on my feet and my parents helped as well so I finished the school year. She was so good to me that I had to come back here, even though I had bad memories and my folks wanted me go into the dorms. I like my privacy and I can study here in peace and quiet. I took some self defence classes and go to martial arts class every day so I feel much more confident now. I have counselling that I go to once a week to help as well.

Mrs Sullivan couldn't keep the apartment vacant any longer but she told me she would hand pick someone to make sure I would be safe. I even got to see your application and had a look at you before she said yes. We both thought you wouldn't be a problem or a threat to me and we were right. But you were too nice and sweet and now we have to decide how to handle this. Do we just stay friends, do we become girlfriend and boyfriend, or do we stop everything and just be acquaintances? The way you act around me tells me that you are very shy and probably not very experienced when it comes to girls. After what happened last year, that is just what I need from a guy. I need someone who is willing to be patient and slow and willing to go at my speed. I need to know now what you think about me and the possibility of us after what you have learned"

I sat there for a bit digesting what she had said and what I think she offered at the end. I got really mad when I thought about anyone doing anything to Vicky and really wanted to go and find the jerk. Her story made me want to protect her and fight for her but when I looked up at her she certainly didn't look like a person looking for that type of relationship. She always seemed so confident and sure of herself except when we got close and touched. I had to be sure I was looking at this properly, and to proceed in which ever direction we choose, for the right reasons.

I must have thought longer than I thought because her confident look started fading into a worried one. I had better start talking. The decision was the easy part.

"Vicky, it makes me so mad that someone would do something like that to such a smart beautiful person. That you are still the person you are after that shows me how special you are. I am not an experienced guy with girls because I'm so shy and a bit of a nerd so I'm so out of your league. I don't know how to act around you so this is coming as a shock to me. Without a whole lot of time to think this through, I know I would be a fool and an idiot if I didn't want to keep you as friend and see if we can become something more. But it would be at your pace of course."

She looked relieved and happy after hearing me out.

"That sounds good Mike. I would like to think that we are friends now and we need to get to know each other better and proceed on to the something more as well."

"Great" I said. "I'm sorry I ran out on you earlier. I really thought you were mad and I could tell you were entirely happy with me holding your hand. But you looked nervous and then when you said we had to talk, it triggered something and I panicked."

She giggled and replied "You were so cute and embarrassed. It was hard not to laugh then I finally got you to stop. Then you looked a little scared by your door when I was up close. I knew then that one: I was confident in myself because I could be that close to a guy and not be scared and two: I could trust you not to hurt me even when I was being — let's say bossy."

"Your mother or some other woman has trained you well. That voice and tone is like my mother's when she got mad at me or my Dad" I said shuddering.

"And don't you ever forget it Mister" she stated with a laugh. "Ok, it's getting late and we've had an interesting evening. Let's call it a night and talk some more tomorrow. I believe it's your turn to cook right?"

"Yes it is, let's say five thirty ok?" I asked.

"Sounds good" she replied.

I took a chance and asked her "Vicky, would you like to go out to dinner and a movie with me Friday?"

"Hey, we were supposed to talk more tomorrow first! You're upsetting the timeline with an unauthorized out of sequence proposition!" she exclaimed.

"Sorry, forget I said anything. I'll talk to you tomorrow night" I replied worriedly.

"You can't just ask something like that and tell me to forget it Michael Stewart!" she said in the mother voice.

Oh shit, not again.

Then she smiled a huge smile and grabbed my face with both hands and gave me another kiss. "Yes, I would love to go out with you on Friday" she said happily.

This girl was going to be the death of me, I was sure of it. I knew girls love to keep guys guessing but she could twist me around like a pretzel anytime she feels like it. I think part of it was regaining control after the asshole did what he did. I was ok with it for now but at some time later on in the relationship, I had to regain a small portion of my manhood back. But then again, my manhood didn't have anyone else wanting it to be around so that could wait for awhile. I guess as long as she didn't embarrass me in public I had no problem with it in private. Maybe in time I would be able to read her better to know when she actually was pissed at me and when it was an act. Good luck with that.

"On that happy note, I will take my leave of you my lady and see you on the morrow" I pontificated and bowed.

"Adieu, my knight, Adieu until we meet again" she said as she curtsied.

I laughed and went to the door as she followed. I reached for the door and before I opened it, she wrapped her arms around my neck and gave me a big kiss with her body melted into mine. She opened her mouth and ran her tongue along my lips for a second before stopping the kiss before I opened my mouth to let her in.

"That was something to dream of when you go to sleep Michael. Have sweet dreams" she said in a whisper as she stepped back.

"You too Vicky, you too" I mumbled as I fumbled with the door. I missed the open doorway and hit my shoulder on the door jamb and staggered out. I heard her giggling as I walked to my doorway and unlocked mine. I looked back and saw her leaning on the door frame with her hip cocked to the side and a smile on her face. I stared at her for a bit and then looked at her legs all the way up to her head, without smiling back. She was turning me on something fierce and I let her know it with that look. Her smile faded as I kept staring and then I mumbled sorry and went inside.

I heard her door shut as I rested my head on the door. She turned me on so much and I hadn't had a girl do anything like she was doing to me. Her pose would be etched in my memory for a lifetime. I had a cold shower and went to bed with her kiss on my lips and her arms wrapped around me in my dreams.



-------

Chapter 3


Thursday I was cranky. I didn't sleep much and I was horny and frustrated. Jacking off in the shower didn't help much. I went to the arena to let some aggression out. I got there early and stood waiting while the ice was cleaned. I stretched until it was ready and then skated for a bit. A few people came on the ice but the guys that usually were there did not show up. The driver put the divider up at centre ice and put the net out with a thick plywood goalie cut-out tied in to give people something to shoot around. I brought a few pucks and dropped them and started shooting from the blueline. Nobody joined me so I had the one side to myself. I warmed up slowly and shot more to pick the open spots then for power for awhile. After going in and having to grab the pucks from the back of the net a few times, I started shooting for power. I cranked a few and hit the goalie cut-out with a loud bang a couple of times and missed high off the glass a couple more. I was thinking about Vicky and not paying too much attention to my surroundings or my shots. I got to what she said about the asshole did and I got mad again while shooting. The first shot hit the goalie stick at the top and broke it off. The next hit the goalie stick at the bottom along the ice and broke it. The third broke off the glove and the fourth hit the goalie in the mask and broke the head right off. The last one missed the net high and shattered the Plexiglas behind the net. That woke me up from the rage I felt and the tunnel vision receded. I looked around and there were a bunch of people looking at me in shock. Oh shit.

I grabbed up my pucks and the pieces of wood from the cut-out and by that time the Zamboni driver was on the other side of the boards looking at me.

"Sorry, I kind of zoned out there for a bit and forgot where I was at. I'll pay for the damages and help you clean it up ok?" I said nervously.

"Don't worry about it kid, I was just a bit shocked. That hasn't happened in the ten years that I have been working here. The last time I heard it happened it was a shot from I guy that went on to play for the Bruins" he said.

"Well let me clean up the ice for you at least" I offered. "Hand me a shovel will you?"

He grabbed one and passed it through and I handed him the broken wood from the cut-out.

"You broke Simon too? Remind me never to get in front of you when you shoot. That was one inch new plywood!"

"Sorry about that. Back home we had to make a metal one when we kept breaking it a couple of years ago. We usually make three or four a year of those as well."

I went around and shovelled the shards of Plexiglas that were on the ice and handed the full shovel back to him. I untied the remains of Simon and passed that through as well.

"Do you have a spare section to put in? I can help you put it in if you do." I said.

"Yes we do, but they are back in the garage. It will take me about 15 minutes to get it" he replied.

"Ok, I'll change and meet you back here in a few minutes"

He went one way and I left the ice, walking through a small crowd of people waiting to get on. I didn't say anything to them but they all watched me silently as I passed. That's what happens when I let my anger get the best of me I thought. I quickly changed and met the driver at the back of the rink. We opened the gates and put two ladders on either side of the opening and then went and got the Plexiglas panel. We slid it in place and I held it while he put the metal retainers back on to hold it in. He thanked me for my help and then he had to clean the ice so I left him to it after apologizing again.

I left the rink and went home to have a shower. I took out the chicken to thaw and then had some lunch. I checked my emails but didn't get any from the lawyer or real estate agent so I called them to check up on them. The lawyer let me know that the estate was all set to pass on to me except for the issue with the accident at the Mill and the sale of the house. I asked if the estate could forward some money to me for expenses without having to have it all finalized and he said he would get back to me on that tomorrow. The real estate agent had a couple of people go through the house but no offers yet.

I went to another orientation at the Computer Science Department and met some of the professors and fellow students. It was good to get to know the Profs outside of the classroom and you could see they were normal people.

I went back to the apartment and coated the thawed out chicken pieces with a store bought coating and put them in the oven. I peeled some potatoes and set them ready to boil. After a half hour, I flipped the chicken and put them back in. I turned on the potatoes to boil and got some frozen veggies ready to cook in the microwave.

I made some simple gravy with a store bought powder mix and mashed the potatoes when they were ready. The microwave was turned on and the chicken came out of the oven crispy and brown. I put them on a plate and drained the vegetables and put everything on the table. I just had time to change and then I heard a knock on the door. I opened up to see a vision, Vicky had on a tight tank top which showed her midriff and a white mini skirt showing her long legs off nicely.

"Holy shit Vicky, you look so hot in that outfit!" I gasped.

"Thank you Mike, That was a well thought out gentlemanly comment from a mature adult" she said with a straight face.

I looked at her face and got my emotions a bit under control. "I'm sorry about that Vicky, but I think you came over here with that outfit to get a reaction and I'm really trying to act like a gentleman, but that outfit on that body makes it hard to do that."

She grinned and squeezed by me tightly and I'm sure she felt my reaction below my belt. She sat down at the table and hid her legs and bare mid-riff under the table.

I quickly tried to hide the bulge by turning to get drinks from the fridge and then let the table hide it.

"This looks so good Mike" she said, as I uncovered everything. You certainly know your way around a kitchen" she complimented me.

I thanked her and served her some food and grabbed some for me and we dug in. We ate with little chit chat about her day and we finished pretty quickly. We got up and cleared away the food and did the dishes. We finished up and it got awkward.

"Let's sit Mike and have our talk" she suggested as she sat down at the table.

"Ok" I gulped and sat as well.

"So, you really like my outfit?" she asked.

"Yes, you look like a model at a fashion show" I gushed.

"Do you think I wear something like this out and about all the time?" she inquired.

"God I hope not, you would start a riot. You would be beating men and boys off with a bat" I replied.

She smiled and continued "But I wore this here to see you. Do you know why?"

"Umm, you feel safe enough with me to wear that around me" I said hesitantly.

"Well I do feel safe that you wouldn't attack me, but that's not the reason" she said.

"I don't know, maybe you want me to realize that you're pretty confident with yourself and your body after all that went on last year?"

"Good try but not what I was going for" she said.

"Is it your way to show me you want to be more than friends?" I said grasping at straws.

"No the kisses last night were that sign" she retorted.

"I give up. Why?" I asked.

"I wore this for you, not anyone else, ever. That means you are special. That means you are worthy. That means you are not out of my league. That means you are the only one in the league with me. That means you do not have to be shy or timid or nervous or jealous. After tomorrow's date we will be officially boyfriend and girlfriend and you will act like my boyfriend. You will be confident that you and only you are the focus of my attention and I will be confident and proud of you as a friend, as a boyfriend and that you will do your best to protect me should I need it. Capesh?"

I looked at her for a bit and straightened in my seat. If she could say that and wear that to make a point I guess it was my turn to shake off the ghosts of high school and step up to be a man. I had been doing everything a man had to do for a long time, except when it came to women, or in this case one particular woman.

"I understand and accept all that goes with being your boyfriend. I am honoured that you feel that way and I will live up to my end of the equation"

I stood up and pulled her up and pulled her into a hug and gave her a kiss that became a little hot and heavy. I pulled away and said "Let's go!"

"Michael, where are we going? I can't go anywhere in this!" she panicked.

"Yes you can" I said as we kept going up the stairs. "We will go get a movie and come back. You will be with your boyfriend who will not let anything happen to you".

"Michael, please let me change, it's too short" she begged.

"Victoria Waters, you are my girlfriend, and if I think you are ok to go out, you have to trust me. Let's go" I said with authority.

"Sure now he grows a set" I heard her mutter. We walked down to the store without major accidents and only a couple strained necks. The clerk certainly couldn't keep his eyes off of her and Vicky looked embarrassed but nothing happened on the way back either.

We got back into my apartment and she gave me a shot in the stomach because I was grinning at her. I wasn't expecting it and woofed out some air but kept upright.

"That wasn't nice Michael. I felt like a tramp out there" she exclaimed.

"You looked gorgeous and not a tramp. I felt like a million bucks having you holding my hand. And you found out that I could take the heat of being your boyfriend. That was the reason we did it" I stated with some authority. "You want me to be a man; I'll be your man, but my way".

Now it was her turn to be silent and do some thinking.

"Fair enough. No more games, teases or hidden agendas from either one of us. Deal?" she finally stated.

"Deal" I agreed. "Now I think you had better put on a less revealing outfit so you can lie beside me to watch the movie without me all over you".

She was going to say something smartass but as she looked up at me and saw I was serious she stopped, thought for a second and then gave me a small smile and agreed.

"Ok Michael, give me a minute" she said and went next door to change.

I set up the movie and got the drinks and snacks ready when she came back with a full t-shirt and comfortable shorts on.

"Thanks Vicky, I appreciate it" I said with a smile.

She smiled back and got on the bed. The rest of the evening went smoothly and I walked her back to her room and bent down to give her a long kiss while I caressed her back. I'm happy to say that she was panting and a little dazed when we stopped rather than me.

"Good night Vicky" I said.

"Goodnight Michael" she replied as we went in and shut our doors.

I went to bed with visions of Vicky in her short skirt and bare midriff lying on my bed on her stomach looking back at me...

I woke up Friday feeling pretty darn good. I had a date tonight with a fox and would have a girlfriend after tonight. Life was turning around. I did the normal morning stuff and went to the arena to get in more practice. I looked at the intramural board and they had teams listed and people assigned. I found myself on the Wildcats and saw they would be practising tomorrow morning to get everyone acquainted with each other. I changed and got on the ice and did my usual skate for a bit. After I was done I glided over to the other side and saw the just the original two guys and the goalie there hanging around.

"Hi guys, mind if I join in?" I asked.

"Sure Mike" said Frank. "I should introduce these guys to you, this is Shawn and our goalie is Mark"

"Nice to meet you guys" I greeted them and shook their hands.

Frank asked "So can you play defence Mike?"

"Sure, I used to do a lot of one on one drills both as the defence and the forward" I replied.

"Good" said Frank. "Shawn needs some work on his one on one skills ok?"

"Alright" I agreed.

We lined up with Shawn at centre and I was at the blueline waiting for him. He came in pretty fast so I had to back up and turn as he tried to get past me on the left side. I had a longer reach so I poke checked the puck away as he tried to cut in. I skated to the puck and softly put it out past the blueline. Shawn tried again on the other side this time and this time I kept up and wouldn't let him cut into the net. We got close to the boards but I let up and didn't check him in so we skated right around the net with me close and he went back out to start again. This time he went right at me and pushed the puck past me and tried to skate around me. I just kept backing up and got in front of him without actually touching him so he had to go through me to get at the puck. It slid to the goalie and he cleared it.

Shawn tried a few more tricks, like faking one way and going the other, stopping quickly and going the other way, pure speed rushes, power forward rushes to muscle into the goalie with the defender along for the ride, taking shots with me as a screen and so on. He got by a few times, especially the longer we went on.

Frank called a break and waved us over. He threw each of us a water bottle which was welcome.

"Mike, you handled yourself well out there" he said.

"Thanks, but it's been a year since I've done some of that. Shawn's got some good moves that's for sure" I said as I sucked wind and had some water.

Shawn started taking some shots at Mark so we joined him and took a few as well. I kept it pretty tame for a bit until Mark told me to put some heat on a few. I put some more power into the shots and started picking the corners. He started compensating for his stick side so I mixed it up and shot low glove side then high over his shoulder and then five hole when he stayed up rather than go down into his butterfly. He was getting better that's for sure or trying harder anyway. I put a couple at him at full power but tried to keep away from his head or body. He caught one with his glove that stung him but he wanted a few more. I was feeling pretty good so I made him work by going to all his weak spots one after another when Frank fed me pucks one after another. Finally one of my shots broke his stick and went in and we called a stop. Both Mark and I were sweating buckets as we skated off the ice.

"Sorry about your stick Mark. Can I give you some money to replace it?"

"That's ok, Mike, the team provides all my equipment. Thanks anyway" he replied.

"Oh, ok. Thanks for the practice. See you guys next week maybe"

I went back to my locker room and was getting changed when Frank came in with another older gentleman.

"Mike, this is Fred Benson, the coach of the University Men's Hockey team" Frank said.

"Mr. Benson, how are you?" I greeted him as we shook hands.

"Nice to meet you Mike" said Fred. "Frank has been telling me about you this week and Rolf told me how you wrecked Simon and a panel of Plexiglas"

Frank looked at Fred and then at me. "That was you? I heard someone did a number but I didn't know who".

"Sorry about that. I offered to pay for the damages but Rolf didn't take me up on it. I can cut you a check if you know the amount." I said.

Fred laughed and said "No Mike, we don't want your money. Thanks for offering but that thing is covered under normal building maintenance. Don't worry about it ok?"

"Good, that might have drained my account" I said in relief.

Fred continued "I was watching when you and Shawn were going one on one and your shooting display. I was impressed and I don't impress easily. Where did you play hockey?"

"Up in Northern Ontario. We had a rink in back of the house every winter that my Dad and I played and did some shooting."

"And where did you play your organized hockey" he asked.

"When I was a kid I played a bit at the local rink but I haven't done that in about three years." I replied.

"So are you telling me your only training is from your Dad?"

"I guess"

"Did your Dad play organized hockey?"

"I'm not sure, he never mentioned it but he was very good. He could skate rings around me most of the time and he had a much harder shot than I have"

"What's your father's name Mike?" he asked.

"Hank Stewart" I replied.

Fred thought for a minute and said "I can't remember off hand anyone with that name but it seems to ring a bell. I'll have to do a little research. Frank does he ring a bell?"

"No, Fred, he doesn't"

"So gentlemen, why all the questions if you don't mind me asking?" I inquired.

They looked at each other and Frank nodded to Fred. Fred turned to me and said "The reason we are here is that we would like you to try out for our team. We think you could help us on defence and the power play with that shot of yours. Frank tells me that you were going to join the intramural league but you won't find it very competitive and to be honest, we think you would eventually seriously hurt someone with those slap shots of yours."

I was shocked to say the least. I knew that the University program was one of the best in the country so to get an invite was something. I had worried a bit about the intramural games especially after breaking the Plexiglas yesterday. This was a pretty big decision to make quickly.

"I need to think about this for a bit, how this will affect my scholarship, class schedules, studying, money, girlfriend, health, everything. Can I have some time to think it over?

"Sure, Mike, how about we meet Monday morning before this free skate and sit down and talk everything over? We can have a school councillor at the meeting to go over your schedule and see if we can integrate the hockey practice and game schedules with yours. We can also discuss your scholarship and money issues. I'm afraid you have to handle your girlfriend issue unless you want one of the guy's girlfriends to talk to her. Remember, you are just trying out as a walk-on. You have to be evaluated and we have to decide if you can fit in on such late notice. We have a week to do that so there will be two a day practices if we can fit them in for you for this week, then we would go down to normal"

"Ok, I'll see you Monday morning and bring my hockey stuff either way as well as my schedule and scholarship information. Thanks for the invite" I said as I stood up and shook their hands. "Have a good weekend".

They echoed the happy weekend and I went back to the apartment and had a shower and a bit to eat. I looked in the phone book for restaurants and picked a fancy one to take Vicky to and called for a reservation. I went to the store down the street and got a paper and perused the movies and picked a couple I would like to see and took it over to her room. I knocked on her door and said "Hi gorgeous, how you doing?" when she opened it.

"Hi Mike, I'm doing fine, just reading a bit to get ahead. How are you?" she asked.

"Ok I guess. I thought I would come over and get the plan straight for the big night tonight. Can I come in for a bit?"

"Sure, come on in. Want something to drink?" she asked.

"A diet coke would be nice, thanks" I replied.

She grabbed a couple of pops and we sat at the kitchen table. We looked over the movie selections and we picked a comedy to see at the late show. I told her the reservation was for 6:30 and I would pick her up a little bit after 6:00. She asked where we were going and I told her it was a surprise but she had better dress fancy. After we hashed out all the details I decided to talk to her about the hockey invite.

"Vicky, something happened today after my free skate practice I need to let you know about and get your opinion on" I started.

"Ok, you sound serious. Should I be worried?" she asked, looking a little concerned.

"Well you are my girlfriend now or will be after tonight, so you have to be part of the decision."

"Ok, I say yes!" she said with a smile.

"Ok, great, the guys will all love it when you wear that outfit to school once a week! That was easy!" I exclaimed.

"What! You told somebody about that outfit! How dare you! That was supposed to be our special one only ... Oh, you rat!" she spit out as she saw me smiling.

"Ok, you can wear it for me again this weekend after you are my official girlfriend" I stated with a smile.

"Well I don't know, If you keep being so mean to me I just might have to go home for the weekend and leave you here all alone — too bad so sad" she said.

"The horror, the horror, inflicting solitude on a computer nerd" I said laughing.

"Hmmm, I guess I'll have to hang out with you all weekend then instead" she retorted.

"Again with the horror story, a computer nerd having to spend two whole days with his new gorgeous model babe of a girlfriend" I said frowning. "You are truly an evil creature".

"You had better believe it. Now tell me about your day" she demanded.

"Ok, you know I have been going to free skate every morning to get in shape for intramural hockey right? I asked.

"Yes"

"Well there's been this older guy there with a goalie and a smaller guy sort of fooling around and practising a bit. I joined in and took some shots the first day. The second day a whole bunch of guys were there doing the same thing. Yesterday none of them were there so I shot on a wood cut-out of a goalie tied to the net. I kind of broke it a bit and one of the Plexiglas panels behind the net. Today the original three guys were there and we did some shooting and some one on one drills, with me playing defence. Are you with me so far?"

"Sounds like you got some good practice in. I didn't know those panels could break so easy though. I hope no one was hurt" she said.

"They hardly ever break, not in the last ten years according to the guy at the rink. And no one was hurt, thankfully.

So anyway, after today's practice, the older guy from the ice brings an even older guy into my dressing room. It turns out that Frank, the older on ice guy and Fred, the older guy, are the coaches for the Wolverines Hockey team. They seemed to have liked what they saw this week and want me to try out for the University team instead of playing intramural hockey. They say it would be too dangerous for me to be playing with the regular guys as someone will eventually get seriously hurt if they get hit with one of my shots. They seem to think I can help on defence and on their power play as the shooter from the blueline."

"Wow that sounds great! My boyfriend the hockey stud" she crowed.

"Well I guess that answers that question" I said dryly.

"What question?" she asked.

"What you thought of the idea of my trying out and possibly playing. I would have to put in lots of extra practice time plus games here and away at other universities" I replied.

"Hmmm, I haven't had much time to think about everything yet. Obviously I will miss you when you aren't here but at least I can go to your games as see you play. I'll have to just get my studying done while you are at practice so we can spend a little time together when you have time. I don't think you should not try-out because we will have less time together. Besides, if you make it I will be your hockey babe!" she said grinning.

"Can you think of any other downsides other than the obvious time crunch? I worry about my scholarship especially if my grades suffer. I worry about getting hurt with no health care. Money might become an issue too. I don't even know if practices and games can fit into my school schedule, let alone spending time with my new girlfriend. Finally, I don't know if I'm in good enough shape or have the talent to play here."

"Those are all good questions that you will have to go over with them on Monday. I'm sure they have people that can answer those questions and help you schedule your time. Just make sure I'm on that schedule somewhere Mister!" she demanded.

"Yes Ma'am" I replied.

"Ok, I think the only question you have to decide is do you want to play University Hockey? If you do, then you have to want to make everything work out. You will be much busier than you anticipated and you will have to work twice as hard on the ice and in the classroom and on your homework. I will help you by cooking and cleaning and even help with your laundry if you decide to do this. The team might help with tutoring help if you fall behind or struggle, but I think you can handle this with the right attitude" she reasoned.

Vicky had summarized all the issues that I had to decide on this weekend in 20 seconds after hearing about this only two minutes ago. She was scary smart. So I had to decide if I wanted to work harder than anyone else at school or on the team to keep my Computer Science scholarship and make the team. There was no use trying out if I didn't plan on making the team I reasoned. I wasn't afraid of the extra work, so I had to decide if I wanted to play hockey for the team. If they could help me schedule it and work out the details, then it all came down to that — and not losing Vicky — she was as important to me already as school.

"So it comes down to if I want to play hockey here. The hard work doesn't worry me and it will be up to them to help get my schedule to all fit together without me having to be in three places at the same time" I told her. "The only other thing is to make 100% sure that I don't lose you because of this. You are already too important to me to lose you just to play a game".

She got up and sat sideways on my lap and wrapped her hands around my neck and gave me a very passionate kiss and the 100 watt smile.

"Don't you worry Michael Stewart, I will be here for as long as you keep that attitude up" she said. "So, don't make a decision today, or tomorrow. It will give you time to think it over. Let's put it on the back burner for tonight and have fun on our first date. We can talk more tomorrow ok?"

"You are a very smart woman, did you know that?" I asked. "Ok, we have a couple of hours before we need to get ready for our date. Do you have anything to do or would you like to do something together?"

"Well there's something I would love to do with my boyfriend but we can't do that until after at least the first date!" she said with a leer as she rubbed her body up against mine and ground her butt against my groin.

I felt my face get hot and immediately got a woody which made me even more embarrassed. Her eyes lit up as she felt me grow beneath her.

"Oh, someone likes that idea as much as I do huh?" she purred.

I could only nod as she hungrily kissed me with her mouth open and her tongue demanding entrance to mine. I opened my mouth and let her in and we passionately kissed and hugged as our hands explored each other's body. I could hardly control myself with all these new feelings and my passion took over. She seemed totally into it as well, with her hands first in my hair and then down my back and on my chest. I was caressing her back with one hand and her bare leg below her shorts with the other and her soft skin felt so good it was driving me crazy. I brought my other hand from her back to her front to her bare stomach and felt her muscles tighten under my hand. I felt along the top of her shorts and up to the bottom of her half t-shirt just under her breasts and she stopped kissing me and gasped and gave me such a lust filled look that I wanted to rip her clothes off and carry her to the bed and ravish her.

Luckily, she was more experienced than me and could control herself better than I could in my first make out session. She pulled back a bit and grabbed my hand on her stomach stopping me from moving it where it wanted to go. She smiled to take the sting out of her words as she said "Michael, we have to stop here ok sweetie".

I fought to get control of my emotions and my body as I was breathing heavy and almost shaking with feeling I hadn't felt before. I took a couple of deep breaths and tried to control myself. She sat there and watched me as I came down slowly.

"Are you back with me Michael?" she inquired.

"I think so. Wow, that hit me like a ton of bricks. I haven't felt like that ever. Sorry I got so carried away" I said weakly.

"That's ok, I got carried away too. You are a very good kisser my boyfriend" she stated with a smile. "We almost lost control and we aren't ready for that yet for a few reasons" she said as she got off my lap and walked back to her chair while I tried to discretely rearrange my hard-on before it ripped my shorts or bent in half. She saw me and she said "Sorry about leaving you frustrated sweetie. I'm not trying to be a tease and leave you hanging but we're going too fast for the both of us right now. Once we deal with a couple of issues over the next few days we will see how things go ok?"

"Ok Vicky. This is all new to me so you have to give me some time to get a handle on things." I replied.

"Sure sweetie, I know you are inexperienced in this stuff. Ok, we need to talk for a bit. I need to make sure that when I say, Stop Michael, you will stop whatever you are doing and back away from me. If I say that it means that I'm getting uncomfortable with what we are doing or I am panicking about what we are doing. If you don't stop quickly I will panic and then try to physically harm you to get you away from me. After what the asshole did I had panic attacks all the time at the beginning. I am much better now, but they might occur as we get more involved.

"Ok, I will stop and back away when I hear you say Stop Michael" I agreed.

"Good. Secondly, I promised my parents they would meet any guy that I thought I would like to go out with, preferably before we went out. So, if you are not doing anything tomorrow, I would like to take you home to Dearborn to meet them. It's less than an hour away but it would make them feel more comfortable" she asked with a slightly apprehensive look on her face.

"There's an early morning practice for the intramural team but I might just go and tell them I can't play. After that we can go if you like" I said.

"Thank you Sweetie, it means a lot to me" she said with a happy smile now on her face. "Ok, this next one is a bit awkward. We need to talk about protection, from pregnancy and from STDs. I was tested twice after the asshole put me in the hospital and you haven't been with anyone yet so we should both be clean and safe. I am not on the pill however so we will need to use condoms to protect me from getting pregnant."

"Ok, I guess I better get some at the pharmacy soon." I said with a hot and I'm sure a red face.

"Good. From that bulge I saw, you better get extra large ones!" she teased.

I had to be fire engine red at that point. She knew how to turn me into a light bulb so easily.

"Now for the most important reason for stopping ... We have to go on a date tonight! So go do some things while I figure out what to wear and get ready. I will see you at 6:00".

"Ok, I'll see you later Vicky". I got up and bent down and gave her a kiss and went next door to see what I had to wear. I got out my suit and checked it out. It looked alright so I hung it on the closet door and made sure my shirt wasn't too wrinkled and then polished my shoes with a rag.

It was only four, so I grabbed my keys and went to the nearest drugstore. I went in and grabbed some toothpaste and some mouthwash and some gum and then looked for the condoms. I found them and looked them over. The variety surprised me and I didn't know which type I should pick and I certainly didn't need to hang around reading all the back of the boxes to choose. I found a familiar name, Trojans, and went with Vicky's suggestion of extra large — like I was going up to the counter with regular size! Hopefully they shrunk to size or something.

I went to the counter and saw a cute girl behind it. Shit, she saw me before I could make my escape. I put my things down and she rang up, giving me a glance and raised an eyebrow at me when she picked up the box of condoms. I of course turned red quicker than you could turn on a switch. She smirked and then did a quick check of the equipment, not that there was much to see at that point. She rang it all up and I gave her some money. She gave me the change back and with a smile, told me to enjoy my evening. I mumbled thanks and almost ran out as I heard her giggle. Did every woman I met know how to turn my face into a beacon I mused?

I stopped by a bank and grabbed some money and went back to the apartment. The bank balance receipt reminded me to call my lawyer to see what he said about getting some money in advance. I booted up my laptop and checked my emails but he didn't send anything. There was an email from the guy running the intramural hockey league telling me about the practice tomorrow morning.

I called the lawyer and luckily he was still in. He said that he had good news. He could release some of the money in the estate, the bank account money and some of the investment money if I needed that as well. He advised me to get with an accountant to make sure I didn't have to pay too much in taxes. I asked him if he knew my parent's accountant and he said it didn't look like they had one. He did say he had a friend that could help. I said ok, please contact him and have him look things over on Monday if possible. I said I needed some money soon so if the lawyer could transfer a couple of grand from my parents' account to mine I would appreciate it. He said no problem and he would get that done on Monday. I thanked him and told him I would talk to him and the accountant Monday around 4pm if possible.

What a day it had been, and I haven't even gone on the date with Vicky yet!



-------

Chapter 4


I looked at the clock for the tenth time and it had moved a minute from the last time I looked. The universe was conspiring against me, slowing down time to a crawl and stopping it when I wasn't looking. My tie was slowly strangling me and I would have to change my shirt soon if I was any more nervous. It was nice to dress up for a happy occasion finally, but I really wasn't comfortable in dress clothes. What guy ever is? I thought to myself. Damn, only half a minute that time! Maybe I should go over a little early and see if she needs help with zipping up her dress? I thought chuckling. She would see through that in a heartbeat and probably send me away for being too early. Women never seemed to be early and knowing her, she would happily torture me by taking even more time while she saw me squirm.

I sighed and logged onto my computer and checked for non-existing emails. I played a hand of hearts and then looked at the clock. Two minutes to go. I put on my shoes and grabbed the small bouquet of roses I grabbed at the last minute before I got ready. I looked in the mirror for the last check and wished myself luck. I grabbed my keys and walked over, wondering what she would be wearing. I knocked on the door and wiped my palms on my pant legs and waited. I heard her walking to the door and the door opened and a gorgeous woman in a sexy red dress appeared.

"Hi, I'm Mike, I'm here to pick up Vicky for our date tonight. Is she here?" I said with a straight face, looking behind her.

"Sweetie, if you don't want to eat alone tonight I suggest you hand over those flowers and give me a kiss now!" she threatened.

I of course quickly passed the roses over and leaned in for a kiss. She smelled the roses before allowing me the honour of kissing her cheek.

"These are very pretty Michael, that was very thoughtful" she said. "Let me put them in some water and we can go". I watched her as she walked into the kitchen. She could easily pass as any model on any catwalk in the world with her grace and beauty. She walked with more grace in her high heels and snug short dress than most people did with simple running shoes. I could watch her all day and feel it was time well spent. The dress had bare shoulders with spaghetti straps holding up what little material there was on top. The back was cut out to just over her very tight butt and her hair was piled high on her head to show off her shoulders and back. The skirt portion reached to mid-thigh with a slit in the back showing a couple more inches of her long nylon clad legs. Her makeup was subtle but somehow made her look like a woman in her mid twenties, but with a body that men started wars over. She was oblivious to my attention as she looked for and found a vase up in the cupboard. She stretched to reach it and I damn nearly had a heart attack as things moved and briefly showed under the silky dress. I should have gone and helped her but I couldn't move as I stared in fascination at this beauty.

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end and she retrieved the vase and put the flowers on the table after filling the vase with warm water. She glided over to me and looking at me almost eye to eye gave me a nice kiss and said thanks. I smiled and said "You're welcome dear" which got me another kiss and a smile.

We locked up and went out to the car and I opened her door for her. I held her hand as she sat down and I shut the door and raced around and got in.

I started the car up and drove the short distance to the hotel where the restaurant was located. On the way I complimented her appearance as she did mine. We pulled up to the Weber's Hotel and parked.

Vicky gasped and said "We're having diner here? This is the one of the best restaurants in the city? You can't afford this Michael!"

"Well I can't afford this all the time but I can afford it for our first date with my new soon to be girlfriend" I said smiling at her and getting out of the car. I walked around and opened her door and then pulled her up by her hand that she held out for me. She kept my hand in hers as we walked into the hotel and made our way to the restaurant. We kept getting looked at as we passed people and I was starting to get nervous, thinking we weren't in the right place or my fly was open or something. Vicky seemed to be comfortable in this type of atmosphere and looked like a queen being escorted by her consort. I saw a couple of woman getting angry with their husbands or boyfriends as we passed by, not that I could blame them. You would have to be dead and buried upside down not to watch her walk by. We were seated by the Maître d' after he confirmed the reservation. He had looked at Vicky for a couple of seconds and then his book and looked like he made a switch. The table he led us to was by the window overlooking a nice courtyard and we were a little more private which I liked.

I held her chair for her and pushed it in as she sat down and then sat across from her. A waiter came over and offered us two menus plus the wine list and rattled off a couple of specials for the evening. He asked us if we would like a drink before our meal and I deferred to Vicky. She thought for a second then declined and asked for a club soda. I asked for Ginger Ale and the waiter left to get the drinks. We looked over the menu and talked about what we might get. I was thinking a nice steak and Vicky was thinking some Lobster or a Fillet Mignon. The waiter returned with the drinks and took our order with Vicky going for the Lobster and I with a big Porterhouse medium steak. We each ordered a Caesar Salad to start. We were asked if we wished wine with the meal but we declined. Some bread was brought to the table and I cut a couple of slices and passed them to her with the butter and then cut some for myself.

The meal progressed as most meals go with some small talk about school and a little bit about her family. Her Dad worked at Ford and her Mom worked for the school board in Dearborn. She had a younger sister who was going into grade 12 this year. I would meet them all tomorrow. Our meals came and we dug in. Ok, I dug in and she ate daintily. The food was terrific and the atmosphere was pleasant and unhurried. The place started filling up and the tables were soon full all around us. Everyone was dressed to the nines but no one looked as good as Vicky. She went to the washroom to freshen up and I watched men and some women watch her as she weaved between a couple of tables and disappear into the hallway. I saw conversations stop in mid sentence and the noise level dropped significantly until she disappeared. More than a couple women looked pissed at their dates. I was finished with my steak so I watched the room for a bit. I saw Vicky reappear from the bathroom and smiled at her as she came back. The room hushed again until she sat down again.

"You started three arguments and only one heart attack that time dear" I said in a mock frown.

"Humph, this dress is usually good for two or three attacks and at least one divorce" she retorted.

We were interrupted by the waiter bringing a drink for Vicky. He said "Compliments of the gentleman at the bar". Two handsome men were standing at the bar looking over at us. One looked awful full of himself and his buddy was smirking too. The restaurant seemed to get very quiet as eyes turned to us as the waiter was not to subtle with the announcement.

I looked at Vicky and asked "Do you know that guy Vicky?"

"No, Michael, I don't know either of them" she replied looking pissed at them.

I went to get up but she stopped me and whispered "Michael, let me handle this. Get ready to back me up if it gets out of hand."

"Are you sure?" I asked.

"Trust me, this will be better than you kicking his ass" she replied with a wink.

She grabbed the drink and sashayed over to the bar as everyone in the restaurant watched. She got there and obviously asked who sent the drink over. The arrogant one smiled and then she must have asked him if he saw me with her. He made some sort of dismissive comment and smirked at me. She moved a little closer to him and looked like she reached for his chest and caressed him. He looked at me and grinned evilly as he started to wrap a hand on her waist. Just as he was looking at me she reached up with the drink and poured it over his head and said something to him. She turned and walked regally back as he sputtered. The room burst out in laughter and I heard a few 'you go girl' comments as she passed tables. I stood up to meet her and she came right up and wrapped her arms around my neck and gave me a smouldering kiss as she raised up on her tippy toes. I of course wrapped my hands around her and went with the flow.

There was a bit of clapping and I watched as the assholes left the bar, the one mad and the other one embarrassed.

When the waiter came back with the bill, I looked it over and put some money in the billfold. When he came back to collect it I asked him to go and bring the manager back with him to our table. When they arrived I told him I was most displeased with the service of our waiter. I explained that a high class establishment like this should not have allowed a waiter to insult me or my date by bringing a drink from another man to the table. The restaurant was lucky that only a drink was poured on the man's head and not a more physical confrontation. I passed the billfold to the manager and said that I have paid for the meal, but the waiter would not get a tip and we would not be coming back to this restaurant ever again. Furthermore we would not recommend this hotel or restaurant to any of our colleagues or business associates again. I grabbed Vicky's hand and we left despite the manager's protests.

I watched for the two assholes but they weren't waiting for us in the lobby or outside. We got in the car and we drove away. We parked in a little park and looked at each other.

"I'm not sure how I feel right now Vicky. I got so mad, worried, jealous and proud all in one minute. I so wanted to smash their smug faces — and I still do, but I guess what you did was a much smarter more grown up approach. I guess you get that happen a lot with your looks eh?" I inquired.

"No Michael, I have never had that happen before. I think I'm trying to dress more like an adult to impress you and maybe it's a little much. I should tone it down a bit. I'm sorry to have ruined our date" she looked so sad and ready to cry.

"Vicky, honey, you didn't do anything wrong, and I love the way you dress. You look like a fashion model and have the grace of a queen. This was the assholes fault and the waiter's fault even more" I stated emphatically.

She smiled with tears in her eyes and I gave her a hug. She hugged me so tight I thought she would break my ribs.

"You certainly told off that manager. That was so mean of that waiter" she agreed.

"Ok, let's try and put that behind us. Would you like to see a movie or maybe go dancing?" I asked.

"Well if we go to a movie I want us to both change into something more comfortable. If we go dancing we would have to find an upscale place to go to" she said. "We could go back to the apartments and grab a movie rather than staying out late and then having to drive tired tomorrow"

"Sounds good to me" I said. I backed out and drove the store near our apartment and we went in and grabbed another comedy and headed home. We went downstairs into her apartment as she had the bigger television.

"We should get comfortable first don't you think Michael?" she asked with a smile.

"Yea, I guess so. But you look so good in that dress I hate to see you get out of it. Ok, I'll see you in a few minutes" as I turned to the door.

"I'd ask you to help with the zipper, but there isn't one" she said softly.

I turned back to her and walked up close and put my hands on her shoulders and kissed her hard. I ran a finger under each strap and teased her that I was sliding the straps off her shoulders to expose her breasts. She gasped into my mouth and moved her hands to cover her breasts and she pulled a little bit away looking at me. I grinned and let the straps go without them falling down her shoulders.

"Not yet Vicky, we have to see your parents first remember? Two can play the teasing game dear" I said to her as I backed away with a smile.

"Oh, you got me good Mister. Now go get changed before we get carried away" she commanded.

I went and got changed into some shorts and a t-shirt and went back with some chips and a bottle of pop. I walked in and caught her as she was pulling up a pair of shorts up her legs. I caught a glimpse of her red panties before she had them covered by the shorts. They were tantalizingly small and lacy and slightly see through and

"Michael!" she shrieked as she hurriedly buttoned the shorts up.

"Sorry Vicky, I didn't think you would be still getting changed" I apologized, trying to look contrite while still looking down at her shorts.

"Hey, eyes up here Mister" she instructed.

I slowly moved my look up her body, looking at her bare midriff and then at her chest covered in a thin tight t-shirt, finally reaching her face as I smirked.

"I'd tell you to take a picture it lasts longer, but knowing you, you have a camera in your back pocket" she said in a huff, with a twinkle in her eye.

"I just didn't get over here fast enough to take a few pictures before you got dressed" I joked.

She laughed and flopped on the bed. This time she lay on her stomach to watch the movie. I thought for a second and then sat at the back of the bed leaning on the wall. I could see the television well but more importantly, I could look at her legs and cute butt. She looked back at me with an inquisitive look and I said that I was too full to lie on my stomach right now. She looked like she was going to get up and join me at the back of the bed but I said for her to stay there and I would join her in a bit. She smiled and started the movie.

We watched the movie, Hitch, with Will Smith, Kevin James and Eva Mendes and enjoyed it. Comparing butts while looking at Vicky's on the bed and Eva's on the television, I had to say that Vicky's was smaller and cuter, though more research and comparison would be needed.

About half way through the movie Vicky looked back and asked "Are you coming down here or do I come back there?"

"My research is done for the night so I'll come down there" I replied with a grin.

"And would that research have anything to do with looking at my butt?" she inquired.

"Well the comparison had to be done scientifically with sufficient data to make the proper judgement" I pontificated.

"And who won?" she asked with a dangerous glint in her eye.

"Well ... You did of course, but we feel more physical data is required to make a professional judgement" I admitted.

She snorted "Good answer bud, but no more research tonight, visually or physically, on butts".

I sighed "A researcher's job is always made harder by difficult subjects. Perhaps some photographic evidence is required to facilitate acquisition of data."

She laughed and slapped my shoulder and hushed me so we could finish the movie. We lay close together with our bodies touching all down the sides. I especially liked our bare legs touching, her bare skin felt so fantastic along my leg. I moved my arm over her body and pulled her closer. She smiled and snuggled up tight and seemed very happy. At the end of the movie she shut the movie off but stayed snug against me but looking at me instead of the TV. I moved my head in close and kissed her while rubbing her bare back. She kissed me back and moved her arm from underneath her to my back and caressed me through my shirt. After a bit she moved her hand under my loose shirt back and rubbed my back as far as she could reach. I did the same, moving my hand under her cut-off t-shirt up all the way up to her neck and caressed her for awhile. The kisses got a bit more passionate as we felt each other's bodies. My fingers got close to the sides of her breasts and she gasped each time. I backed off and moved my hand down her back to the top of her shorts and rubbed along the edge, slipping my fingers a little bit under to rub the top of her butt.

She squeaked into my mouth and looked at me with the same lustful look as she had earlier in the day. I moved my hand from her back and moved a bit away from her. She got a hurt look that I was rejecting her. I gave her a less passionate kiss and whispered to her "We have to wait till after meeting your parents. If not, my hand would be caressing your ass underneath your shorts right now"

Her eyes lit up and the lustful look redoubled and she grabbed my head and mashed her lips to mine and stuck her tongue into my mouth and wrestled with mine. She was seriously turned on and she got me so hot I wanted to just let go and ravish her right there. She was making it difficult to stop as she pushed me onto my back and laid her body over mine while still kissing me. It felt so great to feel her breasts rubbing on my chest and her smooth skin caressing mine. My hard-on was hitting her low on her stomach and she moved up to let it hit her lower between her legs. She ground her pussy onto my cock through our clothes and moaned into my mouth as I gasped. I reached down and cupped her ass with my hands and thrust my hips up while pulling her body into me. She started moving her hips in time with mine and we dry humped each other while still French kissing. My hands explored her back and ass and I even managed to feel the sides of her breasts while we humped each other through our clothes. I slid my hands under her shorts and grasped her ass and she groaned into my mouth and sped up her hips. I was getting close to coming in my shorts but didn't care and she was moaning and panting as we stopped kissing and she started really motoring.

"Oh Michael, you feel so good, so hard" she moaned gasping for breath. "You've got me so hot and so wet sweetie; you're going to make me cum soon".

"Yea Vicky, you got me so hard, so hot, you're going to make me cum in my shorts soon too baby" I panted as I sped up my hips, grinding into her pussy hard.

"Uh, yeah baby, cum with me, baby, yeah, yeah, do it, do it, ohhhhhh yeah, I'm going to cum, I'm going to cum, yeah harder babe, ohhhh yesssssss, I'm cumminnnng" she screamed finally.

I thrust up another few times as her hips twitched and came in my shorts as I thrust high into her groin saying "I cumming Vicky, Aw yeahhhhh".

She kept grinding her pussy onto my cock as I pumped my hips a few times as I filled my shorts and she soaked her shorts.

"Oh baby, that was fantastic" she said panting and gasping for air as she kissed me and held my face with her hands.

"That was the greatest honey" I replied as I kept caressing her back and ass and looking up at her with a huge smile. "You were so hot; you turned me on so much. I wanted to strip your clothes off and fuck you right then and there."

"I know, I don't know what's gotten into me but you seem to be able to push all my buttons without even knowing how you do it" she agreed. "You could have stripped me bare and had me right then sweetie, and I wouldn't have stopped you. Wow you are some kind of stud Michael."

"Sure, now she tells me, after I just came in my shorts!" I moaned.

Vicky giggled and said "It's just as well that you did. That way we don't have to lie to my parents tomorrow or worry about me getting pregnant".

"I guess so, but I can't wait for the real thing babe" I said with a smile.

"I can't either sweetie" she agreed.

We lay together for a bit until we came down from our highs and started feeling uncomfortable in our shorts. I gave her a quick kiss and said I would see her in a while to say goodnight after our showers. I went over to my apartment and had a nice hot shower while I replayed our rendezvous in my head. She was an amazing woman and I was so lucky she felt the way she did about me — for whatever reason.

I pulled on some shorts and a t-shirt and knocked on her door. It took her a minute to answer and then she appeared in a short thin robe as she was drying her hair with a towel.

"So I just wanted wish you a good night Vicky and thank you for the best first date a guy could ever have" I said to her as she smiled up at me. "I should be back from the rink by ten at the latest so we can head to your folk's house then ok?"

"Michael, I enjoyed our first date immensely. Thank you for a nice dinner and a nice get together afterwards. Ten sounds fine tomorrow. Now give me a kiss good night sweetie" she said with a grin.

Not one to argue with a beautiful woman, I stepped closer and bent down the same time she wrapped her arms around me and gave me a big kiss. I wrapped my arms around her and hugged her as we kissed. I didn't feel any clothes under the robe as my hands wandered around her back and strayed down towards her butt. Before I could get there she stepped back and grabbed my hands and said "No more tonight sweetie, if we start that again, we'll be up all night and since we are both terrible liars we'd turn beat red when we were talking to my parents. So, you go have a good sleep and I will see you in the morning ok?

"Ok, Vicky, see you in the morning" I said and went to the door and smiled at her as I left her apartment.

"Good night Michael" she said as she shut her door. I entered my apartment and flopped down on my bed and thought of the day I just had. It was pretty much the best day a nerd from Canada could have. I fell asleep dreaming of Vicky's face as she came while lying on top of me...



-------

Chapter 5


I was up early and grabbed my hockey stuff and headed to the rink. I wasn't sure yet if I would join the intramural league or try out for the Wolverines but I brought the equipment in the car just in case. I thought I would watch for a bit to see what kind of players in the league before introducing myself. I walked into the arena a bit after nine without my equipment and looked at the rink through the glass. There were around a dozen guys on the ice with a goalie stretching near the goal at the near end. Most of them were doing a couple of laps around the rink, with a few stick-handling a puck as they skated. Three of the players were leaning on their sticks watching the others skate. They got the team together and talked to them for a couple of minutes and then they had them line up and shoot at the goalie. Most were average players at best, with a couple better players and a couple beginners thrown in the mix. The goalie didn't have much trouble with most of the shots except for a couple from the better players.

I walked into the rink area and stood behind the boards at the side of the rink and watched from there for a bit. The team leaders had them doing some five on five scrimmages to see what they had to work with. It was pretty basic hockey with a couple of guys skating circles around the other ones whenever they wanted. The two hotshots could score pretty much at will on the goalie but not one else could. I had seen enough.

I caught the attention of one of the team leaders near the board and called him over.

"Hi, I'm Mike Stewart, I was supposed to join you guys today." I said.

"Hi Mike, I'm Bob Hastings, someone was foolish enough to think I could run a team so they put me in charge" he said with a laugh. "So, do you think you are going to join our team Mike?"

"Sorry Bob, I'm afraid not, I wasn't sure until I watched you guys for a bit, but I'm afraid I won't be able to. I was offered a try-out for another league and I was advised that I wouldn't be a good fit at this level. It turns out they were right and its better I try out at that level. So I just came down to let you know not to expect me" I let him know.

"Sorry to hear that Mike, we could always use more players. What league are you trying out for, if you don't mind me asking?

"They want me to try out for the Wolverines. I don't think I'm good enough but they're the coaches" I replied.

Bob chuckled and said "Well if they think you might be good enough, you shouldn't be playing with these guys. It wouldn't be much competition for you and you would end up hurting someone. Well thanks for letting us know."

"No problem. Good luck this year" I replied and left.

I hauled my equipment in and sprayed it with Febreze so it could air out while we were gone. I grabbed a quick shower and shave and dressed in a nice collared knit shirt and a pair of dress shorts. I packed a change of clothes into a small gym bag just in case we were too late to get back. I locked up and knocked on Vicky's door. She opened with a smile wearing a simple t-shirt and shorts and said "Hi Mike, just in time". She saw my bag and asked "What's in the bag Sweetie?"

"Hi honey, I put a change of clothes in just in case it got too late to come back. We can grab a hotel room if we need to" I replied with a smile.

"Good idea. Can I put in some too?" she asked.

"Sure, there's room as long as it's only one outfit. Is this ok to wear today?

"Well it's fancier than I am wearing but it looks good on you. Trying to dress to impress are you?" she said with a grin.

"Well it never hurts to make a good first impression if you can" I said.

She agreed and grabbed some clothes and put them in with mine. We locked up and got in the car. I drove to the gas station and filled up and grabbed some drinks and snacks for the road. We merged onto the I94 heading east and picked up speed. It was a nice sunny day but not too hot so it was a nice relaxing drive. We talked about school and hockey for a bit. I hadn't made a decision to tryout yet but was leaning in that direction. She was ok with whatever I decided but I think she would like to have a boyfriend that was a jock, but wasn't a normal jock.

We talked a bit about her family. Her Dad Phil worked for Ford as an Engineer and designer using Computer Aided Design or CAD for short software. He worked on chassis design for the truck platform and travelled to each of the plants that made them from time to time. Her Mom Sandy worked as a Superitendant of several schools in the district and was pretty busy as well. They were both in their early forties but kept in good shape and looked younger. Her sister Becky was shy like Vicky was but was pretty and smart. She played soccer for her high school team and played the clarinet in the band. As we talked Vicky held my hand for a bit until I needed to turn on the AC. She put her hand on my leg after that and lightly caressed absently as we conversed. At first I didn't pay it much attention as I was busy driving on the busy freeway and trying to keep up my end of the conversation. She was making little circles on my leg and moved it around on top of my shorts and on the bare leg below. She moved her hand under my shorts a bit and rubbed my leg with her fingertips. That got my attention and my prick started hardening. Unfortunately (or fortunately in someone's opinion) it lengthened along the leg she was caressing.

"Wow, someone likes my massage" she giggled.

"Sorry honey, it's got a mind of its own lately" I apologized.

"No need to apologize Sweetie, I like to see Mike junior getting out stretching" she said with a smile.

"Mike junior?" I asked.

"Well we have to name him something. We could go with Big Mike by the look of him instead. Yep, no junior there, definitely Big Mike it is" she said as she stared at it growing along my leg.

I gasped as her fingers touched the head and started caressing and squeezing it. Pre-cum started forming and she spread it around the head and then started rubbing me with her hand as far up my shorts as her hand could fit. I felt fantastic and I moved the car to the slow lane and got off at the next exit and pulled into an empty parking lot to a closed store and parked.

"Put your seat back sweetie" she said and she let go of Big Mike.

I quickly leaned the seat back as she reached for my zipper and pulled it down. She reached in and pulled my cock out and started jacking me off. She grabbed some tissues from the box in her other hand to be prepared and kissed me on my lips. I kissed her back hungrily and caressed her back. She sped up as I moaned and gasped. I told her I was going to cum soon and she moved the tissues over top of the head as I thrust up into the air and shouted as I let go. She kept up her hand action for a bit until I relaxed and stopped moving my hips. Vicky cleaned me up and put my cock back into my shorts with a smile.

"Did you like that Sweetie?" she asked with a grin.

I nodded as enthusiastically as a guy could after just having that done to him.

"Good. Ok, let's get going, times a wasting. Chop-Chop, no time like the present, let's move it people" she said while turning to the front and looking impatient.

"Must sleep, so tired, go on without me, save yourself" I softly said and collapsed back on the reclined seat.

She elbowed me in the stomach and, as I rose instinctively, hit the lever that brought the seat upright.

"Ok, all set now are we, now home James" she instructed imperiously.

"Yes ma'am" I replied and started the car up. "You sure I can't return the favour honey?"

"Oh, it's sweet of you to offer, but I don't want to go home smelling like that! I will take you up on that offer soon though Sweetie. Now, pitter patter, let's get at her" she prompted.

"Your wish is my command my queen" I said as I bowed at the waist and put the car into drive and headed back to the freeway. I merged back into traffic and we quickly were back up to speed.

After a couple of minutes getting back into the groove I looked over at her said "Thank you for that wonderful ... ah ... time back there. It was fantastic and most unexpected".

"You're welcome Sweetie; I enjoyed doing it for you. I love feeling Big Mike, he was so big and hot and hard. We're going to be bestest friends I'm sure!" she said with a wicked grin.

"I'm glad you like him honey, just like I'm sure to love little Vicky too" I replied with a grin. I put my hand on her leg and caressed her for awhile as we drove along. I moved up and down her leg and moved a bit under her shorts and farther up her leg.

"Sweetie, as much as I love you caressing me, if you don't stop I'm going to have a wet spot on my shorts soon and my parents are going to know what's it's from as soon as they smell me."

"Sorry honey, just wanted to return the favour" I said with an evil grin. I moved my hand out of her shorts but kept it on top for a bit. I moved it up over her shorts and worked my way up her leg until I reached the junction. I slowly rubbed her pussy from outside her shorts for a minute as she tried to close her legs on my hand.

"Oh Sweetie, that feels good" she moaned after a bit as her legs opened wider to give me better access.

I took my hand away and said "Well we had better stop that now, we wouldn't want your parents to suspect anything would we?"

"Oh, no, don't leave me like this Michael. I'm going to be horny and wet for the next hour, you tease. Please Michael rub my pussy for me" she begged.

"Honey I would love to but that trucker beside you would get a bird's eye view" I said with a laugh.

She gasped and shut her legs and sat up. "Michael, did he see you doing anything?" she asked worriedly.

"No Vicky, that's why I stopped when I did honey" I assured her with a smile.

"Whew, I'm glad. I would have been so embarrassed" she said with relief.

She moved and gave me a hug to thank me which I awkwardly returned. She sat back and relaxed for a bit. "Ok, Mike, the exit is coming up in a minute on the right" she warned.

She directed me to her house and we pulled in to her driveway. It was a nice two storey brick house with about a half acre of lawn that looked well cared for.

"Well that was pretty quick, even with the unexpected stop" I said with a grin. "I'm kind of surprised you don't live at home and drive back and forth."

"Well, for a few reasons actually. One, the traffic is much worse during the week, two, the weather in winter makes it a much more dangerous trip, and third, I like my space and independence, even after what happened last year" she said.

"I for one am quite happy with your decision" I replied with a smile.

"Smart boy" she said dryly.

Vicky grabbed my hand and we walked up to the house. We left the gym bag in the car to see what developed. She opened the door and pulled me in behind her.

"Hello, anybody home" she called out as she took of her shoes and motioned me to do the same.

"Vicky is that you?" we heard from the back of the house. Her mom came around the corner asking "What are you doing back here so soon darling?" with a slightly worried look on her face.

"Hi Mom, I just thought you would like to meet a new friend of mine" Vicky told her as she stepped forward to give her a hug.

"Oh you, why didn't you call first you minx" she scolded as they hugged.

"And warn you so you would have the Spanish Inquisition ready? I think not" Vicky retorted laughing.

Vicky's mom was beautiful black haired fit woman a couple of inches shorter than her oldest daughter. She wore a snug t-shirt and shorts which showed off her fit figure nicely. Her eyes sparkled as she stepped back to look at her daughter at arms' length.

"So after one week back there you've met someone you felt you had to introduce us too? He works that fast does he?" she said looking over at me. Without laughing I noticed.

"Mom, Michael is not like that, I was the one that moved things along, not him" Vicky said a little sharply.

Her mom looked back at her with an upraised eyebrow.

"I guess we need to sit down and talk young lady. I think you should introduce me to your new friend and then we will get your father and we can chat." she said.

"Mom, this is Michael Stewart; Michael, this is my Mom, Sandy Waters" Vicky made the introductions.

"It's nice to meet you Mrs. Waters" I said with a nervous smile as I offered her my hand.

"Nice to meet you Michael, sorry for the less than enthusiastic greeting" she said with a small grin.

"No problem, I thought she had called to warn you but I guess she had her reasons to do it this way" I replied.

By this time I heard someone coming down the stairs quickly.

"Vicky, you made it!" an exact copy of Vicky exclaimed as she hugged her sister. "So this is Michael, he's cute!"

"Becky, meet Michael, Mike, meet my sister Becky" Vicky introduced us.

"Hi Michael, it's nice to meet you. I've heard good things about you from sis here" giggled Becky.

"It's nice to meet you Becky. Vicky didn't tell me she had a twin" I said smiling.

"Yep, I'm the better looking smarter one" she replied laughing.

"And who only got a 3.0 in Biology last year hmmm?" asked her Mom with an inquiring look at her other daughter.

"It was a conspiracy I tell ya, damn frogs kept disappearing just before dissection time" Becky retorted with a small smirk.

"Yea right, missy, you might have fooled the teacher, but I know who had them freed" said her mother.

"Well, look at the time, who else is hungry for lunch?" Becky switched the subject as she looked at us.

We laughed and her mother grinned behind her.

"Oh no, they are identical!" I moaned. "I can't keep up with this one and now I find out there's another one!"

"Poor Michael, it won't be so bad. She doesn't come to University until January" Vicky teased.

"Oh the horror. At least I have a few months to plan the escape" I deadpanned.

They all laughed.

"Ok, come on in and we'll sit down in the sun room and I'll get your father from the basement" said Vicky's mother.

Vicky grabbed my hand and gave me a smile while we followed Becky and her mother to the back of the house. The house looked neat and tidy and was decorated with lots of knick knacks and family pictures. The kitchen was large and bright with lots of windows looking out at the back of the house. We stepped into the sun room which ran along the back of the house and had a few wicker chairs and a glass table in the corner. There were screens open along the front of the room letting in air so it wasn't too hot. Vicky's mother left to grab her husband and Becky and Vicky had a quick whispered conversation while looking over at me and giggling.

"Ok, ladies, what is it, do I have something hanging from my nose or something" I asked.

"No Michael, just girl talk. Don't mind us" said Vicky smiling as Becky grinned.

"Wonderful" I muttered to myself.

"What was that Sweetie" Vicky asked.

"Nothing dear, just talking to myself" I replied with a little smile.

That started off another round of giggling from the sisters.

Luckily I was saved by the arrival of their parents which stopped the giggling. Vicky jumped up and gave her dad a big hug as she said "Hi Daddy".

He hugged her and said "Hi pumpkin, you're home soon. Your mother says you have someone we need to meet".

"Yes Daddy, I would like you to meet a friend of mine" she said. She walked him over to me as I stood up to greet him.

"Daddy, this is Michael Stewart, Mike, this is my Dad, Phil Waters" she said.

"Nice to meet you Mr. Waters" I said as I shook his hand.

"Nice to meet you Michael" he replied with a firm grip.

Mr. Waters was a tall man, almost as tall as I was, and probably weighed about twenty pounds more than I did. He had lighter hair then his daughters and looked in very good shape. He wore a t-shirt and shorts and he had on a pair of glasses from which his brown eyes gave me a steely look. He let go of my hand and he and his wife sat down on a wicker loveseat while I sat back down in my chair. The girls sat across from their parents while I was sort of at the end of the rectangle by myself.

"So Vicky, why the sudden urge to have us meet your friend here so quickly after arriving at school?" her father asked without any real warmth in the question.

"We had an agreement that I would have you meet anyone that I wanted to go out with so that's why we're here. Michael and I had our first date last night and I wanted you to meet him to let you know as soon as we could.

"So why does your sister know what is going on but we don't?" asked her mother. "And don't think you and I won't be having a talk later about this Rebecca Waters. You know you should have told me about this."

"Mom, I asked her not to but promised her we would come up on the weekend if things went well on our first date. There was no need to worry you if we didn't want to see each other after the first date" Vicky defended her sister.

"Humph, after what happened last year, she should have mentioned it anyway" her father said sternly, looking at Becky, who was quiet and looked serious. "So, how did you meet Michael, classes haven't even started have they?"

"No Dad, they haven't. Michael moved into the apartment next to mine and we met when he needed help with the wireless network for the internet connection. We've had supper a couple of times and we went out to dinner last night at a nice restaurant in Ann Arbour." Vicky said quietly.

"This seems similar to last year Vicky. I'm not happy about this. After what you went through last year I thought you would have been more cautious" her Dad said, looking slightly angry at her and then at me.

Vicky sat up and shot back "Dad, it's not the same. This time I approached Michael first. Mrs. Sullivan and I made sure he would be the right sort of guy to move in before she allowed him to take the apartment. Listen, Michael is so far from that asshole, it's funny. He's at the University on a computer science scholarship so you know what that means."

"No, what?" he asked puzzled.

Vicky looked at Becky and they both said with a smile "He's a computer geek".

Their mother had to hide a grin behind her hand as I turned red. I was going to say something but I caught her mother give me a quick shake of her head with a wink. I was smart enough to keep my mouth shut.

"So what year are you in Michael?" asked her Dad.

"First year Sir" I replied.

"Robbing the cradle Vicky are we?" quipped Becky with a grin.

"Well how old are you Michael?" asked her mother.

"I turned 18 three weeks ago, Ma'am" I said.

"Geez Vicky, you're two years older than him" teased Becky.

"Michael, you didn't tell me how old you were!" said Vicky shocked.

"Well, one you didn't ask and two, I don't know how old you are either" I retorted.

"She's nineteen, you're dating an older woman" cackled Becky.

"Ok, let's break this up a bit. Girls, come with me into the kitchen, Phil take Michael for a walk outside and get to know him better" Vicky's mom ordered in a no nonsense tone of voice. The girls were up before her Dad and I could react and following her out of the sun room back into the kitchen. Her Dad and I looked at each other and then cringed when we heard her say "Boys, what are you waiting for?" in the same tone as Vicky used on me.

"Now I know where Vicky gets it from" I muttered as we escaped into the back yard.

"Tell me about it; try living with all three of them pulling that voice out when they want something from me! Why do you think I was in the basement?" he said to me as we walked to the back of the property where a picnic table was sitting under a big oak tree.

"Sit down Michael and let's have a talk" he said while lowering himself onto the seat at the back.

I sat across from him with my back to the house. I kept quiet as he settled down and looked at me for a minute.

"How much do you know about what happened last year with my daughter and that asshole?" he asked finally.

"She told me just a bit, how the guy took advantage of her being new at school and after he seduced her, he became abusive verbally, physically and um sexually and she couldn't get away from him until he put her in the hospital over Christmas. She told me she's better now and more confident, that she's in counselling and taking self defence and martial arts. She also told me that should we start doing anything, um physical, that if she says to stop I have to stop whatever I'm doing no matter what or when. That's about it." I said.

"Did she tell you how bad she was injured?" he asked.

"No, and I didn't want to bring up any bad memories so I haven't asked yet" I replied.

He sighed and said "She had a broken arm, nose, ribs as well as a black eye and internal bleeding, and that's just the physical damage. I won't go into the sexual stuff, but it was very bad as well. She was in the hospital for a week and a half and back home for another couple of weeks in bed. She insisted on going back and finishing up the rest of her school year and you know how stubborn she can be. There is not a day that goes by that her mother and I and Becky don't worry about her."

"I can see that and I can understand your concern when she brings a strange boy into your house with no warning. I was mad beyond belief when she told me what had happened and couldn't do anything about it. All I can say to you is that I would die before I let anything happen to her. I don't plan on initiating anything with her. I don't have any experience with girls so we will take that part of it as slow as she wants to. I will say that she is very confident in herself, much more than I am of myself. We had a little incident at the restaurant which she handled much better than my solution would have been" I told him.

"Oh what happened" he asked.

"Some idiot of a waiter brought a drink to our table from an asshole standing at the bar with a buddy of his. She wouldn't let me go and have a word with him. Instead she grabbed the drink and walked over to him and when he thought she was interested in him, dumped it on his head. She walked back as regally as a queen while that ass looked the part. She can handle herself just fine" I relayed the story to him.

He smiled and said "She did that? Wow, she used to be so timid and scared when she first went back. I'm happy she can stand up for herself better now. You have no idea how hard it is to see your daughter like that, scared of any man, including me, when it first happened."

"No, I had no idea how bad it was; I just know that she seems to have pulled through it much better than you and your wife have realized. I think Becky is more up to date and probably more in her confidence than you are. Believe me, I can't believe that a woman like your daughter would ever ask me out or want anything to do with me. I'm sure some of it is that I'm a safe type of guy, computer nerd and younger, but that would only make me a safe friend, not a potential boyfriend" I replied.

"Well my wife has made it my job to find out more about you so let's find out together why my eldest daughter is so taken with you that she would bring you here to face the inquisition, Spanish or otherwise!"

"Great. At least we are out here rather than your dungeon" I quipped. "Fire away. I mean go ahead, no need for firearms yet I hope".

"We'll see" he said dryly. "I hold them in reserve for now. So, tell me about yourself, what do your parents do, where you from that sort of thing".

"Well my Dad worked at the saw mill and my Mom worked at the local library where we lived in Dryden, up in Northern Ontario. No brothers or sisters, like Vicky said, I got an academic scholarship from the U of M for computer science and I'm eighteen as of about three weeks ago" I said. "There isn't too much else to tell. Last night was my first date with a girl and I think your daughter is the most beautiful, intelligent woman I have ever met."

"I tend to think that all three of my girls are the most beautiful intelligent women I have ever met" he said with a smile.

"Well they certainly all fit the same mould don't they?" I replied.

"Yes, I'm happy to say my two daughters take after their mother rather than me" he agreed. "Now I heard you say was when you talked about your parents. Are they retired from the mill and the library? They shouldn't be that old if you are only 18?"

"Sorry no, they are both dead. My mother passed away from cancer about six months ago and my father was killed in an accident at the mill a couple of weeks ago" I told him.

"I'm so sorry to hear that Michael, it must have been very hard on you. I'm surprised you still came down to school" he said with more feeling.

"Well I had nothing left up there to stay for. I have the house up for sale and my lawyer is handling the estate and the issue with the insurance and the mill. I had no friends or relatives left so I just packed up what I wanted and took off after the funeral."

"What you have gone through would make a grown man have fits. You seem to have handled it better than most. Does Vicky know? Something tells me you haven't told her or I would have heard an earful when I started in on you" he reasoned.

"No, my family hasn't come up. It's not something I like to talk about, especially to a girl who I'm just getting to know" I replied.

"I can see that. So anything else I should know about before the girls come out and my wife pulls me away so we can talk?"

Not that I can think of. I could use some advice if you don't mind" I requested.

"Sure, what's the problem?" he asked.

"I was getting some practise every day at a free skate for the hockey intramural league I had joined last week when a couple of coaches for the University team asked me Friday to try out for the Wolverine team. I talked it over with Vicky and she seems to be ok with it and told me it was up to me as long as I could handle the extra work and effort needed" I told him. "I don't mind the extra hard work but I'm not sure if I should do it or not".

"Hmm, that's not an easy decision to make or advise you on, especially as you are on a scholarship. It comes down to how much you like playing hockey. I guess you can always try out and make a decision on playing if they want you to join the team, rather than right now. Do you think you are good enough to play for them? They are one of the best college teams in country." He asked.

"Like Vicky said, they are the coaches. If they think so then what do I have to lose" I replied. "So, unless I don't want to play I should at least try-out if all the scholarship and schedules can be handled" I summed it up.

"That sounds like a good summary of the issue. It comes down to fitting it into your schedule, your scholarship and wanting to play. I think you should at least try-out or you might regret it for the rest of your life. An offer like that doesn't come around too often" he advised.

"Ok, thanks for the advice. I appreciate it." I said.

"You're welcome Michael" he replied.

I felt two arms wrap around me and a body drape over me as a voice said "Is my Dad still grilling you Michael".

"Nope, I think we are done" I said, looking inquiringly at her Dad.

"I leave you to the inquisitors now Michael; I was just supposed to keep you away for a bit while the two grilled Vicky. Now's it your turn" he laughed as he got up.

Becky sat beside me, as she unwrapped her arms from my neck. I looked at her in surprise as Vicky sat down on the other side and grinned at me. "I leave you alone for a few minutes and you let just anyone wrap themselves around you huh?" Vicky said, shaking her head.

"You could have warned me Sir" I said wryly as looked at their dad.

"Yes I could have Michael" he said smugly as he walked away with his wife.

"You two have a good talk Mike, was he tough on you?" asked Vicky looking concerned.

"No, he just asked me a bit about myself and we talked a bit about you. I asked him about the hockey thing too and he gave me some good advice" I said.

"Hockey stuff?" inquired Becky.

"Just if I should try-out for the Wolverine hockey team or not" I said.

"Wow, I didn't know that you were a hockey player Michael" Becky said impressed.

"Well, I don't know yet, we'll see next week" I replied. "So how was your time with your Mom in the kitchen?" I asked Vicky.

"She had to know all the details about the whole week and what little I knew about you. She will probably grill you on what movie we watched and where we were" she said a little peeved.

"Well all three care about you a lot so you have to cut them a little slack I guess. I did tell your dad about the restaurant issue so be prepared for that if you didn't tell your mom" I warned her. "I told him you handled it better than I would have so I don't think she will mind".

"Oh shit, I didn't tell her" said Vicky.

Becky asked "Ok what happened at the restaurant?"

Vicky filled her in on her version of events while I watched the two sisters talk amongst themselves. They could pass for twins and they were the most beautiful women I had ever seen let alone been close too. I was certainly having a fantastic week after how last week had ended. I started thinking about the hockey try-out while they talked and zoned out for a bit. Elbows hit me in both sides as the girls started talking about me.

"Vicky, are you sure he has an academic scholarship? He doesn't seem to be all with it, just staring out at the trees out there" said Becky shaking her head.

"I haven't seen it so I'm not sure. But anyone who can zone out like that with two girls sitting beside him has serious mental issues I'm sure" replied Vicky. "And I thought he had so much potential".

"Sorry girls, I was thinking how lucky I was to be sitting between the two most beautiful I have ever seen and kind of got lost in how good my week has been" I apologized. "Can you two ever forgive a hapless boy his mental lapse?"

"Hmmm, he did call us Both the most beautiful girls he had ever seen Vicky" mused Becky.

"And he did spend most of the week with me and just said how good it was" said Vicky.

"Oh ok, you are forgiven" they said in unison as they both kissed me on each cheek.

"Ahem" came a voice from behind us. "Are you going to be dating both my daughters now young man?" their mother asked in her Mother voice.

I tried to turn around as my face grew red as I answered "No Ma'am". The girls didn't help as they held on to my arms not letting me turn around my body as they giggled.

Their mother walked around with a big smile on her face and a tray of drinks in her hand. Their dad was carrying a plate of cookies and they sat down across from us.

"I didn't know the human face could turn that shade of red" their Mother remarked dryly.

"Oh, he seems to do that at least a few times a day around me Mom. Isn't it cute?" Vicky asked.

"Let me try" said Becky. She leaned in and whispered quietly into my ear "Vicky said I could borrow you for a bit tonight to practise with Big Mike".

"Wow, look at that face light up. Rudolf has nothing on you Michael" laughed their father as the girls giggled.

"Ok, enough teasing Michael everyone" their mom commanded. "NASA called and the red light is apparently affecting the space station's infra red spy cameras".

The girls howled with laughter and almost fell out their seats while their dad spewed his lemonade on the grass. Their mother sat with a small grin while I sat their lighting up the back yard.

"I see where your daughters got it from Sir" I told their dad.

"Like you said, one mould for all three of them" he replied.

The girls seemed pleased with that.

"So Michael, you know you just inherited Becky by default right" said their mother with a twinkle in her eye"

"How so" I said warily as I sipped my drink.

"Those two have shared everything except one thing since high school. We're going to have to pry off Becky from you when you two go back to school later" she said looking seriously.

"Umm, I have enough trouble keeping up with one of them. Two of them would put me in my grave in side of a week" I replied very seriously.

Becky and Vicky moved close to me and kissed my while rubbing their hands on my chest. "Sorry Michael, you're stuck with both of us" they said sexily in unison.

I of course spit out my drink and turned purple.

"Girls, not in front of your Dad" chided their mother as their dad looked at me balefully.

"Hey, don't blame me, I had nothing to do with this" I exclaimed back at him.

The girls said "Sorry Daddy" and went back to look like innocent angels.

"I'm in big trouble aren't I" I moaned in despair looking at their parents.

"Welcome to my nightmare Michael" agreed their dad nodding.

"Phillip Waters you hush now, you'll scare him away before they get the hooks in deep enough" laughed his wife.

"Michael, you are doomed, when Sandy conspires with them the game is over, no chance of overtime. At least they must like you, if not there would have been poison in your drink and a knife in your back while the girls held you tight" he laughed.

"Dad, don't tell him all of our secrets now" said Becky with a grin. "We might have to use a few of them if he doesn't go along with our plan."

"Well this day is turning out differently then what I expected" I said laughing.

"Good. Ok, girls why don't you two show Michael around the house for a bit while your Dad and I stay out here and have a long talk. We will all go out for supper later and Michael can stay in the spare bedroom tonight. Vicky, grab his gym bag out of the car and put it in there" their Mother instructed. "And Michael; welcome to the family".

I looked at her funny and I thought that was a weird thing to say and so did her husband but the girls said "Yes Mom, thanks" and pulled me up while she gave her husband a look meant to hush him until we were out of hearing.

The girls turned me around and pulled me to the house while I looked back at the parents. Phil was questioning what just happened and Sandy started to explain while looking at us walk away. This was the weirdest thing that I had ever heard of let alone participated in. We reached the house and they pulled me in and took me on a tour starting with the basement. There was an office and a workshop down there as well as a bathroom and exercise equipment. The main floor had the family room, a bathroom, kitchen, dining room and their parent's master bedroom and the garage attached to it. They took me upstairs and showed me the spare bedroom, their two bedrooms and another washroom they shared.

Vicky went down and got my bag out of the car and put my clothes in the dresser drawer.

They sat down on the bed and asked me to join them.

"So, what's happening here ladies. Is this some sort of big practical joke or what?" I asked.

"We girls had a good talk while you boys were getting to know each other. We don't have secrets from each other since the incident last year. Becky knows everything we did and now so does Mom. Even what we did this morning Michael. Mom knows you and I are serious about each other and she knows I'm the one doing the initiating, so she's not mad at you. Mom knows we will continue to do things once we are back at the University so she doesn't see any reason to pretend that we are monks and nuns while we are here" Vicky explained.

"You could have told me before that you were planning to tell your mother and sister everything we did or do. I certainly wouldn't have done some of the things we have done if I knew" I said angrily.

"I'm sorry Michael, I should have told you" Vicky agreed. "We are trying to get everything out in the open now ok".

"It still doesn't explain all that stuff with Becky and you" I replied. "It was like you were twins the way you were talking in unison. You must have practiced those moves and lines a lot to sound like that or is there something you aren't telling me?"

They looked at each other and Becky nodded to Vicky. "Michael, Becky is actually my twin sister" admitted Vicky. "Becky got mono in grade 9 and had to repeat that year. I finished high school early and have taken some summer classes to get into second year, so it looks like I'm two years ahead of her. But she just as smart and will graduate early so she can join me in January."

"Wow, that's amazing. It must be hard to be separated from each other" I said.

Becky replied "Yes it has been, especially when she was going through that crap last year. But that's in the past. Our future is with you now Michael".

I looked at them as they both smiled at me. I was in real big trouble now I thought as I lay back on the bed and closed my eyes. I had pictures of both of them swirling around me and then everything went black...



-------

Chapter 6


"Michael, time to wake up sleepyhead" said a voice in my right ear.

"Sweetie, did you have a good nap?" another voice said in my left ear.

I slowly opened my eyes to see the most heavenly visions smiling down at me from either side. I couldn't tell who was who as they had changed their hair style and make up to match each other. They had even changed into matching shorts and t-shirts so they couldn't be distinguished. "Well, you two are a sight to wake up to. You look absolutely stunning ladies. Unfortunately, I can't tell my girlfriend from her sister now so this could get awkward" I said groggily. "How long was I out?"

"You were out for about an hour, sleeping like a baby Sweetie" said the beauty on the right.

Shoot, they both were calling me Sweetie now. I couldn't use that to pick out Vicky now I thought. "So you both are calling me Sweetie now? I asked.

"Yes Sweetie, we are" they answered in unison giggling.

"You're our boyfriend now" said one and the other followed with "so get used to it Michael".

"I haven't gotten used to having one girlfriend and now I'm supposed to be comfortable with two all of a sudden" I asked a little snippily. "Don't you think I should have gotten to know Vicky better before Becky was brought into the mix?"

"Michael, nothing about this situation is normal. We have our reasons for doing it this way" one said.

The other continued "I'm sure you've heard of twins and triplets being able to talk in unison, like we do sometimes right?"

"Yes" I agreed. "You two seem to have that down pat".

"In order to be able to do that, we have to know what the other is thinking and feeling. We don't know how it works, it just does" said the left one.

The other continued "We share feelings and some physical sensations. The closer we are to each other in terms of distance, the stronger the connection and the stronger the feelings and sensations affect the other".

"And we are talking about only really strong ones, like when one of us is angry, scared, happy or sad, excited or aroused, or feeling pain or pleasure.

"So anything I do with one of you, the other feels?" I asked shocked.

"Only to a certain extent Michael. Again, it depends on distance how much we feel it or how strong the feeling or physical sensation is. For example a pinch at University won't be felt here but stepping on a nail might. A kiss might not be felt, but an orgasm might be."

"And that's the reason you need to be a part of both of our lives. The only other time one of us had a serious relationship, we did not involve the other. The results were bad for both of us. Becky felt my pleasure in the early good times with the asshole, but also the fear and pain later. Becky was the one to alert our parents about my condition as it was happening. She was in pain and in shock as much as I was. She stayed in the hospital the entire time I was in there; she wouldn't leave me by myself while I was in pain and scared, even though it was worse for her when she was close."

"Wow, that must have been terrifying for you Becky to feel what she was going through here during that time" I sympathized.

"Yes, it was the most horrible thing I have ever gone through" Becky confirmed. "I felt her fear, her pain and her agony when he was doing those things to her and I couldn't help her. I could hardly move or talk when it was happening. On the other hand, when they were first going out I felt her first arousal and shared it when she had her first orgasm from a man."

"So you see Michael, we are tied together. I made a horrible mistake in my choice last year getting involved with a monster. I should have listened to my family, especially Becky, when they warned me. I am so glad she didn't want to be involved or she could have been more hurt then what she was through me. She has forgiven me but we have made a pact that we both have to approve of the person either of us gets involved with, and since we both feel all of the emotions and feeling, we might as well share that person.

"So it comes down to you deciding if you can handle the two of us, because we are a package deal Michael" said Vicky. "Now, we don't want you to answer right now. Why don't you go outside and think about things for a bit by yourself and someone will come out and get you when it's time to get ready to go to dinner, okay Sweetie?"

I nodded, got up and slowly went down the stairs and out through the kitchen, thinking about what I had just heard. I stepped out into the back yard and found a padded lounger to lie down on and ponder.

On the one hand it was any man's dream to date twins, especially when they were two of the most beautiful and intelligent women I had ever seen, let alone met. Only a fool would pass up that chance I thought. It would double my amount of friends down here as well.

What were the downsides?

First was lack of time to meet my entire, now increasing, list of commitments: school, hockey —still an if, but a probable if, and having one girlfriend at the U and the second an hour away in high school.

Second was the lack of experience I had with girls. I didn't know how to deal with one woman, let alone adding a second, somewhat separate woman into the mix. Then add the jealousy that would inevitably occur if I spent too much time with one or the other and it could get ugly real quick.

Third could be their parents. They were very involved parents with strong personalities who were very protective of their only offspring. To have both daughters involved with one person put their focus solely on that person and the resulting high expectations could not be easily met. That their mother said "welcome to the family" was good news and bad news; good because it looked like she approved of me; bad because it sounded more like a permanent relationship then just dating.

Fourth would be jealousy on my part. Now I would have two gorgeous girlfriends to worry about, in two different locations. Guys hitting on them while I wasn't around would drive me crazy, even if they rejected every one of them. But then if Becky wasn't my girlfriend and went out with another guy, Vicky would feel her arousal and that would make me mad and jealous anyway.

Bottom line, my life would be enriched in many ways with Vicky and now Becky in it, even with all the extra complications, than if they were not in it. In the end, I couldn't see any heterosexual male saying no even if there were fifty more reasons not to do it. As the saying goes 'My daddy didn't raise a fool". Mine would have hit me upside the head and said "When a beautiful woman wants to go out with you and invites you to also date her equally beautiful sister, you nod your head and ask where to sign up before she changes her mind."

With that settled I then went on to think about the hockey try-out on Monday and finally made the decision to go ahead and attend the try-out. I would have to really buckle down starting tomorrow with school work and practicing while still making time for Vicky and now Becky.

I heard the door open and Mr. Waters came out looking for me. "Why are you out here when my two daughters are inside?" he asked.

"They sent me out to think and make a decision concerning the both of them" I replied.

"Sandy filled me in on their pact and plan for you. I'm not particularly happy about it but it would protect them from something happening to either one of them like last year. I guess having only one guy to worry about with my daughters is better than two guys or more if they start dating again. It's not considered normal but those two have never been normal. After what happened last year, I'm just happy my daughters are alive, healthy and have picked someone that seems to be responsible, smart and frankly a little inexperienced. So what do you think about it?" he asked.

"Frankly it scares the crap out of me!" I exclaimed. "It's happening way too fast and it wasn't anything I was expecting or wanted. My time will be all booked up with school, studying and homework, hockey and now two women wanting the rest of any spare time. On the other hand, I don't want to give up dating Vicky and that's what would happen if I didn't go along with it."

I didn't feel the need to bring up the whole dating twins thing with said twins' father.

"I'm sure the benefits will outweigh the sacrifices you will have to make" he said dryly. "Anyway, I was sent out here to get you and find something for you to wear to a nice restaurant while the ladies are upstairs getting all fancied up" he said.

"Well I have a suit at the apartment I can go get but it will take a couple of hours to get it, get changed and get back here" I said worried.

"Let's check out a couple of older suits I have first. We're almost the same height and I might have an older one that would fit you" he replied.

"Sounds good Mr. Waters" I said relieved.

We went in and tried on a couple of his suits. The length was good but he was bigger through the chest so they hung awkwardly on me. He found an older one back in the closet that fit better so we went with that one. He let me use a white shirt and a tie and found a pair of shoes and socks for me as well. I carried them into the bathroom in the basement and had a shower and got dressed. Afterwards I went up and sat with Mr. Waters while the girls continued with their preparations.

I looked at the clock and saw it was five thirty. "So when did you make the reservations for?" I asked.

He laughed and said "Six Thirty. Don't worry; I've had years of experience with these women!" He turned on the TV and we sat watching a History Channel documentary.

"Hello men" a voice said from behind us.

We turned around to see the three of them dressed in similar clingy dresses, with Vicky and Becky in the same shade of purple and their mother in red. They were similar to Vicky's dress last night, with spaghetti straps on their shoulders and the front plunged down between their breasts. The dresses were short, with all of them half way up their thighs, showing off their long nylon encased legs. They were wearing matching high heels and matching hairdos designed to show off their necks and shoulders. They all looked the same age with the twins' makeup making them seem older and their mother's making her look years younger. All in all, you wouldn't find three more beautiful women in the State.

Mr. Waters and I both stood and walked to them. He stepped forward to hug his wife and then his daughters as he complimented them on their appearance.

"I thought you had twins for daughters Mr. Waters, not triplets" I said, looking at him with a grin. I turned to Mrs. Waters and said "Hi, I'm Michael Stewart, we haven't met yet" as I held out my hand.

"Michael, nice to meet you, I'm Sandra and I would like you to meet my sisters, Victoria and Rebecca Waters" she said without missing a beat.

I was glad she told me who was who.

"Ladies, it is my extreme pleasure to meet two of the three most beautiful women in the country" I said with a small smile. "The three of you look absolutely spectacular".

"Michael, thank you for the compliments, you look very handsome in your suit" replied Vicky.

"Yes thank you Michael" said Becky after Vicky.

"Well Sandra, may I accompany you to this evening as my wife has disappeared and I seem to be without a date?" asked Phil holding out his arm.

Sandra linked her arm with his and replied "You may indeed Phillip".

"Ladies, may I be your escort this evening?"

"Yes you may, Michael" they said with a smile.

I held out my hands and they took them and we walked behind their parents out the door. I helped Vicky into the Expedition, and then got in so I could be in the middle with Becky following. We drove for about ten minutes with the twins holding my hands. Vicky whispered in my ear, asking if I had made up my mind about Becky. I nodded and smiled.

"Is that a yes?" she asked as Becky leaned in to hear.

"Yes, I would be honoured to have both you Vicky and you Becky as my girlfriends" I said to them beaming. Like I was ever going to say no!

"Good" they said in unison as they hugged my arms and kissed my cheeks and gave each other a big grin. They sat with big smiles for the rest of the drive. Mrs. Waters looked back and saw them smiling and arced her eyebrow at the girls. They both nodded to her and she winked back at them and then grinned at me seeing my blush. She turned back up front, leaned into Mr. Waters and whispered in his ear. He looked in the rear view mirror and saw the twins smiling their big smiles and then looked at me with a grin as he saw my red hue. The girls noticed him looking in the mirror grinning at me and burst out laughing when they saw my red face.

"Hey, Michael, could you fix my strap here, it's all twisted up" asked Becky as she pulled her spaghetti strap over closer to her shoulder, baring some of her chest for me to gaze at. I reached over with timid hands and tried to untwist it without breaking it or pulling it farther away from her body to expose more of her gorgeous breast.

"Ahem. Michael, just because you are now her boyfriend doesn't give you the right to paw my daughter right in front of us" said their Dad.

I hastily removed my hand from her dress strap and stammered "I was just fixing her dress strap Mr. Waters. No pawing happening here". I of course was beet red at this point.

"Daddy, that wasn't funny. I wouldn't let him paw me right out in public. That's for the bedroom later" said Becky with a small smile as I groaned and shook my head.

Vicky and their Mother laughed loudly while their Dad growled. I was so dead. He didn't have time to get in a comment as we got off the freeway and turned onto a main street in Dearborn. We pulled up to a fancy restaurant and a couple of teenage valets came over and opened the doors for the ladies and helped them out, gawking at them. Mr. Waters led the way inside with Mrs. Waters on his arm as I followed with the twins on either side.

The Maître d' seemed to know the Waters and talked with them as he walked us to a table. Before he left he complimented the women on how beautiful they looked and told Mr. Waters and I how lucky we were to be accompanying them. It was easy to agree and the ladies thanked him. I was manoeuvred by the twins to be sitting between them and the parents sat beside each of them around the table.

The Maître d' summoned a waiter and whispered in his ear before he sent him to our table.

"Hello, my name is Henry and I will be your waiter this evening. Can I interest you in a drink before dinner?" he asked.

Mr. Waters looked at his wife and she said "The ladies will have a glass of house white wine please".

"The men will have a glass of single malt whiskey on the rocks please" said Mr. Waters.

"Very good Sir and Madam; Will you be having an appetizer to start the meal?" he asked.

"Please bring the usual appetizer tray out Henry" replied Mr. Waters.

"Right away Sir" he said. "Here are your menus. Our special tonight is Prime Rib, presently at medium rare but can be cooked to your preference. We also have fresh Rainbow Trout, grilled or baked. Our soup this evening is New England clam chowder. I will let you peruse the menu and will return shortly with your appetizers".

"Thank you Henry" replied Mr. Waters.

I watched each of the twins out of the corner of my eyes and they seemed a little surprised at the wine order but tried to hide it and act mature and natural. I didn't have a problem with Mr. Waters ordering me a drink as my Dad used to let me drink for the last couple of years if I wanted to. I looked around the restaurant admiring the old fashioned decor and real wood paneling on the walls. It was nice to see some of the older restaurants could still compete with the modern more fashionable ones more in favour with the younger crowd. Henry returned with the drinks and passed them out.

Mr. Waters held up his glass and said "To our wonderful ladies, you honour us with your grace and beauty".

"I couldn't agree more" I said.

The ladies blushed and said thank you as we all had a sip of our drinks. The single malt was very smooth and easy to drink.

"Dad's suit fits you well Michael" said the twin I thought was Vicky.

"Yes, it makes you look very handsome and mature" said the other.

"Thank you ladies. You two, along with your Mother, are whom every artist should use as models when they are painting the masterpiece of their career" I replied.

That got me a look of surprise from everyone at the table.

Mr. Waters reacted first, saying "I have never heard a more truly eloquent way to describe our ladies than that statement Michael. Well said."

"You continue to surprise me Michael. Thank you for that wonderful compliment" said Mrs. Waters with a big smile.

"Thank you Michael that was very nice of you to say" said Vicky beaming a smile at me.

"Yes thank you Michael that was very gracious of you" added Becky, also smiling widely.

"You are all very welcome; you three make it so easy to compliment you. I appreciate all of you letting me be a part of your evening tonight. I am honoured to be included" I said sincerely.

"Ladies, if you don't kiss him, I will" said Mrs. Waters.

Vicky turned my head and gave me a nice kiss appropriate for the restaurant. Becky then turned my head to her and gave me another kiss. They both smiled smugly as I turned red and smiled.

"Thank you ladies, that was wonderful. Sorry about the beacon" I said.

They all laughed. We discussed the featured specials. The ladies didn't want to fill up but also didn't want the fish so they settled on something from the menu, with the twins picking a Fettuccini Alfredo pasta dish and Mrs Waters picking Chicken Cordon Bleu. Mr. Waters and I both went with the Prime Rib at a medium doneness.

Henry took our orders and then Mr. and Mrs. Waters talked softly to each other as Vicky and Becky talked across me about the last time they were here. Mr. Waters did not look pleased and his wife put her mouth near his ear and whispered something to him. He shook his head but she said something else that had him thinking and he nodded reluctantly to her. Mrs. Waters gave him a small smile as she put her hand on his face and then she stood up and simply said "Ladies". The twins looked up and then grabbed their small purses and rose as Mr. Waters and I also rose. The ladies walked, or more accurately glided, to the washrooms through the tables. Mr. Waters and I watched as they made their exit with the eyes of every person in the room following them discretely.

'Michael, you and I are the luckiest men in the world, you know that" he said sincerely.

"Yes Mr. Waters, I do know that" I agreed.

He moved over to the chair beside me, looked at me for a second, sighed and said "Mrs. Waters has asked me to discuss a delicate subject with you. As a father I did not expect to have this conversation quite this way with a young man, but seeing as Mrs. Waters has just told me that the probability of one or both of the twins visiting your bedroom tonight is very high, we need to have it now. My wife does yet know what they have planned or how far either of them might go with you tonight. She is attempting to find that out now and will try to set some brakes on their supposedly exploding libidos. I have been given the task to discuss a couple of things with you.

First, Becky is still a virgin and inexperienced as far as we know. Vicky hasn't had any contact with men since the incident last Christmas and could react very negatively when you two move things along. We would like you to be very cognizant of that and let them decide what they will do and how far they take things. I myself would prefer they don't visit you at all, but on the other hand, having things happen here allows them to feel safe and for us to be available if things went badly for either of them. I'm not saying you would do anything hurtful to them, but they might react badly if the feelings from the incident come to the forefront.

Secondly, I need to talk about birth control. While I am sincerely hoping none is needed for months to come, I also know that passions can rise quickly, and it is better to be prepared than to suffer the consequences nine months from now. Neither girl can take the pill due to incompatibility issues, so you will have to provide the protection. Do you have any condoms with you, just in case it gets that far?"

"No, I wasn't expecting anything to happen with Vicky for a while and obviously didn't know about Becky joining the equation. I don't think you have to worry about anything like that tonight, with either of them" I said.

"I certainly hope not, or you're not the man I think you are. But to be safe, I'll slip you some of mine later before you retire for the night.

I sat there for a second and then said "That had to be the hardest thing you have ever done. I can imagine that some part of you wants to take me out and throw me under a moving semi right now, and I wouldn't blame you a bit. I hope you know I had no intention of sleeping with Vicky until we had gotten to know each other much better and only when she initiated it. I do not feel comfortable sleeping with Becky with only knowing her less than a day. I am not that type of person that would even consider doing that without knowing a person for awhile. Listen, I'm a normal guy, you're daughters are the most desirable women in the world to me and I am honoured that they might eventually feel that way about me. But I have too much respect for you and Mrs. Waters to do this in your house the first day we have met."

"That is noble of you and I appreciate your respect for my wife and me" he answered. However, my wife seems to think that it is better if it happens here under some pretence of control and supervision, and as much as I don't agree with this, I am going to defer to her when it comes to the girls' emotional and physical state. So, I will pass you some before you go up for the night, and you will be as caring and observant of their needs as you can."

"If you say so, but I would rather just put this off for a while, maybe I should just head back to the U tonight" I suggested.

"Personally as a Father I would love it if you did, but I think it would be relationship suicide for you to do that and my wife would have me by my balls as well" he warned.

"Let me try suggesting it and see where it goes okay?" I asked.

"It's your funeral" he said dryly.

"Shit here they come" I said, standing up as they walked up. "Ladies, you look even better than when you left".

They smiled and thanked us as we pushed their chairs in. Henry came with our soups and we ate in silence or talked about the food for a bit. Caesar salad followed the soup and then Henry brought a nice bottle of red wine over and said it was compliments of the house. Mr. Waters thanked him and did the initial tasting and pronounced it excellent. The meals followed and they were also excellent. The Prime Rib was fantastic with some horseradish to compliment the taste. The twins enjoyed their pasta and tried some of my Prime Rib. Mrs. Waters liked her Cordon Bleu as well.

We were all too full for dessert, so we thanked Henry for the exceptional meal and service. I offered to split the bill but Mr. Waters waved me off. We stood up and helped the ladies out of their chairs and walked to the doors, with the elder Waters stopping to talk to the Maître d' on the way out to thank him for the bottle of wine.

We got the ladies into the SUV and gave the valet a tip and we drove back to the house. Mrs. Waters asked us if we wanted to get changed and meet back down for a game or a movie. I declined and used it as a way to try and get out of the evening.

"I'm thinking of heading back to the U tonight. I haven't had the chance to tell everyone, but I've decided to try-out for the team and I need to get some practice in tomorrow so I don't blow it. There are a couple early free skates in the morning at 7 and 10 and then two in the afternoon. I can read some textbooks in between too so I'm not overwhelmed. I'm sorry to spring this on you like this but maybe Vicky can stay tonight and I can pick her up tomorrow or sometime Labour Day depending on my practice schedule" I announced.

Vicky and Becky looked shocked and then mad that I pulled this without talking to them. They looked at me and at their Mom who came to their rescue.

"Nonsense Michael, you can't drive tonight, you've had a couple of drinks and shouldn't be driving until at least the morning, right Phillip?"

Mr. Waters grimaced and had to agree with his wife saying "I have to agree Mike, if you get stopped, you would be in huge trouble for drinking at all, let alone being above the legal limit. You could leave early in morning and still make the first one at seven if you really think you have to."

"Well alright, if you think so, I'll stay over then" I conceded.

The girls smiled in relief and their mother grinned at them.

"Good. Now let's get changed out of these fancy duds and meet in the family room in fifteen" commanded their Mother.

"Sounds good Mom" the girls said and grabbed my hands and pulled me up the stairs.

When they got me to my room they both pushed me inside and shut the door behind them and stood there glaring at me with their hands on their hips. "And what do you think you were doing trying to leave here tonight?" they questioned in the Mother tone.

"Listen ladies, all of this is happening too fast. I do really need to practice if I have any hope to make the team. I also need to study and get ahead whenever I can. I didn't bring any books here so I thought I would kill two birds with one trip. Finally, I'm not comfortable with doing anything with you two in your parent's home the first day that I've met them and you Becky. It doesn't show them or you any respect. So I thought I would just avoid the issue for this week at least."

"How many boys would pass up having twins wearing dresses like this all alone in a bedroom Becky?" Vicky asked.

"Just one, Vicky, just this silly one" said Becky with a sad shake of her head.

Vicky moved in front of me and while looking imperial, spoke in the Voice "Michael, missing one morning practice will not be the end of your hockey career. Classes don't start until Tuesday. Mom is on board with this and will handle Dad. You know me which means you know Becky. Sure we have some differences that you need to learn on your own with her, but for tonight, let's have some fun at our pace. Becky can get to know you a bit so if you and I do some things this week she won't feel strange when she feels what I am feeling".

"I give up. Either I run screaming from you two or go along for the ride. Let's see what happens with you two and how soon you will get tired of me" I sighed.

"Well, not the enthusiastic response we were looking for but it will have to do for now" replied Vicky. "Let's get you out of these fancy duds and go and have some fun with our parents and get you to relax."

With that, the twins pulled off my suit jacket and started unbuttoning my shirt. Becky continued with the buttons while Vicky undid my belt and unzipped my pants. She knelt and undid my shoes, then pulled my pants off after the shoes. Becky had my shirt off so I was sitting on the bed in my underwear. They both stood up on either side of me and hugged me while kissing my cheeks. Their hands roamed on my back and my chest as Vicky kissed my mouth and then Becky did. They straddled my legs and sat down on each of them, rubbing themselves on my thighs while their dresses rode up showing me their legs all the way up. Big Mike reared up as they both rubbed my stomach above my underwear as I started to pant. I had each of my arms around their bodies, trying to caress them anywhere I could.

At the same time, they stopped kissing and caressing me and rose from my knees and straightened out their dresses. Becky asked "Still want to go back to the U tonight Michael?"

I shook my head vigorously.

"See, that wasn't so hard, now was it. I think you might have even liked it a bit. At least Big Mike looks like he did" teased Vicky.

"Yes we did. I never said I didn't like you two, I just think we're going too fast. But, my reservations are disappearing rather quickly!" I said.

"Good, now get your shorts and shirt on while we go get into something more comfortable and we can join our parents for a bit" directed Vicky.

They walked out giggling as I looked at them frustrated. I found my clothes and put on my T-shirt on and tried to get my shorts over Big Mike. I had to think of hockey stats until the swelling went down so I could get them on.

I hung up the suit in the closet and walked down to the family room. Mr. Waters was in there by himself in shorts and a T-shirt and he looked me up and down before saying "They seemed to have left you intact with no visible damage".

"All mental I'm afraid. I got the Voice from both of them, together and then tag team. How I ever thought I could go against those two I'll never know. Remind me to just agree to everything they want from now on will you?"

"I did try to warn you. Now here, take these just in case" he said, handing me a few condoms.

"Thanks. I have no idea how far they want to go, but they won't get any fight from me. Sorry Mr. Waters, but they are running the show and I'm just along for the ride" I said as I put them in my pocket.

"Welcome to my world Michael. You did your best and I know you had the best intentions, but all three of them are forces of nature" he sympathized.

"Phillip Waters, I hope you mean that in a good way!" Mrs. Waters threatened.

I cringed as I looked up to see Mr. Waters smiling.

"Of course dear, what other way is there?" he said innocently.

"Humph, just let the girls handle Michael and concentrate on me Mister" she commanded in the Voice.

"Yes dear, and may I say you look fabulous this evening!" he enthused.

"You may" she replied with a smile as she moved to sit beside him. She was wearing a halter top and a tight pair of shorts which showed off her body to both of us.

"This is meant to distract you so you won't see what your daughters will be wearing for Michael" she said seriously to Mr. Waters. "You will need to let it slide for tonight dear".

"Did you say something honey? I was occupied with something else" he said as he ogled her body.

I tried not to ogle her body too but she was hot.

Mrs. Waters looked over at me and smiled then said "Thank you for looking at an old lady like that Michael, but your ladies will be down soon in outfits designed to wake the dead. At that point, I think family game night will be impossible so we will retire to our room and the girls will decide what to do with you. Let them go at their own pace and control yourself and everything should be fine. If either get scared just back off and let them help each other. Come get us if they get really upset. You have the condoms just in case?"

I nodded.

"Good, you have to make sure you use them if they get carried away. We don't know how aroused they will get with both of them in the same room with a guy, but they could potentially ramp each other up exponentially very quickly. You have to control yourself if that happens and make sure you put them on. We're counting on you to make sure they don't get pregnant until after University okay?"

"I'll do my best but I'm not the experienced one here" I replied.

"We know but you don't want to be a father at eighteen do you?" she asked.

"No!" I said emphatically.

"Enough said" she replied dryly.

We discussed the morning, when I had to get up to make it to the arena for the seven am skate but they suggested tactfully that skipping that one would be prudent so the girls would know how I felt about them in the morning. I agreed.

I heard the twins come into the room behind me while I was still looking at their parents. They broke out in big smiles as they approached behind me.

"Michael, we wore something special for you tonight" they said in unison in a teasing voice.

I turned and started laughing when I saw them. They were wearing a full set of flannel pyjamas with long pants and a buttoned up to the top shirt. It looked like they had borrowed them from their grandparents. They had big grins on their faces as they looked at me.

I stood and gave them both a quick hug complimenting on their PJs.

They sat on either side of me and looked at their Mother's outfit, each with a raised eyebrow in question.

"Mother, are you trying to steal our boyfriend wearing that outfit? Isn't Daddy enough for you?" one twin asked with a straight face.

"Yes, Mother, I can't believe you would wear such a revealing ensemble to a family game evening" the other admonished.

"Neither of the men seemed to mind, girls. In fact, they looked like they enjoyed it a lot" quipped their Mother.

"Hmmm, is that right Michael, have you been ogling our mother in her tiny outfit?" asked one of them.

"Can I plead the fifth?" I asked.

"Well that's as good as an admission isn't it girls" remarked their Mother.

"Yes it is Mother. I don't know where we went wrong with that boy. He used to be such a nice polite young gentleman. Now he's ogling our angelic Mother right in front of our beloved Father" one said shaking her head and looking so sad.

The other piped up "I am so glad we dressed appropriately for this family occasion. We had picked out another little wispy outfit, almost see through, wouldn't you say Vicky?" asked Becky.

"Yes almost, but there wasn't much to it so it didn't matter if it was see through or not Becky" replied Vicky.

"True, so true Vicky. I am so glad we didn't wear that outfit after what happened down here with our supposed young gentleman caller" sobbed Becky.

"I am a knave, no, lint in a knave's belly button, for besmirching the honour of the Gentlewoman who has born into this world the two fairest maidens in all the Kingdom. May God strike this foul beast should he ever again look upon her with anything but downcast eyes. I beseech you to forgive this hollow excuse for a man and his wandering eyes and I pledge to only look upon your radiant visages henceforth!" I pontificated and bowed deeply.

"Well thou hast a gilded tongue knave, but these fair maidens are not quite convinced that your repentance is true. We, and our Gentle Father, will be observing your gaze to see if it alights on our Gentle Mother's scarcely clad bosom henceforth!" One twin replied solemnly.

Ah, could we get her a shirt or something then? You think I'm made of stone over here?" I replied. "Or better yet, how about you two put on the wispy outfits and I'll ogle you two instead" I said switching to a poor Italian accent.

"Oh, is that an offer we can't refuse Michael?" said the other twin.

"Well I would certainly like it if you didn't refuse, but your Dad might have a fit!" I said with a laugh. "So what kind of family games do you play besides teasing poor innocent boys anyway?"

"Well we have the usual board games, like Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit, Clue, Sorry, Chess, and Checkers to name a few. We also have cards for Poker or Gin Rummy" listed off their Mom.

We decided on Monopoly with Becky and I playing as a team — Vicky insisted we pair up rather than the two girls. Becky sat close to me in her PJs and we talked and got to know each other while enjoying the closeness of her family. I caught Vicky looking over at us and smiling and I smiled right back at her. Even her Dad looked over and seemed happy with the two of us.

We called it quits at ten and their parents wished us a good night after we packed up the game with their Mom declared the winner. Surprisingly, there were no looks between either of the parents and the girls or directed at me either. They just smiled and walked arm in arm to their bedroom on the main floor while we walked up the stairs. The girls walked me to my bedroom, with each giving me a nice hug and kiss before wishing me a good night and walking to their bedrooms and closing their doors. I shrugged and quickly used the bathroom and then got into bed and shut the light out on the night table. I wasn't sure if they were going to visit me later or not but while I would love for them to do so, I wouldn't be too disappointed if they didn't. I had a real good time with their family today, especially playing the game.

I closed my eyes and thought of my week. Two girlfriends, a hockey try-out with the U of M team, a new school and a new place to live. Things certainly were looking up after the last six months of tragedy. I fell asleep dreaming of my twins smiling and hugging me on both sides...

I woke up Sunday with the sun streaming through the curtains and looked at the clock. It was eight fifteen and all was silent. I got up, got dressed and used the washroom and wet down my hair to make it look presentable. The girls' doors were closed so I went downstairs to the kitchen to find them all sitting around the table drinking coffee.

"Morning sleepy head, I thought you were going to try and make that first free skate this morning?" asked one of the twins.

"I can miss one or two today to be with my newest girlfriend, can't I?" I replied with a grin.

"Yes you can Sweetie" said the other twin. "You stay all day with me if you want and Vicky can go back this morning by herself" Becky stated while Vicky stuck her tongue out at her.

"Well, I do need to practice sometime today Becky, sorry" I apologized.

"Oh, I know, I just like to tease Vicky" she said with a grin.

"Michael, can I get you coffee?" asked their Mom.

"No thanks Mrs. Waters, I can't stand the taste. I'll grab a diet coke if you have any" I replied.

That earned me a couple of shudders. I went and found one in the fridge and slid in between the girls. They each gave me a quick kiss and then went back to sipping their coffee and reading the section of the paper they had.

"So, how did you sleep Michael?" Mrs. Waters asked with a smirk.

"Very well Mrs. Waters, thanks for asking. That bed is very comfortable" I replied.

"You seem remarkably refreshed and chipper this morning" she stated.

"Yes I got a very good sleep. Best in a long time actually" I replied.

"The girls said the same thing. Unfortunately, neither Mr. Waters nor I did last night" she rebutted.

"Oh Mom, did you two stay up late fooling around? That's what you get for wearing such risqué outfits around Dad. He's old but not decrepit yet" teased Vicky.

"Geez Mom, I don't think my new boyfriend needs to hear about your love life the first day after you meet him" said Becky looking shocked.

Mr. Waters bent down the paper he was reading and smirked at the girls and his wife. "Your Mother has been hoisted on her own petard. She stayed up and worried about you two; I should say you three, while it looks like you were all sleeping the sleep of innocent angels. I bet you didn't even visit him, either of you" he said with a laugh.

"When we had just met him that day Daddy? Of course we didn't visit him last night. We have more respect for you than that. And before you ask, he didn't visit us either" Becky stated emphatically.

"Humph, well what about all of your plans you wanted help with yesterday?" said their Mother, starting to use the Voice.

"Vicky looked over her paper at her and calmly said "Mother, that was called off in the evening. Why do you think we wore what we wore down to game night? We thought you got the hint when we wore them that things changed."

"No, I didn't get the hint" she said, perturbed. "You could have let me know a little more plainly than that!"

"Well, we weren't going to come out and say 'Mom, we're not going to sleep with our new boyfriend tonight' right in front of him" said an exasperated Becky.

"I think we three had better work on our communication skills without the men present" their mother said in the Voice.

"Okay, I think that's my cue to head out and get to the next practice. Thanks for the great meal yesterday and for letting me sleep here last night. I had a wonderful time" I said getting up.

Mr. Waters put down his paper and stood up as well saying "Michael it was our pleasure to meet you and have you join us yesterday. We are happy that you are seeing our daughters and you are invited back at any time".

He stuck out his hand and I shook it, saying "Thank you sir, that means a lot to me".

I looked at Vicky and asked "Do you want to come back with me or stay here with your family for Labour Day? I should be able to return to get you later tomorrow if you want to stay."

Vicky looked at Becky and they seemed to communicate silently for a bit. "I'll stay here if that's alright with you Michael, it should give you some privacy to get some studying done and get some practicing in today and tomorrow okay?"

"Sure. I'll call you when the try-out is done tomorrow" I replied.

"Listen, I'll drive Vicky back to school tomorrow night; you will be wiped out from all of that practicing" said her Dad.

"Okay, that sounds good. I'll just go up and pack my stuff and be on my way" I said.

I walked up and heard women's voices start up behind me. It looked like I was getting out just in time. I heard someone running up the stairs and one of the twins ran into the room, wrapped herself around me and planted a wet kiss on me.

"I couldn't let you go without showing you how much you mean to me already Michael. Please make some time for me somehow next weekend. Maybe I can stay over with Vicky in her apartment?"

"Sure Becky, sorry if I caused problems between you and your Mother. I had a really good time yesterday with you and I'm happy you are my girlfriend too" I said.

I hugged her tight as she smiled a big smile and gave me a scorcher of a kiss, while I cupped her ass and pulled it tight to me. She groaned and rubbed her pussy on Big Mike while sticking her tongue deep into my mouth.

"Ahem" we heard from behind us. Its mine turn now" Vickie said, tapping her foot on the floor. "Let's go, chop-chop, move aside sister".

She slid into my arms and continued the kiss and the full body hug and Big Mike rub. I was gasping for air when she finally let me go.

"Now, that will have to last you till tomorrow night" they said in unison.

"Any more and it would have killed me" I panted.

"Good!"

I grabbed my bag and they walked me downstairs. I popped into the kitchen to thank their parents again and then left with the girls walking me to my car. I got in after another kiss from each and started up the car. They knocked on the window and I opened it up.

"We just thought you should see the other outfit we were going to wear last night" they said as they unbuttoned some buttons on their top and opened them to show me a see through black teddy or camisole that left nothing to the imagination.

I gasped and stared at their breasts through the outfit and my hands rose off the steering wheel involuntarily and started reaching for each of the girls. They giggled and backed up while buttoning up their tops.

"So you liked?" asked one.

"No, I loved" I said with a smile. "Thanks for showing me that and thanks for not showing me last night in front of your folks. I wouldn't have been able to control myself"

"You're welcome Michael. And don't worry, you'll see the whole outfit very soon" they said in a sexy voice as they backed away and blew me a kiss.

I waved and drove off in a daze.

It took me about forty minutes to get back to the apartment. There was a little time to waste so I grabbed some cereal to eat. After packing up my hockey equipment and some textbooks I drove to the arena. They were cleaning the ice when I went in to get changed. Luckily there weren't many people so I could work at one end of the ice by myself, starting with some skating exercises my Dad and I did when we were working out together. A lot of stops and starts, wind sprints, simulated cone skating and transitioning from backwards to forwards. After spending half an hour on skating, shooting was the next exercise; mostly wrist shots a little closer in. With about ten minutes left, slap shots were the final exercise until the horn blew. I corralled my pucks and then helped the driver by moving the nets around while he cleaned the ice.

I got off the ice quickly, got changed, lugged my stuff back to the car and drove home. There were two more free skates at two and six that afternoon, so I grabbed some lunch and then read for a bit. I put some water bottles in my bag and went back to the arena. The two o'clock skate was busy with some families and kids skating everywhere so just some easy skating was done without running any kids over. I stayed till the end and felt nicely sore in my legs while walking back to the locker room to change. I put my equipment back in the car and returned home to study some more. By four thirty the words were getting blurred so I got on the laptop and played some Call of Duty online and then some Madden Football. Not being the typical computer geek, I mostly played sports or war games rather than the other fantasy type games.

After grabbing some supper I drove to the rink and once more got on the ice for the last free skate at six. It was pretty deserted so I used the far end to do some serious shooting. It felt great to finally let go with some shots without worrying about hitting someone. I let my mind drift as I lined up the pucks and shot them one after another, most hitting the back of the net but some hitting the crossbar or posts with a clang. I ended up aiming for the top corner on either side just inside the post and the pucks started ringing the corners like a church bell. It was something my Dad and I did in happier times before my Mom got too sick.

I did some skating at the end and then finally packed it in for the day. After getting back to the apartment and having a shower, I watched some TV for a bit and then hit the hay while thinking about Vicky and Becky. I dropped off to sleep thinking about both of them in their see through outfits as they lay beside me...



-------

Chapter 7


Monday morning found me slapping the alarm trying to find the damn shutoff button. After a big breakfast I scooted on over to the rink. It was almost an hour early for the usual morning free skate since the coaches never specified how early to come in. I looked around and tried to find Frank or Fred in the normal lockers and then went down the hallway to the rooms I had never looked at before. The Wolverines men's and women's team each had a locker room and there were also equipment, workout and the trainer rooms. At the end Fred had an office and there was one for the women's coach as well. I knocked on the closed door, waited for an answer, then peeked in the Men's locker room when there was none. Finally I leaned against the wall next to the coach's office and waited until close to eight, and when no one showed up, walked out to the rink and put my skates on and started skating. Rolf, the Zamboni driver that I helped clean up the shattered Plexiglas, was putting the nets back into their positions.

"You're Rolf right?" I asked.

"Yep, that's me. You're the guy that broke Simon and the panel last week right?"

"Yes, I'm the guilty party" I laughed. "Any chance you fixed Simon yet?"

"We had to let Simon go. He just wasn't cutting it. We have Patrick now to play net. Almost no one scores on him!" he said.

"Well, can I help get him out here so I can try him out?"

"Sure, let me pull him to the ice and you can help from there".

We wrestled him over to the net and fastened him to the posts. Patrick was made from steel reinforcements covered by a plywood front. That front had a steel plate attached to protect the plywood. It was painted with Patrick Roy's picture from his days as the goalie for the Montreal Canadiens. I laughed and thought they wouldn't have put his Colorado Avalanche picture on it since this was Detroit Red Wing country.

They had made it very tough to score on him. The whole goal was covered from side to side and top to bottom except strategically placed slots in the goalie's vulnerable spots. The top and bottom corners had small rectangles as did the spot over both shoulders just below the crossbar. The fifth spot was a small vertical rectangle in between the goalie's pads above the goalie stick called the five-hole. I thanked Rolf and he said no problem.

"I think I'll stick around and see how you do with Patrick" he laughed.

"I'm sure I won't be getting too many in" I agreed.

I started shooting from the blueline at about half power to see if my accuracy was still good to pick the openings. I found the four corners not too bad to hit but the five-hole was so narrow, you had to be perfect to let the puck go right in. It mirrored most goalies when you shot from afar. I ran out of pucks and had to dig them out from behind Patrick by loosening up one end and dragging them out with a stick. My average was about one in every two shots in at this point in the four corners and one in five for the five-hole.

There was still no one around as I looked around the rink, but I didn't think too many people would be using a free skate on Labour Day anyway. I went back out to the blueline and took shots at three quarter power and started clanging off the metal plate close to the cut-outs. The average was about one out of every three shots in which was still not too bad. I retrieved the pucks again and then used full power. The ratio went down to one in five into the four corners and about one in ten for the five-hole. The steel plate protected the plywood quite well except for where it didn't wrap around inside the cut-out. If the puck hit on an angle the wood did split or splinter. I grabbed the pucks again and made myself get a bit angry to see if Patrick could handle the extra power. I had to think of the assholes from the restaurant to really get angry and then put everything in to the shot. These shots were less accurate and mostly hit Patrick or went wide. Since there wasn't a stick shape or a real head shape, there was nothing to break off except around the cut-outs. The shots did make a racket on the steel plate and you could see black marks where the pucks had hit but Patrick came through with flying colours.

I finally had enough and grabbed all my pucks from the net and Rolf came from the back and helped me pull Patrick off. We inspected him and there was little or no damage.

"You made a good one there Rolf. That's going to be around for awhile and really help people focus on the best spots to shoot at" I told him.

"Good, I'm glad you like it. I made it with you in mind for not only your power but your accuracy" he said.

"Well I will certainly appreciate it. Thanks" I said.

I skated around a bit before the buzzer came to end the free skate and packed it in. I took off my skates and put on some shoes and went back to the coach's office to see if he was in.

A voice called to come in so I opened the door and walked in to see Fred and Frank talking to a couple of other people, another man and a woman.

"Oh, sorry to disturb you, I'll wait outside for you to finish up Mr. Benson" I apologized as I backed up to leave.

"Wait Mike, we're all waiting for you actually. We saw you on the ice and knew you would be done soon so we've been just going over some things. How did you like Patrick? Rolf said he was going to make him much more difficult for you score on him!" he said chuckling.

"He certainly did. I went from one in two shots going in at half power to one in four at full power — except for that darn vertical five-hole! That one went from one in five to one in 10 going in. It will be good practice for sure" I exclaimed.

Fred and Frank looked at each other and Fred raised an eyebrow. I got worried that I should have kept my mouth shut until I practiced a bit more and got my percentages up. They probably had guys that could make me look like a novice.

"Don't worry Mr. Benson, I'll get more practice with Patrick and get those percentages up. I'm still a bit rusty having only been back on the ice for a week now. We had something similar to Patrick back home and my Dad and I would have competitions to see who missed first. Sometimes we went twenty shots before one of us missed when we got in a groove. I promise you won't be disappointed with my shooting by the end of the week" I assured him.

"Well Frank, do you think you could live with those percentages for at least this week?" Fred asked with a smirk.

"Fred, I think we can give Mike a week to work on improving those horrible percentages" replied Frank grinning.

"Ok, Mike we'll give you some time to practice" Fred agreed looking at me. "That is if you are here to try-out for the Wolverines?"

"Yes sir, if we can make sure that my scholarship is not affected and we can fit everything into a workable schedule" I said.

"Good to hear it" said Fred. "These people are here to see if we can fit hockey into your schedule without making you be at two places at once. Once they are done and we know the answer is yes, Frank will take you to the team doctor and get you through a physical before we can officially let you try out. After that we will get the trainers to fit you with some equipment. We have a practice after lunch and then Frank and I will sit down and go over some rules and codes of conduct and other stuff that you won't know about. Sound ok?"

"Sure, sorry to make everyone come in on your Labour Day holiday" I apologized.

"That's not a problem Mike" Frank smiled. "Most of us would be here anyway and Heidi and Bill will be here for only about an hour getting your schedule worked out and they can get back home to their families".

"Ok, good, let's get started" I said.

Fred left the office and the rest of us went over my scholarship noting I had to maintain a 3.6 grade point average to keep it. After that we pulled up my current schedule and then first put in mandatory scheduled full team practices, then defence practices, and finally special team practices. Most were early in the morning or later in the afternoon or evening.

Then we put in the scheduled games. I found out there were games on Friday evenings and on Saturdays just about every week starting with the season opener in October with some exhibition games starting this weekend. The season could go all the way to mid April for the CCHA Frozen four in Washington DC which Michigan usually played in. I hadn't counted on two games a week for the whole year plus some weekend tournaments here and there. After adding travel times for away games, we looked at the resulting semester spreadsheet. There were obviously issues with the travel time for the Friday evening games, sometimes blocking out the entire day.

Heidi then took over and started looking at my current classes, both to see if there were alternative times that fit better with the hockey schedule or if we could find classes that could be moved to the next semester when hockey would be less of an intrusion. She did some magic and moved a math class and an elective to next semester and moved in another elective that fit better and we all perused the resulting new schedule. She had eliminated most of Friday's classes and my one evening class while letting me get to the practices and the games. The only downside was that I was taking only four courses each semester and would have to take a couple in the summer to keep up.

The new schedule kept me busy from eight am to six pm every day except Wednesdays where the late time went to eight pm. There were only a couple empty blocks of open time during most of the days. Friday was wide open except for an early lab for a computer programming course.

Frank asked "We haven't put any time for extra training or weight lifting. He also needs to eat with the team whenever we can fit that in. There will be unscheduled team meetings here and there too."

Jim put his two cents in as well saying "He will need homework and study time, especially for computer programming assignments. We had better put in scheduled times for that as well."

They started putting in study and homework blocks during the days and then put in a few training sessions.

Heidi and Jim mentioned that a good portion of studying and programming could be done on Fridays, even if travelling, as long as I had a good laptop and the chance and space to use it. Weekends were for games and studying usually.

Frank mentioned me having a girl friend. They even blocked off some time with her, after pulling up her schedule to see her free time! Most of it was after six pm or the weekend but that time was also extra study time.

They printed out the final schedule and everyone got a copy. I looked it over and wasn't too impressed. The others reviewed it as well, including Fred Benson who had walked back in while they were printing.

"This is an extremely tight schedule people" Fred said. "This could be a recipe for disaster for Mike as the semester goes on. There's no extra breathing room for him to have a life or catch up on homework other than a couple hours with his girlfriend in the evening when he's tired after practice. If this is the best we can do, we might have to rethink this or minimize some things from the hockey perspective".

Jim and Heidi looked at each other and then Jim said "leave it with us for another hour or two Fred. Frank, why don't you get Mike to the Doctor and then come back here and we will go over everything. The three of us can work on it while he has his physical and gets his equipment fitted so we won't waste too much of his time."

"Ok, sounds like a good short term plan" Fred said. "Remember he is here first for an education, second to enjoy a bit of University life and then third is hockey. If we don't get this right, it could blow up in his face and our faces. Frank, stay here, I'll walk Mike to the Doctor".

"Ok, thanks" replied Frank to Fred. He turned to me and said "Don't worry Mike, we'll get it right. We just have to get a little creative because you're coming in on a scholarship that isn't ours."

I nodded to Frank and followed Fred out the door. He led me along the hallway and entered the Doctor's office after knocking. A nurse was sitting at a desk in a small waiting room.

"Hi Nancy, this is Michael Stewart" said Fred, introducing me to a short stocky blonde woman in a nurse's uniform. "He will be trying out for the men's team this week so we need a quick physical done ASAP. Is Dr. Davis available? I know we put this on the schedule Friday."

"Yes Sir, Mr. Benson, I have that scheduled and Dr. Davis should be finishing up with Robert Samuels soon" Nancy answered.

"Good, I will leave him in your capable hands. Can you direct him to the trainer when you are done please?" he asked her.

"Sure, not a problem Sir" she replied with a smile.

"Ok Mike, I'll see you in my office after you are done getting some equipment" he said and left.

Nancy looked me up and down and said "So you are what all the fuss is about. Are you some kind of hockey superstar from up North expecting to be waited on hand and foot like some prima donna?"

"Sorry, you must have mistaken me for someone else. Mr. Benson and Frank asked me to try-out after seeing me at last week's free skate. Definitely not a superstar or a prima donna" I tried to reassure her.

"Well that remains to be seen. Ok, fill out this paperwork and then you can provide some blood and urine samples" she said abruptly.

"Yes Ma'am" I replied and grabbed the paperwork. It asked for my personal information and then had me list my medical history, allergies and any related injuries. I filled it out as well as I could and handed it back to her.

She read it over and then said "Ok, I need a urine sample in this cup. Go into that room and fill it to the line and bring it back out".

I followed her instructions and filled it up and finished in the toilet while trying to juggle the damn cup without making a mess of the toilet or my pants. I washed up and handed the cup back to her in a napkin.

"Ok, come over here and we will get some blood quickly before the Doctor will see you" she instructed.

I laid my arm on the small table and she wrapped a big elastic band around my bicep, then wiped my arm with alcohol inside my elbow. She jabbed my arm with a needle attached to an open tube and then stuck a couple of small test tubes inside it and collected some blood in each.

"Ok, have a seat and the Doctor should be out soon" she told me.

"Thanks" I replied with a smile that seemed to bounce off her like bullets from Superman. She was not happy about something but I didn't know what.

Finally the Doctor came out with another guy who had his ankle in a cast and was using some crutches. The guy walked out slowly as I opened the door for him to get out easier. He thanked me and limped down to the coach's office using the crutches.

I turned around to see the Doctor talking with the nurse and going over a medical chart with her. They finished up and she looked up at me and told him I was here for a physical.

He looked at my paperwork and then waved me to follow him into the back.

"Hi Michael, I'm Doctor Davis, the men's team doctor" he introduced himself to me. "I see we need to do a quick physical on you today. Are you to be Mr. Samuel's replacement on the team, young man?"

"I'm sorry, I don't know who Mr. Samuel is Doctor. The coaches just asked me to try-out for the team on Friday after seeing me at the free skate" I replied. I was getting tired of explaining this to everyone. They certainly didn't give these people much information I thought.

"Oh, ok. Alright let's take a look. Can you strip down to your underwear please?" he asked.

I got undressed and he did some measuring of height, chest size, arm length, and weighed me. I was 205lbs and six feet, two and a half inches high with a 44 inch chest. The Doctor did all the rest of the normal physical things, listening to my heart and lungs, taking my blood pressure and pulse, looking in my eyes, nose and throat and then doing a thorough examination of my limbs and joints. He did the final turn your head and cough test and then told me to get dressed and head out to the front. I thanked him for his time and left after dressing.

Nancy told me to follow her and walked me down to the trainer's room and left me there with a quick "here's the guy you need to get equipment for" to the man inside.

"Hi there, you must be Mike, how are you?" he asked.

"Good thanks and you?" I replied

"Not bad thanks. I'm Chris Jenkins, the trainer and equipment manager around here. Fred told me you would be in and to get you fitted for some equipment".

"Nice to meet you Chris" I said. "Sorry to make you work on Labour Day."

He laughed and said "Mike, this is my busy time, I work seven days a week from mid August until after the final tournament in the next semester. So don't worry about that!"

"Oh, ok. So what do you need from me?" I asked.

"I'll need some measurements and then some preferences you have in terms of equipment specs and then we'll try some stuff on you" he replied. "We have to use certain brand names for some of the equipment due to Sponsors we have either from the NCAA deals or the University but we have some variety for most pieces of equipment".

We got to it with him taking a bunch of measurements for all of my limbs and overall body. He put them into a program on his laptop and then a picture popped up of a guy on the screen. He asked me all sorts of questions on various pieces of equipment and eventually the guy had all of his equipment. If you scrolled across the picture you would get sizes and types of that piece of equipment.

We started with the skates and he pulled out a set and I put them on. He made sure they fit ok and then had me take them off. He took them and put them in an oven for a bit while we went on and fit the rest of the pieces. He grabbed the hot skates and had me put them on and wear them while they cooled and shaped themselves to my feet. Another helper came over and grabbed the rest of the equipment after I tried it out and hauled it to the locker room and put it in a spare area with my name written on some tape above it.

Chris had me take off the skates and the helper went and sharpened them and then hung them up in my area too.

The final piece of equipment was sticks. They walked me over to another room with sticks lining the walls. We talked about size, curl and flexibility and they grabbed a few different ones and took me to the room in the back that had a net to shoot at and a raised wood platform to stand on to simulate wearing skates. They had me shoot with various composite and wood sticks until we agreed on a couple to try in practice after lunch.

I thanked them both for their help and walked back to the coach's office. I knocked and entered when I heard a voice. The four were still there but seemed done with the scheduling. The mood was sombre however so I was worried that they couldn't fit everything into a useable schedule for me.

Fred looked at Frank and then at me and asked me to sit down.

Fred opened the conversation saying "Mike, we have a serious situation here. The injured player you saw with Doctor Davis was Robert Samuel, who happens to be our number one defenceman. He works the point on the power play because of his powerful shot and he also plays against the opponents' best players. We just found out he broke his ankle blocking a shot and is out for the year."

"I am sorry to hear that. He must be devastated. I hope his ankle can be fixed up?" I said sincerely.

"So do we" replied Fred. "As you can imagine it leaves us in a huge bind, with multiple holes to fill".

"I'm sure it is causing you some big problems" I sympathized. "Listen, you don't have time to try to fit me into the mix right now. How about I clear out and let you get to it and maybe we can try this again next year in the proper sequence."

Fred looked at me with a smirk while the rest laughed outright.

"I said something funny?" I asked a bit perturbed.

"You could say that" said Frank, still laughing. "You had better tell him soon before he gets mad and walks out Fred".

Fred smiled and said "You have it all wrong Michael. We need to step up our timetable to get you on the team. We need to get you working with our power play unit and take the point position as soon as we can. We need to see if you can take over one of the six defence positions or switch things to make you a seventh and eliminate a forward position in games."

"Wow. Don't you have extra players that can fill in from the bottom and move people up?" I asked.

Frank took over and replied to my question saying "That's what we usually do and we will if we have to, but with Robert gone we are lean on good shooters. You have the power and the accuracy; we just need to see if you have the hockey smarts to fit in quickly".

"So, we will all go to the team lunch room and grab some lunch and talk about your schedule and then see how you do on the ice" Fred said.

"Ok, you're the coaches. If you've come up with a good schedule for me I don't have a problem with working hard to meet it" I stated.

"Good to hear it. Ok, let's go to lunch" Fred instructed.

Frank led the way up some stairs to the second floor and into a cafeteria where a bunch of guys were eating. I saw a few guys looking at us and talking amongst themselves.

Frank got in line and handed me a tray and told me to get whatever I wanted. I grabbed a sandwich and salad combo, filled a cup with coke, and went to the girl to pay. She rung it up and I gave her a five, got my change and went to sit at a table. The rest of them walked over and sat around me. They all had full dinners on their trays and some dessert. I was hungry and had my sandwich half done before they started on their dinners.

"Mike is that all you're eating, you're going to be starving after practice" said Fred.

"This will do me, I can't afford much until some money comes in later in the week" I said.

"Mike, you weren't supposed to pay for it, the team eats for free. Damn-it Frank, go get his money back and get him a dinner will ya" Fred said angrily.

"Sorry Fred, I didn't get the chance to tell him" replied Frank sheepishly. He got up and went to the cashier and got my money back and then went in and grabbed another meal and brought it back out. By that time I had finished the stuff I had on my tray. He plopped it in front of me and said "There you go Mike. Get that into you and then we'll go through the schedule with you."

"Thanks" I replied and dug in. I was still done before they were.

Heidi passed out the new and hopefully improved schedule for us to review. It still had only four classes for me to take and all of the hockey practices on it but it seemed less cluttered with more free time for studying or other personal activities. At a quick glance it looked much better. They had played around with which classes to take to make the easiest schedule for me and it looked doable. Computer programming, Algebra, Logic and an elective, creative writing were the courses that they picked.

Fred said "That seems better, doesn't it Mike?"

"Yes it does. It looks doable to me" I replied.

That was met with smiles from everyone.

Jim piped up "If you make the team, you will also have access to free tutoring that we offer all of our student athletes if you need it. We also have student assistants that can help with some mundane tasks like getting your assignments from your professors should you miss classes because of games or travel."

"I hope I don't need either but it's nice to know they are available. Thanks for all of your help with this today. I really appreciate it" I said.

"No problem Mike, that's our job" replied Heidi.

"Ok, that's all settled. Now let's get Mike on the ice with the other guys and see how he interacts" said Fred as he picked up his tray and got up. I said goodbye to Jim and Heidi and followed Fred and Frank to the locker room. They walked me to my small locker/cubicle and left me to get dressed. I got some interesting looks from some of the guys and a couple looked downright hostile. Mark the goalie came over and welcomed me which was nice of him and later so did Shawn. The guys filtered out onto the ice and I finished putting on my new equipment. It fit pretty well but I hadn't worn full equipment in a few years so it was a little awkward.

I walked out to the rink and stretched for a bit and then skated around with the others. No one talked to me but it didn't bother me as I was pretty much a loner anyway.

We all started shooting at the two goalies. I took it easy for a bit trying to get used to my skates and my new sticks. I didn't like the feel of the composite stick they gave me as it felt too light and flexible, but tried a few shots anyway. After adding some more power to a few shots, the stick simply broke in two just below my bottom hand. I picked up the pieces and went and retrieved the wood stick alternate.

A couple of the guys that gave me dirty looks earlier made some comments about using a wood stick but it was easy to ignore them. Shooting with the wood stick was the same as my regular one so it was comfortable and familiar. It didn't break with the extra power I put into them and even at full power it still was comfortable and controlled. I skated over to the assistant equipment guy and told him the wood stick was the one. He nodded and went to get a few.

Fred called everyone together and got some housekeeping stuff out of the way. He let everyone know about Robert Samuel's broken ankle and told everyone that they were going to have to switch some things around to replace him. He then split up the practice with forwards working with him at one end while defencemen went with Frank to the other.

Frank discussed in a little more detail some of the plans they were proposing. There were ten defencemen present, including myself. He told everyone that Fred and he were going to see how each one of us handled different positions and responsibilities. Robert was the number one defenceman in all areas so we had to see who could take over each aspect. It might be one person for his normal defensive five on five duties and another one for power play and a third for penalty kills. We might go with seven D until we could figure it all out.

Frank started some simple drills that paired up different people each time and observed who worked well together, who could carry the puck, who passed well and so on. It was run at half speed so I kept up pretty well with the others. Again, my time with my Dad passing back and forth as we skated up the back yard rink helped immensely.

Fred came over and watched with Frank. They were evaluating everyone, not just me. We did that for a bit and then Fred left and brought some of the forwards to do some two on two drills.

We switched pairings on defence until all five left defencemen had worked with all five right defencemen. I was a right defencemen as I was a right handed shot being left handed. It felt good to be out there defending against some good players. I mostly held my own, getting burnt once on the outside by a real quick skater but mostly doing all right. We also got to work against the offensive guys, bringing the puck up to centre against them.

Fred brought the whole team together and we took a quick break. He then started power play versus penalty killing at both ends of the ice. Eight of the ten defencemen were on the ice and most of forwards as well. The rest sat on the bench until they were subbed in.

I sat on the bench for a bit and then was subbed in for the power play after watching what was happening. They were run at full speed so as a defenceman you had to make quick decisions on whether to pinch in on a forward or pull back, when to pass across or to shoot, and how to shoot, whether directly on the net for a shot or a re-direct from a forward. I was put in after about five minutes along with the other guy sitting beside me. He carried the puck in and set up the power play. I kept open for a pass from him but he put it along the boards to the forward. The play went around behind the net and the right winger kept it going back to me. I got the puck ready for a shot but faked it and passed it to the other defenceman when the penalty killer got in the lane. He took a weak shot that was easily blocked and the forward near me took off for the pass as I followed him out of the zone until we hit centre ice. Frank started us up again and this time it got back to me and I hammered a shot on net that clanged off the corner crossbar and went into the net.

I skated back to the centre ice and waited for the rest of the team to start again. Frank put another defenceman beside me and he brought the puck in. It was worked around the left side for a bit by the centre and the left winger, drawing the defenders to that side. It came back to our left defenceman and he was well covered so he whipped it over to me and I one timed it past the lone defender on my side into the goal past the slower moving goalie. We set up and did it one more time, with me slap passing to a wide open winger when the defender tried to block my shot. It was an easy deflection into the wide open side of the net.

Frank told me to switch with the right hand side penalty killer and this time I had to defend against a power play. The puck quickly came down to my corner and I went to get it and clear when I was hit from behind into the boards. I shook off the guy and tried to wrap it up the boards but the defenceman stopped it and put a shot on net. The goalie stopped it and it deflected to my side but I had the forward's stick tied up so he couldn't shoot. The puck dribbled by and he chased it to the boards. I returned the favour and pinned him to the boards keeping him and the puck trapped for a few seconds. Their centre came in and helped get the puck free and he pushed it back to the defence who shot again. The power play forwards didn't have time to get in front and screen the goalie so he caught the puck and stopped the play.

We went on, switching places from power play to penalty killer at both ends of the ice. I was getting into it and starting to enjoy it. I didn't feel overmatched in most situations though I was giving up twenty pounds to some of the guys. Where I couldn't out muscle guys I tried to outwork them.

Fred and Frank called a halt and we took another break. Man I needed it. My aerobics were still not in the best of shape. Physically there was little fat on my body, but my aerobics sucked.

Fred put us into two teams and we did some five on five full scrimmages. We rotated the defencemen in so we weren't paired with the same guys. I got a little bit of experience carrying up the puck into the zone but usually let my partner do it. I liked to make the first pass and then trail the play as the last defender. Fred and Frank wanted me to be taking the point shots so that's what I did when the opportunity presented itself. The people in front of me started avoiding the shots rather than trying to block them so that helped them get through better. It made it easier for the forwards to deflect them to change the angle of the shot so the goalie couldn't react in time to save it.

Frank and Fred moved behind the benches and started pairing up the defencemen on purpose. I was paired with a shorter, faster skater who automatically carried the puck up the ice and would go deeper into the zone. I hung back at the blueline and moved over to cover more of the ice in case he got caught. He would pull the defenders back into their net to compensate and then he or a forward would try and get it out to me for the one time slap shot. It didn't work all the time but I got a few good shots off, one missing Mark's head by a couple of inches as he ducked and it missed high with a bang on the back Plexiglas.

It was getting a little obvious that Frank was putting me out there a little more than the other pairing and Fred was doing the same with two pairs on his side. The one extra defenceman on the other side was one of the big mouths from earlier that seemed to have a problem with me. He was probably worried about his position so was mad at me. He was put on late in the scrimmage while I was still on and he took a run at me when the puck was in our end deep. He smashed me illegally into the end boards when I had my back to him digging the puck out from behind the net. I went down in a heap for a second. I shook it off and got up to get the licence plate of the truck that hit me as he skated after the puck. I followed him as he stayed in low in the zone. He got his stick on the puck when I hit him on the side with a legal check and he went up against the boards hard. I scooped up the puck and bounced it off the boards to a streaking forward who had a breakaway because the idiot wasn't back in his position. He deked the goalie and put the puck in easily. The idiot came at me wanting to fight, as he ripped off his helmet.

"Take your helmet off, you skinny runt!" he yelled. "That was a cheap-shot check asshole."

"No, yours was moron" I rebutted quite intelligently I thought as I grabbed my chin strap and got off my helmet.

He was a little shorter than me but probably thirty pounds heavier. Normally common sense would dictate that I stay away from him on the first day of try-outs but I was royally pissed at him for his cheap shot earlier. I skated towards him faster than most fighters do. Usually they liked to circle and grab shirts and trade punches. I didn't do any of that crap and just started throwing lefts at his face as I got close enough, trying to put my fist through the back of his head every time. Of course he tried to do the same to me but I got in two lefts over one of his rights and one hit his nose straight on. It felt like it gave out and he went backwards with the punch. He lay on the ice with blood pouring from his nose and his mouth while I shook with rage and wanted him to get up to continue. I stood there for a minute gasping for air before a voice penetrated my rage.

"Mike. Mike!" I looked around and saw Frank a few feet away and the rest of the team looking at me in shock.

I calmed myself down, shook my head and moved away. The trainer moved in and checked him out. He put some smelling salts under his nose and the moron stirred. He put a towel over his nose and mouth and had him sit up.

Fred pointed at two guys and had them help him to the training room.

"So, does anyone else want to show the new guy how tough they think they are?" Fred yelled. No one answered. "I thought not. I will bring anyone in to make our team better and if you can't handle it there's the damn door! None of your positions are sacred; none of you have made this team yet! Four teammates should have had Mike's back when that moron rammed him into the boards, but no one did. So get your heads out of your asses and pick it up or some people will be losing their positions on this team and their scholarships. Now hit the showers and come in tomorrow morning prepared to work at 7:30 sharp".

Everybody was quiet as they walked back to the locker room and undressed. I quickly got out of my equipment, had a shower and got dressed before most of the guys were in the shower. I left the locker room without speaking to anyone, walked down to the coach's office and entered after knocking.

"Mike, how do you feel after practice?" asked Fred.

"Not too bad Mr. Benson, a little tired and sore but I'll survive" I replied.

"Good" said Fred. "Frank and I liked what we saw out there. With some more practice this week we think you could be on the third pairing for the first game and be on the point for one of the two power play units. We'll leave you off the penalty kills for now."

"I'm glad to hear it and I'll do my best to get into shape this week" I said.

"Ok, so we will plan on you making the team unless something drastic changes. We do need to go over some rules and codes of conducts Mike, so you know how to act as part of the team" said Fred.

Frank took over and gave me a small pamphlet on rules and dress codes etc. and went over them. I had to get signed up for a cell phone tomorrow and get some suits to wear while representing the University. There was a bed check every night at eleven and meals were to be with the team if my schedule permitted it. There were a bunch of prohibitive do rules like don't do drugs, steroids, alcohol, guns, knives, wild parties, cheat on tests, get someone to do your homework, get someone pregnant, pick on small kids or kick animals.

"Well, I don't have too much trouble with most of it except for bed check and eating. My girlfriend might have some issues with those but I'll give you her number for the bed check as she lives across the hall from me. I need to have supper with her sometimes as well. I don't mind wearing suits but I only have one right now and no money to get more for a while" I stated.

"We can be lenient due to your situation on the bed check and meals, Mike. We will provide vouchers for you to get some suits at the team's expense" Frank listed off the solutions.

"Ok, I think we have something we can agree on gentlemen" I said.

"Me too" said Fred.

"Anything else you need me for today Mr. Benson?" I asked.

"Nope, go and see your girlfriend and get a good night's sleep. School starts tomorrow!" laughed Fred.

"Alright, see you tomorrow at seven thirty" I replied.

I walked slowly out of the arena as my back, legs and face starting hurting. I got to my car, slung my stuff into the back, eased myself into the seat and drove to the apartment. I sat in the car for several minutes and thought about the day and wondered what tomorrow would bring...



-------

Chapter 8


I dragged my old equipment and my sore carcass down to my room and put the dirty clothes in the washer and started it up. After knocking on Vicky's door and getting no answer I crashed on my bed. It had been a long hard day and my body was sore all over. There were no aspirin in the apartment so the aches and pains just throbbed. At six I pulled myself up and made some Mac and Cheese and ate it out of the pot while watching some TV. After switching the laundry to the dryer, it was time to log in to the system, print out some copies of the new schedule and plan the first day of school. I printed out a campus map and plotted best routes and times between classes, the apartment, as well as the arena. Why not make use of the free meals when it was convenient to do so?

There was a knock on the door at about eight. I got up off of the bed slowly —damn my back hurt from that check, and limped over like a crippled old man and opened it to see a smiling goddess with her Dad standing behind her.

"Hi Vicky" I said with a smile. "I wondered when you were going to show up. I missed you."

"My God Michael, what happened to your face" asked Vicky looking shocked as she put her hand to my face gently.

"It ran into someone's fist" I replied laughing. "Come on in. Can I get you guys something to drink?"

I backed up and walked slowly to the fridge and opened it. "I've got some pop and some juice. Who wants what?"

"Mike, we're good. What happened to you?" asked her Dad. "It looks like you've been run over by a truck!"

"Just typical new guy treatment by a guy worried about his position" I replied as I grabbed a coke and slid into a chair grimacing.

"So the coaches allow them to beat the crap out of you the first day? I hope you got in a couple of shots at least" Mr. Waters chuckled.

I just put my hands on the table with the backs showing but didn't say anything.

"What happened to your hands Michael?" gasped Vicky as she picked up my left one in both of hers.

"I hit it against something, that's all honey" I replied as her Dad chuckled again.

"Well, I knew hockey was a rough sport but geez, you look like shit Michael. Are you sure you want to keep going?" she asked.

"The coaches seem to like what they see so I will probably make the team. I should be in better shape by the end of the week. This won't be happening again" I assured her as I pointed to my face. "Do you have any aspirin or something over in your apartment Vicky? I asked her.

"I'll go check" she replied and rushed over to her apartment.

"So how did it go after I left Sunday morning?" I asked Mr. Waters.

"Well it was a bit frosty between the girls and their Mom, but they got it settled and my wife will be backing off a bit. The girls are old enough to be making their own decisions and their own plans without her butting in" he let me know. "Here's my card with my cell number and our home phone number if Vicky or you need us, ok?"

I took his card and put it on the fridge just as Vicky returned. She went into full Mother mode as she told me to go lie on the bed and she would take care of me with a massage.

"Well that's my cue to head home" said her Dad, rising from his chair.

"Ok Daddy, thanks for driving me home" she said.

"Goodnight Mr. Waters" I said and shook his hand after I got out of my chair.

Vicky walked him to the door and gave him a kiss and a hug and then shut the door and locked it when he left.

"Vicky, before we start, let me give you my new schedule that they worked out for me. I will also get a cell phone and a voucher tomorrow to go and get some suits to wear. I hope you will come with me if we can schedule it. Finally, I need to get your cell number so I can call you whenever I need to get a hold of you" I said.

"I'm glad you're getting a cell" she said. She grabbed my new schedule and looked at it. "It doesn't look too bad. I'll have to see how it fits with mine."

"Oh, it fits very well. I made sure of that when we were doing it. That was a big priority for me so they pulled up your schedule on the computer and made mine fit as well as they could" I assured her, hoping for some brownie points.

"Wow, you did that for me and they agreed?" she said with a huge smile.

"Yep, had to make sure we could see each other as much as we could. I don't want to lose you over playing hockey" I replied with a smile.

"Well, that's good to hear. Ok, let's get you looked after. Here are some aspirins, you better take three. Then get that shirt off and get on the bed for your massage" she commanded in full Mother voice.

"Yes Dear" I said faking meekness as I smirked.

She just raised an eyebrow and folded her arms under her gorgeous chest while staring at me with an imperial look. If she wasn't so gorgeous, she would look like a snotty bitch, but on her it looked like she would fit right in giving Royal commands to her generals and admirals. I debated calling her out on it but I really wanted that massage so I smiled and walked slowly to the bed.

"Don't let me forget to get my hockey stuff out of the dryer tonight ok?" I asked her while trying to get my shirt off. "I have to be at the arena and on the ice at seven thirty tomorrow morning."

"I'll get it later for you and make sure you are up by quarter to seven ok?" she said as she moved behind me and spooned my back while helping me with my shirt. She dropped the shirt down beside us and hugged me lightly from behind as moved her hands along my stomach up to my chest.

"Hmmm, that feels so good honey, you have wonderful hands" I moaned as I tried to reach back and pull her tight.

She stepped back and instructed me "Now get on the bed Mister. This is a medicinal massage, not a pleasure one."

I lowered myself gingerly to the bed and lay on my stomach. Vicky pulled out some baby oil from the bag she brought over from her apartment and poured some into her hands and rubbed them together to warm them up. She put one knee down on the bed but kept the other leg on the ground and started massaging my feet. Like she said, this wasn't a sensual massage but a deep muscle one. She worked over my legs from the calf muscles up to the thighs and even my butt under my shorts. She removed her hands from my shorts ignoring my hard-on, and kept going on my lower back as she climbed onto the bed and sat on my legs. I hissed as she hit the spot where the moron hit me from behind and she was gentler in that area until the muscles relaxed. After spending time on my shoulders and arms she tapped me on the butt and told me to roll over.

She moved to the side and I rolled to my back.

"Well I see Big Mike is enjoying the massage" she said dryly.

"Big Mike, little Mike, Cousin Mike and Michael all are enjoying it very much" I replied sleepily. "Cousin Mike wants to marry you right now if you promise to do that every night."

"I'll have to meet this Cousin Mike. It sounds like an interesting proposal" she giggled.

She started at my feet again and worked me over, this time sitting beside me rather than on me. Big Mike was very disappointed. I was very relaxed and sleepy by the time she finished and lay beside me on the bed.

"Thank you very much for that excellent massage honey. You made me feel almost human again. I am definitely going to have to hire you on full time as my personal masseuse."

"Hmmm and how much does this position pay?" she asked.

"Um, how about my undying gratitude and a few kisses" I said hopefully.

"Well, that's not very much of an offer Michael. I think I will see what I can get on the open market" she said huffily.

"Sorry, honey, I don't think I can let you get to the open market. You would cause a bidding war that would cause a worldwide financial meltdown" I rebutted as I put my arm around her and pulled her close.

"Michael, you're all oily, you're going to ruin my clothes!" she yelped as she tried to keep away.

"Well, you have two choices, hope they come clean in the wash or take them off" I said cheerily.

"You're going to have to work harder to get my clothes off Mister" she huffed as she gave up and moved close to me, wrapping her arm and her leg over my body.

I caressed her back and gave her a kiss. She stayed unresponsive for a little but gave in and kissed me back with a grin. I felt too relaxed to do much more but Vicky seemed to like caressing my bare chest and stomach as she lay draped on my side. Her hands were so smooth and light on my skin and her hair smelled of peaches as she laid her head on my chest. I closed my eyes and enjoyed the closeness and wondered how I got so lucky to have this woman so close to me and seeming to want to be here. I made up my mind to make damn sure I didn't screw this up, especially by opening my mouth any more then I should.

I must have drifted off for a bit, but when I woke up Vicky was still running her fingers around my torso, vacillating between a light caress and a light tickle. I moved my hand to caress her back and side that wasn't covered by her short t-shirt.

"Oh, you've decided to grace me with your presence again, have you?" she snipped.

"Sorry honey, your massage was so relaxing, not even your fantastic body draped all over me could keep me awake" I apologized. "But I feel better now, was I out for long?" I asked.

"Not too long, maybe half an hour or so, it's about nine thirty" she replied as she sat up and looked at me. "I'm glad you liked the massage, I enjoyed giving it to you."

"Good, maybe I can return the favour soon Vicky" I said with a smile.

"Still trying to get my shirt off Michael?" she asked with a grin.

"I cannot tell a lie, the removal of said shirt would greatly improve my view of your stomach and upper torso, Miss Waters. But as I am a professional skin inspector, you can count on my utmost discretion while viewing any exposed or unexposed skin" I said in the most sincere professional voice I could come up with.

She started laughing.

"Miss Waters, please a little decorum here. We, at the skin inspection bureau, have a serious agenda and need our subjects to act accordingly. You were spotted as a potential example of flawless beauty, but to earn that title and our seal of authenticity, a thorough examination of all current exposed skin, as well as any skin that may be potentially exposed, must be completed."

Vicky howled and fell back laughing hysterically. Damn, she was hot even when laughing. I just looked at her with a smile until she calmed down.

"Michael that was hilarious" she said grinning. "I haven't heard that one before."

"It's Canadian" I replied with a straight face. "But it doesn't seem to work down here."

"Oh, you've tried it down here already?"

"Just once, but you still have your shirt on. It must be the water."

"I've got to get out of here before I bust a rib laughing at you" she said as she rose from the bed. I swung my legs over the side, pulled myself up to a sitting position and then slowly stood up. I followed her to the door and went down the hallway to get the clothes out of the dryer before they were forgotten for the night. She helped me fold them and then asked me for the spare key so she could make sure I was up on time.

"You don't have to do that Vicky, the alarm will do fine" I said while finding it to give it to her anyway.

"I will see you in the morning. You need a good breakfast so you have your strength at practice. I might come and watch and make sure no one else has any ideas to mess up my boyfriend's face or hurt your hands with their faces" she said in a very straight forward manner.

"Ok, but I'm not sure they allow spectators at the practices" I stated.

"I'm sure it won't be a problem" she replied, dismissing my concerns and walking back to her apartment.

I followed her and took her in my arms for a good night kiss. She returned the kiss but cut it short and said "Ok, get to sleep. I'll see you in the morning; it will be a big day for you. We'll work out our schedules about when and where we'll meet during the day over breakfast. Good night Sweetie."

"Ok, Vicky good night and thanks again for the massage tonight" I replied and watched her get into her apartment before I returned to mine.

I tiredly shut down the lights and got into bed and was out like a light shortly after, dreaming of Vicky sitting on top of me, giving me a massage without her shirt on...

Tuesday morning came too early. The alarm wouldn't shut off even after hitting it a couple of times. The shower helped a bit but I really woke up when I walked out of the bathroom and a sexy voice said "Now, that's a view worth waking up for; Hi Big Mike!"

"Aw shit, sorry Vicky, I forgot you were coming over this morning" I stammered as I turned around and walked quickly to my dresser to grab some clothes.

"You have a very nice tush there Michael; I think my new boyfriend is one good looking stud, except for that skin glowing condition" she laughed. "I sure hope that it isn't hereditary or Cousin Mike and I are going to have red glow kids lighting up the house."

"Cousin Mike left on an extended exploration of the polar ice in the Arctic and won't be back for at least ten years" I said sadly. "I'm afraid you're going to be an old spinster if you keep pining away for him. Luckily, you've seen me naked now so we have to have kids now. It's a little known Canadian law that applies in exactly this kind of situation."

"Well, it can't possibly apply to little old me here in the good ole U.S. of A" she said with a mock worried tone as she kept staring at me while I dressed.

"'Afraid so, darling" I said sadly, shaking my head. "The law applies no matter where I am physically. Why do you think those Mormons have so many wives? They came down from Canada and when they were bathing in the Canadian River, all the women saw them and they had to get married. Don't they teach you people history down here?"

"Hmmm, I've never heard that version before. Well if you say that's the law then we had better call my parents and get them going on the wedding plans. Are you busy this weekend Sweetie?" she asked in a matter of fact voice.

"Well, I do have this game to play, but for you darling, I would miss one hockey game" I said graciously. "That noise you just heard was the entire Canadian nation gasping in collective shock by the way."

"They aren't all invited so they can butt out. It's their fault we have to get married in the first place" she said a bit peeved. "Ok, let's get my fiancé fed so he can defend himself better today."

She let me finish getting dressed and had some toast and boiled eggs on plates for us when I came into the kitchen. I hugged her from behind and gave her a kiss on her neck before sitting down.

"It looks good dear. Thanks for making breakfast" I complimented her.

"Well, now that I've got you committed to marrying me, this will probably be the last time that will happen" she retorted with a smirk.

"I had better just get you the pamphlet on all the rules before you embarrass yourself too much. Are you going to call your parents or should I, to let them know? Hopefully Becky is available as well."

"What, she has to marry you too?" she gasped in mock horror. "The poor girl; and she hasn't even seen you naked yet."

"She got lucky, then. We have to be real careful this weekend or it could be a double wedding."

She grabbed her phone out of her pocket and pressed a button while looking at me with a smirk.

"Yeah it's me. Listen, I have to get married this weekend."

"To Michael, who else?"

"No, I'm not pregnant; you know we haven't done anything yet!"

"It's some sort of Canadian law — I saw him naked."

"Nice tush."

"Why do you think I call it Big Mike?"

"Did you see him naked?"

"No you didn't so it's just me."

She looked at me and whispered "She's not very happy with us right now" before listening again.

"Hey, I don't make the rules, if you want to marry him, you need to come here and see him naked."

"Ok, I'll call you when we get back here tonight."

She listened for a bit and then looked at me and told me "She says hi."

I heard Becky shouting in the phone and Vicky smiled and said "Ok, fine, hold on."

"She says to tell you that she enjoyed your weekend together and she's going to come up here this weekend and spend the weekend with you and she'll give you a massage that will make you take your clothes off and make her marry you too."

"Tell her I look forward to it, as long as she brings her outfit with her" I told Vicky.

She talked into the phone "He wants you to bring your PJs you wore on the weekend."

"I don't know, maybe he's a little kinky. I would have thought he wanted to see you in the sexy one but no it's the PJs for him" she said into the phone.

"No, we haven't slept together so I don't know what he wears to bed. We will have to find out this weekend."

Ok, we have to go, talk to you later."

"Give him what for you? No, you can do that yourself on the weekend Missy — I'm a good girl!"

I heard Becky yelling again as Vicky smiled.

"Fine, don't get your panties in a knot; I'll give him a kiss. What's that, you're wearing a thong, not panties —oh you tramp you" Vicky teased.

I heard a screech before Vicky said bye and hung up. She walked over and gave me a hot kiss and grabbed my ass.

"That was from Becky" said Vicky. "Boy is she hot for you Michael. We are going to have to spend some quality time with her this weekend ok Sweetie?"

"Sure babe, I want to spend as much time as I can with both of you" I assured her.

That got me a big smile and another hug and kiss. I finished eating my breakfast and we headed off to the arena. I kissed her in the lobby and left her there to get changed. The guys were all pretty quiet in the dressing room which was fine by me. The Zamboni was just finishing as we headed out and did our warm up stretches and skate.

Frank skated by and asked "How you feeling Mike?"

I replied "Pretty good Frank, just a bit sore where I got hit in the back."

"Let the trainer take a look at it if it persists ok?"

"Sure"

"Ok, we're going to step it up a notch and pair you with the three best left defencemen at different times today so we can see how you would do in a game situation" he informed me. "Just try your best and we'll see how it goes."

"You're the coach" I replied.

With that Frank blew his whistle and had us all listen up. He went over the schedule of events for the morning practice while I had a quick look for Vicky. I found her sitting in the seats about half way up at the centre line. She was reading a textbook and looking up once and a while to see the action.

We broke up into forwards and defence again and ran passing and skating drills while Frank gave us instructions and suggestions for improving aspects of each of our games.

After that we paired up against two forwards and defended against them. This time we kept the same partner for a few cycles rather than switch every one. I go into it faster than yesterday, especially after having the same partner for a few. It helped to know what he would do in certain instances. I still had trouble with a couple of guys and their speed rush to the outside, but I got back in time to make him go around the net versus cut in on net. All in all, I held my own at more or less full speed.

We took a break and I got a chance to give Vicky a smile without the whole team finding out that she was with me. She smiled back and went on reading.

Fred Benson came out and directed us in some power play strategy. He mapped out a couple of plays for the power play groups while the rest worked on penalty kill at the other end. I stayed with the power play people when the coaches directed us where to go. The fast defenceman from yesterday was paired with me and we took the first reps. Fred introduced him as John Reilly and we said hi to each other.

The first play was basically what we worked on yesterday. John would work it to his side of the ice, pulling their defenders over so there was less traffic on my side so I could get the point shot off, hopefully with the right winger either in front of or beside the net. If they cheated in defending me tight, I was supposed to pass it back to John or to the right winger down low.

The second play was having us both stay way out at the points and our centre help one of the forwards down low, thereby making their defenders collapse down towards the net. Then John would swoop into the open middle between the circles hoping for a pass out and a point blank shot while the goalie was caught looking back or in the corner. I had to move into the middle of the ice back by the blue line in case the pass got picked off and John was caught deep. I could also receive a back pass if John's shooting lane to the net was blocked.

We worked on both plays for about ten minutes each for both the first power play unit and the second one. Each unit would get about a minute on the ice of a two minute penalty and then be replaced. I didn't know which one was the first and which was the second yet, but my unit was on first.

Fred merged the two groups so we could work at each at full speed against each other. John would call which play we would run using an odd or even number for now. I got a couple of good shots away until they started keying in on me and I had to pass off to John or the forward. John would then switch to try the other one while I pulled their defender away from the middle by going farther out to the right point. The forward got too far out of position and John exploited it by getting open in the middle for a point blank shot as I eased back to the middle.

So the practice went, trying to learn new things without looking like an idiot. Frank or Fred would tell me something just like anyone else on the team so I didn't feel too much out of place.

The final twenty minutes was full scrimmage, five on five. I was kept with John as my defence partner as we relieved the pairing on the ice. He would carry the puck most of the time passing up to a forward or to me only if he was made to by the other team. If not, he would carry it in and set up an offensive play, which I knew nothing about yet. I just played the right point and covered him if he went farther into the zone. When we were off the ice on the bench, he would let me know the play number and name and what my responsibility was. He seemed friendly enough and was very helpful.

We stopped at nine and I had to rush to get changed and get to first class in the central campus a couple of blocks away. The trainer's helper told me to leave all the stuff this time so they could wash it for me. That would help.

I quickly left the locker room and went to find the coaches. Fred was in his office so I asked him if there was a playbook for any of the plays and he was pissed that I hadn't got a copy yet. He told me I would have one at the afternoon practice. I thanked him and left to find Vicky.

I found her with a couple of guys from the team trying to hit on her. One was the idiot's friend from yesterday and one was the short small forward. Vicky looked annoyed more than pissed off and was trying to be polite as she tried to get them to leave her alone. I walked over getting mad as I saw the big one not taking no for an answer and reaching for her arm.

She saw me walking up behind them and said "Hi Sweetie, do you mind letting these two know you are my boyfriend?"

The big one looked back at me in annoyance but visibly cringed when he saw me. The little one looked embarrassed before he even looked around but when he did he actually took a couple of steps back and stumbled while the idiot's friend turned white. The little one stammered an apology and quickly walked away while the other one was slowly debating what to do or say. I walked up closer to him and said in a quiet voice "Your friend got off easy yesterday but you won't. Go away now and never bother my girlfriend or me again or they'll be feeding you with a needle for the rest of your life."

I was hoping he would take a swing but he backed off and left quickly. Vicky took my arm and walked me out to the car where I grabbed my books. We walked quickly up the street to the main campus.

"Mike, you ok now?" she asked. "You were pretty intense there for a bit."

"Yah, I'm cooling off. When I saw them bothering you I lost it. The big one is a friend of the idiot I fought yesterday, so I was kind of predisposed against him. I told you I wouldn't let anything happen to you when I was around. Sorry if I came on too strong back there."

"Oh, I don't mind what you did; I'm tired of assholes that think they are the bull of the walk. Thanks for being there and taking care of them for me" she said with a big smile as she hugged my side.

I walked her to her class and she gave me directions to mine. We quickly looked at our schedules and agreed to meet at the arena cafeteria for lunch at noon in between my two training sessions today. I gave her a kiss and she went in with a happy smile and a bounce to her step that had people watching her as she passed. I watched her until she sat down and looked at me and then I grinned and left.

I walked over to where my computer programming course was to be held. I walked into a big hall that could hold up to 500 people at a time. It looked about three quarters full with more coming through the doors behind me. I quickly found an empty seat at the end of a row so I could stick out at least one leg straight. The rows were too close together to stretch them out in between the rows.

I looked around and saw people from all different nationalities intermixed and talking to each other. It was new for me as up north it was mostly white people of European descent. It was interesting to see everyone seemingly getting along just fine in a classroom when there was so much anger and discord in the real world between different cultures.

Many of the students had laptops open on the small desk table attached to the seats. Some had small tape recorders and a couple had set up small web cams to record the lecture. I pulled out my trusty paper notepad and fine point black pen and put the date and Class title on the top of the page and I was ready. I'm sure a few thought I was a Neanderthal, especially for a computer programming class, but writing things down seemed to hard wire it into my brain and I could almost visualize the page when I wanted and could regurgitate it verbatim on a test if needed.

A short, skinny, balding man walked into the room and introduced himself as Dr. Will Albert, the professor for first year Computer Programming. He went over the class and test schedules, the weekly assignments and the lab time in about five minutes. He gave out his open office hours for this class to come for help and put up the names of the teaching assistants who ran the Friday lab time and who were also available for help and tutoring.

He then handed out a class syllabus or the course outline for us non-language types. He explained that you didn't need any programming experience to take the course but it would come in handy. He asked how many of us were in the computer science program and half of the people there or about 200 people put up their hands. He mentioned that only about 50 would graduate from the four year program. It was not an easy program and those that wanted to graduate should be ready to dedicate the next four years to working hard to achieve that goal.

After that he gave the actual lecture of the day, quickly going through proper programming protocol and structure that was required in the class, no matter what language was being used; things like proper indents, naming conventions for sub-routines, variables etc. He then started on simple programming statements and used them to write some simple programs on the board. By the end of the lecture he had covered the first two chapters in the book, or about 50 pages. He advised us to read the textbook to flesh out some of his lecture and do the questions at the back of each chapter and then said he would see us Thursday. We had the class twice, for an hour and a half, Tuesdays and Thursdays and the lab to work on programs on Fridays from 9:30 to 11:00.

I followed the masses out the door and quickly walked the couple of blocks back to the arena. I had an hour blocked off for training before lunch and then another hour and a half after lunch. After that it was study time for an additional hour and a half and then team practice from 4:00 to 6:00 on both Tuesdays and Thursdays.

I wasn't sure who to see but went to see Chris Jenkins to see if he knew what was up. I found him in the weight room and waited while he helped one of the guys on the team do an exercise properly.

"Hi Mike, how's it going?" he asked.

"Good Chris and yourself?" I replied.

"I'm doing ok. What brings you in here?"

I showed him my schedule with the two training slots today and Thursday.

"Anyone tell you anything about this?" I asked him.

"Nope, we had better find Frank and work something out for each of these slots. I'm sure a couple will be for aerobic training and for weight training but those others might be for specialized on-ice training for you and some of the others" Chris replied.

I went looking for Frank and found him in Fred's office.

"Hi Mike, what brings you here?" asked Frank.

"Hi Frank. Chris Jenkins and I need to know what you want me to be doing during these training times you have scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays before and after lunch. He's in the weight room waiting for us if you have a couple of minutes to spare."

"Sure Mike, let's see what we can come up with. I need to set something up on the ice at least two of those times but he can have two of them for weight training and aerobic training."

"Sounds good Frank. While I got you, do you have a play book for me? Mr. Benson said he would have one by practice but if you have it now I can read it during lunch or my study break and put it to use before getting on the ice this afternoon."

"That's a good idea, I have one around here somewhere. I'll bring it down to you before lunch or come and get it from me after your workout" he said.

We walked back to the weight room and I quickly changed into some shorts and a t-shirt while Frank and Chris talked things over.

Frank spoke up as I walked up to them "Mike, the sessions are too close together but that was the best we could do with your schedule. We have decided to use the one hour before lunch on Tuesdays as strength training and the hour and a half after lunch on the ice with me or in an office going over the playbook or film. Thursdays we will switch it up with me getting you in the hour before lunch and Chris getting you for equipment training after lunch for the hour and a half. Both days you have an hour and a half to rest and study before our afternoon practice. Sound good to you?"

"Sounds ok but I wouldn't mind getting some more time in the exercise room during the week if we can fit it in somewhere. I might have to come in before morning practices or after supper depending on my homework on Mondays and Wednesdays" I replied.

"That's what I was just saying to Frank" piped up Chris. "Twice a week is not good enough for strength training. You will get enough aerobic exercise with the two a day practices to build up your stamina, but you need at least three or four work-outs a week to show improvement in strength. Mike, you're in great shape and are strong for your weight, but you will get pushed around if you don't bulk up. We are going to have to put you on a high protein diet with extra portions to add some muscle to you quickly. So, if you can come in twice more in the week, we can get you on a serious work-out program".

"I'm just getting into my schedule this week so I'll have to play it by ear, but somehow I will get in a one or two more workouts, maybe Sunday or one morning" I replied.

"Sounds good Mike" said Frank. "Ok, I will see you on the ice at 1:00 after lunch ok?"

"Ok Frank and don't forget the playbook" I reminded him.

"Sure thing" he laughed.

Chris asked if I had done any strength training before and I told him just in the last year or so with a home gym we had in the basement. Mostly, I kept in shape with the wood cutting and splitting we did as well as the snow shovelling. The last year or so, Dad had taken an interest to make sure I was working out on a regular basis after a fight I had with a larger guy at school. He gave me some pointers on fighting as well, which seemed to have helped here already.

"Ok, I'll walk you through a quick routine with just one set of each and you can work up to three sets each. I'll give you a whole chart with reps and weights for each workout. We'll work first on chest and arms today, back and abs second and your third one legs and shoulders both on Thursday. You should split those up and move one of them to your third workout" said Chris.

"Sounds reasonable Chris" I replied.

Chris had me do each of the exercises on the appropriate machine and corrected any mistakes or breathing patterns as we went along. We finished up just a few minutes before noon and he said he would have all three full workout charts ready for me for the afternoon session on Thursday. I thanked him and quickly got changed and headed to the cafeteria.

Vicky was waiting for me outside the cafeteria and after a quick kiss got into line. I loaded up with a dinner and large milk while Vicky grabbed a salad and a diet coke. I paid for hers and told the cashier I was on the hockey team. She gave me a hard time so I paid for it but asked for a receipt. Supposedly, I needed a special swipe card to get the free meals. Another thing they haven't gotten to yet.

We sat down over in a quiet section and started eating.

"So how were your classes this morning Vicky?" I asked.

"Not bad so far Michael, Physics and then Sociology which is my elective for this year" she answered. "This year will be a bitch though, P-Chemistry, Bio-Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Sociology. Four of them have labs as well as classes so it is going to be busy. My Friday is non-stop labs so I guess it is good that day is your travel or game prep day because I'll be too busy to see you until later in the evening. At least I can get to your games when they are here."

"I'll have to put that on the list to ask for as well. Playbook, food swipe card and two passes for my ladies" I said.

"Becky will be glad to hear you remembered her Mike. I'm so happy you're ok with seeing the both of us; you won't regret it" she promised.

"How could I ever regret having the two most beautiful women in the State as my girlfriends?" I asked.

"Good answer Mike, good answer" she said with a smile. "So how was your morning?"

"Pretty good so far" I replied. "I had computer programming and then came here for my first weight training session. Man, that professor did not fool around. We went through 50 pages of the textbook in just over an hour!"

"Get used to it Michael" she said seriously. "They are there just to go over the main points. It's up to the students to read the chapters thoroughly and do the questions at the back of the chapters for review. It's all independent study at University Sweetie. It's good to have read the chapter he's going over before class so he is just refreshing your knowledge and you can ask a question or two if you don't understand something."

"Well thank God I did all that reading last week. I'll be reading every night trying to keep up" I stated.

"Welcome to the big leagues" she teased. "You're lucky you got your schedule down to four subjects and only one has a lab — though for computer science, it's just a blocked off time for access to the computers and you can do most of it on your own laptop from what I remember. You only have to show up if you need to talk to the teaching assistant."

"Don't forget the extra 20 hours for hockey and training let alone Friday and Saturday travel and game times." I'll be plenty busy too." I retorted.

"I know Sweetie, I was just kidding" she soothed. "We are going to have to work hard to have time together and not shut each other out. But we also have to let each other have some space and time alone to do our work when we need it."

"Sure babe, just remember this is all new to me and you and your family are my only help down here" I said. "Don't leave me to the wolves ok?"

"Sweetie, you have nothing to worry about. Between Becky and I, we will make sure you are well looked after and no wolves, foxes, hens, chicks will ever get close" she said with a little of the Voice in her tone.

"Um, are we talking the same thing here dear?" I asked. "I'm just talking about making sure you can spend a bit of time with me in the evening while we read together honey. I'm not talking about me going out looking for other women honey. You too are already more than I will be able to handle or want in my life".

"Damn straight we are Michael. Just make sure no floozies or hockey babes try to latch on to you. There's going to be girls wanting to get you for a boyfriend or a one night stand either here or on the road when you are away from us. Keep them away from Big Mike or there will be hell to pay Michael Stewart!" said the Voice.

"Yes ma'am. Just all the more reason that I have you two to keep me in line and safe from all forms of predatory wild life" I replied with a grin.

"Good. Now I have to get to Biology and you have more training right?"

"Yes. I will see you here for supper just after six or do you want to eat at home? I should have my free meal card by then. I do have to eat a high protein diet now, Chris says."

"Well, how about we eat here twice a week and at home twice a week. We'll play Friday and the weekend by ear once we know when and where you play. I'll come here and we can eat here tonight ok?"

"That sounds good Vicky. Have a good afternoon and I will see you a bit after six."

"See you then Sweetie" she said and gave me a kiss and left the arena as I went back to change.

I got to the ice just before the ladies team finished their practice. There were some very good players out there. They couldn't shoot as hard as the men but they could certainly skate and deke almost as well. I enjoyed watching them scrimmage for a bit before they had to get off for the Zamboni to clean the ice. Frank walked up a couple minutes before he was done.

"Ok Mike, I got you a playbook ready in my office and you can grab it when we're done" he said.

"Good, thanks Frank" I said. "I have a couple of other things that came up. The cafeteria won't let me get meals without a swipe card. Secondly, I need that cell phone you said I was to have. Finally, is there somewhere I can buy a couple of passes for my girlfriend and her sister to see the games?"

"Sorry about that. I will get you a food card and phone when I give you the playbook. I'll throw in a couple of passes to the games too. We have a section for girlfriends and family so they won't have to fight for seats" he replied.

"Thank a lot Frank. I'm sorry to be such a pain in the butt. I think that's it for now" I apologized.

"No need to apologize. I should have taken better care of you since the beginning. Most of this stuff is done all at once when everyone gets here but we're kind of missing the boat with you" he said. "Ok, let's get out there and warm up for a bit."

We skated for a bit and then stretched. He talked to me the whole time about playing defence, being a stay at home defenceman or more of an offensive one. From early on they had it in their minds for me to stay at home but also be the shooter rather than the quarterback of the defence pair. I told him I had no problem with that.

"Ok, Fred and I noticed a few things that you can improve on which will make your defensive game much better" said Frank. "They're all pretty simple to incorporate into your game so we'll start with some of them this afternoon. After you've gone over the playbook, we can start getting you up to speed on defensive sets and then offensive plays."

"Sounds like a plan Frank, let's get at it" I agreed.

We spent most of the hour and a half going over positioning on the ice in certain situations and how and when to turn properly to block opponents or to follow them. There were times I was to back off and times when I should rush the puck carrier, depending on different situations. We started in general terms and then got specific and he would show me on the ice what exactly to do with my feet, body and stick. Some of it was coming back to me from what my Dad taught me but this went much farther as it also depended on where other players were on the ice, both ours and theirs.

We would run each scenario at half speed and then full speed to see if I got the gist of it. I'm sure lots of guys had this training earlier in their careers but Frank didn't seem to mind going through it with me. I felt pretty good at the end of the practice and that what he'd shown me would help my defensive game immensely.

"Frank thanks for spending so much time with me on this. I think it's going to be a big help. I can't wait to try some of it out in practice later" I gushed.

"Mike, it's no problem" he chuckled. "In fact I like doing this. Most of the time we work on higher level stuff with the guys but I miss teaching this fundamental stuff. Don't worry; we'll have you caught up to everyone very quickly. You have good one on one skill, but we need to supplement that with some team defence skills. By next week we can start on some offensive sets and plays and you will fit right in nicely. We will probably dress you this Saturday as the sixth or seventh defencemen and let you get some game exposure in an exhibition game so you can get the feel of it."

"Hey I'm happy just getting to know the system and some practice time. I don't want to stir up the pot any more than I already have. You're going to have more than a few players sore at you and me if I play in the first game versus someone who's been here a lot longer."

Frank stopped and looked at me seriously and said "Mike, you have to realize that this isn't the house league or a kid's team that makes sure everyone plays. It's a very high level competitive sport which brings substantial accolades and revenue to the school. The coaches are all paid to make the Wolverines the best hockey team in the country. If we don't succeed, the University loses money and we lose our jobs. It is our impression that you will make us a better team and we are doing everything we can to get you ready for the first game come October. Unfortunately, feelings are hurt but they have had ample chance to prove that they belong on the ice instead of you. If they play better than you then they will get the ice time and you will keep practicing".

"You're the coach. I'll do whatever it takes to get up to speed. Thanks for the confidence in me" I stated.

"Alright Mike. Let's get you the stuff you need and let you relax until practice."

He gave me the playbook, swipe card, cell phone and two passes for the games and I went and got changed. I hung up my stuff to dry for a bit and then went to the cafeteria to get a protein snack. I showed the cashier the new swipe card and she smiled and after making sure it worked, let me by.

I sat in the back with my legs up and my back resting on the wall and opened the playbook to start reviewing the defensive schemes first. There were a bunch of them for various situations. I concentrated on five on five and tried to memorize the right defensive position and responsibilities for each one.

Then I reviewed the set plays, mostly face-offs at full strength and with one or two men down or up. I had to know where to line up and where to go if we won the face-off or who would be my responsibility if they won the draw. Not having participated in a face-off for years, it was a little overwhelming to say the least. Hopefully my partner would give me a quick hint during a game if I didn't remember.

Finally I looked over the offensive plays, just concentrating on the power play for today and just breezing through the rest to look at where the right D was. It got to be too much so I put the book down and my head back and rested my eyes for a bit.

I heard someone walking up to me and I opened my eyes. John Reilly was standing in front of me along with the small guy that was bugging Vicky earlier.

"Hi Mike, how's it going?" asked John.

"Not too bad John, just taking a break from trying to learn some of the plays in this novel here" I said, pointing to the playbook.

"Tell me about it. It's lucky we only use a fraction of them or it would get very confusing" he laughed.

"Aw shit, no one told me which ones we used. I tried to memorize all of the defensive ones damn-it! I said a little pissed.

"Hey don't worry about it Mike. You and I can get together after practice and quickly mark up which ones you need to know first ok?" he replied.

"Thanks John that would be great. How about here during supper? My girlfriend is showing up to eat with me but I'm sure she won't mind."

"Not a problem. Speaking of your girlfriend, our left winger here has something to say to you. Mike, this is Larry Dennison; Larry this is Mike Stewart."

"Mike, I wanted to say how sorry I am for being involved in that incident with your girlfriend. That's not how I act and I shouldn't have been anywhere with that jerk. It won't happen again and I won't get anywhere near you girl ok?"

"Larry I appreciate you coming up to me and setting the record straight. I think you should probably say the same thing to my girlfriend after practice when she is here so she knows how you feel and that she doesn't have to worry about you. I came on a little strong but she's had some issues last year and I won't let it happen to her again."

"Sure Mike, I'll be sure to come see you two after practice. Don't worry; I won't be a bother to her. Thanks for listening" Larry said and left.

John piped up "Man he came to me white as a ghost and told me what happened. I told him he was an idiot to be hanging around with Jones and to be bothering a girl on top of it. I think he was in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong person but check with your girl to see if he did or said anything inappropriate. Neither one should have been hitting on a girl watching the practice. It was good odds that she was going to be with one of the players. I'll pass the word around to make sure no one bothers her again. I'll try and get my girlfriend to come to dinner tonight too, and maybe they can hang out a bit when we're busy."

"That sounds good John. Thanks for helping out with stuff on the ice and off. I really appreciate it" I said.

"Hey, I need to make sure my new partner is taken care of. We'll make a good team I think" he stated.

"Yea, I think we will. So how long have you been on the team?" I asked.

"This is my third year, and my second year actually starting. Last year I was part of the third pairing. Now with Samuels gone, everything is all screwed up, but I lucked out with the coaches pairing me with you" he said excitedly.

"Why do you say that? I might not get on the ice for awhile. I don't know any of the plays or anything! I'm the lucky one to get paired with you John!" I retorted.

"Mike, they have big things planned for you, we all know it. Your shot blows everyone away for both power and accuracy. You are already playing the point on the first power play unit and you can already keep up defending our best players one on one and soon as you get a bit of time to know the schemes and plays, they will move you up to one of the top two pairings and I hopefully will go with you. My job is to set up the plays and get it back to you to shoot. Don't worry about a thing. I'll help you get up to speed real quick" John assured me.

"If you say so John, It seems kind of farfetched that I could walk off the street and not only make the team but be on the ice for the first game!" I said amazed.

"Yea, you kind of took this place by storm, without even trying to" said John. "Then you had to clean Taylor Porter's clock and made the rest back off real quick. Porter was the resident fighter and supposed tough guy for the team. I hear he's out for a few weeks with a cracked jaw, broken nose and a concussion. No one deserved it more than him, unless it was his buddy Jones. Where did you learn to fight like that?"

"My Dad taught me everything to do with hockey" I answered.

"He must have been a hell of a player in his day. Where did he play?" he asked.

"I don't know, he never talked about playing but I know he was real good now that I see what you guys think of me. He could outskate, outshoot and out muscle me any day of the week. Unfortunately, he died recently so I won't ever know now" I said.

"I'm sorry to hear that Mike. Maybe your Mom knows?" he suggested.

"She might have but she died six months ago from cancer" I let him know.

"Man that sucks. My condolences" he said sincerely.

"Thanks. It's been a shitty year for sure" I said.

"Well it's getting better. You got a real good looking girl, so Larry says, and you just made the best University team in the country with the best coach in the country. Now you got a great new partner and things are looking up" he said with a smile.

"For sure, well, we had better go get changed and get out on the ice" I said as stood up and grabbed my stuff.

We walked down to the locker room and split up to go get dressed. A couple of guys nodded to me as I passed and I nodded back. It was a start. I quickly got dressed and walked to the ice where a bunch of the guys were standing around talking. They stopped talking when I got close so I went past and stood near the boards watching the Zamboni finish cleaning the ice.

John and Larry walked up and stood by me while we waited. They were talking about something trivial but it was nice that someone didn't clam up when I walked by. "I called Amanda and she will meet us after for supper, ok Mike?" John said.

"Sounds good John, thanks" I replied.

We got on the ice and the two of them stayed close while we skated and stretched. We shot on the goalies and I watched how they both did. They weren't going to overpower many goalies but they were accurate. Larry was better closer in and had a pretty good wrist shot. John's shot would be good for deflections or a screen, but his skill was in puck carrying, stick handling and passing. That's why he fit so well as my partner.

The practice was almost identical to the morning one. I felt better in the two against two drills with John as my partner and using the skills I learned from Frank earlier in the afternoon. The fast forward didn't get by me one this time so they were working.

The two plays on the power play seemed to gel and John would switch it from one to the other right in the middle if the penalty kill unit keyed on which one we were using. John even improvised and had us switch sides while he carried the puck over to my side. It gave me a different lane to shoot a one timer from. I remember the Red Wings did that a lot with their top defence pair.

Finally, we did the normal five on five scrimmage. I got to see a bit more ice time and it was good to use some of the other things Frank showed me. I could see some of the defensive schemes happening on the ice from the play book, putting theory into practice. On offensive I just played the point and shot when someone passed it to me. I didn't pinch in unless there was no way I could get beat. John really helped me with my positioning on face-offs and giving quick suggestions on where to put the puck when I had it. It was really beneficial to have some help and guidance on the ice.

It was a bit surprising to see the amount of checking going on for a scrimmage. It was funny that no one seemed to want to hit me, even the bigger guys, but I didn't mind as I had enough to worry about. The other idiot Jones threw his weight around a few times but it was nice to see that the one time he did cheap shot a guy; the guy's teammates stepped in and made him pay.

Fred and Frank stopped the scrimmage and had us group together. They said they liked what they saw today and to keep up the intensity. Saturday's game line-up would be decided after tomorrow evenings practice so everybody was to show the coaches what they could do to earn playing time. They dismissed us and we headed to the locker room. I was pretty tired but at least I didn't hurt quite as much as yesterday. Was that only yesterday? Wow, what a long day already I thought.

I quickly showered and waited for a few minutes for John and Larry to finish up and the three of us went to the cafeteria to see if the girls were there. I saw Vicky talking to a good looking blonde girl who I assumed was Amanda. We walked up to them smiling.

"Hi Vicky, been waiting long?" I asked.

"Just a few minutes, but Amanda here has been keeping me company" she replied with a smile.

John and Amanda greeted each other and we made introductions all around.

Larry had hung back a bit until we were all introduced and then I motioned him up and said "Vicky, I think you might recognize Larry here, he has something he wishes to tell you".

"Yes, he was one of the two guys that were bothering me at the rink this morning" she said using the Voice and the Look.

I swear all three of us cringed and John and Larry took a step back. Amanda's face turned from a smile to a frown so quick it was startling.

"Vicky I am so sorry to have bothered you today, I shouldn't have been anywhere near you or Jones. That is not something I do and I was embarrassed to be there when he was bothering you. It won't happen ever again and I'm very sorry for upsetting you" he said sheepishly.

Vicky, and Amanda, looked at him with the almost identical look for a few seconds, which I'm sure to him felt more like minutes. Finally Vicky spoke up "You two made me feel very uncomfortable and upset this morning and if Mike hadn't been there, the other jerk would have grabbed me. Even though you didn't say anything, your presence there made what he did worse because it made me feel trapped. If you ever, ever to that to another girl and I find out about it, I will make sure you will be peeing sitting down for the rest of your life. Got it Larry?"

"Yes Ma'am, loud and clear. I will never, ever do that to you or any other woman ever again, I promise. I am so sorry to have made you mad and upset" he babbled.

"Larry, I am just upset. Trust me, you do not want me to get mad" she said with what sounded like a growl.

"No Ma'am, I don't" he agreed.

"We are going to supper now Larry. Unfortunately, I do not feel comfortable enough to dine with you so please leave" she said coldly.

"Yes Ma'am, I'm leaving now" he said and he started walking.

"Larry Dennison, if you think this is over, you are so wrong" said Amanda in almost the same Voice.

Larry cringed and stopped and slowly turned around saying "Amanda..."

"Don't Amanda me Laurence Winston Dennison!" she spoke with venom. "How could you even think to hang out with Jones or even let him pick on a girl in your presence? Do you think so little of me that you would let that happen to me? If you let him do that in a rink, what would you let him do if he was alone with her? You wait until your Mother hears of this one Laurence! Now get out of my sight before I have Vicky use her black belt on your sorry little ass!"

He stood there for a second trying to say something but turned and left quickly. John and I looked at each other and then the girls.

Vicky turned to Amanda and politely said "That was nicely done Amanda".

Amanda turned and smiled "Thank you Vicky, I so liked your peeing sitting down comment".

"Your 'Laurence Winston Dennison was to die for Amanda" Vicky praised.

She turned to us boys and said with a big smile "Shall we dine gentlemen?"

"After you Ladies" I replied.

The two girls went in chatting away while John and I followed.

"John, we have the scariest women in the bloody country don't we?" I asked quietly.

"Yes Mike, now keep your voice down. We don't need them mad at us!" he replied.

We all grabbed some food and sat down.

"Vicky and Amanda, John and I have to go over the playbook for a few minutes after dinner if that's ok. I need him to mark up which plays we use so I can study them. It should only take about ten minutes ok?"

"No problem Michael" said Vicky. It will give me time to get to know Amanda if she can stick around for a bit."

"Sure Vicky, I was planning on it" she agreed with a smile.

We finished eating and John marked up the plays that we used and even put those in order of most used to least used. He then spent a few minutes going over the face-off plays and what I should do when. It helped a lot having someone showing me what to do. The girls were chatting away like long lost cousins, which was nice to see. John and I wrapped up for the night just as we heard the girls planning to get together with us for dinner on Thursday and arrange to go to the game as well.

We said good night to each other and left for the night. We drove home and Vicky put her stuff in her apartment while I put my books on my desk and sat down with my playbook and reviewed the ones that John had arranged for me. They finally started to sink in with John's subtle hints and advice on the ice and in the cafeteria. After finishing with the playbook for the night I looked at the clock and wondered where Vicky was. I went over to her apartment and knocked on the door. She answered with one hand while talking on her cell and gave me a five minute signal with her other hand and shooed me back to my apartment while shutting the door on me.

Bemused, I wandered back and picked up my programming textbook and started re-reading the chapters the prof had gone over. It was pretty general and mostly review for me so it went quickly, including the questions at the back of the chapters. Looking at the clock, it looked like Vicky's five minutes had stretched to half an hour so I grabbed my logic textbook and read the first couple of chapters and attempted some of the questions. I wrote some questions on the chapters to get answers from the professor if he didn't answer them with his lecture. Finally I finished with logic and took a break wondering why she was taking so long to come over. If she wanted to study or have time alone she could have said it before she went into her apartment.

It was just after nine when I heard a knock on the door. I opened it a little perturbed and she just smirked and said "Did you miss me Michael?" as she walked past me into the room. I caught a whiff of Kiwi from her hair as I turned to watch her. She had a pink robe that covered her up from chin to below her knees with the belt cinched tight around her narrow waist. Bunny slippers in pink completed the ensemble as she twirled and asked "How do you like my outfit Mike?"

"Very pink and cozy" I replied. "It would have been nice if you had let me know you were going to be two hours rather than five minutes Vicky" I said with a frown.

"Sorry Michael, I was talking to your other girlfriend and she had to know all about our day and the incident at the rink" Vicky informed me. "She had to tell Mom and then she got on the phone for a bit to make sure everything was alright. They both said to say thanks and I have things to give you from them later."

"Ok, I guess that could take a bit of time, but two hours?" I asked in doubt.

"Oh I had a bath and got changed for bed before I came over" she said with a smile. "Now, chop-chop, on the bed for you nightly massage boyfriend of mine" she commanded.

"Let me just brush my teeth and set the alarm. I might fall asleep on you again tonight, I'm kind of beat after all the hockey today" I replied.

"Ok, brush your teeth and I'll set the alarm for six thirty, but I doubt you are going to fall asleep on me Sweetie" she said with a grin.

I quickly brushed my teeth and lay on the bed face up while she finished with the alarm setting.

"Turn over Michael, I'll do your back first" she directed me and I turned over reluctantly.

Vicky got on the bed and sat on my legs and started her patented massage on my back, arms and legs. I was so relaxed after it she had to shake me awake to turn over. She got up as I turned over.

"This is from Becky, Michael" she said with a sultry look and loosened the belt and slowly opened the robe. She removed it from her shoulders and stood there in the silky see —through teddy from the weekend.

"So, Michael, like what you see?" Vicky teased.

"Wow! I love what I see honey. You look like Aphrodite reincarnated" I stated as Big Mike started to stiffen in my shorts.

"Good. Now let's do your front massage as she dimmed the light and climbed back onto the bed. She climbed over my legs and her skin felt great rubbing on mine as her legs tightened on mine. She leaned over and started massaging my shoulders and chest as I looked at her breasts as they stayed firm defying gravity. I made to move my arms to reach for her but she stopped me by putting her hands on them and pushing them down while massaging them. I lay their appreciating the view, the massage and her lower body in contact with my legs and so close to Big Mike as she bent over. Big Mike kept rising to meet her and she felt it hitting her stomach.

"I see Big Mike is enjoying the massage. His comes later though" she teased and sat up a bit so it didn't make contact. Big Mike jumped when she said that and Vicky giggled at it. She continued the massage a little quicker moving to my chest and stomach and teasing me by caressing just above my shorts making me gasp and suck in my stomach. Finally she shifted off, spread my legs and finished my leg and calf fronts while kneeing in between them. After she was finished with my feet she smiled at me for a second.

"That was fantastic Vicky. Thanks so much" I gushed.

"You're welcome Michael. Now comes the fun part!" she grinned. She caressed the inside of both my legs all the way up and kept her hands moving up onto my hips just missing Big Mike. Her body started contacting mine as she lay on top of me with her hands moving up my torso, onto my chest until they reached my face. She came up to stare into my face as she ground her body into mine, with Big Mike trapped between her legs. She lowered her head and kissed my lips, working up to a passionate French kiss with our tongues duelling inside first my mouth and then hers.

I raised my arms and squeezed her tight to me as I felt her back through the silk and moved my hands to her ass and squeezed her cheeks tightly as her pussy rubbed Big Mike through her silk and my shorts. I slid my hands through the loose legs and felt her bare ass making her gasp into my mouth and grind her groin into mine.

She rose up breaking contact with my mouth and said panting "That kiss was from Mom". The rest of tonight is from me to you Sweetie" she said with a sexy voice and a lust filled look.

I took my hands from her ass and reached up to caress her bare shoulders and arms. I played with the spaghetti straps, pulling them down the shoulders so the top just hung on her breasts. She had a look of anticipation and disappointment as I moved it back up, teasing her. My thumbs rubbed her nipples through the silk and she moaned as her nipples hardened and she caressed my chest and stomach while squeezing her legs around mine and grinding her groin into mine.

I finally pulled the straps down to her elbows, baring her spectacular breasts for my hands to squeeze and caress. She pushed back at my hands and started to pant as I lightly pinched her nipples. "God, you look so perfect Vicky. I want you so bad" I gasped as I stared at her body.

"Michael, your hands are so warm on my breasts. Yea Sweetie, squeeze my nipples, Ah yea that feels so good" she moaned.

I pulled her down to me and sucked her nipple into my mouth and lightly nibbled on one and then the other while caressing her ass again, making sure Big Mike was contacting her pussy. She worked her hips to rub her clit on Big Mike. We both were losing control pretty quickly. She broke away from me and reached for my shorts and quickly undid the button and pulled down the zipper. She grasped them and pulled them off as I raised my hips to help. She took my underwear with the shorts as she got them off my feet and then turned back to look at me while on all fours. She looked so fucking hot I wanted to get up and fuck her from behind right where she was. Before I could move she crawled up to Big Mike and grabbed him with one hand and started jacking me off. Who was I to argue when she did that?

"Oh Sweetie, Big Mike is huge and so hot tonight" she stated. "I just love how he is so soft on the outside but hard and stiff on the inside. He's getting so wet and slippery too". She rubbed my pre-cum all over the head and down the shaft, making it much more enjoyable as she worked her hands up and down.

I reached for her body and she helped by pivoting around my cock and giving me access to her. I caressed her breasts and then moved down to her ass and legs while pushing the outfit down past her ass to puddle on her legs while she kneeled. I rubbed her ass and slid my hand in between her cheeks and returned the favour by caressing her pussy from behind, quickly finding it wet and open as she moaned and shivered. I gently pushed a finger in and she groaned and grasped Big Mike harder as I starting moving it slowly in and out. She looked up at me with such a passionate look that it made me start moving my hand faster and raise my hips to get more contact with her. We started moving in concert, speeding up our hands on each other as we panted.

"Vicky, your pussy is so tight and hot" I panted as I reached with my other hand and searched for her clit at the top of her pussy. I used a finger to move her juices up and rub around until I hit her nub and she gasped and her hips pushed her pussy back onto my hands.

"Right there Michael, rub right there, yeah, you got it, oh yeah Sweetie" she started chanting as her pussy squeezed my finger.

I continued, going faster as she slowed down on Big Mike while concentrating on the feeling she was getting from her pussy. She started bucking her hips and moaning "oh yeah, oh yeah, Michael, you're going to make me cum, oh yeah, faster Michael, yeah, going to cum, Michael, oh yeaaaaaaah" as she came on my fingers with her pussy clamping down while her hips spasmed. Her legs collapsed and I quickly got one hand out from under her while keeping my finger pushing in slowly through her clenched pussy as she moaned and gasped out her climax. My hand was getting soaked but it felt fantastic to have given her so much pleasure.

Before she stopped her hips moving I quickly pulled out my hand and grasped her at the hips and lifted her body over mine and pulled her up so I could lick her juices right from the source.

"Michael, what are you doing?" came from below, but was quickly followed by an "Oh my God, Michael!" as I licked her pussy from top to bottom. I stuck my tongue as deep as I could get it while she pushed her pussy into my mouth. She started moaning again and quickly ramped back up as I alternated between licking her clit and sticking my tongue back in to her soaking wet pussy. My face was covered in her juices and her thighs squeezed my head so I could barely hear or breathe.

I felt Vicky grab my cock with one hand and start jacking me off again. I felt her face close to Big Mike as I responded with hip thrusts timed to her hip movements. I was so hard and close to cumming so I sped up my own ministrations on her pussy with my tongue. I settled on circling my tongue on her clit and reached in with a finger to keep her pussy busy. She went wild again, screaming "Oh shit, you're going to make me cum again Michael!"

She lowered her head and quickly opened her mouth and tentatively ran her tongue around the head of my cock in a circle.

"Vicky that feels so good honey, yea keep doing that" I said panting. "Oh shit Vicky, that's it, that's going to make me cum, oh yea, cum with me, cum with me Vicky".

I sped up my finger in her pussy and sucked on her clit while nibbling it with my teeth while she jacked me off with her tongue licking my head and shaft. She was driving me crazy and I felt my climax starting.

"I'm gonna cum, Vicky, yea I'm going to cum, Awww yeahhhhh I'm cumming" I shouted as I thrust my cock higher, unfortunately right into her open mouth before she could pull away. My cum shot into her mouth as her hips ground her pussy onto my mouth as she squeaked in surprise while orgasming on my tongue and finger again. Her head and upper body pulled back in surprise while my arm kept her lower half against my mouth as she bucked and rode my face. I continued to shoot my come out into the air while I felt her hand try and direct my cock away from her and the other one try and shield it from her face. Finally, I stopped my hip thrusting and slowed my tongue, releasing her hips as my head fell back to the bed in exhaustion.

She lay there for a bit and then slowly raised her hips and climbed off of me. She turned to look at me and I saw she was a mess with my cum on her face, chest and in her hair. She had a bit of a glazed look in her eyes and didn't say anything.

I quickly scrambled up saying "I am so sorry Vicky, I lost control. Let me get a wash cloth". I ran to the washroom and grabbed a couple, got them wet with warm water and rushed back with them and a towel.

She was still sitting there and I quickly knelt down on the floor and started gently wiping her face, starting with her eyes and working downwards. I then tried to get it out of her hair but didn't have much success. Finally I used the second wash cloth to wipe her neck, shoulders and chest off the best I could. She sat there quietly with a blank look on her face while I cleaned her up. When I finished I pulled her up and slowly walked her to the washroom and started the shower. I helped her in and got in behind her and shut the curtain. I rinsed her hair to get my cum out of it the best I could, and then got the shampoo and washed it. After rinsing her hair I washed her whole body with another wash cloth and then had a quick wash myself. I dried her off, then myself and quickly walked her into the bedroom where I found a t shirt for her and grabbed some shorts for me. I put the shirt on her and then bundled her back up into her robe. Finally, I quickly pulled off the dirty sheets from the bed, remade it and then laid her down under the covers. I scooted in beside her and tried to snap her out of it.

"Vicky, are you ok honey?" I asked. "You're all cleaned up now, can you talk to me?"

She shook her head for a second and her blank look vanished as she turned to me and asked "What happened Michael? You look worried."

"You blanked out there for a bit honey" I replied. "We had a bit of an accident but I got you all cleaned up. Are you feeling ok now?" I asked

"Yeah, I feel fine Sweetie" she assured me. "I remember you giving me one great orgasm with your fingers and then another one with your tongue just as you shot in my mouth and all over me. I don't know why I blanked out unless it was because of what the asshole did to me last year. He did something like that on purpose and I must have reacted like I did because of that."

"I am so sorry about that Vicky" I apologized profusely. "I haven't had anyone do that to me and I lost control of my body and couldn't stop it from happening. It won't happen again, I promise. You scared me when you zoned out like that honey."

"Sweetie, don't get so upset please" she tried to reassure me. "I wanted to do that and I know what happens when a girl does that to a boy. I was the one who lost control because of your fantastic fingers and tongue. I should have been better prepared for you're ... um explosion than I was. I enjoyed everything up to then Sweetie, please believe me I don't blame you for anything."

"Ok, honey, I'm happy you enjoyed everything, and so did I until you turned around looking like that" I replied. "I think you have to talk to someone about that Vicky. Your councillor or your mom and sister need to know about this ok?"

"Ok, Michael, I will go see the councillor tomorrow. I don't want this to affect our relationship either Sweetie" she assured me.

"Great. Thanks darling" I replied relieved. "You might want to call Becky now in case she felt something and was worried. What do you think?"

"That might be a good idea Michael. I'll go get my phone and call her" she replied.

"No, Vickie, let me go get it, you stay bundled up" I said as I got up.

"Thanks Michael, just bring my purse back" she said.

I was up and back with her purse in a minute.

"Here you go honey" I said with a smile.

She smiled and said "Thanks Sweetie, you take so good care of me".

"It's my job now Vicky" I replied.

"Come here Michael" she demanded.

I sat down beside her and she took my face in her hands and gave me such a tender kiss as she looked into my eyes. "That was for cleaning me up so gently and for being so caring. I am falling for you Michael Stewart" she said with a serious face. "Don't let it be a mistake please, I couldn't handle that again"

"I've already fallen for you Victoria Waters" I replied. "I'll won't ever hurt you or let anyone hurt you again. This isn't a mistake, I promise you".

"Good. Now let's see how panicked my sister is" she said with a grin.

"Tell her I loved her gift" I grinned back.

She smiled as she opened her phone, hit the speed dial for Becky and listened as it rang. Becky picked up quickly and I heard her panicked voice ask what was wrong.

"Bec, it's ok. I just blanked out. I had a flashback while Michael and I were um, having some fun in bed like I told you we might" she replied.

Becky's voice lowered so I couldn't hear her side of the conversation.

"Well, we um, did some stuff with our hands, and then with our tongues" Vicky said with a blush as she looked at me.

I heard a shriek from Becky and some more excited talking.

"Yes, you're right, two times. You felt them from there Bec?"

"You did too? Wow!"

"Right after that Michael came but I wasn't prepared and it got messy"

"Yes, a bit, but mostly on my face, hair and body. That's when I blanked out"

"No, of course he didn't do it on purpose Becky! Michael isn't like that. He got me cleaned up and gave me a shower. He washed my hair and gave me one of his t-shirts to wear and bundled me back up in my robe before he got me out of my daze".

"Yes, he cares for me very much and will care for you too soon enough."

"Our Sweetie has already got me to agree to go see the counsellor here tomorrow. I told you he did. So don't worry ok. You can tell Mom tomorrow only if you can do it without Daddy knowing. Have her promise not to tell him about it before you do. I don't want Daddy ever finding out about it Bec."

"Becky, you try that and I won't let you near Michael."

"Yeah, I thought so."

"Yes, they were the best ever. He has the best fingers and tongue. You are going to just love it if he ever tears himself away from me."

"Ok, now be nice and we'll see you on the weekend."

"I'll tell him and he said to say thanks for the outfit."

"Our Sweetie was so turned on Bec. It made Big Mike so hard. You made a great choice."

"Sure, you have a good night too Bec. No, I'm going to give him a kiss only; you can do that this weekend for yourself."

She laughed and hung up. "Come here stud" Vicky said and planted a big wet kiss on me when I did. "She says she can't wait to see you this weekend. That kiss will have to do till then" Vicky teased.

"Hmmm, tell her it was a good one" I said smiling.

Ok, I should get going for the night Michael" she said as she started to get up.

"Vicky, why don't you stay with me tonight? You can get up and go over there in the morning to get ready."

She thought about it for minute. "That's a big step in a relationship Michael, but I guess we what we just did is a pretty big step as well" she said wryly. "I think I would like to spend the night with your Sweetie very much."

"Good, do you have anything to do or shall I shut the light off?" I asked.

"I need to brush my teeth and use the washroom. I'll just be a sec."

"I have a new toothbrush in the medicine cabinet you can have honey" I told her.

"Thanks Michael, that's so sweet of you" she smiled.

Vicky went and did her stuff while I pulled the covers back and laid down. She came out and with her robe folded on her arm and placed it on the chair. She caught me looking at her gorgeous legs as the t-shirt came just below her butt.

"Oh, you like my legs in this do you? I think I'll have to keep this reserved for my night wear over here" she said.

"That sounds great honey, you look great in it" I said enthusiastically.

She slipped in beside me and moved close to me and gave me a hug while I put my arm around her and gave her a kiss. We snuggled for a bit and I caressed her back through the thin t-shirt. I lowered my hand and rubbed her bum through the shirt as she wrapped her body tight to mine and gave me a nice kiss.

"Good night Michael, have sweet dreams" she said softly.

"I'll be dreaming of you so I sure will. Good night honey" I replied.

I stayed awake while lightly rubbing her back and butt until I heard her breathing deepen. I fell asleep thinking how lucky could I get to have such a girl sleeping with her body wrapped around mine...



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Chapter 9


I woke up Wednesday morning with a body burrowed up against me and it took a minute to figure out what was up — besides me. Vicky was spooned up next to me with my arm draped over her while hers was over top of mine holding it close to her. Big Mike was trapped between her butt cheeks and was definitely appreciating his surroundings. I glanced at the clock and saw it was only five thirty so there was no rush to get up, except I really had to go to the washroom.

I tried to pull my arm gently from her grasp but her arm reflexively tightened down on it, squeezing it to her body. Normally that would be right where I would want it to me but not this second. I wiggled my bottom arm out from under her head and used it to pull up her arm and quickly pulled my arm out while backing away from her. I covered her up as she stirred and mumbled. I quickly made my way to the bathroom and when Big Mike decided to become regular Mike, I relieved myself with a sigh. I quickly brushed my morning breath away and went back to bed.

As I lifted the covers up to slide in I saw that her t-shirt had ridden up and her scrumptious ass was bared. She looked so hot with her legs curled up to show her tight ass and I quickly scooted in to spoon her. I wrapped my arm over her again and slid it up to her breast and lightly grasped it, while moving my legs up to contact hers. Her arm moved back onto mine and pulled it close to her with her hand moving on top of mine and squeezing it to her chest.

"Hmmm it feels wonderful to feel you close in the morning Michael" she whispered.

"You felt so good to wake up to Vicky" I replied. "I have never had that feeling before and it was so, so warm and comfortable. You make me want to cuddle up to you and stay here all day."

"Yet you left me here all alone with a cold back and bare bum while you went away" she teased.

"When you have to go, you have to go" I laughed into her ear.

"Speaking of which, now I have to go too and it's going to be so cold" she whined.

"Just go quickly and I'll be here to warm you back up" I encouraged her.

"You had better Mister" she pouted and got up.

I watched her ass as the t-shirt stayed up on her hips for a second until she wiggled it down and said "Hey Michael, end of the free show now."

I pouted but watched her as she scooted to the bathroom and closed the door. I laid back on the bed and relaxed with my eyes closed as I waited for her return.

The door opened and she raced back to the bed and burrowed under the covers shivering and saying "Warm me up Michael, it's freezing out there."

"Come and get close honey" I said as I pulled her close and wrapped my arms around her as she lay on top of me. She laid her head on my chest and I rubbed her briskly on her back and as far down her butt and legs as I could reach.

"Aw, you feel so warm Sweetie, You're better than an electric blanket" she sighed as she rubbed my chest with her cool hands and moved her body to create more friction.

"Hmmm, you feel so good too" I murmured into her hair and kept rubbing her while enjoying her movements as Big Mike rose back up to greet her body.

She moved her legs to the outside of mine and rubbed them alongside of mine. Her skin felt so smooth and silky against me. She lightly rubbed her groin against Big Mike so I moved my hands to her butt and squeezed her cheeks while thrusting my hips up to have Big Mike contact her bare pussy as her t-shirt rose up. She moaned and raised her head to give me a kiss while she ground her pussy on Big Mike through my shorts. Our lips opened to allow our tongues to mingle. Vicky had brushed her teeth as well so we continued to deepen the kiss while she had her pussy rubbing up and down the length of Big Mike, stopping at the top to have her clit get extra attention, before continuing down again.

"Michael, I don' know why but you make me so hot whenever I'm close to you" she said panting as she stopped the kiss and looked up at me. "I've never been like this with anyone else but I can't seem to resist you even when you're not trying to seduce me. I hope you don't think I'm a slut or something?"

I stopped thrusting and caressing to move my hands up to her back and gave her a big hug and said "Vicky honey, how could you even think that? How could I ever think anything but good things about you darling? You make me just as passionate just by being in the same room as you. I think we are late bloomers in terms of this stuff. Most kids do this kind of thing in high school so the emotions and feelings are kind of overwhelming, at least to me."

"Oh, me too Michael" she agreed. "Other than the first month with that asshole when he was trying to seduce me, I haven't felt this way ever. It's still all new to me and it's so hard to control it. Right now I want to rip your shorts off and take Big Mike inside me and make love to you Sweetie. I'm fighting so hard not to because it's too early and I'm still scared about what happens afterwards."

"Honey, let's try and hold off for awhile at least" I answered. "Don't get me wrong, I would love to make love to you right now or anytime, but you need to be ready with all of yourself, not just your body. Let's continue with just helping each other get some relief so we don't go crazy and do something we might regret. You still need to get things straightened out with what happened last year. You should talk about all of this stuff with the counsellor and both your Mom and sister as soon as you can as well."

"How did you get to be so wise Michael, and such a gentleman?" she asked. "Most guys would have tried to convince me to let them fuck me when they heard me say that!"

"Well I'm not most guys Vicky. I don't have any experience with girls but I know right from wrong and I know you deserve the best. I'm not looking for a quickie and then to leave you. I like you a lot already and I'm here for the long haul if you are" I said sincerely.

"Oh Sweetie, I knew you were the right one for me" she exclaimed happily as she hugged me tight and gave me a nice kiss. "You won't be getting rid of me for a long time Mister so don't you worry about that!"

"Good to hear it. Now let me take care of your little problem" I said as I quickly rolled her over and gave her a deep kiss as she squealed. I moved to kissing her neck while caressing one of her breasts through her t-shirt.

"Oh yeah Michael, that feels good" she moaned as she caressed my hair and moved my head down to her breast.

I lightly bit her nipple through the thin material as she gasped. I pinched the other nipple to get it hard and moved my other hand down her flat stomach to grab the t-shirt and pull it. Vicky helped by raising her body with mine so the shirt could be raised up. Her hands helped to pull it off over her head as we temporarily broke apart. I quickly put my lips back to her bare breast and licked and sucked her nipple. She pulled my head tight against her chest and gasped. I switched to the other nipple and did the same.

"Michael, that feels so good Sweetie, you're making me so hot" she moaned.

"Good, now let's get you to a boil" I replied.

I moved down her body, licking her stomach and her belly button causing her to start to pant. I lowered my body down between her legs and my head reached her wet pussy. She smelled so intoxicating that I had to taste her again. I lowered my mouth and licked her from the bottom to the top of her slit tasting her juices as she gasped and raised her hips while spreading her legs. I stuck my tongue deep into her pussy and held her up to me with my hands under her ass. After thrusting in and out of her in time with her hips, I moved up to circle her clit with my tongue and brought a hand up to insert a finger to continue with her pussy.

"Aw, yeah Michael, you got me so wet, so juicy" she panted. "I'm starting to boil" she moaned.

"Now it's time to make you boil over" I grinned and ramped up the fingering while returning to suck on her clit, while making little circles.

I kept up my assault on her pussy and clit until she just started going wild, bucking her hips up while holding my head to her. She mashed her pussy into my mouth and my finger went in so deep as she came, shouting "Oh yeah Sweetie, I'm cumming" in a long scream. I continued with fingering her and tonguing her clit until she came down and pulled my head away as she said "Stop Michael, please, it's too sensitive now Sweetie".

I pulled away from her for a bit to wipe my face with my hand to remove some of her tasty juices. She sighed and lay back on the bed with a huge smile on her face. It made me feel so warm to see that she was happy with the results. I smiled back and lay beside her and said "You look so spectacular when you lie back after you've had an orgasm. It makes me try harder each time to make sure each one is better than the last."

She moved over and crushed me with a hug and a terrific kiss. "If you get any better you are going to have me unconscious afterwards" she said with a smile. "That wore me out."

"Glad to hear it. Why don't you go back to sleep while I shower and go to practice. I'll meet you for lunch in the cafeteria at the Central Campus at noon after my Creative Writing class ok?"

"But Sweetie, what about you? I don't want to leave you hanging like that. We won't have time until tonight to take care of you Michael" she said a little worried.

"This isn't a payback thing Vicky, don't worry about me. Get some sleep and I'll see you for lunch later ok honey?" I said.

"You are so good to me. Ok, I'll see you for lunch" she agreed as she lay back and closed her eyes while smiling.

I got up and headed to the shower. I turned the water on cold to get my hard-on to go down and then washed and relaxed under some hot water to loosen up my muscles. After drying I found some clothes, got dressed quietly and grabbed some breakfast in the kitchen. Picking up my backpack with my books and playbook, I looked in to see my angel sleeping naked on the bed with a smile on her face. I wished I had a camera to capture that vision forever. I watched for sleep for a minute and then went to the kitchen to write her a note.

'Vicky

I watched you sleep this morning and you looked like an angel from heaven with a smile on your face that would melt the coldest heart. I am the luckiest man in the world to be honoured to see you like that and be part of your life.

Have a great morning honey!

Well, it was mushy but she seemed to like that kind of stuff so what did it hurt? I left the note on the table and left the apartment for morning practice. It was early so I read my Logics textbook for a bit in the car to get ahead. It looked like an interesting course but time would tell. It was all about converting sentences into math like symbols and then figuring out the resulting equations and I could see how it could be useful in computer programming. I read until about ten after seven and then went in and got changed.

Most of the guys were pretty grumpy in the morning like me so it was mostly silent in the locker room and on the ice. We did our normal skate and shoot warm-up and then split again into offence and defence practice. John and I were paired together again and went two on two against two forwards. The two forwards matched against us were fast and crafty and used their speed to see if they could get past us or get us out of position. John matched up speed wise but I was a bit slower to react. The first time my winger got past me and open for a pass and an easy goal. John and I talked and he had me move a bit and turn sooner when playing man on man coverage. We couldn't hold up the player but could tie up his stick so he couldn't take the puck. Of course they didn't try the same play again but I caught onto how to deal with speed by the end of a few tries, with John and Frank giving me pointers after each one.

After a short break, we did something a bit different. We were broken into four on four scrimmages, with the forward pair and the defensive pair switching off whenever it was convenient to do so. There were plenty of times in a game when both teams were down a man due to penalties. It created more space on the ice and good passing and skating skills were a necessity versus brawn. You could create mismatches easily if a player was caught out of position or a change was botched.

Working with John as a partner made this exercise a treat. He had the speed and the know how to take advantage of the open space. He did most of the puck handling while I set up for shots and stayed back to cover for him if he went in deep to create a mismatch deep. We worked the same type of plays as if we were on a power play, getting a point shot open or a two on one down deep if I was covered. We got a couple good shots off that way but John also got caught deep once so I had to defend a two on one breakaway. I stayed in the middle and kept backing up trying to defend against the cross ice pass while the goalie took the puck carrier and worried about his shot. As we got closer to our net I went down on one knee to better block the pass and the puck handler finally faked the pass and shot for the short side hoping to catch the goalie anticipating the pass and cheating to the other side. The goalie kept tight to the near post and stopped the shot smothering the puck so no rebound was available.

We also had some quick practice with odd numbers, four versus three and five on three. John and I played mostly on the power play unit for those rather than the penalty killers. I wasn't ready to defend against the same amount of opponents let alone more opponents!

For the last half hour we had our usual full five on five scrimmages. The game got pretty intense as everyone was fighting for playing time in the exhibition game on Saturday. Some big hits were thrown by several players desperate to show they had what it took to make the roster. Fierce battles for the puck along the boards waged with some cross checking to the back happening. At least no big hits in the back happened but there were a couple guys who got clobbered carrying the puck with their head down.

Personally, I stayed away from trying to put a big hit on a teammate as I would save that for the game on Saturday. I liked the battles on the board and hit a couple of guys as they carried the puck in but nothing more than that was necessary in my opinion. I did crank a couple of good shots at the net, one finding its way past the goalie through a maze of people in front as if it had eyes. I kept the shots low to allow for deflections and so I wouldn't hit a teammate. There would be enough time in the real game to scare the peasants and have the opposing ducking and scrambling away.

Fred and Frank let us go with a reminder that this afternoon's practice would decide the game's roster. We went in and got showered, tired after an exhaustive practice. I rushed through quickly as I had to get to a class back in the central campus. I got dressed and swiftly walked to the math building where the logics class was held. I got there just as the prof was shutting the door and he gave me a raised eyebrow and I said a quick sorry and got to a seat. It looked like about 200 people in this one and the lecture room was smaller than the programming one yesterday.

The Professor started by introducing himself as Dr. Quinn and handed out the course outline for Logic 120 for first year computer scientists. It showed logic was only half of the course and set theory was the second half. There were two midterms as well as a final. Luckily there were no labs but it did give some TA times and his office hours for help.

"This class weeds out the adults from the kids right away Ladies and Gentlemen" he said in a thick Chinese accent. "For some reason, people do not do well and we lose up to half of you after the first mid-term. So, please do not take this course lightly. Do all the assignments and the extra questions in the book. Attend all classes as some of the examples will be on the test."

He then started the lecture and went through meanings of the symbols and how to use them to convert a written sentence into a logic equation. From there he went through how to solve the equation going very quickly through it in broken English. I was glad I had read the book earlier and had understood the basics because he wasn't being very clear. I saw a bunch of puzzled looks and some whispers between people trying to follow what was on the board. I vowed to myself to always be ahead in the reading for this class no matter what else I was behind on.

Professor Quinn went on to the next, more involved example that took up the top of one whole board and the solution went down the entire board in nine or ten rows, getting smaller until the answer was a simple T for true. I was able to follow the logic behind his solution so I was happy as I copied it into my book. Others had no clue and there was louder muttering. Finally someone asked him to explain how he got that answer and the Professor explained how he did while looking at the board. In the class's defence, it was hard to hear him as he talked to the board in a thick accent.

After he finished he went right on to adding more details and more concepts to learn and then showed them in a couple of examples. He wrapped up the class with the assignment and suggested reading for the next class on Monday as we had only two hour and a half classes with him and we missed last Monday's due to Labour Day.

I heard people complaining about the class as soon as he left the lecture but I had to talk to him about arriving late due to practice so I rushed out and caught up to him.

"Excuse me Dr. Quinn, do you have a second?" I asked as I walked beside him.

"As long as we are walking, I have another class to get to in ten minutes" he replied.

"As do I Doctor" I stated. "I just have a quick issue to discuss with you. My name is Mike Stewart and I wanted to apologize for almost being late for your class. I come from off campus from practice at the arena and might be a minute or two late depending on when practice ends or as the weather deteriorates. I just wanted to let you know it wasn't from a lack of respect to you that I was arriving late but due to a very tight schedule. The counsellors did the best they could to fit everything in but this is the tightest part of it."

"Well I appreciate you informing me of the issue. I do not like people disrupting the class but if you are quiet and do not disturb the class I do not see an issue. You might consider using the back door so as to further keep the disruption down" he said.

"Thank you Sir. I appreciate your consideration and acceptance. And by the way, I enjoyed the lecture, it really helped to have read the chapters beforehand" I replied.

"I'm glad you did. I will see you on Monday Mr. Stewart" said Dr. Quinn.

"Have a good weekend" I replied and turned off to hurry to my next class, Creative Writing, in the English Department. I reached the building and almost ran up the steps to get to the third floor and looked for the room. I found it at the end of the hall and walked into another large lecture hall with a few hundred people already there. I quickly found a seat as the professor dealt with a couple of people signing in or out of the class.

She finished and quickly took to the podium and said "Hello, I am Professor Owen and this is Creative Writing 100 for first year students. I will hand out the syllabus for the course while any of you that are not supposed to be here can leave without too much embarrassment."

Surprisingly, only one person left to find his correct classroom while they were passed around. Dr. Owen went through the list of assignments and rather than having mid-terms there were major writing projects, one in poetry, one as a short story, and one longer novella or short novel. As such, she explained, we had only two one hour classes Monday and Wednesday so we could concentrate on writing. The smaller assignments would prepare us for the major projects, such as writing a verse of poetry or an introductory chapter of a story.

After asking if there were any questions and getting none, Dr. Owens started with the basics of poetry writing, noting some of the different types with all their own rules and rhythms. I really didn't like poetry of any kind but tried to listen and take proper notes. She recommended a few examples of each to read to appreciate the best in each category.

She then branched into specific writing techniques for introductions to peak the readers' interest while establishing the tone of the poem. I diligently took notes but knew I was in trouble as I didn't have a poetry writing bone in my body. I sat through the rest of the lecture and headed out to meet up with Vicky at the nearby cafeteria. She was waiting outside and smiled as I came up to her and gave her a hug and kiss.

"Hi there Gorgeous. How was your morning?" I asked with a smile.

"Hi Sweetie, It was ok" she replied. "How was yours?"

"Good except for creative writing. I found out I have to write poetry for God's sake" I bitched to her. "I hated poetry in high school and thought I was done with that crap."

She laughed and said "Poor Michael, you're going to have to write about your girlfriends in prose."

"Roses are red, Vicky's eyes are brown, so are Bec's, and now I have to frown" I recited my best attempt at poetry.

Vicky winced and said "I see you will need some help, serious help Michael. Where is the person who wrote that sweet note this morning — you had better get him on contract!"

"That I need help I agree wholeheartedly" I stated. "The guy who wrote that note had the body of Venus to look at when he was composing that masterpiece. I guess you had better be nude whenever I need inspiration!"

"You let another guy see me naked Michael" she said in mock horror. "What a girl has to do around here to get poetry written about her is pretty amazing!"

"Well, we all have to do our part" I smiled while she hit my shoulder.

We went in and grabbed some food and sat down. Paying for the food reminded me to call up North to find the status of the estate and house. I also had to check my account balance as well. "Oh I forgot to give you my new cell number" I said as I pulled it out. I gave it to her and she programmed it into her cell and reciprocated with hers as well as Becky's numbers.

We talked about our morning as she told me about her Chemistry and Sociology classes while I filled her in on practice and the logic class. Soon enough it was time to go to Algebra while she had Bio-Chemistry. We agreed to meet back here after as we both had free time after this class. I still had practice at four but we could spend some time studying together before that. I gave her a kiss and we left to go in separate directions.

I walked back to the math building and found the room on the second floor. I was a bit early so I read the textbook while waiting outside. The hallway filled up with people waiting for the current lecture to end. Finally the doors opened and the herd of cattle came out of the double doors while a few impatient souls braved the stampede and tried to get in. I just waited until the flow ebbed and sauntered in and found a seat. A younger man came in and set his briefcase on the table up front and a few people came forward with yellow sign in/sign out sheets for him to sign. He dealt with them and then got out the course outline and handed them out before returning to the podium.

"Good Afternoon, I'm Professor Adams and this is Algebra 100 for first year students" he stated. "As soon as everyone gets an outline we will go over the requirements and the schedule before starting the lecture."

Professor Adams explained the schedule of two midterms plus a final along with weekly assignments. He let us know the teaching assistants' hours for help and his own office hours for this class should anyone need help. Then he explained the course and what it would cover. After he received no reply to his inquiry of any questions, he commenced the lecture. He basically reviewed everything we had been taught in high school Algebra on solving equations in the first 20 to 30 minutes and then went through the first two chapters of the textbook for the next hour. It was a very fast pace and he only did one example to illustrate each new concept before proceeding on to the next. I filled up six pages furiously writing down all the equations and notes while he kept on going. I could see that I wasn't the only one a little overwhelmed as I took a brief look around.

The professor finally wound down, asked for questions, and then gave out the assignment that was due on Monday. He saw a lot of people were still writing and waited for a couple of minutes, but when no one came up or asked any questions, left with a "Have a good afternoon everyone".

I finished writing down everything, packed up and left to go meet Vicky. As I walked I knew I had bitten more off than I could chew with hockey and these courses. I needed to prioritize and use very spare minute to get assignments done and read ahead, but still have time for Vicky and hockey. Hopefully, the two a day practices would slow down as we got farther along in the season so I could use that time. I did have all of Friday off except for the computer lab, which I could probably skip if I could do the programming assignments on my laptop.

I didn't see Vicky outside of the cafeteria so I waited by the door until she arrived. A few minutes later I saw her talking to a shorter blonde girl as they walked to meet me.

"Hi Michael, this is Jessica Mervin, my Bio-Chem. lab partner, Jessica, this is Michael Stewart my boyfriend" Vicky said with a smile.

"Nice to meet you Jessica" I said holding out my hand.

"It's nice to meet you Michael" she said with a big smile as she shook my hand. "Vicky has been raving about you all the way here and now I can see why".

"As long as she doesn't foam at the mouth while she raves we're ok" I replied.

Jessica laughed while Vicky punched my arm and said "Watch it Mister" with a growl.

I rubbed my arm and looked at Jessica and whispered "Now's she's getting violent, you might want to make a break for it while I take a few hits".

"Humph, the ladies will accompany themselves into the dining room while the rude Neanderthal can follow in our wake like a puppy dog."

They hooked their arms and entered with heads held high leaving me looking at their scrumptious asses. Jessica was two to three inches shorter than Vicky, but was a beauty in her own right with a tight thin body and a very pretty face. Being a Bio-Chem. student she was definitely not a typical blonde either. I followed them while they meandered their way to a table and I came up to them and gave them a short bark to get them giggling.

"Can I get you ladies anything from the cafeteria?" I asked.

"Some diet cokes would be good Sweetie. Thanks" Vicky said.

"Some munchies too please" Jessica added with a smile.

"Sure thing. I'll be back in a bit" I replied and walked to the end of the short line waiting to get into the cafeteria.

I grabbed a tray and put on some drinks, chips, some cookies and a salad and a sandwich and on a whim tried out my food swipe card. They seemed to be ok with it so I would have to remember to use it anywhere on campus. If the coaches had a problem with it I could pay them back for anything I got away from the arena. I sat beside Vicky across from Jessica and handed out the drinks and snacks while keeping the salad and sandwich for myself. I ate my small meal in silence while the girls chatted about school and their summer holidays.

I finished and opened up my Algebra textbook and started the assignment due on Monday. Most of it was review but a few questions were on some of the new concepts so I read that part of the chapter again to understand the material and then continued with the questions. The girls glanced over and Vicky reached over a couple of times to rub my thigh in more of a reassuring way than any sexual way.

"Michael, I have to go to the councillors now" she said. "I'll either meet you at the arena or back at our apartments ok?"

"Ok, do you want me to walk you over there?" I asked.

"No, you get some work done, I'll be fine" she replied. "Besides, Jessica will be coming to keep me company. She helped me out a lot last year and she's one of the few people besides some professors that know what happened."

"That sounds good Vicky and thanks Jessica for going with her. That was nice of you to be there for her" I said to both of them.

"Not a problem Michael. Don't worry, I'll take good care of her" she said with a smile.

Vicky gave me a big hug and kiss and Jessica asked where hers was before Vicky grabbed her and they walked away giggling. I watched their fantastic asses sway in their tight shorts and was caught as they turned around to wave. I gave them a quick wave as I blushed and then turned back to my homework. I finished up the Algebra and then grabbed my phone to call the lawyer and the real estate agent up North.

I reached the lawyer and he let me know that he did put the two thousand into my account and had arranged for the accountant he knew to handle the rest of the money for me once it was transferred. He suggested I call him later in the week to confirm everything. The estate was all neat and tidy except for the house and the issue with the insurance and the accident. He said he expected some movement by the end of the week or early next. My parent's insurance company was waiting on what the mill's insurance said before paying out the claim. It was for $250k so they weren't going to be too quick about it. The lawyer said we should give them a little more time as I could get access to the rest of the ten grand in my parent's account so money wasn't an issue for awhile. He would also begin legal proceeding against the mill next week if they didn't come with a proposal to him. I agreed to his plans and thanked him for his time.

The realtor had a bit of good news. They had an open house on the weekend and had a dozen people come through. One couple wanted to go through again this weekend so at least we had a nibble. I thanked the realtor and told him I would call on Monday. It was good to know that there would be some money to fall back on until I graduated and could find a job. At least I didn't have to find a job to add to my tight schedule!

I pulled out my logic homework and started on that assignment with the time I had left before practice. I got a good chunk of it done before I packed up and walked over to the arena. I quickly got changed and stretched while waiting for the ice to be cleaned. John came up and we talked a bit about some schemes and then he told me quietly to put some extra effort in this afternoon — in my defence and in my shooting, so we could earn a position in the game. I assured him I definitely would.

We got on and did our warm-up skating and stretching. The standard shooting occurred until the coaches arrived and then everyone seemed to put more into their shots and the goalies tried harder to stop them. I quickly ramped up the power as well until one of my shots broke the goalie's stick and Frank called us together at that convenient time. John stood by me grinning and said to keep it up for the rest of the practice. I just nodded and listened to Fred and Frank talk.

They switched things up on us and had the five on five scrimmage next rather than at the end of the practice. John and I started on defence for Fred's team and we quickly had the other team pinned inside their blueline. John was really skating and attacking deep to draw them back to their net. As their forward came back to double team him he passed it back to me and I let a high hard shot go which screamed past the defenceman and was in the back of the net before the goalie could react. The other team was not happy to say the least and had a quick meeting at the bench to discuss strategy. Fred had us switch off to the bench so whatever they were trying to draw up wouldn't work on the new guys.

The game went back and forth but you could tell that a few people were rising to the occasion by taking advantage of some of the less skilled players. The other team decided to cover me no matter what John did so I became a decoy while John would create mismatches deep. I would do a couple of runs into the middle of the zone to look for a pass and that seemed to panic the other team a bit causing them to overcompensate towards me. I never could get open for a shot close in but we scored a couple of times when our forwards would be left open for a quick pass and shot.

On defence, John and I really picked up the intensity. I started hitting and battling hard behind the net trying to tie up a couple of their guys at once so we could break out. Of course everyone was hitting back and working hard to impress the coaches. Jones was back to his old tricks of running players deep into our territory, but at least one of his forwards covered for him unlike his buddy Porter. I side stepped a run from him and wrapped the puck around behind the net for John to quickly push it out for a counter attack. I followed to get back into the play and beat Jones into their zone. Since I was behind, no one picked me up and I floated into the centre just in time for John to see me and feather a pass for a one-timer that had people scrambling out of the way. I put everything behind it and it rocketed past the goalie's outstretched blocker into the top of the net.

A couple of seconds after I let it go Jones took me out with a hit from behind after I relaxed. I never saw it coming and landed a few feet away a bit dazed. This time someone had my back. John and another forward jumped him and started swinging at his helmeted head and kept at it until he fell with both of them on top of him. The coaches broke up the players as they were yelling at Jones while I got up groggily and made it slowly to the bench with the help of a player which turned out to be Larry. I thanked him and then sat down on the bench while Chris the trainer who trains came and looked me over. I told him I was fine, just the wind knocked out of me.

The game continued and I got back in a few minutes later. Frank had put Jones back out for some reason so I looked for a way to get even legally. It came when we were in their zone and the puck was on my side of the ice, deep in with our centre and forward controlling it. Jones crushed one of them along the side and the puck squirted loose up towards me. We both went after it, him to clear it and me to keep it in. I slowed down a touch to let him get to the puck and as soon as he did hit him straight on with my shoulder into his chest. He flew back and left his feet and awkwardly landed on his back. I quickly passed the puck deep to the forward and raced for the net for a give and go play. The other defenceman went for the forward and he passed it to me and I skated in all alone on the goalie. I faked a slap shot which had the goalie frozen and easily skated by and put it in the open side before the forward could get back to stop me.

I skated back to our bench while the trainer looked at Jones and helped him to his feet. He leaned on Chris heavily as they slowly made their way to the bench.

John skated off and sat beside me with an evil grin and said "That's how you pay back the son of a bitch Mike! Good work out there."

I grinned back and replied "It felt good that's for sure. Thanks for having my back earlier with the jerk."

"That's what partners are for man" he said with a smile. "Well I think we've shown we belong on the ice on Saturday, you think?"

"Well, let's not get cocky yet John. I don't plan to let up until we're in the dressing room at six" I replied.

"You're right Mike" he agreed.

We got on for a few more shifts without anything major happening. I did break a defenceman's stick when he tried to block my shot from the point but that was about it. Fred called the scrimmage to a halt and we had a break while the coaches talked amongst themselves.

They called for special team practice with two power play units against the two penalty kill teams on the full ice. I got sent out and as I passed Fred he said "Mike, try not to eliminate any more defensive competition ok?"

I looked up at him in surprise and was going to say something defensive in reply but I saw he was smiling so I just grinned and kept skating. We set up in our end and John carried it up but he tried a little trick play we had worked out during the break. When the penalty killers moved to cut him off he passed it to me. Usually I skated up slowly and covered him in case he got caught but this time I went full bore and skated by a surprised forward and the defence on my side. I came in on the goalie and at the last minute passed off to the forward on the other side that was wide open and he put the simple tap in. It would only work late in the game when they weren't paying attention to me but it might surprise a few teams.

We went back out and tried our two usual plays, with John scoring from the middle on the second try. We went off for a breather and the second units came on. Fred came over and congratulated us on the new play and said we would be putting it into the mix as John and I grinned at each other.

Fred and Frank called it a day after a bit more practicing and said the roster for Saturday's exhibition game would be posted before tomorrow morning's practice. We left the ice a tired bunch for sure. I quickly showered and got changed and left to see if Vicky was here or at the apartment. She wasn't waiting for me outside the locker room or in the rink so I quickly looked in the cafeteria and then headed home. I put my stuff away in my apartment before knocking on her door.

Vicky opened up with a smile and said "Come on in Sweetie, supper is just about ready".

I gave her a quick kiss and hug and moved into the kitchen. "It smells wonderful Honey" I complimented her.

"Thanks, it's an old family recipe for oven fried chicken and mashed potatoes" she told me.

She quickly mashed the potatoes while I set the table and got the chicken out of the oven. It had crispy golden skin without a lot of the grease you see on some fried chicken. We grabbed a couple of plates, filled them up and sat down to eat.

"Hmm delicious Vicky, you are a fantastic cook on top of being smart and gorgeous" I said.

"Well you can just keep on going with those compliments Mister" she replied with a big grin.

We ate with some small talk for a bit.

"So how did your meeting go with the councillor this afternoon?" I asked.

Vicky frowned and replied "Not too good Michael. She's very worried about my blanking out episode and thinks we rushed things much too quickly. She was almost hostile towards you until Jessica was brought in to talk about you. I tried to convince her that I initiated most or all of our intimate sessions but she is still not happy about it. She wants to meet you with me the next time I go and even wants to have a session alone with you. At the end she wanted me to promise not to have any more physical contact with you until she had met you but I drew the line at that one."

"Well I knew she would worry about you blanking out but I didn't think she would be so hostile to me. I hope she has your best interest at heart but she seems quick to judge" I stated.

Vicky thought for a minute and said "She works with lots of battered women and I know she hates it when they go back to the same guy who hit them in the first place. Maybe she thinks I found another guy like him. We did kind of get together quickly Michael."

"Well how to you want to approach this?" I asked. "I can probably make a session on Friday since we are in town this week and if I have enough notice. If you don't want to see her we can try another person who might be a little more understanding."

"Michael, I don't want to start all over with another councillor unless I really need to. I'd have to rehash all of those memories and feelings again and I really want to keep them in the past" she replied.

"Ok, how about we set something up for me to see her by myself on Friday afternoon and then we can see her together Monday afternoon during our normal study time?" I suggested.

"Thanks Michael, I really appreciate it" she answered. "Just don't lose your temper with her because that is what she will try and make you do. Then she will make trouble for us and neither of us needs that right now."

"I'll try to remember that" I said.

"Ok, now that the unpleasantness is done, are you ready for dessert?" she said with a relieved smile.

"Sure honey. Let me help you clear the table first" I replied.

We cleaned up and had some apple pie she had bought earlier and heated up while we were eating. After finishing dessert, we decided to split up and get caught up on our homework for a couple of hours. I gave her a kiss and went back to my apartment. Relationships were never easy I was finding out.

I finished up my Logic homework for Monday and then read the poetry sections of the creative writing textbook trying to figure what the author was trying to say. I gave up after about an hour and switched to my programming book to read the next couple of chapters for tomorrow's class. I heard a small knock on my door at about ten and went to answer it.

"Hi Vicky, come on in" I said smiling at her full set of pyjamas.

"No laughing Mister or this is what you will see for the next month!" she said with a grimace. "I've decided we will keep the intimacy to a minimum until you've seen her on Friday". "Is that ok with you Sweetie?" she asked looking a bit worried.

"That's fine Honey" I replied. "You know that it's always your call on that stuff" I said reassuringly.

"Thanks, I knew you were probably expecting something tonight after your great efforts this morning but I'm so confused right now I need to try and keep things on an even keel for awhile" she said.

"Vicky, for the last time, I never expect anything intimate or a quid pro quo when one of us does something nice for the other" I said exasperated.

"Ok, Michael, sorry I said it like that" she said in a small voice.

"Come here Vicky" I said and opened my arms.

She came into my arms and buried her head in my chest and started bawling. I wrapped her up in my arms and let her cry it out. She kept it up for a few minutes so I reached down, picked her up and carried her to my bed. I laid her down and snagged the tissue box and handed it to her. She gave me a tear filled smile and pulled a few tissues out to wipe her eyes and blow her nose.

"I know you are so good for me Michael, you are almost too good to be true" she said.

"Well that's nice to hear but I'm sure you will find plenty to find fault with soon enough!" I replied laughing.

"Well there is a list and it has been growing Mister" she said with a smirk.

My phone rang and I went to pick it up. I looked at the number and it said Becky so I pushed the button and said "Hi Becky, and before you ask she is here and she's upset because of what the councillor said. I'll let you talk to her ok girlfriend?"

"Hi Michael, I didn't want to talk to my sister, I was calling to talk to my boyfriend" she said. "So, how was your day, what ya wearing, do you miss me, how's Big Mike?" she asked.

I laughed and replied "Fine, shorts and a T-shirt, Yes and Fine again. Now here's Vicky."

I handed the phone to her sister and left them alone for a bit while I brushed my teeth and then went back to reading my programming textbook while they continued to talk in the bedroom. I got through the two new chapters and started on the questions in the back, sometimes leafing back through the chapters to find the answers. I had just finished the second new chapter's questions and was packing up my textbook and work-out clothes for tomorrow when Vicky came in and said "Your girlfriend wants to talk to you Michael."

"Hi Becky" I said into the phone after taking it from Vicky with a smile.

"Michael, can Vicky hear me?" she asked quietly.

"No, she's back in the bedroom" I replied.

"Listen, Michael, Vicky is really confused right now and still a little screwed up" Becky said. "Promise me you will look after her for the next couple of days until I get there Friday evening."

"Of course I will look after her but she's really busy with school both days so I can only look after her at night and for a little bit in the morning" I stated. "I could talk to Jessica her Bio Chem. lab partner to see if she can help out a bit but I don't know how to get a hold of her."

"No, Vicky should be ok at school, it's the councillor and you that gets her worked up" she replied. "Just keep her on an even keel if you can. Go see the councillor like they want you to and see if you can get her to ease up."

"I'll try Becky. I'll see you Friday afternoon" I said.

"Ok Michael, and try not to worry too much. We are really worth the extra effort I promise" she laughed.

"I hope so Bec. Goodnight" I replied and hung up.

I plugged the cell in to charge it and went in to see what Vicky was up to. She was lying on her back under the covers with her eyes closed.

"How are you doing Vicky?" I asked.

"I'm ok Michael" she said softly. Please come to bed and we can snuggle at least."

I shut down the lights and got under the covers and she turned to me and snuggled close. She felt good even with her flannel pyjamas on.

"Becky told you to keep an eye on me eh?" she asked.

"She's worried about you Honey and so am I" I said as I put my hand on her face. "That's what people do when they care deeply about someone."

"I know you both do and I appreciate it. I hate how that asshole screwed me up so bad that it affects my family and now a special guy like you" she spat angrily.

"Hey you are not screwed up badly. Don't worry so much darling, I'm going to be here for a long time. So you had a setback, it happens to everybody at some point. You are the best thing that has happened to me in a long long time. You've made me a calmer better person already."

"That's nice to hear Sweetie, you are my rock for sure" she said and she sighed and put her head on my chest.

I rubbed her back for a while until she fell asleep. I thought of the asshole that had made this angel so screwed up and dreamed up things to do to him if he ever came close to me. I fell asleep dreaming of Vicky in her pyjama top but sans pantaloons with her bare butt rubbing on my front...



-------

Chapter 10


I woke up with Vicky still plastered on my side, but she had rotated so her back was to me. I escaped to go the washroom and hopped in the shower after seeing it was almost six thirty. After slipping my shorts back on I tiptoed to the bedroom and grabbed some clothes quietly.

"Sweetie, I don't get to see Big Mike or your cute butt today?" a voice came from the bed.

"Good morning Honey, sorry to wake you. And no, you can't see me naked again" I replied. Shall we meet for lunch at the arena or are you too busy?"

"I should be able to make it but I'll call you if I can't. I will see you there for supper for sure" she said.

"Ok Vicky, go back to sleep and have a good morning" I told her.

"You too Michael" she answered.

I got dressed and grabbed my backpack and a granola bar and left for the arena. I was early but I went in to check on who made the list for Saturday's game without a lot of people around. It was posted outside of Fred's office and I found John and I listed as the third defensive pairing as well as the defensive pair for the first power play unit. I was surprised that the coaches went that way instead of putting me in as a seventh D-man for just the power play but it did give him four full forward lines rather than having to double shift a forward for the fourth line. I hoped John would be alright with the third pairing, but that didn't concern me as much as being on the ice for a regular shift this early.

I went into the locker room and pulled out the playbook to study more of the five on five defensive and offensive plays. I went through all of them a couple of times and then got ready as more guys showed up. There was some excited talk between some of the players that had made the game roster and long faces on those who didn't but I kept quiet and to myself. I nodded to John when he came in with a big smile but he toned it down when he saw some of the faces of our teammates.

I finished dressing and went out to the rink and started stretching and then the warm-up skate. Guys joined in and we had our usual shooting warm-up until the coaches came on the ice and rounded us up.

"By now you should have all had a chance to see if you are playing in Saturday's game" said Fred. "Congratulations to those who are playing, and I hope it makes the rest of you work harder to break into the line-up. You will be very useful as the scout team for the rest of the week."

The coaches split us into the team that was playing in the game and the rest of the guys. Frank took them and made them into some semblance of two full lines that would be our opposition. In the meantime Fred talked to our team and showed some of the first time players some of the simple line changes based on which end of the ice our goal was for that period. I listened very carefully as he explained when the defence should change when we were defending the far end of the ice as it would be a long skate to the bench. He also talked about special team changes which was important to me as well. Finally he talked about teamwork and how the veterans needed to cover the rookies as they were bound to make mistakes for the first few games.

Fred looked over and saw Frank was ready so he put the first line out with the first defensive pair. John made sure to sit by me and told me we would go out with the third line for our first shift but it would switch often as the three defence pair total didn't match the four offensive line total. The first line dominated play in the offensive zone against the scout team as would be expected, but the exercise was more for changing lines and defensive pairings than to score often. Every minute or so Fred would call for a change and the players had to make decisions on when to best execute it. I got on and was in their zone when I heard the whistle for a change. The puck was in deep with our forwards but I looked over at John and he stayed in the zone so I did too. The puck went back out to John who faked putting in on ice and passed it over to me for a one timer which was saved and deflected deep into the corner. I saw John rush back and I followed while the puck was in deep.

John talked to me with Fred down near our end listening. "Ok Mike, this is not an easy thing to get the hang of. In a game they like us to go between 50 seconds to about one minute fifteen seconds max for a normal shift. When we are down in the opposite end we can go a bit longer if we have the opponent trapped. As defence, we need to hold the point but if it is in deep we can break away if we are quick about it. If we are tired then the opposition is even more tired defending us. In our own end we can't change until the puck is out or frozen. We change as soon as we see the forwards cross the centre line with the puck or fire it in their zone.

On the power play the defence can change as our team carries the puck up or we have control in our end. We can change in their end if we have deep control but it's not easy. You are going to have to take cues from me until you get the hang of it."

I nodded as I took a quick drink.

John continued saying "You can't be caught at the end of a long shift defending in your own end. That's the quickest way to giving up a goal. The other team will know when you've been on too long and will exploit that. If it looks like we are going to lose the offensive zone and you've been on for about a minute, leave a little early and change rather than get caught being tired in our zone."

"Ok John thanks. I think I got it but I will err on the side of caution in the game" I said.

"And always pay attention to the ice. You never know when your pairing might be sent in out of order by the coaches" John stated.

Just then Fred blew the whistle for another change and called out "John and Mike, you're up".

We waited until the other defence pair peeled off from the rush up the ice to jump on and race to the offensive end to cover the points as the forwards tried to keep the puck in until we got in the zone. John went in deeper to hold the puck in at the side boards so I moved into the middle of the ice to cover him. Their forward scooted the puck by John so I backed up to cover their breakout as John raced back to help while our forwards completed the change quickly. It turned out to be a three on one with John trying to pick up the third guy. I stayed in the middle to block the cross ice pass but their forward passed back to the third guy who faked a shot and passed it to the other forward for a quick one timer that got by our goalie.

We were replaced by another defence pair and Fred looked at John with an upraised eyebrow.

John said "I wanted Mike to see what happens when the defence goes too far in when our forwards are tired. There's no help for the guy left and more often than not it's in the net."

Fred grinned and shook his head, not believing John that it was really a lesson. It was a good lesson for me even if John just got caught in too deep. John just grinned at me. We continued with shift changes for a bit longer until our scout team was panting with exhaustion.

Fred called a break and then we worked on face-offs for a good while. Frank worked with the defence to line us up for every situation that could happen in both the defensive and the offensive zones. Then he showed us the right places for the five different neutral zone face-offs. Finally he went over special teams' face-off positioning and responsibilities. It was a lot to learn in a short time but it was right from the playbook so I could review it again after practice. We finally took another break while the coaches talked for a bit.

Fred and Frank pulled us together and discussed some defensive schemes for the entire ice once the opponent got control of the puck in their zone. Basically there were different ways to pressure the team in their zone and the neutral zone area before they got to our zone. You could send in one or two forwards to fore-check in their zone or put all five in the neutral zone for the neutral zone trap. There were various combinations of who goes in or how the forwards collapsed to the puck carrier. I just paid attention to where the defence had to play for each version, which luckily was back near our blueline for most of them.

The coaches finally called it a practice and we all rushed in to get changed and off to our classes. I got out as quickly as I could and rushed to my computer programming class, getting there with a minute to spare. I found a seat in the back and got out my notepad as Dr. Albert walked in and quickly started the lecture on the next chapters. I was glad I read ahead so I knew what was going on. At the end he handed out the first programming assignment due a week from today. He briefed us on the computer lab and had the teaching assistants stand up so we knew who they were when we got to the computer lab tomorrow. After that he let us go for the day.

I walked back to the rink and looked for Frank for the hour with him before lunch. I found him at his desk and asked him if he wanted me to change into full equipment for our one on one lesson.

"Just skates, gloves and a stick should be fine for this time Mike" he said.

I went in and quickly got changed into sweat pants and skates, grabbed my gloves and stick and met Frank on the ice. We briefly went over everything that he taught me on Tuesday without many mistakes on my part.

"Ok, you seem to have those moves down pat. Now let's work on technique on the boards and what to do down deep against one or two opponents" Frank said.

Frank showed me how to pin a man without drawing a holding penalty, how to corral a puck with your skates, how to avoid being pinned, how to hold off a player with your outer hand while carrying the puck with your stick with the other and other important tricks of the trade. Then he gave me some pointers on what to do with the puck in certain situations in your own zone — clearing out via the boards, going around the net to the other defenceman or carrying it out yourself. Finally he taught me a few things about tying up opposition in front of the net or clearing them away from the front if you could get away with it. The new rules made it much harder to push them away without getting a holding or obstruction penalty.

"Ok, that's enough for this morning Mike" Frank said. "I'll see you at four. Keep up the good work."

"Thanks Frank for all of your help" I replied as we left the ice.

I took a real quick shower, got dressed and headed out to the cafeteria. Vicky wasn't around so I checked my cell to see if she left me a message. There wasn't one so I waited a few minutes and then gave her a call. She didn't answer so I left her a message telling her I was in the cafeteria if she was walking over or if not I would see her after practice at the cafeteria again.

I had a fast lunch while reading the defensive schemes again in the playbook. My cell rang and I saw it was Vicky so I picked it up and said "Hi Vicky, how are you doing?"

"Hi Michael, I'm ok, I just got too busy to get over there for lunch" she replied. "Sorry Sweetie."

"No problem honey, I knew it was a stretch that you could make it today" I told her. "Can you still make supper over here?"

"Sure, I'll be watching a bit of your practice as well ok?" she asked.

"Sounds great Vicky, I'll see you then" I said.

"Alright have a good afternoon Sweetie. Bye!" she said and hung up after I said bye.

I walked back down and got changed for weight training. I found Chris in the weight room with a book ready for me with all my routines, beginning weights and number of reps and sets for each exercise.

"Ok Mike, let's go through the two other programs today with one set of each exercise to make sure you know the proper way to do them" said Chris.

"Sure Chris and thanks for the book" I replied. "It looks very thorough."

"No problem Mike" he said.

Chris walked me through the back and abdominal exercises and then the legs and shoulder ones for the next hour and a half. I felt it by the end of the time but luckily I only did one set rather than the required three. I thanked him, showered and got dressed quickly, then went back to the cafeteria to do the computer science assignment. I pulled out my laptop and wrote the program in the simple notepad text program. I hoped I could just download it to the lab computer and copy and paste it into their program editor. If not, I would just have to type it in again. I saved my work and packed up for the afternoon practice.

Afternoon practice was more of the line changes and then they switched it up again with lines one and four playing against lines two and three with the first and fourth defensive pairs on the one team versus the second and third pairs on the other. It was a pretty even game except when the fourth forward line and the fourth defensive pair were on the ice at the same time. They could be taken advantage of because their combined skill was much less than either our second or third lines.

John and I had a hard time defending against the first line as they were highly skilled, fast and experienced. They had played together last year so they knew where everyone was going to be without having to look for them. They were hard to knock off the puck or pin on the boards and they moved so well without the puck. The same three forwards were on our top power play unit so John and I were familiar with them but usually playing with them, not against them.

I got burned badly by their left forward but managed to get back into the play before a pass could get through to him. I pinned his stick to the ice just as the puck got to him so he deflected it slowly towards the net rather than getting a hard shot away. Our goalie managed to stop the puck as he slid over and covered up for a change. I was panting for air when we got off the ice.

"Good work out there Mike" said John.

"Just got back in time after he went by me like I was standing still" I replied. "It wasn't good work at all. Those guys are so much better than me it's not funny."

"Sure, they're better, they've been together for a year already and they are the number one line on the number one team in the country" stated John. "But they didn't score and that's the only thing that counts. You won't face the number one line too much except if the other coach pulls a fast one but Frank will get us off as soon as we can if they do. The home team has the last change so we won't get much of that on Saturday. On the road it will happen more often and we will have to handle it as best as we can until we can make the switch."

"Ok John, I'll do my best" I replied.

We went back on but were up against the fourth line, who were easier to keep up with. Larry Dennison was the fourth line left winger and he tried to get past me carrying the puck. I kept up with him, turning as he tried to cut in onto the net. I kept him wide and pushed him behind the net into the boards. The puck squirted loose and I passed it to John who sprung a forward for a quick breakaway with a nice pass. Our forward scored while I turned around and helped Larry up.

"Sorry about that Larry, we kind of ran out of room" I apologized.

"That's one way of putting it" he laughed as I pulled him up. "Remind me not to try that on you again." We skated back to our respective benches and kept up the scrimmage for awhile longer.

After a short break, special teams practice was held with more emphasis on face-off positioning for each side and what to do in each case if one side or the other won the draw. It was amazing how many different positions you had to know and what to do in each instance. It would be instinctive only after many hours of practice and playing time, which I didn't have. I would have to err on the side of caution and protect against odd man rushes instead of pushing forward for the chance for more offence.

Finally the coaches went over some offensive schemes from the playbook. Again, with so many variations, I paid attention to where the defence was to be in each set rather than learn all the players' roles. We went through them at half speed and then again at full speed with each line and defence pair. The coaches finally called it a day at six o'clock and we drudged into the locker room. I looked up to see Vicky sitting with John's Amanda as we passed so I gave her a wave and hustled up a bit. After a quick shower, I got dressed and told John we would meet him at the cafeteria.

I found the girls in the rink chatting a mile a minute.

"Hi Ladies, how was your afternoon?" I asked with a smile.

"Good Michael" said Amanda. "Thanks for asking."

"Mine too Michael, busy but productive" Vicky said as she stood up and gave me a hug and kiss.

"John will be out in a few minutes and I said we would meet him at the cafeteria Ladies" I informed them.

We walked slowly up to the cafeteria and the girls talked for a bit while we waited for John. He showed up with Larry in tow.

"Humph, I see you dragged Lawrence along Jonathon" Amanda spoke in the Voice.

"Amanda, he said he was sorry and you know he wasn't the one doing anything" John said hopefully.

"You know he should have stood up for her if he thought it was wrong" she retorted. "But I'll let Vicky decide. I saw how Michael paid him back on the ice earlier and you told me he got Jones good yesterday so now it's up to Vicky."

"Well he looks pretty apologetic right now so I guess he can join us" Vicky said dismissingly.

She led the way into the cafeteria without looking back and Amanda joined her after giving both of them a glare. I followed the girls in, grabbed some trays and passed them around. I grabbed a cabbage roll dinner, salad, dessert and a drink and waited for the girls to decide. I paid for the girls' dinners and swiped my card for mine. We grabbed a seat and waited until the other two came out and sat down beside Amanda with Larry beside John.

"So Michael, you seem to be getting the hang of playing defence pretty quickly" complimented Amanda with a smile.

"Oh, I wouldn't say that, Amanda, the first line skated rings around me and I still don't know even half of the positions where I should line up" I disagreed.

John piped up "Don't listen to him Ladies, he's doing fantastic for a rookie. Mark my words; he'll be our best defenceman by the end of the year."

"You must have gotten a harder hit on your head at practice than I thought John" I scoffed. "Either that or they put something in your pop making you talk crazy."

Larry piped up "John isn't the only one that sees it Ladies, most of us know that once Mike gets some seasoning he will be on the top pairing."

Vicky looked over at me with a grin and teased "So my boyfriend isn't just a hunk, he's a talented hunk too!"

Amanda winked at Vicky and said "Maybe I had better hitch a ride with our rising star. Do you need some help taking care of the stud Vicky?"

"Well Amanda, I'll have to think about that. What do you think Michael? Amanda is very beautiful don't you think?"

"Yes, Amanda is beautiful but I have more than enough beautiful women in my life already as you well know Vicky!" I retorted. "Besides, I think you two are giving John a fit over there."

Everyone looked at John who looked angry until Amanda grinned at him and said "You are too easy John!" as we all laughed at him.

"Besides, it sounds like I would have competition for Michael's time already" she said with a grin. "You did say beautiful women, didn't you Michael?"

Oh shit, did I? I really didn't want it to get around that I had two girlfriends. Luckily Vicky came to my rescue.

"He's talking about my sister" Vicky said quickly. "She's been hanging around so much she thinks he's her boyfriend too!"

"So she's beautiful too Michael? Vicky doesn't get jealous that you think that?" teased Amanda.

"She's just as pretty as her sister I think" I said looking at Vicky, "but you can judge for yourself when you see her this weekend."

"Well Becky is my younger sister so she's a little less mature but she is pretty" Vicky said with a wink to me.

John said without thinking "We should introduce her to Larry here, he doesn't have a girlfriend."

Amanda hissed and spat out "John, how could you even suggest that?"

Vicky stated in a quiet voice "If Larry even thinks of getting within 50 feet of my sister, Michael will break him in two, won't you Sweetie?"

"Oh, most definitely Honey, maybe more than two pieces" I said quietly.

Larry went pale and stuttered "I won't even look at her, promise!"

"And you!" said Amanda as she looked at John in disgust, "Are you trying to piss off your new partner?"

John started to reply "Of course not Amanda, I just thought..."

"No, you didn't think, that's your problem Jonathan" interrupted Amanda. "Just keep your mouth shut while I try and salvage your hockey career and keep Laurence alive past this evening."

Amanda turned to Vicky and myself and said "John has a habit of talking without having a thought enter his brain, let alone thinking about it before it leaves his mouth. He means well and is actually kind to children and small animals and, while he sometimes subjects me to mental torture when he speaks without consulting me beforehand, he treats me pretty well. He will refrain henceforth from discussing Larry and any female remotely associated with us."

"Thank you Amanda for explaining John's mental issues. We will overlook them for now but further lapses would prove ... unfortunate" said Vicky with a quiet version of the voice that made John and Larry wince.

"I think the boys here got the message loud and clear Vicky" replied Amanda.

The rest of the meal was eaten in silence and both John and Larry finished very quickly. Amanda and Vicky talked about Saturday's game and where they would meet up with Vicky's family. They continued to chat ignoring the boys while they seemed to get restless. Finally, Vicky said we had to be going and the two of us left after saying our goodbyes. The three of them stayed there and we heard Amanda start in on them.

"Are you out of your damn mind Jonathon? Michael could be just what you need to take your career to the next level and what do you do? You insult his girlfriend and her sister by trying to set her up with idiot boy here who you bring uninvited to supper. From now on run everything by me before you even think to bring Larry into contact with Vicky again. Do you understand me?"

"I don't see what the big deal is Amanda" replied John.

I winced even before Amanda started in on him as we walked out of hearing range. I glanced back and Amanda looked furious as she tore a strip off of him. I looked down at Vicky and she had an evil grin on her face as she was listening in.

"Boy, she really is going after him, isn't she Vicky?" I noted.

"Amanda is very goal oriented" Vicky said. "She has high hopes for the two of them and she thinks his future is brighter if he is linked to you. By insulting both me and my sister, she knows that future could be in jeopardy, so that little show is for us as well as for training John."

"She certainly has him on a short leach. I couldn't put up with anyone putting me down like that in front of people" I said seriously.

"One, you are very smart and think before you speak" Vicky said. "Second, you aren't the type of man that any woman would think to talk to like that, even if you are only 18. Thirdly, John is very lucky to have a girl of Amanda's calibre, so as long as she doesn't embarrass him too much, he won't give up the benefits."

"Well I'm glad you aren't like that Honey" I said. "She's too pushy for my taste."

"Sweetie, I'm just after your mind and body, not your earning potential" Vicky grinned as she hugged me close. "But I will fight for you. Don't think for one minute that Amanda wouldn't drop John for you if I wasn't in the picture. There will be other vultures that will try for you even if I am standing right beside you. You just be very careful Michael and keep Big Mike buttoned up when I'm not around."

"Don't worry Vicky, my life is complicated enough without bringing any more women into it. You and Bec will be enough to give me a coronary soon anyway" I assured her.

"Ah, but what a way to go Michael" she said with a sexy smile.

"You are too much Honey" I replied. "Now, shall we go home and study for a while? I have some reading to do and I'm sure you have prep work for all of your labs tomorrow."

"Tell me about it, Chemistry, Bio Chem. and Biology lab all in one day, plus a Sociology tutorial as well!" she complained. "I will be one tired girl tomorrow. Let's go back and we can study together for a couple of hours."

We drove back to the apartment and bunked out on her bed studying. I finished up any questions for the current chapters for Algebra and Logic and then read the next couple of chapters in each. Then I read ahead in the programming book and finally tried to read some more poetry for the creative writing class. While I was doing my thing, Vicky was going through her science textbooks and writing down chemical equations that made my Algebra look like kindergarten cue cards. I watched in amazement as my girlfriend wrote an equation the long ways on a piece of paper without looking at the textbook once. There had to be 80 different symbols in that equation. I knew she was smart but that was just something else to see. I sat back and just took her all in. She was sitting a little hunched over her notepad, furiously writing down the equation with her face all set in concentration. Her legs were tucked underneath of her shapely bum and she looked so cute yet so focused at the same time.

After about two hours of studying I called it quits. I got up and stretched for a bit and packed up my textbooks. Vicky looked up and smiled.

"All done Sweetie?" she asked.

"Yes, I need a break. I'm pretty much a few days ahead right now and I still have the weekend to do a bit more if I need to. Besides, I only have Computer programming lab tomorrow plus practicing so I have time again tomorrow" I replied.

"Don't forget the meeting with my Councillor, Miss. Peterson, at one o'clock as well" Vicky reminded me.

"Ah, you got it set up did you? That should be fine. Just let me know where to go and I'll be there" I responded.

"Thanks Sweetie, it means a lot to me that you are doing this" she said.

"No problem Honey. So, are you going to be working for a while longer?" I asked.

"Yeah, sorry Michael I have to. Maybe you should relax over at your apartment for a bit and I can join you later to sleep?" she suggested.

"Sounds like a plan. I'll leave the door unlocked so just come on in and slip into bed if I'm sleeping" I told her. "See you in a bit Honey."

I gave her a kiss and went over to my apartment. I brushed my teeth, got into my shorts and turned on the TV before getting into bed. I watched an old Western for a bit, but must have fell asleep as I woke up startled as Vicky slid into bed with her back to my front. She grabbed my arm and pulled it over her and made sure my hand was on one breast as she wiggled her bum up against me.

"Hi Sweetie, sorry to wake you" she whispered.

"Honey, you can wake me any time when you get close to me like this" I answered as I hugged her tight and lightly caressed her breast.

"Hmmm, you make me feel so warm and secure in your arms Michael. No funny business tonight Mister. It's late and we have a full day tomorrow" she stated as she grabbed my hand to stop my hand movement.

"Yes dear" I said with a smile and fell asleep with dreams of Vicky naked in my arms...



-------

Chapter 11


I woke up Friday morning in the same spoon position with Vicky as when we went to sleep. It was a great feeling to wake up with her in my arms each morning. I reluctantly let her go when I looked at the clock and saw it was already seven. I rushed through a quick wake up shower and went to grab some clothes.

"That's what I wanted to see Sweetie; looking real good there stud" Vicky said in a sexy voice.

"Thanks Honey" I replied with a smile.

She crawled down to the end of the bed and got up on her knees and pulled me down for a passionate kiss. Her hands wandered to caress my back and butt and then one hand came around and started playing with Big Mike.

"Ah Honey, that feels terrific but I'm afraid we don't have time for that this morning" I said disappointed.

"Are you sure Sweetie?" she asked as she started squeezing and working it up and down.

"Believe me Vicky, if l could stay I would" I answered with real regret.

"Well, your loss Michael" she said with an impish smile and backed away.

I groaned and looked at her feeling frustrated. I turned away to get dressed a little grumpily and shut a couple drawers a little harder than necessary.

I heard her come up behind me and she wrapped herself around me saying "Sorry Michael, that was cruel, and now you're mad and frustrated. I promised I wouldn't do that and now I just did it. I'll make it up to you tonight ok Sweetie?"

I turned around and hugged her back and replied "Ok Honey, sorry I got mad but you got me worked up pretty good there and then shut it off. I'm not a robot."

"It won't happen again Sweetie. Now, don't forget Becky might be here tonight or if not then tomorrow night for sure."

"Great, now I'll have two vixens to tease me!" I groaned.

"We won't tease you but we'll have to make sure you're ok for the game tomorrow. We can't wear out our stud before his first game!" she said with a smile. "Good luck with Miss. Peterson this afternoon, Michael."

"Ok, Vicky" I smiled and finished getting dressed. I grabbed an apple and my backpack and, after giving Vicky a kiss and arranging to see her after practice this evening, left for the rink. I quickly went in and got changed and went right out onto the ice for the warm-up stretches and skate. I was still feeling a bit frustrated when we started shooting and I took it out on a few pucks and the goalie, cranking some extra hard shots high up in the corners. It felt good to take it out on something but all too soon we were called together by the coaches.

Fred spoke up so we could all hear "Tomorrow's game against the University of North Dakota might be an exhibition game but believe me they will be gunning to show us up from the get go. They are a very fast, puck possession team that will have us running around like chickens with their heads cut off if we don't play a disciplined game from the outset. We will have our forwards cheat in a bit to help with defensive coverage. That will leave their defence open for point shots, but hopefully they didn't pick up another budding Al McGinnis going out for intramural hockey."

The team laughed as Fred looked over at me grinning and John punched me in the arm. Fred continued with "So let's work on some defensive sets to counteract their speed." The coaches picked some of the faster skaters to be the scout team while the first line and first pair of defencemen set up the defence. Frank had the scout team carry the puck in and use their speed to have the slower defence chasing them. They got the puck in deep and were cycling the puck between them while skating in opposite directions. It really got the defence chasing the forwards.

Fred was on the ice and started shouting at two of the defensive forwards to collapse toward the net to help out. They would eliminate some of the skating lanes so the cycle would not work. Frank told his offensive players to pass the puck back to the point for an open shot. Fred told his last forward that he would have to rush out to try and block the shot or at least hurry it.

All of the lines practiced the set defence against the cycle and as long as the lone forward got a bit of pressure on the point shot it worked pretty well. We took a break and I sat with John on the bench.

"Hey Mike, sorry about the whole Larry thing yesterday" he apologized. "I need to think more before I speak. Larry's really not a bad guy, and I've been his friend for three years now, but he really screwed up with being around Jones that one time."

"It's ok John, but it might be better just to leave him out of the equation when it comes to us meeting the girls for good while" I suggested.

"That's already been discussed and agreed upon" John stated.

"Amanda seemed pretty upset with you yesterday" I remarked.

"Yeah, Amanda is very ambitious and she takes my hockey career very seriously" he said. "She thinks I have what it takes to make it to the pros and gets upset when something doesn't go right. She can be a real bitch when she wants to be, but the benefits outweigh the negatives with her most of the time."

"I see. Do you think you can make it in the pros?" I asked him.

"Not a chance. But I'm not going to tell her that. She'd be gone in a heartbeat if she knew that. Shit, she would be all over you if Vicky weren't around!" he snorted.

"Then why do you put up with her?" I wondered.

"The benefits are mighty good Mike" he said with a smile. "Don't get me wrong, she can be quite a nice girlfriend most of the time but she comes from a poor family and is driven to succeed. She worked her ass off to get here and is wicked smart too. She's out of my league and I know it; but I really don't know if she has deep romantic feelings for me or not."

"Vicky picked up on some of that as well. She's warned me to be real careful around girls that are out to get ahead" I said.

"Yeah, you had better be" John warned. "There are hockey groupies at every game, especially the road games where Vicky won't be around. If you want to be faithful to her you had better stay away from the bars and parties or you will end up in someone else's bed with regrets in the morning if not something worse!"

"Geez, now another thing to worry about!" I moaned. "Well, I can't get into bars or drink here for another three years so I should be able to avoid most of them for a while."

"Listen, just stick with me and I'll look after you until you get used to things" John offered. "I got caught up in all that crap the first year and it almost got me kicked off the team."

"Ok, thanks John. How did you change?" I asked.

"Amanda got me settled down and on the straight and narrow. Vicky will do the same for you. If you always think about what Vicky would want you to do before you do something, you probably won't screw up too badly. You lucked out getting that one let me tell you! And you got her before you started playing hockey so you know she's into you and not a gold digger."

"Yeah, she's great. There's no topping her that's for sure" I agreed.

The coaches called us back on to the ice and we went over some offensive plays to counter the type of defences that North Dakota used last year. Then we played some five on five scrimmage and called it a practice. I hurriedly changed and got to my computer lab with a few minutes to spare. It was a big room with hundreds of computers so I looked for anyone I recognized to see what to do next. One of the teaching assistants told us to grab a computer and sit down and wait for everyone to show up.

"Welcome to EECS 280 computer lab for first year programming students" he said. "I'm going to hand out your username and passwords on a piece of paper so come up when I call your name."

After we had all retrieved our username and passwords he told us to log into the system using them. He then explained how to use the Pascal program editor to type in the program. Then he explained the compiler that checks the program and returns errors or a compiled program. Finally, he showed us how to execute a program using the compiled program and any data if necessary.

He explained some of the most common errors were syntax errors, like forgetting to put a semi colon at the end of a line, or a closing bracket etc. Then he explained how to format the program properly so it could be easily debugged. Indenting and lining up the start and end of each sub-routine would make it easier to see if we missed an end statement for example.

He told us to go ahead and start the assignment. I quickly asked if we could download the completed program from a memory stick but he said no, not here due to virus protection issues. He did say you could do things from a remote login and would explain that later. I thanked him and quickly typed my program into the program editor. I sent it to the compiler after checking it out myself first. The compiler showed me an error at an 'if' statement. I looked at the program back in the program editor and found I had forgotten a closing bracket in my haste. I recompiled it and this time it went through with no errors. I made up a dummy set of data in a text file and executed the compiled program. It looked for my data file and then did the simple calculations of averaging and finding the mean of the data and printing out the results to the printer. I printed out the program, the compiled code, the data file and then went and got them all from the printer. I looked them over and it looked good. I showed it to the TA and he said it looked ok. He suggested trying out the program with a different set of data and he told me which data file to link the program to when I re-executed the program.

I did what he suggested and saw that the program didn't work properly. He was standing nearby and smiled when he saw me looking up at him. He then gave me the best advice that anyone would ever give me to solve problems.

"Look, it's easy to show a program works with normal data" he said. "What you have to always ask yourself is what can cause my program to fail. For example, what happens when you add a bunch of negative numbers and get a negative total? Your program will do the average and mean calculations and get a negative number as the result. Can your program handle it? If not, you have to put in extra code to account for that potential happening. Another example is what happens when there is no data? Does your calculation then force the computer to divide by zero, thereby causing an error? The data in the file I asked you to run is just one example of several potential issues you have to take into account."

"Wow, I never thought of half of that stuff. Thanks" I said to him.

"No problem, it's the hardest thing to get through to first year students" he replied. "You have to make sure that your program will run in all types of cases, not just the normal ones. If you're good, you will end up always looking for reasons why something should fail, rather than why it should work. It is a very good problem solving technique in the real world. Eliminate all the ways a solution can fail instead of listing all the ways it succeeds."

"It sounds like you end up being a pessimist" I said after thinking about it for a minute.

"It can start to sound that way if you do it all the time" he agreed. "You just have to put it in ways that people can get the point without you sounding all doom and gloom. For example, instead of saying something won't work in this case or it fails if this happens, you might say we have to have plans if this happens and guard against this occurrence."

"That will take some time to get used to that's for sure" I replied. "Listen, while I've got you here, I might have to miss this lab due to travel commitments with the hockey team. I hope I can do this from a remote login on my laptop if I have to. Secondly, is there another way I can get help other than at this time?"

"You can do all of the same things except printing remotely, so you have to put your results into a file rather than to the printer" he stated. "I will show everyone how to that before we're done today. As to the second question, I will give you my card and we can work something out for me to help you out if you need it at other times in the week. So what hockey team are you on?"

"I'm on the Wolverine men's hockey team here at the U" I replied.

"Wow, and you're taking Comp Sci? That's ambitious!" he remarked.

"Yeah, tell me about it. I came on a scholarship for Computer Science and wound out playing hockey as well!" I said.

"Well good luck and let me know if I can help. I know you will be very busy so I can bend the rules a little bit if you can't get something done if you are out of town" he offered.

"I appreciate the offer, but I'll try to get things done on time if I can" I replied.

"Good" he said as he walked off to help someone else out.

I went back to the program editor and added a few if statements to take care of different situations that would cause errors. I reran the compiler and then executed using first my data file and then the TA's. They both ran fine so I reprinted them out and sat back in relief. The girl to my right seemed frustrated so I looked at her screen and saw a couple of syntax errors. I wasn't sure if I should offer to help but I saw she was getting really annoyed.

"Hi, I'm Mike. You look a bit frustrated there, maybe I can help?" I offered.

She looked over with a frown and was going to say something mean I think, when she stopped herself and stared at me for a second. Then she sighed and said "I can't seem to find out why this damn thing won't compile".

"Would you like me to look at it? Sometimes it takes an uninvolved eye to catch something right in front of you" I said.

She moved her chair over and I moved mine closer to hers. I looked on the screen and I scrolled down through the program.

"Ok, I see a few syntax errors to start with" I said. I started back at the top and showed her a missing semi colon and then a couple of missing end brackets. She put those back in and re-tried compiling it. It didn't work again but it hung up at a different place.

"Shit, not again" she spat out.

"No problem, let's look at it again" I said.

I looked for any other errors but couldn't find any. I printed out the program, quickly grabbed it and looked at the whole thing. I started lining up each program statement with its end statement and found she was missing one. I pointed it out to her and she put one in where it was needed.

She compiled it and it finally worked. She executed it with her data file and she saw her results she expected.

"Thanks — uh Mike was it?" she said. "I don't like asking for help but this crap gets me so frustrated with these stupid errors."

"No problem, I'm happy to help" I replied. "You have to try his file on your program and you're going to have to put in some more if statements to catch some obscure data that might be run with the program."

I told her the file to use and she saw the results and groaned. I told her not to worry, I would help her out. I explained how to put statements in to catch if there was no data, negative data, etc. She put them all in herself and then re-compiled and then ran it again. It worked and she got a big smile and thanked me profusely.

"Thanks for all your help Mike, I couldn't have done it without you!" she said happily.

"You're welcome, I'm happy to help" I replied with a return smile.

She went and got all of her print-outs while I watched her. She was a cute petite girl with short brown hair and eyes covered by a pair of glasses. She was well proportioned with a tight well rounded butt in tight jeans and nice breasts for her size. She smiled at me when she saw me looking at her as she walked back.

"All done, now I can get out of here and head home a little early" she said.

"You might want to wait until the TA tells us how to remote access so we don't have to come down here to do this" I suggested.

"Yeah I guess. But then I won't have you to help me Mike" she said with a smile.

"Well, the TA will still be here every week, or we can talk during class if you need help" I replied.

Just then the TA got everyone's attention and went over the data file and how to solve the new issues. Then he went over the procedure to remote log in. Finally he told to hand in our assignments at the start of next class and we could leave at any time.

The girl beside me quickly packed up her stuff and got ready to leave.

"Mike thanks for your help today. Have a good weekend and I'll see you in class on Tuesday ok?" she said.

I stood up and said "Have a good weekend too; um sorry I don't know your name".

"Sorry, it's Stephanie Merks, Mike" she said.

"Have a good weekend Stephanie Merks" I said.

She smiled and walked out the room. I watched her cute butt as she sauntered out. I went and got the TA's name and number in case I needed his help at other times and headed out myself. After having lunch at the nearest cafeteria, I read ahead in my Logic and Algebra textbook until it was time to go and see Miss. Peterson, Vicky's councillor. I walked over to her building and found her office on the second floor. I was a few minutes early but knocked anyway. I heard a voice say to come in so I opened the door and walked in.

The office was a typical professor's office with walls lined with bookcases filled with various hard cover and paperback books as well as various pictures, mementos and diplomas. There was an old oak teachers' desk along the back wall with a fairly young woman sitting in a beat up leather arm chair.

"Miss. Peterson, I presume?" I asked with a grin, thinking that wasn't there a movie line like that?"

"Yes, and you would be Vicky's Mr. Stewart I believe?" she responded in a no nonsense tone.

"Yes Ma'am, I am Michael Stewart" I replied.

"Thank you for agreeing to meet with me Mr. Stewart" she said. "Please have a seat and we can begin in a minute. I just need to finish up with this report."

"No problem, take your time" I answered.

I sat quietly looking around at some of the diplomas and degrees and figured she was probably in her late twenties if you went by the graduation dates on them. She was obviously a very smart cookie. I turned to watch her as she was writing her report. Miss. Peterson was dressed in a white blouse with one button open at her neck, which unfortunately didn't show anything when she bent over to write. She wore her blond hair pulled back into a braid, it along with her glasses, made her look like a school librarian. It looked like she deliberately took pains to make herself less attractive for some reason. She was slim and looked fit and probably would be quite beautiful if she wanted to be. Her face was very pretty without makeup and her blue eyes were hidden somewhat by the glasses.

She finished her report and got up to put away the file in the back filing cabinet. I saw she was wearing some tight dress pants which showed an incredible body that was hidden by the desk. I quickly looked away as she turned back so she wouldn't catch me staring. Miss. Peterson walked up to me and put out her hand and said officially "Mr. Stewart, I am Dr. Rachel Peterson; it is nice to meet the man that Miss. Waters has been raving about for the last week."

"Nice to meet you too Dr. Peterson" I replied as I stood up and shook her hand. "Vicky has good things to say about you. Thank you for helping her out through her terrible experiences last year. I think you have done a fantastic job getting Vicky back into the wonderful woman she is."

"Thank you for that compliment Michael" she said in surprise as she looked up at me. "Vicky told me you were tall and handsome and I see she wasn't exaggerating on either account. Please sit down and tell me a little about yourself, if you don't mind?"

I sat down, while watching her walk around the desk and sit in the armchair. She was just a bit shorter than Vicky but didn't give up anything in the looks department. The good Doctor sat amazingly straight and looked intently at me after turning on a recorder. I looked at the recorder for a second and then back at her.

"Oh, sorry, Michael, this is just to make sure I will remember everything later. The recordings are naturally strictly patient-doctor confidential and would never be played for someone else" she said.

"I was unaware that I was a patient of yours, Doctor" I said.

She looked at me for a second and smiled. "Vicky told me you were intelligent, and obviously with a Computer Science scholarship I shouldn't have doubted that, but most young men would not have picked up on that point. I was going to include the recording it in Vicky's patient file but we can shut it off if you do not wish it to be."

I thought about it for a minute and decided I was uncomfortable with anyone having a recording about my life so I asked her not to record the session. She shut off the recorder and said to go ahead with my story. I gave her the Cole's version of my life in Northern Ontario, ending with the trip down to the University. She listened intently but did not write anything down. After a few seconds she asked "Vicky tells me you just turned 18, is that correct?"

"Yes, just before my Dad had his accident" I replied.

"And who has helped you cope with that tragedy Michael?" she asked.

"No one, I handled the funeral arrangements and have been dealing with the lawyer, and now an accountant too" I answered.

"And emotionally, who has been there for you? Any relative's close by?" she pressed.

"No Ma'am. Like I said, I handled it myself. My parents were my only relatives that I know of" I stated.

She sat there looking at me for a bit and then shook her head and then went on with her questions.

"Ok, let's go over your relationship with Vicky" she began. "You met her about two weeks ago at the apartment right?"

"That's correct" I replied.

"And it progressed to eating dinner each night and then quickly into a sexual relationship in less than a week. Is that also correct?" she asked.

"Well, we haven't had intercourse yet but we have obviously had some physical contact and some uh oral stimulation as well" I said while turning red.

She smiled at either my description or my embarrassment, or most probably both, and said "Don't worry; we don't have to go into detail Michael. In my job here I have heard it all, mostly from girls in much more graphic detail and frankness. It is quite surprising how girls change from shy innocent girls into bold woman soon after coming to University, but that is not the subject of our conversation. Vicky has told me in a bit more detail about the physical side of your relationship. I have misgivings about how quickly the two of you have progressed in that part of your relationship, especially with what happened to Vicky last year. I realize that you are two young adults with normal corresponding sex drives, but I am surprised that Vicky feels so comfortable with you so quickly."

I didn't know what to say to that so I just sat there comfortably and looked at her. The silence went on for a bit but unlike most people I didn't mind prolonged gaps in conversations. I'm sure it was a trick of the trade to make people talk to fill up the awkward silences and reveal more than they want or need to.

She finally said "So, why do you think that is Michael?"

"Vicky is in charge of how fast this relationship goes on the physical side of things" I replied. "I'm not very experienced with girls so she takes the lead. Why does she feel comfortable with me? I don't have the answer but I'm happy she does. I try to treat her well and don't push her into anything."

"Yes, she has told me the same thing" she said. "It is rare for a young male to be so laid back in a relationship."

Again she waited for a response but since she didn't ask a question I just smiled.

She smiled and then said "So Vicky told me of her blanking out incident because of you rum ... accident, a couple of days ago. What do you think about it?"

"I don't know enough to figure out what happened. I gather that the guy last year did that on purpose to her so I assume she flashed back to that earlier incident and somehow her system shut her down" I reasoned. "I did what I could to help her through it but we were hoping you could help with it."

"I think you did very well in dealing with the incident Michael" she complimented. "You got her cleaned up, kept her safe and secure and convinced her to come and see me. Other than trying to make sure to exercise a bit more control, which will come with more experience, I think there is no reason to worry too much."

"Will she have more of these episodes?" I asked.

"She has had several anxiety attacks after the incident last year" Dr. Peterson said. "They have slowly diminished in frequency and intensity. Now that she is trying to start a new relationship, there will times that she will experience some of the feelings, actions and situations that could trigger another episode again. You will have to continue to support her, help her through the panic attack or blanking out episode and then have her come and see me."

"That goes without saying Doctor" I assured her.

"Well, a lot of boys or young men wouldn't want to deal with a girl or young woman that had these issues Michael, so it is not just a given that you would want to deal with them" she replied.

"Vicky is more than worth the effort Doctor" I stated.

"Oh, I agree Michael, Vicky is one of the most beautiful young women that I have had the pleasure to know" she said.

"Well that too, but I was talking more about how intelligent, kind and sweet she is, while at the same time, she is the most determined, self confident and toughest woman that I have ever witnessed" I retorted.

"I am glad to see the attraction is more than just physical" she said dryly.

"Well, she is one of the three most beautiful women that I have ever seen" I replied with a grin.

"Oh, and the others?" she asked.

"Obviously her sister Becky is one" I said with a straight face.

Dr. Peterson laughed out loud. "Yes, she said that you had met her last weekend. I hear they have nefarious plans for you Michael. Do you think you can keep up with both of the Waters sisters?"

"No, I don't really, but what other choice do I have?" I replied. "I would have to be an idiot not to attempt the impossible. I'm sure I'll screw up something pretty quick but nothing ventured, nothing gained."

"Good answer. I would doubt your sanity or your heterosexuality if you did not" she said with a smile.

I laughed and said "Speaking of that, Vicky and I have cooled things until I met with you, on your request I gather. Now that we have met, what are your feelings on that side of things?"

"Hmmm, Getting a little frustrated Michael?" she teased.

"Well, a little, but I asked because Becky will be here on the weekend, and that girl is a ticking time bomb of suppressed urges that probably will explode very soon" I answered.

"Ah, I see, and Vicky will be drawn into the blast radius so to speak?" she asked.

"Both physically and mentally, with them being twins and all" I answered.

"Well, that would be interesting to see; from a scientific study point a view" she hastened to add in embarrassment as I cocked an eyebrow at her.

"Oh, I'm sure it will be Doctor" I said dryly. "So, do you have any objections to re-starting the physical side of our relationship?"

"After meeting with you, I am confident that you have her best interests at heart and would not hurt her like that other person" she replied. "I think you can continue your physical relationship Michael. I would stress caution on how fast you go but knowing young love and how Vicky feels about you, I think you are in for a pleasant weekend. Ask Vicky to come see me on Monday and I'll see how she is."

"And get the scoop on the twin thing for your study" I remarked. "For purely scientific research reasons I'm sure."

She blushed and just said "Yes."

"Well that is good news to hear, Doctor. The ladies will be happy to hear that. Can I have Vicky call you to confirm your answer this evening?"

"Sure Michael, she has my number" she agreed. "Now, I think we are done for today. I might have Vicky ask you to come see me if she has any more episodes. Would that be acceptable?"

"It would be my pleasure Doctor. Thanks again for all of your help" I said.

We stood up and she walked gracefully around the desk and offered her hand. I took it and gave it a shake while looking into her eyes. I smiled and turned away to leave the office. Just before I opened the door she asked "You never told me who the third beautiful woman was Mr. Stewart?"

I turned around with a smile "Why yourself Doctor. I'm not sure why you hide it behind the librarian look with no makeup and prim hairstyle. Maybe so you don't intimidate your patients so they don't feel inadequate, or so you are taken more seriously, but you are without a doubt almost as attractive as the twins. Have a good weekend Doctor Peterson."

I turned back after seeing her shocked look, opened the door and left before she could answer. It felt good to get the last word in on a smart woman for a change. I looked at my watch and saw it was only one thirty so I decided to go to the arena and get some weight training in. I needed to bulk up if I was to survive some of the hits I was sure to be getting this year. I got changed and went into the weight room. There were a few guys from the team as well as a few girls from the women's team there. I nodded to some of the guys and then went to the open area to stretch a bit. There was a pretty but well built girl there doing the splits as easy as a gymnast.

"Man that hurts just looking at it" I muttered to myself, or so I thought.

She looked up and smiled "It comes easy now, and it's part of the job."

"You must be the goalie then" I said brilliantly.

"Oh, you're smart too" she grinned.

I blushed red and smartly kept my mouth shut and started my stretches feeling very inadequate while she bent her back to touch the floor while still doing the splits. I thought her boyfriend was one lucky guy if she did that for him in bed. I just shook my head and tried to look like I knew what I was doing.

I finished stretching and went to a stationary bike and started pedaling for a bit. It was pretty boring so I looked around and people watched — ok, I girl watched. There were a couple of very pretty girls as well and a couple of stocky ones who were pushing some good weight. I looked at the pretty ones while they were doing some leg exercises and just shut off my brain for a bit. After about 20 minutes I got off the bike and started my full arm and chest routine Chris had given me. I didn't try and push my maximum weight but I definitely felt tired after I was done.

I left the weight room after one last look at the girls. One caught me looking and gave me a grin which I returned as I left. I showered and went to the cafeteria for another meal and studied for a bit while I relaxed. John came over and sat down with a tray full of food.

"How's it going Mike" he asked.

"Not bad John and you?" I replied.

"Pretty good actually" he crowed. "Amanda and I made up last night so I'm feeling good about life in general."

"Glad to hear it John" I said laughing.

He dug into his food while I returned to the book of poetry I was trying to read. John was just looking around the cafeteria while he was eating which was considerate of him so I could keep reading. I felt him stiffen up and suck in a breath and he said "Mike, Jones is up to his shit again."

I looked up him and he nodded his head towards a nearby table where Jones was bothering the girl that was stretching earlier with me.

John said "That's Susan Wheeler, the women's team goalie. She's also Mark's girlfriend."

I got up and started walking over while I watched him move a paw on her bare leg under her loose shorts as she tried to hold his hand away while trying to get up. I got behind him and put both of my hands on his shoulders and yanked him out of his seat to fall on the ground on his back. He got mad and shouted "What the hell do you think..." until he saw who did it.

"Jones, you were warned the last time not to treat any women like that anymore, let alone a fellow hockey player or a fellow hockey player's girlfriend" I growled. "What's it going to take to get you to stop acting like a Neanderthal? Shall we step outside so we don't bother everybody's lunch with all the blood or shall we step down to the coach's office?"

"Who made you the boss around here, asshole?" he shouted as he scrambled up in haste.

"You did, you miserable excuse for a human being, when you decided to bother my girlfriend a couple of days ago" I replied. "So which is it going to be, outside or the coaches?"

"Fuck you Stewart!" he yelled as he walked away.

"Pity, I've been a bit frustrated the last couple of days. I would have been good to get some exercise with him" I said to John in a calm voice.

"Remind me to talk to Vicky and make sure she keeps you frustrated until after the weekend games" he replied dryly.

"Humph, don't give her any ideas or I'll have a word with Amanda!" I retorted.

"Enough said mum's the word" he said quickly.

"Now, to important things, are you ok Susan?" I asked the pretty girl who was sitting turned around watching us looking shaken up.

"Better now, thanks" she said in a soft voice. "That asshole said some pretty disgusting things and he was pawing my leg under my shorts. He wouldn't stop after I said No and I told him I had a boyfriend."

"Well that tears it, we had better report this to both sets of coaches" I said. "That asshole can't get away with that. Maybe we had better go after him John."

"That won't be necessary Mr. Stewart" said a woman's voice behind me.

I turned around and saw a thirty something woman standing there with her hands on her hips.

"I saw the whole thing and you beat me here by a few seconds. I'll take of it from here" she said.

"Sorry, you are?" I asked.

"Mike, this is Terri Franklin, the women's team head coach" said Susan quietly.

"Good, we'll leave it in your capable hands then. Let us know if you need anything from us Miss. Franklin" I said.

"I will. Thank you for your timely intervention Gentlemen" she told both of us.

"No problem. Glad to be of help. Susan, if you need someone to talk to, you can talk to Vicky, my girlfriend or even her councillor" I said to the shaken girl. "Vickie will be in the rink waiting for me after practice with Amanda, John's girlfriend."

"I might take you up on that Michael. I might go see her during your practice. Thanks for your help" she said with a small smile.

I smiled and we went back to our table. We watched as a couple of teammates of Susan come over and hug her while Miss. Franklin had a cell phone to her ear and was talking angrily into it. The girls were talking to Susan and she was quietly explaining what had happened. She pointed back at us and the girls turned and looked us over before turning back and talking some more.

It was time for practice so we packed up and started to leave the cafeteria. One of the girls near Susan saw us leave and walked over.

"I just wanted to come over and say thanks guys for sticking up for Susan. She's pretty shaken up but it could have been worse. Thanks for intervening, most guys wouldn't have" the pretty brunette said with a smile.

"No problem, anyone would have done it, we're just familiar with Jones' antics" John said.

"Well you did it so we appreciate it" she replied and walked back to the group.

We kept walking out and went and got changed. Jones wasn't in the locker room or I would have gone after him I think. John went over to Mark and told him what had happened in the cafeteria. His face turned red and he looked ready to hit John. He looked quickly over to me and nodded and then quickly left the locker room. I wouldn't want to be Jones right now if Mark met up with him.

I finished getting dressed and went out to the rink. I started stretching and did my warm up skate. Mark hadn't gotten on the ice yet so we all shot at Bob, the second year back-up goalie at one end. I took it easy with the shots after the hard work out earlier and the fact that Bob hadn't seen too many of my shots. After about a half an hour Frank came out by himself and had us do some special teams practice. John and I got a bit creative with switches and faking shots to pull the defenders out of position before passing it to the other point for a clearer shot. I blasted one past Bob before he could react one time and then John got one in off a deflection from a defenceman's leg.

Finally Fred came out and had us gather around before saying "I've been dealing with a fellow player, now former player, who thought he was untouchable because he was a big time hockey player. He decided to molest a young lady in public and continued despite her protests. He has been kicked off the team and has lost his scholarship at the University. No opportunity for reinstatement, no opportunity for appeal. He has been handed over to Campus security and will be prosecuted."

"I will tell you all this once. You are all held to a higher standard than a normal student, not a weaker one. If I find anyone of you even thinking of taking advantage of anybody you will be gone faster than a heartbeat. Mark will not be joining us as he has to see to the lady in question as she was his girlfriend. I would like to commend both John and Mike for stepping in and stopping the assault before it got worse. Now, hit the showers and the rest of you, start making sure that you start acting like Wolverines" Fred finished.

Fred and Frank left the ice and then the rest of us did. The guys were bugging John about what happened but they left me alone as I had gone ahead. I saw that there were a lot more people sitting watching our practice than usual so I couldn't see Vicky or Amanda. John and I quickly got dressed and went to find the girls. We looked in the arena but they weren't there, or in the cafeteria. My phone rang and I saw it was Vicky so I answered.

"Michael Stewart, what have you done now Mister?" she said in the Voice.

"Ah, nothing Honey, where are you?" I asked.

"I'm at Dr. Peterson's office with a poor broken down wreck of a girl because of you" she said. "What do you have to say for yourself?"

"I'll have to plead the fifth on that one Vicky" I said.

"Amanda wants to know if that low account boyfriend of hers is with you?" she asked.

"Yes he is" I replied.

"Ok, you two get over here pronto and explain how you got into this mess" she said and hung up the phone.

"The girls are over at the councillor's office, I think with Susan Wheeler. They want us over there pronto" I told John.

"Oh shit, what now?" he asked.

"I don't know. We better hustle" said.

We put our stuff in my car and we walked up to the Central Campus to the councillor's office. As we stepped onto the second floor we saw a group of people around the Doctor's office. It looked like half of the women's team as well as Mark and Amanda were there but I didn't see Vicky or Susan. They were probably inside with the good Doctor.

Amanda saw us and put on hands on her hips and had a fierce look on her face.

"Jonathon Reilly, what do you have to say for yourself" she asked in a credible imitation of the Voice.

Mark and John both cringed upon hearing it but I saw a few smiles threatening to break out so I knew there was something up.

"Ah, hi Amanda, what's wrong?" John asked.

"Is it true you got involved with another woman today?" she said.

"What are you talking about darling, of course not" he stammered out.

"That's not what these ladies are telling me. They tell me you and the big lug over there went to paw all over a girl but someone beat you to it" she spat out.

"Amanda, you know that's not what happened" he said as he looked at me for support.

"John, she's pulling your leg man, look at everyone" I gently told him.

Amanda stomped her feet at me and then broke into a smile. "Come here my knight in shining armour" she said as she opened her arms wide.

John looked at me and said "Women, I'll never understand them!" before going to get a hug and a big kiss. The girls all smiled and whistled making John turn red. Mark came over and gave him hand shake and pat on the back and then left him with Amanda. He walked over to me and offered his hand which I shook as well.

"Thanks for helping out Susan, Mike, not only at the cafeteria, but also getting her to talk to Vicky. They are in there with the councillor now so I hope they can help her. She got the shakes pretty bad and started crying so Vicky called and got the Doctor to see her right away."

"I'm just glad I was there to help Mark. I'm sure you would have done the same. The good news is that Jones is off the team and in Campus Police custody right now" I assured him.

"I'm glad he was finally caught. The fact that the women's team coach saw it finally was enough to get him kicked off" he replied.

We leaned against the wall and slid down to sit for a bit. Some of the girls followed our example and I was getting smiles from the girls whenever I looked at them. A few were whispering and giggling like school girls but stopped when I looked over at them. It looked like a bunch of vultures looking down on two dying guys lying on the floor.

Mark leaned over and said "It looks like you have attracted some attention. Best be careful with this bunch of women."

A couple of the girls overheard him and laughed.

"I think neither they nor I want to deal with Vicky if she finds out about it" I said a little loudly.

"No, I guess not, she was so mad when she heard what Jones did to Susan. He was lucky he wasn't around or she would have castrated him on the spot. She can be one scary woman dude" Mark stated.

"Tell me about it" I said dryly.

The girls close by laughed outright at what we had said. Finally the door opened I heard Vicky's voice call for Mark. We both got up and Mark went inside with her. I sat back down and closed my eyes for a bit. The rest of the girls sat down so John and Amanda came and sat down on either side of me. I opened my eyes to see who had sat beside me.

"Amanda, your John here was the one who saw what Jones was doing and got us over there. You should be very proud of your boyfriend" I said very quietly to her.

"I am Michael, I just can't have him get too big of a head now can I" she said with a grin.

"Yes, but you would be surprised how much more a man can accomplish for a woman that supports him rather than belittle him in front of people" I said softly so John couldn't hear.

She looked at me and was going to say something and then stopped. She kept looking at me and I could see the wheels turning but I just turned away and closed my eyes again. We sat quietly for a while until finally the door opened and Mark and Susan came out. Everyone got up and crowded around her. She said she was ok but was going to go with Mark to lie down. She stopped when she saw John and me and whispered something into Mark's ear. Mark nodded and Susan came over to us.

"Thanks you two for being there to stop him. I really appreciate it" she said.

"Anytime Susan" John said.

"Glad we could be there to help" I replied.

She looked at Amanda and then gave John a quick hug and a kiss on the cheek after she nodded. Then she came over and had to pull me down to give me the same.

I heard a cough and an "Ahem, young lady, I don't remember giving you permission to man handle my man or you to getting a hug Mister."

Susan just smiled and stuck her tongue out at Vicky as the girls laughed. She went back to Mark and they left with the girls following.

Vicky spoke up "Come on in guys and Amanda."

We shuffled in and the girls sat in the chairs while the guys leaned against the walls. Dr. Peterson was writing up the report so we just waited for a bit. She finished and took off her glasses showing us her brilliant blue eyes.

"Doctor, you should take off your glasses more often, you have wonderful eyes" said Vicky.

"Thank you, you're the second person to tell me that today" she remarked smiling.

"So, gentlemen, my thanks are to be added to everyone else's for stopping the attack before it went too far. Susan is shook up as well anyone would be but it could have been much worse. Vicky and Amanda, you too are to be commended to getting her to see me as soon as you did. All in all, you four did well. I'm proud of all of you"

The girls smiled but the guys just nodded.

"So, on that note, it's been a long day for all of us and I believe you two have a hockey game tomorrow to rest up for, so let's call it a night. Vicky, I will still see you Monday afternoon right?"

"Yes Doctor Peterson. Thanks for all of your help today" Vicky said as she stood up.

"You're welcome. Good luck tomorrow boys, I might just try and catch the game" she replied.

We wished her a good night and left her office. We slowly walked back to the arena to get my car and talked along the way.

"So Michael, getting violent again were we?" Vicky teased.

"Not as much as I wanted too, the asshole ran away again" I growled.

She smiled her evil smile at Amanda and said "Isn't he great Amanda? My very own Canadian Berserker."

Amanda laughed out loud and said "He does seem to be angry a lot Vicky. You need to keep him a bit mellower somehow."

Vicky laughed back and said "Sometimes he needs to be mellow and sometimes he needs to be just the way he is now. I think I know how to get him to mellow out."

"So, is anyone hungry?" I asked to get the subject changed.

Everyone was so I volunteered to drive to a restaurant to get away from the campus for a bit.

"Vicky, is Becky coming tonight? Do we need to wait for her?" I asked before we left the parking lot.

"Sorry Sweetie, not until tomorrow, she's coming with our parents to the game and will stay over then until Monday morning."

"That's ok, I get to spend more time alone with you Honey" I replied with a smile.

"Good answer" said John.

We reached the parking lot, piled into my car and drove to a nearby Chili's. We had a good meal and it was fun to be out with another couple for the first time. We had some appetizers and then each had something different so we could all share a different taste of something. We stayed for almost two hours before heading back to the University.

"You guys want to come over for a bit" I asked John and Amanda.

They looked at each other and then Amanda answered "Thanks for asking us Mike, but we are going to take advantage of John's roommate being gone for the weekend. It's still hard for us to get time alone because we both have roommates. Don't worry; we'll get together again soon."

"No problem, you two have fun tonight and we'll see you tomorrow morning at the arena cafeteria ok?"

"That sounds good Mike. You two have fun tonight too!" replied John with a grin.

"Thanks. Goodnight you two" I said.

We dropped them off near John's dorm room and drove to our apartments. I told Vicky that we should stay in my apartment tonight in case I got a call from the coaches checking in.

"Ok, Sweetie, let me put my stuff away and have a quick shower and I'll be over in a bit" Vicky said with a smile.

She gave me a nice kiss and went into her apartment while I went into mine. I put away my books on my desk and turned on my computer. I checked my email and played a bit of Madden Football while I waited for Vicky. I finished a full game and then shut the computer down. She certainly wasn't rushing right over I thought.

The phone rang and I picked it up.

"Mr. Stewart, are you all tucked in for the night?" asked Fred Benson.

"Yes Sir, just heading to bed now" I answered.

"Good, get a good night's sleep and we'll see you at nine in the cafeteria for a hearty breakfast" he said. "Be sure to bring a good set of clothes with you for after the game. Good night Mike."

"Good night Mr. Benson" I replied.

I hung up the phone and went over to make sure the door was unlocked for Vicky before getting changed into a pair of loose shorts for bed. I went and got my one suit out and hung it up with a shirt and tie and then found my good shoes and put them below so I would remember to bring them with me tomorrow. I had to remember to get a couple of suits soon so I wouldn't be wearing the same one every time. I climbed into bed and lay back on the bed, finally being able to relax. I closed my eyes and thought back on another interesting day. I wondered what Vicky would wear tonight when she finally came over. I pictured her in the teddy from a few days ago and I fell asleep dreaming of her sitting on me with the straps falling down her shoulders to let her wonderful breasts start to show as the material was drawn down off of them...



-------

Chapter 12


I woke up Saturday morning with Vicky lying with her head on my chest and her arm wrapped around my torso. Her leg was intertwined with my near leg. She was wearing my old tee shirt that had ridden up and I looked to see a pair of small black panties covering her fantastic ass. Damn, I must have fallen asleep and she had let me stay sleeping. I looked over at the clock and it showed me it was already eight thirty. Double damn, not enough time to have any fun this morning either I thought frustrated. I tried to slip out from underneath her without waking her but she woke up.

"Morning Sweetie, what time is it? Vicky said sleepily.

"Its eight thirty Honey, time to get up. I have to be at the Arena cafeteria for nine so I have to hustle" I said.

"Ok, you go ahead and get in the shower and I'll follow as soon as I can, Michael" she said as she lay back down and closed her eyes.

I went in and did my usual bathroom stuff and got dressed in some casual dress shorts and a collared golf shirt. Vicky was still sleeping so I gave her a quick kiss and said I would see her later.

"Sweetie, good luck today if we don't meet up. I don't know what your schedule is. If you see Amanda, tell her I'll be there by ten but I'll call her for where to meet up" Vicky said as she tried to wake up.

"Ok Honey, worst case scenario is I'll see you after the game. I'll try to call you when I can" I replied and gave her another kiss.

I let her be and grabbed my suit bag, shoes and a couple of textbooks to read while waiting around. I bundled everything into the car and took off for the arena. After carrying in my stuff into the locker room, I went up to the cafeteria and grabbed a big breakfast. I found John and Amanda sitting together and sat down with them.

"Mike, where's Vicky" asked Amanda.

"She's still in bed unfortunately Amanda. She told me to tell you she would try and be here for ten but would call you on where to meet up" I replied.

"Did you too fool around all night Mike? And now she's all exhausted and tired out you big brute" she said teasing.

"Ah, no, I fell asleep before she got over to my apartment for the night. I guess the long week caught up to us both" I replied.

"So, no mellowing out of Mike yet" said John. "I guess that's a good thing on game day."

"Well you too look chipper so I guess you two had fun last night" I retorted.

Amanda had a small smile on her face as John said "That we did, Mike, that we did" and put his arm around her.

"Well I'm glad someone did" I said a bit frustrated.

Amanda stopped smiling and looked a bit concerned while John laughed at my plight.

"Well you can take your frustrations out on North Dakota forwards then Mike" he said with a grin.

Amanda elbowed him in the ribs and said to me "I'm sure you and Vicky will finally get some time this weekend to get together Mike. I know Vicky is looking forward to it as much as you are."

I just nodded and ate my breakfast while Amanda gave John a look and shook her head. We had just finished eating when Fred and Frank came in and had the team gather around.

Fred spoke up "Ok, here's the schedule for the rookies. After breakfast, get changed into work-out clothes, stretch and ride the bikes. At eleven we go on the ice for 45 minutes and then North Dakota does. While they are on we'll have a quick snack and then get dressed. We go out fifteen minutes before the buzzer for final warm-up skate and then the National Anthem gets played and we start the game. Obviously we have three 20 minute periods with 20 minute intermissions. There will be fruit and drinks in the locker room but don't fill up with too much of either. After the game, you must dress in a suit and the seniors and juniors on the team will be made available for any interviews. All others are not allowed to answer any questions. We will discuss the game plan in the locker room and in the weight room with individual players as needed. Are there any questions?" "Ok, finish up and let's get warmed up" Fred concluded.

John and Amanda hugged and kissed and she said "Good luck John, have a great game ok?"

"Sure thing Babe, I'll look for you in the usual spot" John replied with a grin.

"Mike, you have a good game too ok. Don't worry, you'll do fine. I'll make sure Vicky and her folks all find a place to sit and she's ok. Try and give her a quick call before you go on if you can get away with it" Amanda said. She gave me a quick hug too and whispered in my ear "Vicky is planning on giving you a big reward if you play well today so now you have another incentive to play hard." She stepped back and gave me a grin as I looked at her with a raised eyebrow. She just giggled and went back to John and kissed again and whispered in his ear too. John smiled and whispered in her ear which made her blush but then nod and kiss him again. We left her there as we walked out and John looked back and waved as she was looking back at us.

We quickly got into our warm-up clothes and spent some time on the mats stretching out our muscles. After we were done, we got on some bikes and slowly started pedaling. We increased our speed over time, with me following John's lead on the tempo. Frank came by and talked to me for a bit.

"Mike, how are you doing?" Frank asked.

"Not too bad Frank, just a bit nervous" I replied. "I don't want to screw up and disappoint you and Mr. Benson today."

"Listen Mike, don't worry about disappointing us" he said. "We know you're green and going to make mistakes. Just do the best you can. Err on the side of caution and you'll do fine. We will try and get you out only against their third or fourth lines so you should be ok."

"Ok, I'll still be nervous if it's ok with you" I said.

"Hey, this will be like nothing you've done or felt before" he continued. "There will be over 6,000 screaming people in the stands today. You have to try and tune them out and take your cues from John. If you get rattled, pass it to John and he will get it out. If you can't, go ahead and ice it and we'll get you off for a couple of minutes. This is just an exhibition game. It means nothing in the standings so try and just get used to playing against real opponents in front of a crowd."

"Ok, Frank, I'll do my best" I told him.

"Good, now take a break and then get into practice gear" Frank instructed.

John and I left the weight room and went and grabbed a bottle of water before heading back to the locker room.

"I think he made me more nervous" I said to John as we walked back.

He laughed and said "Don't worry about it. It's a little daunting when you first go out onto the ice for final warm-ups but after a while you don't even notice the crowd. Listen, I'll back you up a little more than usual and won't leave you hanging on the power play unless we are way up. If a fast guy is coming in on you I will be there if he beats you. Just do the best you can. No one will get down on you for any mistakes in these first couple of games."

I took a deep breath and just nodded. We got dressed in our practice gear and after a few minutes wait, went out on the ice. We stretched again and then did our warm-up skate. We took some shots but John told me to keep the power way down as they probably had someone watching us and the coaches wanted to keep my shot a surprise. Finally we did some three on two half rink scrimmages and then called it a practice at 11:45. I looked around when I had time but the stands were pretty empty and I didn't see Vicky or Amanda.

We went back in and the staff had light sandwiches and fruit and vegetables for us to snack on. After our snack I went the washroom and then slowly got dressed in our game equipment. I was ready early so I discretely grabbed my phone and called Vicky.

"Hi Honey, are you here yet?" I asked.

"Amanda and I are saving Becky and my parents some seats in the rink Sweetie. How are you doing?" asked Vicky.

"I'm a little nervous, but I hope to be ok. We should be out in about fifteen minutes for the final warm-up before the Anthem. I'll look for you then ok Vicky" I told her.

"Ok Michael, Good luck and have a great game and don't get hurt. I can't wait to see my man in his uniform. What's your number Sweetie?" she asked.

"It's five Honey. I'll see you soon ok?" I replied.

"Ok, bye Michael" she said.

"Bye Vicky" I replied.

I put my phone away and sat down to wait. I ran over some of the plays in my head and hoped I wouldn't forget where I should be, especially in face-off conditions. My knee started jiggling up and down and I had to force myself to make it stop. Mark came over and gave me a pat on the back and wished me luck, so did Shawn and Larry. I was getting really nervous and had butterflies in my stomach. I walked quickly to the washroom and just made it to a stall before bringing up my breakfast and my lunch snack. At least I didn't get it all over my jersey!

I rinsed out my mouth and washed my face and got back in time to hear Fred start his pre-game speech. "Ok, this is just an exhibition but we need to start off strong. Everyone play hard and do their best. No cheap shots or retaliations if they do it. Take the penalty and make we'll make them pay. Everybody help out the rookies and don't leave them high and dry. They're nervous enough as it is by the looks of Stewart there"

Everyone laughed as I had plainly just came back from throwing up in the can. I smiled weakly and shook my head. Chris came over and gave me a sports drink to get me some quick energy. I thanked him and had a few sips.

Mark, our goalie, led us out to the ice and the place erupted in cheers and applause and a band started playing the Michigan fight song while we skated around our half of the ice. The boos started when the North Dakota team, the Sioux, came on the ice. Each team skated for about five minutes. John pointed out where the girls were sitting and I saw them waving and hollering. I waved back and they smiled huge smiles. Becky was there their parents and they all looked to be happy and having fun. The twins had on the same Michigan sweatshirts and jeans and looked gorgeous every time I came around to the ice where I could see them. John saw the twins and looked at me in shock.

"They look like twins Mike! Are they?" he asked over the loud crowd and the music.

I just smiled as the horn sounded and everyone got off but the first line and the goalies. The rink announcer came on the PA system and asked everyone to remove their hats and stand for the singing of the National Anthem. The players all stood and removed their helmets and looked to the flag at the end of the rink. A girl from the music program was introduced and she sang a fine rendition of the anthem and the crowd erupted at the end. The horn was sounded and the refs had the players line up at the centre circle and the puck was dropped. My first game was started!

North Dakota won the draw and quickly moved the puck up into our zone. They sent it in deep and went after it with their forwards. Man they were fast. Our forwards quickly collapsed as we had practiced and helped the defence out so their forwards were double teamed. We gained control of the puck and moved it out of the zone, with our centre carrying the puck. They got back quickly and a weak shot was turned aside by their goalie to the corner. There was a battle for the puck along the board but the Sioux got control and our team retreated to change as they did as well. The second line went on and the play continued into our end for a minute. They had our second line pinned in our zone for their whole shift before a forward could carry it to the centre line and dump it into their zone for a change.

John and I jumped over the boards and raced to our positions on defence as they carried the puck back up the ice. We went into a one four neutral ice play to stop their quick advance up the ice into our zone. It worked as our third line forwards trapped the puck carrying defenceman forcing him to pass it back into his zone. We moved up a bit and put some more pressure and clogged up the middle. Shawn got a good hit on one of their defencemen and he took over at centre ice. We quickly moved into their zone and our forwards had the puck in deep, while John and I kept out at the blueline for a point shot. John inched in to the middle of the ice between the two face-off circles while I moved into the middle of the ice back at the blueline to cover both points. Their forwards had backed in to help in deep so John was open in the slot. The pass came out from Shawn to John and he got a good one time shot away but it was deflected wide off a skate.

Their defenceman pounced on the loose puck and passed it up the open boards to a streaking forward. I was already backing up so I kept up to him as he went down the left side trying to beat me to the net. Man he was fast! I was just a half step behind him but luckily I was in the middle so when he started trying to lean into the middle to go in on net for a shot or deke I was still close enough to hit him with a check to angle him around the net and into the end boards. Mark moved out and swept the puck away to John who lugged it back up to centre ice to send it in deep so we could change. I quickly skated to the bench and was replaced with the first pair again.

Frank came over and said "Great play there Mike. Good Hustle" as he patted my shoulder.

I just nodded as I was sucking in air trying to catch my breath. John came back to the bench and sat down beside me.

"Thanks Mike, Sorry to leave you hanging so quickly. It was too good to pass up. Damn skate got in the way of a beautiful shot" he said.

"Try not to do that again man, geez he was fast!" I gasped.

"Ok, next time you go in and make them get out of the way with one of your patented shots" he said.

"We'll see how the situation looks first" I said before committing to anything.

The play went back and forth for the next couple of minutes. The second line did better and actually made their goalie freeze the puck after a quick shot. Frank sent John and me out to try for a point shot from the face-off. Shawn, the third line centre, won the face-off back to John but their forward was on him to quick to shoot. He faked the shot and whipped a pass over to me for the one timer. In the mean time our forwards had crashed towards the net to deflect the shot or pounce on a rebound. Their other winger wasn't quick enough to get out to block my shot. I put everything I could muster up into that first shot and aimed it for the near bottom corner. It looked like the goalie would be over in time to stop it when our right winger, Brad, got his stick down to deflect it up and over the goalie before he could even react.

The red light came on and a huge cheer erupted from the crowd. We went over to Brad and gave him a high five and went back to the bench as the rest of the team congratulated us.

The Announcer came on and said "Wolverine's goal scored by Brad Eddings, assisted by Mike Stewart and John Reilly at 4:58. Again, goal by Eddings, assist by Stewart and Reilly at 4:58."

John and I were all smiles as we heard the announcement of our names. We looked over where the girls were sitting and saw them jumping and shouting. Boy it felt great to see someone cheering for us. We turned back to the game as it got underway again. Frank came over and congratulated us but told us to calm down now and get ready for them to start attacking.

We watched as their first line took the puck deep and started a cycle. Our forwards collapsed again but this time they got it back to the point for a good slap shot. Our one forward couldn't get out in time to block it so it went on net. It was a good low shot that was deflected but Mark reacted quickly to get his blocker on it and steer it to the corner. Their speedy forwards swarmed over the rebound and got it under control and back the front of the net for another quick shot. This time Mark gloved it and held it for a whistle and a face-off in our zone.

They switched up to their second line so as the home team we had the last change so we followed with ours. The play continued in our end for a bit until our second pair of defencemen got control and coolly passed it up and then skated up following the play. The puck was quickly turned over and our defencemen left early to change with John and me before the Sioux got into our zone. I quickly moved over to my defensive spot as they carried the puck up the ice while the second line changed. They made it into our zone and set up another cycle. I checked one of the puck carriers into the boards but his teammate got the puck before I could scoop it up. I followed him behind the net and kept him from coming out in front. He went to pass it off to the cycling forward going away but I stepped in front of him as he picked up the pass and we ran into each other hard. We both flew off our skates into the boards and John quickly picked up the loose puck and passed it to a streaking Shawn. I watched, as I untangled with the forward, Shawn deke the lone defenceman and forcing him to hook Shawn or let him go in alone on their goalie. The refereed blew the whistle for a two minute hooking penalty.

Frank had John and I sit for the start of the first half of the penalty as we were on the ice and were tired. The second unit started and controlled the puck but couldn't put the puck by their goalie. With about 45 seconds left the puck was frozen and the first power play unit was sent out, including both John and I. The face-off was on my side of the ice so Gary, the centre, would try and win the faceoff, passing the puck back to me for a quick shot. The face-off was a scrum, meaning no one won it and it was in their feet for a bit. Our extra forward knocked it back to me and I shot it quickly for a top corner. I would like to say it went in for my first goal, but it missed high and banged loudly off the back glass, and wrapped around the boards to the other point. John got over and stopped it inside the blue line and carried it in towards the net for a closer shot. I moved back into the middle to cover. John wound up and took a hard shot that the goalie couldn't have seen as there were at least four bodies in front of him. Unfortunately, it hit the goalie on his leg as he spread out to cover as much of the net as he could. He controlled the rebound and froze it for another face-off.

This time it was on John's side. I looked at the clock and there was 24 seconds left in the penalty. Gary won the face-off clean and John took another hard one timer that was deflected out of play. Another face-off with 18 seconds remaining. This time they won it cleanly and their defence wrapped it around the boards to try and clear it. I moved right to the boards and stopped it with my legs. Their forward was coming quickly to try and tap it by me so at the last minute I banged it on the boards past him to the right winger. I stepped aside and the winger missed a check on me so I moved in for an open shot at the top of the face-off circle. The winger saw me open and feathered a nice pass and I leaned into it and blew it by the goalie over his glove shoulder.

The red light came on and another cheer erupted. The guys came over and congratulated me and I thanked the winger for the great pass. We skated over and did the bench glove tapping thing and sat down.

The Announcer came on the PA and gave out the scoring play "Wolverine's goal scored by Mike Stewart, assisted by Chris Appleton, at 7:25. Again, Goal by Stewart, assist by Appleton at 7:25"

I felt so happy for my first goal. John was pounding my back and Fred and Frank both had grins on their faces. I looked at the twins and they were screaming and hugging each other as Amanda and their parents were clapping and whistling. What a great feeling.

We settled down and Frank got in between John and me. "Listen, they are going to key in on Mike now, so be real careful with the passes John. They will try and pick it off going across and they will have a forward out closer to Mike. John, fake a couple of passes and go in a bit. Mike, cover for him when he goes in. When you do get the puck Mike, be careful, as they will be on you real quick. Pass it back to John or better yet, down into the corner so it doesn't get blocked up high. If you have time to shoot, start shooting high to make them scared to come and block it. Got all that guys?"

We nodded. I relaxed for a bit watching the game. The Sioux still carried the play to us but our defensive play stiffened up and they got only shots from the point for the next few minutes. John and I went on with the fourth line against their fourth line and it got chippy. One of their forwards tried to nail me to the boards but I stepped aside and passed the puck over to John so he could carry it out. I followed behind slowly and heard the forward chirping but just ignored him as I took the point. Larry got the puck back to John who faked a pass over to me and then went in deep. Two forwards were caught cheating trying to pick off the pass so he walked in and wound up for a shot. The last forward broke off his coverage to block John's shot so John slap-passed to the guy that their forward had left open and he re-directed it on net. Their goalie made a fantastic play to stop it and their defence just slapped the puck down the ice. I raced back and touched it before their team did and they were called for icing. The puck went back to their zone for another face-off and while we could change our players up, they were not allowed to.

John and I sat and watched while the first line went out and scored an easy goal against their tired fourth line. We cheered and high fived them as they skated by.

The PA sounded again "Wolverine goal by Gary Crawford, assisted by Daniel Sawyer and Chris Appleton at 14:07. Again, goal by Crawford, assisted by Sawyer and Appleton at 14:07."

The rest of the period was uneventful, I got on for two more shifts and got another shot off but it hit a defenceman high up on his shoulder as he turned to block the shot. It looked like it hurt him but he got off the ice under his own power. We went into the first intermission leading three to nothing and everyone was in a good mood. We grabbed some orange slices and drinks and relaxed by our lockers.

Fred got up and started talking while we ate and drank. "Good start to the game people. We had some trouble at the beginning with their speed but we tightened up and broke up their cycle. Let's keep hitting those fast forwards to break it up. Watch for them to take more chances like they did against John and Mike, trying to pick off the long cross-ice pass. All defence pairs, make sure no one gets behind you for a long break-out pass."

Frank continued after Fred finished, saying "Everyone watch their fourth line, they will try and spark a comeback by hitting anything they can. Don't retaliate if you can help it. The way to beat them is quick passes and fast skating. Now, their first two lines will throw caution to the wind and really come after us with some fast rushes. If they dump it in deep, let them get it and hit them hard, or if you can get it quick, try a counter strike and try and spring our lone forward who is out by the point. You can try a high lob or a hard shot off the boards. Whoever is out by the points take off as soon as you see the defence pick it up cleanly. That should slow them down if they get burnt a couple of times."

"Ok, rest up and we go out in ten" said Fred.

I grabbed a towel and dried off my hair and face a bit and leaned back to relax for a few minutes. Frank came by and sat down beside me and said "Good first period Mike, you're playing well. You have to take extra care out there the rest of the game. They will target you for extra hits and cheap shots. Under no circumstances are you to take your helmet off or get into a fight. All I want to see is clean hits later for a payback. Do you understand?"

"Ok Frank, will do, no retaliations and no fighting" I stated in agreement.

"Good, you're too valuable to lose in the penalty box or out with a broken hand" Frank told me. "Play smart and get rid of the puck quickly. If you have to ice it, go ahead. With this lead, it's not a problem."

I nodded as I took a drink. He went over to John and talked to him for a bit and John nodded. The five minute buzzer rang and we quickly got dressed and went back out to the rink. Only the line playing first could skate so the rest of us sat on the bench waiting for the start of the second period. I looked for the girls and gave them a small wave when I saw them looking over at us. They waved and smiled back happily and I again thought how lucky I was to have two of the best looking women around.

The game started and just like Frank said, the Sioux first line came in fast and hard trying to take advantage of their speed. Our defence got help from two of the three forwards down deep which clogged things up again. The puck squirted free and Steve Mason, the right D quickly lobbed the puck over everyone's head with a quick flick of his stick and Daniel, our left winger broke out quickly to try and track it down. He beat their defenceman to the puck and had a partial breakaway on the goalie. He tried a deke and had the goalie out of position but he hit the post with his backhand. The defenceman caught up and cleared the puck before Daniel could put in the rebound. The crowd groaned as the shot just missed.

I was amazed on how well our coaches could read what to do next and how well their plays worked in counteracting what they thought the Sioux would do. Play continued with the opposition still trying to use their speed on us. This time the second line was out and read the cycle well and were ready with a nicely timed hit to flatten one of the forward's when his head was down looking at the puck. Our defenceman grabbed up the loose puck and shot it hard on the boards out past their defenceman. Our forward took off but the goalie came out to shoot it away from him.

After that, they weren't as aggressive with all three forwards so deep so it got easier to defend against them. John and I were put on with the third line and they countered with the fourth, pulling off their third line as soon as they could. John carried the puck up and shot it in deep and avoided a hit from one of their forwards. Our forwards chased the puck into the corner and double teamed their defenceman and getting the puck away from him as a forward came in to hit Brad, our third line forward. Shawn, the centre skated toward the net with the puck and took a quick shot before the other defenceman could come over to block it. Their goalie stopped the shot and directed the rebound to the boards on my side. The Sioux left winger scooped up the puck and tried to hit their centre on a long breakout pass but both John and I had already backed up and were covering both the centre and the right winger. John skated in front of the centre and intercepted the pass and skated back into their zone just as our forwards were getting out. He made one defenceman miss and then shot the puck hard using the second D as a screen. He had the goalie beat as he couldn't see the puck until it was by him. It clanged off one post and then went in the net. The red light came on again and the arena erupted in a cheer. We all went in and congratulated him on his solo effort and went back to the bench for more congratulations.

The PA announcer came on and said "Wolverine goal by John Reilly, unassisted at 3:15, again, unassisted goal by Reilly at 3:15."

I slapped him on his back and said "Great goal John, and nice move around the D."

"Thanks Mike, I knew you had me covered so I thought what the hell!" he replied with a grin.

"Look over at Amanda" I told him.

He looked and saw she was going wild, showing off her jersey with John's number on it, while jumping up and done and shouting loudly. The twins were right beside her shouting and clapping too. Everyone was having a good time, except for the Sioux.

Frank came along the bench and warned it would be getting more physical now and he was right as usual. Their first line dumped the puck into our zone and went after the guy who touched the puck rather than the puck itself. Two of them crushed our one defenceman into the boards at the same time as soon as he touched the puck. The puck squirted free and their third forward scooped it up and passed it back to the point. With our defenceman slowly picking himself up off the ice, they essentially had themselves a five on four power play. They passed the puck around quickly and eventually got someone open for a one timer which got past Mark for a goal before Albert could get back into the play. The light came on and the arena crowd groaned and booed while the Sioux celebrated.

The PA announcer read off the Sioux players while Chris Jenkins checked over Albert at the bench. He was a little woozy but no permanent damage was found. Frank warned everyone again to be careful and if necessary, don't touch the puck, let them get it and then hit them. Our fourth line was sent out with the second pair of D when we saw their third line come on. Our fourth line tried the high energy tactic because they didn't get on as much and could afford to expend extra energy. Larry brought the puck in fast and dumped off the boards past the defenceman standing at the blueline. He dodged the check and skated around him to grab the puck. The other D had to come over to cover him and the fourth line centre was left open with their second line centre trying to back check him. Larry put a pass through the defenceman's legs and our centre just tried to redirect it on net. Their goalie made another fantastic reaction save with his blocker, and the puck flew into netting above the glass, stopping the play.

The Sioux switched up their lines, putting out the first line again, so Fred put out our first line and Frank had to put John and me out because Albert wasn't ready to go back out. We hurried into their zone and took up the point. Gary won the draw back to John and he faked the shot before putting the puck deep into the corner. Chris, Daniel and Gary showed why they were the first line by taking control of the puck deep and quickly passing between themselves worked it out to the left side. They had the Sioux running around trying to block their passes so their high forwards cheated to help their D contain them. Once they did, I moved into the high middle and Gary faked a pass back to John at the left point and set me up for another one timer in the high slot. The one D in front of the net went down to block the shot but I went high stick side and again blew it by the goalie. The red light went on and my arms went up as the crowd cheered. The announcer came on and said "Wolverine goal by Mike Stewart, assisted by Gary Crawford and Daniel Sawyer at 5:05, again goal by Stewart, assisted by Crawford and Sawyer at 5:05."

After the congratulations John and I had to stay on as we were short a D. They put out the fourth line and they tried to run both John and I. John warned me as I chased the puck in behind the net so I let the puck go without touching it and sidestepped the check, letting him crash into the boards. I flipped the puck high into the air and got my arm up to protect my side as the other forward tried to hit me. He was much shorter so my elbow kind of got him in the head as he came in and he took a good shot and went down beside his teammate while I stayed on my feet and calmly skated to the bench as the rest of the line had a four on three in their zone. The crowd at our end went crazy with two of their players down trying to hit one of ours. Their goalie stopped another point blank shot with a great glove save and froze the puck. Their trainer had to come out and look at both players and they needed help getting off the ice.

Frank just patted my shoulder and walked away while John was much more animated about how I showed them. I just grabbed a water bottle and had a drink before glancing up at the twins who had matching 'cat ate the canary' grins on their faces as they looked at me. I grinned back to them and turned back to the game. John and I got more ice time as Albert was still not able to go on. John would team up with Steve on the first D pair and then with me.

The second period ended with the score five to one as the crowd cheered. We went back to the locker room and relaxed eating some fruit and replenishing our fluids. Fred just told us to relax and he would talk later. I sat back and replayed the two goals in my head and felt great. I towelled off a bit and drank down a bottle of water and ate a few orange slices.

Fred got on a bench and had a couple of things to say "Ok, it looks like we have this one wrapped up so let's not embarrass them. No need to run the score up as long as they don't get too rough. Albert is out the rest of the game so Steve will fill in when he can. Keep it simple and keep control of the puck as much as we can."

Frank got up and continued "Ok, let's keep Mark's goal against average down and get out of this one without any more injuries."

We got dressed and went back out for the third period. Gary won the draw back and our D retreated back to our zone and set up a play slowly. The puck was carried up and dumped deep in and our forwards went in and tied up their defence on the boards. It finally popped free and the Sioux corralled it and tried a quick rush up the ice. We had four men back and clogged up the neutral zone so they had to dump it in and chase. Mark stopped the puck behind the net and the left D calmly lofted it to centre ice where a forward then banged it deep into the net before peeling off for a change. John and I jumped on the ice and quickly got into position while they started coming up the ice. Their left winger tried to stick handle around me but I rubbed him out on the boards and our right winger scooped up the loose puck and quickly sprung the centre for a rush up the centre of the ice. He crossed their blueline and faked a shot to freeze the defenceman in front of him and skated around him and then put a beautiful deke on the goalie and roofed the puck into the top of the net. The light came on and the place erupted again. We went and congratulated the scorer.

We went back to the bench as the announcement came on the PA system "Wolverine Goal by Henry Black, assisted by Kerry Simpson and Mike Stewart at 2:20, again, goal by Black, assisted by Simpson and Stewart at 2:20."

I looked at John and said "Why would I get an assist on that, I don't think I touched the puck?"

"Well, you made it happen by rubbing him out so maybe they were just being generous" he said.

I just shook my head and looked at the twins as they were standing and shouting. I grinned at them and they waved back.

The rest of the game was pretty dull, with pretty slow action from both teams just trying to finish out the game without getting hurt. When the final buzzer rang the score was six to one and the place was rocking and loud. We all went and congratulated Mark on his good game and then lined up to shake hands with the other team. As we left the ice, Gary, John and I were pulled to the side. I looked at John and he just smiled.

The PA announcer came on and said "Today's third star with a goal and an assist, is senior centre Gary Crawford." Gary went out and did a quick loop and waved to the crowd as they cheered.

"The second star of today's game, also with a goal and an assist, is junior defenceman John Reilly." John got a big grin and went out for a quick loop as the crowd cheered even louder.

"The first star of today's game, playing in his first game as a Wolverine, with two goals and two assists, is freshman defenceman Mike Stewart." The roar was deafening as John and Gary banged me on the back as I stepped on the ice and did a quick circle and looked at my ladies clapping and shouting as they had huge grins on their faces.

The three of us went into the locker room and I collapsed on my seat by my locker. A few guys came over and congratulated me which was nice of them. I finally started getting undressed and headed into the shower where I relaxed under a nice hot shower. I finally got out and got dressed into my suit and bundled the rest of my stuff in my backpack.

Fred called for silence and then said "Good game all of you. Everyone listened and followed our advice and our game plan to a T. Congratulations and enjoy the weekend everyone. We will see you bright and early Monday morning. Seniors and juniors, follow us to the press room, sophomores and freshman, you can leave but don't answer questions if someone comes up to you. Just say to them that they have to ask that at the press conference. Ok, let's finish up and call it a day."

John came over and said "Will you wait with the girls for me? I shouldn't be too long I hope."

"Sure, where should we meet?" I asked.

"How about in the cafeteria? You can watch the press conference on the TVs in there" he suggested.

"Ok, that sounds good. I'll see you soon John" I replied.

I grabbed my stuff and told the coaches to have a good weekend and they replied with the same. I walked out and went looking for the girls. It had been a great start to the weekend and now I hoped for a great second half with my twins...



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Chapter 13


I went out to the rink but didn't see the girls in their seats. I went to turn around and go back into the hall just as my phone rang. It was Vicky and when I answered she said "Look up Sweetie."

I looked up to the roof to see what she would say.

"That's a nice roof, but why do I need to look up there Honey?" I asked innocently.

"Michael, you know you look pretty silly right now looking up at the ceiling. Please try not to embarrass yourself anymore and look to the lobby windows" she said a little too sweetly.

They were all gathered in front of the lobby windows looking down at me with grins on their faces. I grinned back and waved. I noticed some of the other girlfriends of the players looking down and smiling as well.

"Well that's a fine looking sight if I ever saw one" I said. "How about you guys meet me by the cafeteria door with Amanda? We have to wait for John to finish at the press conference. We can watch it in there."

"Ok, my number one star hockey stud. Hey, keep it cool with Becky until we are alone with the family. We don't want our situation to be common knowledge, ok Michael?" she whispered.

"Sure thing Honey, see you soon my gorgeous, sexy, wonderful girlfriend" I said as I looked up at her with a smile.

She put her hand on the window and looked at me with such a happy smile and said "Ok, Sweetie, see you in a minute."

She turned back to the rest of them and I walked back to the stairs and climbed them to get to the cafeteria. We met outside the cafeteria door and Vicky came up and gave me a big kiss and hug.

"Ahem, a little decorum Daughter" said a smiling Mrs. Waters.

Vicky released my head and turned to her mother and stuck out her tongue and said "That was discrete Mother. If I did what I wanted to do, I probably would get hockey stud here arrested for indecent exposure!"

All the girls laughed and Becky said "That would be a sight I'd certainly go to jail for, wouldn't you say Amanda?"

"Well, I wouldn't be covering my eyes anyway" she agreed, leering at me.

"Well now that I'm as red as a beet, let's go hide my glow in the cafeteria and see how John handles the spotlight" I suggested and led the way into the cafeteria.

As we were walking in Mr. Waters spoke up "You played a great game today Michael, especially for your first game in a long time. Two goals, two assists, some great defensive plays as well as some good hits too! I am proud of you son!"

"Thanks Mr. Waters, that means a lot to me coming from you, but I have to say a lot of it was real luck. I was so worried about screwing up but I got great advice and help from John and the rest of the team. The coaches seemed to know exactly what the other team was going to do and told us how to counteract it. I got lucky to be in the right place at the right time for some open shots" I replied.

"Be that as it may, some of the plays you made and how you avoided some checks showed me you belong out there. You did really well!"

I deflected the spotlight by turning to Amanda and saying "John played fantastic too eh Amanda?"

She smiled and agreed "He sure did Mike, that was probably his best game yet! You definitely bring out the best in him."

"Amanda, you got it all wrong, he brings out the best in me" I corrected her. "I would have failed miserably if he hadn't helped me so much this last week."

She just smiled and shook her head. She walked ahead and guided us to a table near a TV hanging in the corner. I slowed down until I was beside Becky who looked a little lonely.

"Hi girlfriend, sorry I can't greet you like I want to" I said softly to her. "You made me so happy to see you up in the stands with Vicky during the game. I'm glad you can stay over so we can have some time together this weekend Becky."

She smiled brightly and whispered "I want so much to kiss you right now Michael, to show you how much you mean to me and how proud of you I am. Just you wait till we get alone and I'll knock your socks off Sweetie."

"I can tell just by looking into your beautiful eyes how much you care for me and I'm so happy to see it" I whispered back. "I can't wait to get you alone either, and I'll be knocking much more than your socks off Darling."

She shivered and got a lustful look on her face for a second before composing herself as we walked up to the family.

"Now, no funny business with my boyfriend little sister" Vicky said with a wink to Becky.

"Well, maybe Michael wants a younger more beautiful girlfriend" Becky said, playing her part.

"Girls, no fighting, especially over Michael, or I'll have to take him away from both of you" said Mrs. Waters.

I turned to Amanda and said "This is why we would never work out Amanda; I already have three beautiful women fighting over me. Add your beauty to the mix and the daggers would come out-and they would probably all be in my back!"

"Yes, and then we would have Amanda all to ourselves" Vicky said with an evil grin as the two girls sat on either side of Amanda and hugged her tight.

"Girls, you can't steal Amanda from John" their Mother teased.

"Becky answered her Mother saying "Aw, Mom, can we keep her, pretty please? We'll take good care of her" she whined.

We all laughed and their Father replied with "Girls, the last time you had a pet you stopped feeding or taking care of it after a week! Poor Amanda would be abandoned and starving in three days."

"Well, she's much cuter than that fish. We couldn't even pet it but we promise to take good care of Amanda and feed her and hug her and love her forever" said Vicky as we laughed at Amanda's face.

"She's turning even redder than I do" I teased.

Amanda was saved from anymore verbal teasing as the TV came on to show the press room and the coaches sitting at a table in front of about a dozen reporters. Fred asked for questions from the reporters and one asked what he thought of the game.

"Well, we were caught flat footed for a bit at the start of the game" Fred answered. North Dakota has a very fast couple of lines that really took it to us early. Luckily we made some adjustments and got some timely goals to force them to play some defence."

Another reporter asked "They were really trying to run your defence. Care to comment?"

Fred responded "Yes, they switched tactics to try and isolate two forwards against one D in the corner or along the backboards. It allowed them to score the goal when they teamed up against Albert Summers, our left defenceman of our first D pair. It was aggressive but mostly both were clean hits."

"What is Summers' status?" asked another one.

"He really got his bell rung. Obviously he didn't return to the ice after the hit in the second period. We will monitor him for concussion symptoms but he had no other physical injuries" Fred said.

"Your defence has taken a couple losses now. How do you plan to address that situation?" another reporter questioned.

"Yes, with the loss of Robert Samuel, Taylor Porter, Brian Jones, all for the year and Albert Summers temporally, we are stretched thin" Fred agreed. "We have a couple of younger players that will have big holes to fill as they will have to move up the depth chart. If Summers can't go next week, we will have to juggle some D pairing or move them up the chart."

"Your third Defensive pair accounted for much of the scoring. Who are they?" was the next question.

"John Reilly, the left D is a junior who is in his third year with the team. He has really picked up his game this year and we expect great things from him. He is a quick skater with good puck carrying skills and is the quarterback of the first power play unit.

"Mike Stewart is a freshman that just joined the team this week. Obviously he is pretty green but he has a good hard shot. He also plays the point on the first power play unit".

Amanda was beaming in pride and so were Vicky and Becky when I glanced over.

"There is no information in your press booklet on Stewart. Do you have anything more about him you can tell us?"

"Not really" Fred replied. "Frank, our assistant coach here in charge of the Defencemen, found him practicing in our rink to try out for intramural hockey. We convinced him to try out for our team and we're glad to have him."

"Ok, we have some seniors and juniors available if you would like to ask them questions" Fred said, before moving away from the table to allow some of the guys to come up to the table. The first line plus Steve and John, in replacement of Albert for the first D pair, walked up and sat down.

"Good afternoon gentlemen and congratulations on your first win of the season. How does it feel" a reporter asked.

Gary, one of the team captains looked at everyone and then answered for them "Thank you and good afternoon. It feels very good to get this first win under our belt, especially against a dangerous team like North Dakota. The coaches had us well prepared and made great adjustments to counteract whatever they threw at us."

"We also got some great defensive play from our third pair, with John Reilly here and Mike Stewart" added Steve.

"So John, the coach says you have really picked up your game this year. What has happened for you to step it up so much?"

"Well, the coaches put me on a great off season work-out so I came back in great shape" John replied. "I also have a great motivator on my side, my lovely girlfriend Amanda who inspires me to be better, and finally, I would have to say my new partner Mike, he makes me look good just by being on the ice with him."

Amanda looked in shock as she heard John bring her up on TV. The twins both hugged her happily.

"Oh, wasn't that so sweet of John to bring you up" Vicky said.

"Wow, I didn't know he cared so much" Amanda said amazed.

"Well, now you know, heck the whole State knows now!" Becky said.

"I knew he always thought I was too ambitious about his career and pushed him too hard. I even thought he only kept me around for my looks and the um physical side of our relationship" she said.

I leaned over and said "I think the two of you are very good for each other with a little more honest communication you two could have something real special; as long as you don't get stolen by the evil Waters' sisters"

"You might be right Michael; on both accounts" she said as she looked at both of the girls.

"Well, fine then, your loss Amanda" said Becky airily as she stuck her nose up in the air.

We laughed and went back to watching. There wasn't too much more so we just talked for a bit.

Mr. Waters piped up "Shall we all go out and have a nice dinner somewhere?"

"That sounds good dear" Mrs. Waters replied. "Unfortunately, only the boys will be dressed well so we had better let them get into something comfortable and go to a less fancy restaurant."

"Amanda and I can take the boys and get them changed and meet you three at the restaurant" Vicky offered.

"Nice try, but we want to eat sometime tonight. The way you are both acting, you probably get them undressed and then attack them" said Becky.

Amanda and Vicky looked at each other and grinned and said together "Yeah" as we laughed.

The press conference ended and the TV shut off. We waited for John while we debated what to eat. The guys wanted steak while the girls wanted seafood. John came in walking quickly but Amanda didn't see him so he snuck up to her and startling her as he went to hug her from behind.

"Hi there gorgeous, having a good time" He asked.

"Hi there John, I really liked your interview" she purred as she leaned back into him.

"Oh sure, she purrs for him" Becky said causing everyone to laugh and John to look puzzled.

Amanda blushed and said "I'll tell you later" to John.

"So, shall we head to a Red Lobster somewhere?" asked Mrs. Waters. "The girls can all come with us and the boys can go get quickly changed into something a bit more comfortable."

"We were talking about a steakhouse dear" Mr. Waters replied.

"That was voted down hours ago Honey, please try and keep up" she dismissed his statement. "Shall we go Ladies? Come along dear. Boys are you still here?"

The girls giggled and all got up and started walking with slightly exaggerated wiggles. We three guys looked at each other and then back at them walking away.

Mr. Waters said quietly "We should pull a fast one and just go to a steakhouse and let them wait at Red Lobster for us."

"Normally I'd think that would be a great plan but after the crap I got the last time I had an original idea, I think I'll have to play this one safe" I said.

"If any of us want any type of female attention for the weekend, I suggest we meekly accede to their wishes. We can still get a steak there if we want" said John.

"Humph, you two already have the ball and chain on don't you" Mr. Waters said disgusted.

"Uh huh, and if I'm not mistaken, your woman is the leader of that pack, and we didn't see you put your foot down" I replied dryly.

He grinned and said "I'm not an idiot Michael; I was hoping one of you would take the lead."

"Alright, I'll take the lead and get moving to get changed. We've got gorgeous women waiting for us." I stated.

We walked out of the arena to find the girls waiting by the Water's SUV in the parking lot. Mrs. Waters had her arms crossed under her breasts and was tapping her foot impatiently. The girls were trying to hide their smirks behind their hands as we walked up.

"Did you gentlemen get lost trying to find your way to the parking lot? Mrs. Waters asked with an arched eyebrow.

"We were just debating which steakhouse to go to while you ladies enjoyed your seafood" Mr. Waters replied innocently.

The girls lost their smirks real quick and they all started protesting.

"Daddy, we are not going to eat without Michael there" said Vicky.

"Jonathon, what the hell is going on" Amanda said crossly.

"No, we have to eat together" piped up Becky stomping her foot.

"Phillip Waters, are you trying to ruin a perfectly good day for these people?" Mrs. Waters asked in the voice.

"Well the boys played a hard game and I thought they deserved to pick the restaurant as a reward for being the first and second stars of the game; but if you girls don't think they deserve it we can go to the seafood restaurant that you girls arbitrarily decided on" he stated.

"The problem dear is that us girls are not dressed for a nice steakhouse so maybe we better just head to Chilli's down the road after the guys get changed" she relented.

"That's fine with us right everyone?" I quickly spoke up and looked at the others quickly.

"Sure"

"Sounds good to us"

"Ok with me too"

"Fine" said Mr. Waters. "Let's go."

John and I hopped into my car and we quickly went to his dorm to let him get changed. Then we went over to my apartment and I did the same. We jumped back in to the car and drove to Chilli's.

"Man, I don't know why Mr. Waters had to raise such a stink about where we eat? The last thing we need tonight is to piss off our ladies Mike" said John.

"I think he gets tired of the three women always ganging up on him" I replied. "He likes to surprise them once and a while so they don't take him for granted. We need to put our foot down sometimes with our ladies too. But I agree, tonight is not the night for that."

"It would be hell living with three women, that's for sure" John agreed.

We pulled into the parking lot and went in to find the girls and their parents. The hostess asked us if it was just us two but we said we were joining a group of five already here.

"Four women and a man?" she asked.

"Yes" I replied.

"Right this way gentlemen" she directed as she led the way.

We followed her into the other room and saw our group sitting at a long rectangular table for eight. We thanked the hostess and approached the table. Vicky and Becky were sitting on either side of Amanda. John and I were going to sit across from them but Amanda rose and said "Here Michael, you sit between the girls, I'll sit beside John."

We all sat down and grabbed the menus. I was starving and remembered I threw up my breakfast and lunch so I had nothing in my stomach for the whole day. The waitress came over and girls all put in their normal small order. When it came to me I ordered a full rack of ribs, a pound of wings plus a steak with all of the sides for each.

"Michael, you're going to get fat" said Becky.

"Yeah, instead of my stud hockey star, you'll be my flabby hockey dud" Vicky teased.

"Hey, I threw up my breakfast and lunch before the game so I haven't eaten all day. Then I just played a game. I probably lost five pounds today! I'm starving and I'm still just a growing boy." I protested.

"Oh, my poor baby, you must be so weak and tired, let me get you a blanket" Vicky teased.

Becky leaned in and said "If he's still a growing boy, you're in big trouble then Vicky; don't you already call a certain um, appendage, Big Mike?"

Vicky gasped and blushed, then gave Becky an evil glare, while everyone else chuckled. I just put my head in my hands and mumbled "why me?"

Mrs. Waters piped up "Vicky, you don't have to be embarrassed about it. Michael's nose probably has stopped growing."

Mr. Waters growled "It had better be his nose we're talking about."

There was more laughter at Vicky's and my expense while we were both blushing. Luckily our drinks came to deflect the attention away from us for a bit. The appetizers came soon after and we dug in quickly. Everybody seemed to be back in a good mood so we had a fun time.

The twins started teasing me by rubbing my bare legs with one of their hands under the table. They tried to get under my shorts but luckily they could only reach a short bit under. Amanda watched the girls closely but they were very good at looking innocent as they engaged everyone in conversation.

Finally our food arrived and are started wolfing down the food. I had the steak done in a few minutes and then alternated between the wings and ribs. Everyone wanted a wing so I lost half of them quickly. Then all of the girls asked to try a rib so I had to cut them up and pass out a bunch of those too. My food was disappearing super fast. The twins started poaching my fries and then asked if anyone wanted another wing. They all said yes; no surprise there, and just like that they were all gone. I quickly munched on a couple more ribs before they were grabbed. I was quickly finished with everything while all the others had half of theirs left. Of course I was still hungry.

The waitress came by to see how everyone was doing and was surprised to see me done so quickly.

"Can I take your plates Sir?" She asked.

I handed them over to her stacked up.

"Can I get you anything else? Some dessert perhaps?" she inquired.

I was thinking about ordering another plate of wings, since I only got one of them. I decided to order them when Vicky spoke up.

"No, he's had more than enough, three dinners already. We have to keep him in good shape" she told the waitress who smiled and left.

"Vicky, I was going to order some more wings, you guys ate them all. I'm still hungry here Honey" I protested.

"Sweetie, Sweetie, I'm just looking after your health" she replied. "Your body is going to be valuable soon if you keep getting picked first star. It' my job to make sure you eat the right foods and the right amounts, just like Amanda looks after John."

I groaned and turned to Becky and asked "Becky, do you see how mean your sister is to me? I'm starving here. You have to help me, please?"

"Oh, sure, now you want something Michael. I'm not good enough to be your girlfriend, but my food is good enough for you. Humph, I don't think so Mister!" she retorted.

"How about I dump your older sister here and go out with you Becky darling?" I asked. "Would you feed me then?"

"Hmmm, food for a hockey stud boyfriend, that sounds like a good trade. Ok, Michael, it's a deal!" she said with an evil grin at Vicky.

She handed me her plate of pasta and I quickly shovelled some of it onto a side plate and handed it back to her. I quickly had a forkful of pasta before Vicky could argue.

"Hey, you can't steal my boyfriend with a plate of pasta Becky!" Vicky said.

"Too late you old hag!" Becky said. "He ate some so the deal's done. Come here and give me a kiss my new boyfriend."

I looked at Vicky and tried not to burst out laughing as I said "Sorry Vicky, the way to a man's heart is through his stomach and Becky's filling mine."

I turned to Becky and planted a passionate kiss on her that left her breathless. I peeked over at Amanda and John, they were both were looking at the three of us in shock. Vicky took over the con job and started crying and rushed off to the bathroom. Mrs. Waters helped by yelling at Becky while Amanda took off to console Vicky. Mrs. Waters stood up and came over and grabbed Becky and marched her to the bathroom. John didn't know what to do so he sat and picked at his food. Mr. Waters and I kept eating and ignored his looks so we wouldn't start laughing out loud.

We ate in silence until I saw the girls coming back from the bathroom behind John. Vicky sat on the other side of John and the others sat in their original chairs. Becky wrapped her arms around me and gave me another kiss. Vicky got close to John and said "Jonathon, Amanda says I can share you with her now that my hockey stud has left me. Are you up for a second girlfriend?"

"He looked panicky at Amanda who said "We can't abandon her like someone else just did" giving me an evil glare. "What do you say darling?"

John replied "Amanda, you are more than enough woman for me. I can't handle you let alone another woman like Vicky. Sorry, I don't think I can be her boyfriend too."

"Well I can't abandon her" she said sadly. "I guess I'll have to move in with her at the apartment then."

"Oh goody, I get a gorgeous Roomie" Vicky said cheerfully.

Well now that everything is settled, who wants dessert?" asked Mrs. Waters.

"I do" I replied brightly.

"We all know that Michael. You just ruined two relationships over food" Vicky said spitefully.

"No, just one, you ruined the other one all by yourself Vicky. Look at John, he's so sad now with no one left for him" I retorted.

"Well let's cheer him up with some dessert. What do you like John?" asked Mrs. Waters.

"No thanks Mrs. Waters, I'm not hungry. I think I'll go now. Thanks for supper. Can someone call me a cab and take Amanda home?" he said.

"I think you people have tortured poor John enough, don't you think?" asked Mr. Waters.

We all started laughing and I said "And the Oscar goes to Victoria Waters, for her amazing portrayal of the crying jilted girlfriend. The best supporting actress is a tie between the trampy sister and supportive friend, Becky and Amanda!"

"Sorry Johnny, no ménage et trios for you tonight" teased Amanda.

"You people are the weirdest people I have ever come across" John said, shaking his head.

"They had me going until Becky and Mrs. Waters came into the bathroom" Amanda informed him. "Vicky was still crying and I was hugging her when this one came and asked if she could join in. Vicky stopped sobbing and said sure and then they both gave me a hug. I think they want to steal me away from you John."

Becky leered at them and said "Yep, we sure do, can we keep her Pa?"

"Ask your Mother" he said with a smile.

"I don't see why not baby girl" she answered. "She's got good teeth and a strong back. She'll be a good one to help back on the farm."

Even John laughed at that one.

"John, you can't leave me alone with those two ever" Amanda said.

"We're having a sleep over next weekend when the boys go away overnight" said Vicky.

"Oh God, no; I'm doomed" she said in horror.

Becky did a great evil laugh that had us all in stitches.

"Where is the game next week boys?" asked Mrs. Waters.

John replied "It's at the University of New Hampshire - the Wildcats. We'll leave early Friday and get in late. The game is Saturday evening at 7:30. You might find it on the Michigan University channel."

"That means you won't be back until late Sunday?" asked Becky.

"That's right" he replied.

"A whole three days alone with her Vicky, we should have her converted by then, don't you think?" she asked in an evil voice.

"Most definitely younger sister, she won't be the same afterwards" Vicky said with an evil grin.

Amanda shivered and clung to John and said "I'm scared John, you can't leave me here to deal with these two evil witches."

"Sorry dear, can't help you" he said. "Girls, try not to break her, she needs to finish school to support me in the fashion I wish to get accustomed to."

"No promises John, in fact we need you to sign this waiver here..." said Becky.

We all laughed at the girls. I really wished I could be a fly on the wall in the apartment if they did get her alone. I had the feeling that they really did have some plans for the beautiful blonde.

We finally had enough and called it our dinner finished. Mr. Waters paid the bill and we all thanked him. Becky grabbed her overnight bag from their parent's SUV and the twins hugged their parents' goodbye. Amanda then gave them a hug and John and I shook Mr. Waters' hand and we both got a hug from Mrs. Waters. We saw them drive off before piling into my car for the ride home. The three girls were in the back and the twins were whispering to Amanda. I drove to the dorms to let John and Amanda off at whichever dorm room they were going to stay at.

I stopped at John's and the two of us looked back at the girls. They were still whispering and I looked at John with a raised eyebrow and he shrugged his shoulders so we both didn't know what was going on. Finally, the girls all giggled, looked up at us and laughed at our expressions. They opened the doors so John and I also got out. The girls hugged Amanda and then John and wished them a good night. John and I congratulated each other on the great game and then also wished each other a good night. Finally Amanda came over and gave me a hug and whispered to have fun with my girls, before telling me have a good night too.

The twins and I piled back into the car and Vicky said "Home James, and step on it."

Becky countered with "Please call ahead and have Jeeves run our bath and lay out our night wear when we arrive at the plantation."

"Yes, young Misses, at once." I responded.

We were quiet for the short ride back to the apartments. I quickly jumped out when we got there and opened the door for Vicky and then went around and opened Becky's door.

"Ladies, it was a pleasure to have been your driver this evening. Please follow me and I will escort you to the door" I said as I bowed and carried Becky's bag for her while lugging mine as well.

"Thank you James. Your services will not be required for the rest of the evening" said Vicky.

"Then have a good evening young Misses" I replied as we walked down the stairs.

The girls looked at each other and then turned to me when we got to the apartments. First Vicky and then Becky came up and gave me a hug and a passionate kiss.

"Sweetie, give us about fifteen minutes and then come over. Don't bother to knock, just come in. We'll be waiting for you in the bedroom" said Vicky sexily.

"Ok, ladies, see you in fifteen" I agreed and handed Becky her bag.

The two giggled and went into Vicky's apartment while I went into mine and threw my bag onto the desk. I checked my email and browsed the net for a few minutes, trying to take my mind off the next room. Not having done much with girls I was getting nervous about what would happen in the next room soon. I wished Vicky and I could have spent more time getting acquainted and intimate before we added Becky to the mix. Now, with the two of them together, I wondered if I would screw it up and let them both down. I had read enough to know what to do, and Vicky seemed to like what we had done so far, so hopefully they weren't too going t be too disappointed. I wondered what they had planned for the evening; knowing those two, they had a matching pair of some sexy outfit and a script already worked out on how they wanted things to go. I felt myself getting a hard-on in anticipation, thinking about what skimpy lingerie they would be wearing to show off their gorgeous bodies.

I shut down the computer, went and brushed my teeth and grabbed some condoms from the box and put them in my pocket in the hope that I would finally have the opportunity to use them. After looking at the clock and seeing that fifteen minutes had passed, I left my apartment and went over to theirs. I quietly opened the door and peeked in. There was a soft glow coming from the bedroom so I walked in and silently closed the door. I moved over to the bedroom door and looked in. The girls were lying in the bed face up looking at the doorway, with their hands resting on their stomachs. Their hair was spread out on each of the pillows like a fan and they had small smiles on their faces. They also had the blankets pulled up to their necks so I couldn't see what they had on. I had no idea who was who but came to the realization that it really didn't matter. I cared for both of them equally and they came as a set so I just had to make sure they both got enough attention.

I smiled down at them and said "You too look like angels ladies. I wish I had a camera to capture how beautiful you too look right now darlings."

Their smiles grew larger and one of them replied "You look so handsome as well Michael, we are so happy that you have come into our lives. We have looked forward to this moment for all of our lives and we are so fortunate to have found you to be the man that we wish to share it with."

The other one took over, saying "Yes Sweetie, you have come to mean much to us and we hope that you feel the same. We do not want this to be a onetime thing. We hope that this is the start of a relationship that could last a long time."

I looked down with the biggest smile I had ever felt on my face and said "Vicky and Becky, nothing in this world will ever make happier than to hear you two say that. Of course I would love to have this relationship last a very long time. Already I can't imagine my life without the two of you in it."

The girls got a lovely look on their faces as they took a quick look at each other and then quickly got out of either side of the bed and came over to me to both hug me tight. They each grabbed my head with one hand and pulled it down so they could both plant a kiss on the side of my mouth. I reached around with one hand and pulled them close as I could as I kissed one and then the other. I looked down and saw they both were wearing short white satiny chemises that left their shoulders and legs bare and showed off their curves underneath. I reached down their bodies and felt their asses through the satiny material which made them grind their pussies into my legs. I stepped towards the bed and they backed up with me until the back of their legs hit the bed and they both sat onto the bed.

The twins reached for my shirt and pulled it off me quickly and then reached for my shorts and quickly undid the button and unzipped them. They worked together to pull them down to my feet and as I raised one leg at the time pulled them off and my shoes and socks as well. I stood there in my underwear with my hard-on sticking up as they sat back up. They looked at each other and then they grabbed my underwear and pulled it down quickly to release Big Mike as it sprung back up. Each wrapped a hand around it as their other hands went around and grabbed my ass to pull me closer. I moaned as they started moving their hands in unison, jacking me as they caressed my ass.

I reached down to their shoulders and pulled the spaghetti strap down on their outer shoulders and reached into their chemises to cup and then caress one breast each. I moved to their other shoulder and pulled the chemise right down on each of them to bare both of their chests. I caressed the other breast on each of the girls and then lightly pinched their erect nipples, causing them to moan.

They squeezed my cock and sped up their hands as they moved their heads closer to it. They opened their mouths and each licked the head tasting the pre-cum that had started leaking out. My knees almost buckled with the sensation as I gasped in surprise. They started licking along the shaft on either side as one let go to cup my balls. I started moaning and moving my hips as they worked me over in tandem. One of the girls moved to the front and put my cockhead in her mouth while the other started jacking me faster. I thrust my hips forward and my cock went in farther into her mouth until the other pushed back with her hand to make me go back. After a few strokes, the girls switched and the other twin put my cock into her mouth and moved her tongue around the head and sucked on it.

I was close to losing it so I warned the girls, saying "I'm going to cum soon girls, we had better grab something quick or we're going to have a mess all over again."

"Not this time Michael, we'll handle it" said the one without Big Mike in her mouth.

She moved her head beside her sister and opened her mouth while speeding up her hand on Big Mike. The other sister sucked faster and moved her head back and forth on the end causing me to start to lose it.

"Girls, I'm going to cum, aw shit that feels so good, watch out, I'm going to cum, aw yeah, I'm cumming!" I shouted as I pushed my hips forward and sprayed out my cum into her mouth.

The one swallowed quickly and then, between hip thrusts moved her head back and the other quickly covered my cock with her mouth and sucked the next spurt of cum out of me. They traded off until I was done spurting and thrusting and they slowed their hands and let me fall out of their mouths. I had been holding on to their shoulders to keep from falling down and I kept them there as I slowly stopped panting and gasping for air.

The girls licked their lips clean and looked pleased as they glanced over at each other and then back up to my face. I smiled tiredly at them and tried to move my hands up to their faces to show them how much I appreciated what they did.

"Darlings, that was the most wonderful thing I have ever felt. Thank you so very much for that fantastic experience" I said as I gazed into one and then the other's eyes. I leaned down and kissed one then the other passionately.

"You are most welcome Michael, Sweetie. It was nice to see you enjoying our efforts" one said.

"Yes, I loved giving you so much pleasure. It turned me on to see you losing control. You tasted very good Michael" said her twin, smiling up at me.

"Now let me return the favour ladies" I said as I kneeled down and started kissing the left twin's breasts as I ran each of my hands along the inner thigh of each of the girls. They quickly spread their legs allowing me access up to their treasure. As my hands reached the apex, they encountered silky panties protecting the twin's pussies. I cupped my hands over them and felt the heat emanating from within. I switched my mouth to the other twin's breast as I rubbed their pussies through the silk. The girls moaned in unison as their pussies opened to let my fingers push the material into them, quickly making them wet with their juices.

I moved their panties aside and started rubbing their bare pussies, spreading their juices and trying to find their clits at the top. The left girl gasped as I made contact with hers while the one on the right helped me by moving her hand to direct mine to the right place. After rubbing both of their clits for a bit and listening to them moan, I slowly inserted a finger into both of their tight hot, wet pussies.

"Yeah Michael, put a finger into our pussies, finger fuck us Sweetie" said one of the twins.

"Uh huh Michael, slide it up inside my wet pussy Sweetie, get me even hotter for you" encouraged the other.

I smiled at the two of them and started finger fucking them, making sure not to go too deep and break Becky's hymen that I found as I went in deeper on the twin on the right. They both started moving their hips in concert with my fingers and they both reached down to massage their clits. We all started speeding up as the girls started moaning and gasping while urging me to fuck them faster.

"We're getting close Sweetie, you're going to make both of cum" said Vickie on the left.

"Just a bit faster Michael, your finger feels so good in my pussy" panted out Becky on the right.

"I want you both to cum at the same time darlings" I stated as I sped up again.

"Oh yeah, Michael, that's it Sweetie, you're doing it, you're doing it, you're going to make us cum, Ah yeah Michael, I'm cumming!" Becky shouted as her hips spasmed on my finger and her fingers rubbed her clit madly.

Vicky shouted right after her "Me too Michael, I'm cumming too, Ah yeah Sweetie, you're making me cum!" as she thrust her hips at my finger and rubbed her clit fast as well.

I watched as they shuddered out their orgasm on either side of me and slowed down their hands as their hips came to rest. I smiled up at them as I let my arms down as my fingers slowly came out of their pussies. They looked back at me with lustful looks as their breathing slowed. I wanted to continue pleasing them so I moved in between Becky's legs and reached up under her chemise and started pulling her panties down. She raised her bum to allow me to slip them down her legs and I pulled them down over her feet. I pulled her hips to the edge of the bed and spread her legs to allow me access to her. I kissed and licked up her leg getting closer and closer to the junction between as her breathing started to quicken.

"Michael, that feels good Sweetie, yeah come and lick my pussy" Becky moaned.

"Aw Becky, you are going to love it girl, Michael made me cum so hard when he did this for me" Vicky told her sister.

Vicky moved behind her sister and wrapped her arms around her, lightly playing with her breasts and nipples while kissing her neck and shoulder. I had reached her pussy with my mouth and started licking up her juices and finding her clit with the tip of my tongue. I moved a hand to help spread her lips and started lightly pushing my rolled up tongue deep into her pussy. She started moving her hips to meet my tongue and she wrapped her legs around my head to pull my tongue in deeper.

I moved a finger to start rubbing her clit as I sped up my tongue thrusts. I kept it up for a few minutes as I heard her muffled moaning and gasping. She reached down and pushed my head in and started bucking her hips fast as I sped up the clit rubbing until I heard a scream that she was cumming and felt her pussy contract against my tongue in waves as her juices soaked my face. She kept bucking and rubbing her pussy against my face for what seemed like a few minutes until she finally collapsed back onto Vicky and released my head from her death grip.

I gasped for air as I sat back as her legs slipped off my shoulders to flop against the bed. Vicky pulled her body onto the bed and laid her down to cool down as she lay down beside her to give her a hug. I wiped off my face with my shirt and lay beside Vicky and looked over her shoulder don at Becky. She slowed her breathing and her eyes fluttered open to look at Vicky and then at me.

"That was the most incredible experience of my life! Thank you, Sweetie and Sis for that wonderful orgasm. Boy, you two wiped me out though" she said in a tired but happy voice.

"I'm so glad you enjoyed it Becky. It feels wonderful to make you so happy and pleasured" I told her.

"I'm so happy you had a good one Bec. I told you it would be fantastic!" she said with a smile down at her sister.

"Oh it was sister mine, it was. I'm just going to lie here for a bit ok?" she asked.

"Sure, Becky, I have to take care of Vicky now anyway" I replied as I pulled Vicky to her back and started kissing her with passion.

"That sounds good Michael, she needs another whooper of an O" giggled Becky.

I moved my lips down to start sucking on her nipples as Vicky moaned in appreciation. I moved my hand down to her pussy and started massaging her through her panties. She spread her legs to allow me access as her hands held my head to her breast.

"You are making me so wet Michael, your mouth feels so good on my breasts" she moaned out.

"I love making you feel good Vicky and I love it then your pussy gets wet. I can't wait to taste your juices" I said as I looked up at her.

She gasped and pushed my head down her body to get me going. I smiled up at her as I grabbed her panties and pulled them down as she raised her butt off the bed. She then raised the legs up together so I could pull them off and then lowered and spread them for me. I quickly moved up and caressed her bare pussy as it opened for me. Vicky reached for my hair and pulled me none too gently, into position. I took the hint and dove in to please my other woman. I quickly had her moaning and gasping as she directed my tongue to where she wanted it. I brought up my hand to thrust a finger into her pussy while I tongued and sucked on her clit. Her hips started bucking her pussy into my face as her legs wrapped around my head and shoulders.

I looked up to see Becky move over to start sucking on her sister's nipples to return the favour from before. It made me so hard to see her doing that as I was eating out her sister. It must have done the same for Vicky because she quickly started gasping out that she was going to cum as her hips started undulating and her pussy started squeezing against my finger. She pushed her hips up as her hands pulled me in tight against her and I heard her screaming as she came. Becky moved her mouth up to kiss her to silence her scream and I saw them exchange a passionate French kiss while I continued to suck on her clit and force my finger through her contractions in her pussy.

She finally slowed her hips and loosened her death grip on my head with her legs and hands so I could take a big gulp of air. The girls stopped kissing and looked down at me with the same passionate look in their eyes. I smiled up my ladies and sat up. I wiped off my face with my hand and reached for my shirt to clean up a bit. When I looked back at them I saw them smiling and both were bending their finger in the come here fashion. I obeyed like the good boyfriend that I am and crawled up to lie between them by the head of the bed.

"Michael, thank you so much for taking such wonderful care of both of us" said Vicky. "That was utterly fantastic Sweetie" she gushed.

Becky spoke up in agreement "Yes, Michael, you are so good to us. You are an excellent lover Sweetie, I am so happy you are in our lives."

"Girls, you have made me the happiest man in the world. I am so lucky to have the two of you come into my life. Thank you for being the best girlfriends I guy could have" I replied as I hugged them both and gave them kisses.

They lay on either side of me and snuggled in close with their heads on my chest and their legs wrapped around mine. I fell asleep with their hands rubbing my chest and stomach as I wrapped my arms around my beautiful twins...



-------

Chapter 14


I woke up with my two gorgeous girlfriends still lying on top of me, but with a blanket now covering us all. One of them must have pulled it up on us during the night. Of course I had my usual morning hard-on and had to go something fierce. The unfortunate thing was that they both had a grip on it with one hand. There was no way I could get out without waking them up but nature wouldn't let me wait any longer. I reached down and disengaged their grips and then tried to lightly lift one of their heads off my chest. Of course she woke up and asked what was going on.

"Honey, sorry to wake you but I really have to go to the washroom" I whispered.

"So cold, cover me back up" she said sleepily as she rolled over on to her side.

I lifted her sister and slipped out from under her as she tried to grab me and started muttering for a second. She moved into the centre of bed, found her sister and cuddled up to her for warmth so I covered them up as they spooned. They looked so beautiful lying together with one sister's arm draped over the other. I quickly moved to the bathroom and relieved the pressure with a sigh. The sun was shining brightly through the bathroom window so I decided to stay up and have a quick shower. I hopped in the shower and let the hot water sooth my sore muscles from yesterday's game. I moved around letting the water hit my different muscles for a bit and then quickly washed up and rinsed. I dried off and tiptoed into the bedroom and found my clothes from yesterday and put them on. I went out to the kitchen, got dressed and left a note for the girls, telling them where I was and that I would be back in a couple of hours. It was only 8:00 so maybe they would sleep until then.

I quietly left their apartment and went over to mine to put on some clean clothes and grab my work-out duds. I locked up my apartment, drove over to the arena and walked to the locker room to get changed. I went into the weight room and turned on the lights and did my stretches. After a few minutes of stretching, I went through my back and shoulder workout, using the full weight and reps as per Chris's recommendations. I finished up a bit after 9:00 and then rode the stationary bike for a half hour. Chris came in to see who was in this early on a Sunday just as I finished riding the bike.

"Good morning Chris, how are you this fine morning?" I asked.

"Not too bad, Mike and you?" he replied.

"Pretty darn good I must say" I said with a smile.

"You're here awful early on a Sunday after game day. Are you going to do a weight routine?" he asked.

"Already did my back and shoulder one and a half hour on the bike. I like to get them over in the morning while everyone sleeps" I told him.

"Wow, you must have been here real early. I guess you didn't go out to the after game party and get all sloshed last night!" he said.

"No, I'm only 18 so no drinking and it's not really my thing anyway. I had a nice evening with my girlfriend instead" I answered.

"Well, I'm glad to hear it. Too many young kids get caught up in the hype and the parties and screw up both their academic and athletic careers. Keep yourself grounded Mike. And by the way, great game yesterday; two goals and two assists in your first game is pretty darn good!" praised Chris.

"Thanks Chris, but it was pretty darn lucky if you ask me. More just a case of being in the right place at the right time than any skill on my part" I retorted.

"Well, that's all part of being a good hockey player is taking advantage of your opportunities when they come to you. Listen, get out of here and enjoy your day off Mike!" he instructed me.

"Ok, Chris, have a good day" I replied laughing.

I grabbed a quick shower and left the arena. I stopped for a couple of coffees and a dozen donuts at a familiar looking Tim Horton's just like the one's back home. I carried them in, along with my gym bag and let myself in to my apartment to put my bag away. I peeked into the girl's apartment and found them sleeping in the same position as I left them. I put down the coffees and donuts on the kitchen table and scratched out my first note and let them know I was over in my apartment. I left to go back to my apartment to grab all my dirty clothes, carried them out into the hall and down to the laundry room at the end of the hall. I threw one dark load in one washer and the white load in the second and then returned to my apartment. I checked my email on my laptop and then settled down with my logic textbook to read ahead and do some more questions.

It was about an hour later when there was a knock on the door. I opened it up to the vision of two sexy vixens dressed in matching t-shirts and shorts, carrying their coffees and the donuts.

"Hello there, my gorgeous ladies. I hope you slept well?" I asked with a smile.

"Hello Sweetie, we slept like babies thanks to you" said one.

"Yes Michael, we love to cuddle up to you" agreed the other.

"Glad to hear it. Why don't you come in while I quickly put my wash into the dryers" I requested.

They moved in while I quickly switched my laundry over down the hall. They were sitting at the table sipping on their coffee when I returned back.

"So Michael, imagine our surprise when I woke up cuddling my sister rather than you this morning" one twin said with a raised eyebrow.

"Yes Michael, I thought it was your hand caressing my breast when it was my dear sister's" said the other in a frown.

"Sorry ladies, after I got up to go to the washroom and saw you two looking so sweet all cuddled up together, I decided to stay up and get a quick workout done while you were still sleeping" I explained.

"Isn't he such an odd boy, sister mine? No other boy would abandon two semi-naked half decent looking girls such as us to go work out early on a Sunday morning" said one to the other.

"Yes, I guess we just don't have what it takes to entice boys anymore dear sister. It's time for the convent for us I'm afraid" she moaned in despair.

"Darlings, my time for the rest of the day is yours to command. Would you like to get some brunch perhaps?" I asked with a smile.

"Hmmm, I do feel a bit famished after I was horribly ravished last night. Sister?" one asked.

"Yes, most awfully assaulted we were sister dear. I am feeling a mite peckish also" the other replied. "Jeeves, take us to the nearest eating establishment of highest quality."

"As the Miss wishes" I replied with a low bow.

"Pull the car around while we dress more appropriately. You might do the same Jeeves as well" I was instructed.

I quickly got into some Dockers, a golf shirt and some decent shoes and pulled the car close to the door and got comfortable. Surprisingly, they came out a few minutes later and waited by the door. I jumped out and opened the back doors for them to slide in the back. They were wearing matching short summer dresses and had fixed up their hair and make-up to look even more beautiful.

"You two look absolutely stunning ladies" I gushed as I got back in the car.

"Humph, now he notices, when we have these rags covering our decrepit old bodies dear sister" said one twin.

The other replied "Yes, now we know for certain it's over for us. He's probably driving us to our final old age home now sister. At least we have each other in our final hours."

I shook my head as I drove to a fancy restaurant noted for Sunday brunches. I saw them fighting not to smile as I looked at them in the mirror. They could become quite excellent actresses if they wanted to. They had the looks and the skills already. It was going to be quite an adventure dealing with these two at the same time I thought to myself. Then again, they were more than worth the extra effort.

I pulled into the fairly full parking lot and found an open spot near the back of the lot. I quickly opened their doors and helped them get out of the car. We walked to the front door and approached the pretty hostess at her station in front of the main room.

"Good morning, do you have a reservation this morning?" she asked with a smile.

"I'm afraid not, do you have anything available anyway?" I asked, returning her smile.

"Well we are quite busy this morning, let me check and see if we can fit you in somewhere" she said as she turned to take a quick tour of the restaurant.

"Sweetie, slip her a twenty when she comes back and we'll get a table ok?" said one twin.

"Are you sure honey?" I asked.

"Positive Michael" said the other. "Just put it in your hand and give her a quick handshake and she's find us something."

"Ok, darlings, you two know more about this stuff then I do" I said while grabbing a twenty and folding it in two.

She came back and said "Sorry, I couldn't find anything open at this time. If you would like to wait something might come free in a bit."

"Ok, thanks for looking Miss" I said as I held out my hand to give her a handshake.

She shook my hand and palmed the bill without showing anything but said with a smile "Yes, please wait in the lounge for a short bit and I'm sure something will free up very shortly Sir."

I smiled as we walked over to the lounge and had a seat at a table. "So, girls, have you done that often?" I asked.

"Dad's had to do that a few times at some of the fancy restaurants and he made sure we knew what to do if we came across the same thing. We saw there were several open tables and the hostess can just put a reservation off for a bit if she has some motivation to do so. She'll come in a minute and say they just had a cancellation" one twin said.

Sure enough the pretty hostess came in and told us of the cancelation and would we follow her to our table. We quickly got up and I followed behind the three ladies, watching some nice tight asses and also seeing the necks of several men get whiplash as the women passed by. I sat the girls into their seats and then sat down myself.

The hostess said "We have the buffet on for $24 each or you can order off our menu if you wish. Your waitress will be here shortly. Enjoy your meal."

After noticing her nameplate I said with a smile. "Thank you Penny for your help in getting us a table."

"You're welcome Sir" she replied with a big smile as she walked away with a wiggle.

"So now we know who will replace us Sister dear. It's that trollop Penny" said one gorgeous twin.

"Yes, how quickly he moves on to fresher pastures. It's been less than twelve hours since he ravished us most heinously and now he's set up this Penny harlot for his next conquest" agreed the other beautiful sister.

"Ladies, how could any mortal man even think of another female with you two Visions of Perfection in the same room, no, in the same city as him?" I asked. "You just need to look back to see the broken men you have left in your wake."

"Those are not men, those are pale imitations who can't even keep their attention on their partners when a pretty girl in a dress walks by" said one twin in distain.

"Alas, no one could resist your spell when either you walk into a room my darling, let alone when the two of you are together" I retorted.

"Oh, that was a good one Michael" said the other vision.

"Thank you honey, you two inspire me. So, why do you two dress identically so often? I hope it's not just to keep me guessing?" I asked.

"That's just a small part of it. We've done it for so long now it's hard not to, especially now that we get so few chances to do it" said one lady.

"We like to do it for you when we are out with you" said the other. "We're proud of you and having twins on your arms shows off how much of a man you are."

"Thanks I think, but I would really like to be able to address you by your names without trying to guess. Is there some way I could know who is who?" I asked.

"Well, what do you think sister dear?" one asked the other. "Does he deserve to know who we are?"

"If it is important to him, I suppose we must let him know Vicky" replied Becky.

"Thank you ladies, I appreciate it greatly" I said with a smile. "So, shall we have the buffet today?"

"It's awfully expensive Michael, we could just have something small off the menu perhaps?" said Vicky.

"Yes Sweetie, we don't want you to spend so much money on us. Let's just have something off the menu" agreed Becky.

"Girls, I save so much money eating for free because of hockey that I can afford it once and a while. If you're hungry enough, let's do the buffet ok?" I offered.

"If you're sure Michael, then that sounds good to me. I'm starving after our activities last night Sweetie" Vickie said with a smile as she leaned in to give me a kiss.

"Me too Sweetie" agreed Becky as she mirrored her twin in giving me a kiss.

I smiled at the both of them and then looked around for the waitress. I caught a few people staring at us before they looked away but no waitress was near. We talked for a bit until the waitress finally showed up, looking a bit flustered.

"Hi, I'm Sam, sorry for the wait, but it's a bit of a madhouse this morning. Are you going to be having the buffet this morning or would you like something off the menu?" she asked.

"We'll be having the buffet Sam" I replied.

"Ok, just go on up and help yourselves, there's plates up there for you. Would you like some coffee or tea?

The girls asked for coffee and I asked for apple juice. She left to get them for us and we went up to the buffet and filled up with breakfast items first. There was an omelette station as well as a waffle station and the girls each had a waffle with strawberries and whipped cream while I got a ham and cheese omelette. We added a few bacon strips, sausage links, toast and hash browns to our plates and went back to the table, with the twins turning heads as they passed again. I loved walking a bit farther behind than usual to watch people's reaction to my girlfriends, as well as just to watch them walk too.

We sat down and started eating and found the food very delicious. We quickly finished our breakfast round and went back up for a plate of lunch items, like chicken, roast beef, cabbage rolls, pasta and all sorts of salads and vegetables. Our plates were piled high when we returned to the table. We ate more slowly as we gradually filled up. One last trip up for some deserts and we were more than full. We paid our bill and left a good tip and said good bye to Penny when we left.

"So, now what would you like to do my ladies?" I asked.

"Oh, I am so full, I just want to go back to our apartments and lie down" said Vicky.

"Me too, Michael, let's go and relax for a bit and then we can decide what to do later" Becky agreed.

"Home it is Ladies" I said and drove us back to our apartments. We got out and went into my apartment. I grabbed a laundry basket and went and unloaded the two dryers and brought the clothes back into the apartment. The girls were flaked out on my bed when I got back so I plopped the basket on a kitchen chair and started folding the clothes. When I was done, I carried them into my bedroom and put them away. The girls had loosened their dress belts and were lying on their backs groaning that they ate way too much. I looked at their flat stomachs and shook my head and grabbed my algebra textbook and a notebook and joined them on the bed. I got through a few pages before the girls started paying attention to me.

"Why did you let us eat so much Michael?" groaned one cutie.

"It's definitely all your fault Michael" said the other cutie. "I bet you want us to get fat so you can dump us for that Penny. Or maybe he wants to go after someone else, like a certain Rachel Peterson perhaps? A little birdie told me something about her being almost as beautiful as us. You like the fake librarian look she uses eh Michael?"

I laughed and replied "I definitely didn't force you two to eat too much darlings. I seem to remember it was your idea to have some dessert. You two are so above the rest of the field there is no one even close to your beauty. As to the good Doctor, I wanted to shake her up a bit after she tried several times to do the same to me. She could be quite pretty but she pales in beauty when compared to you two."

"Oh, every time we try and find a reason to get mad at you, you come up with another reason for us to fall for you even more Michael!" one said a little crossly.

"Yes Michael, why can't you be like other boys and let us stay mad at you for at least five minutes?" said the other as she crossed her arms and looked peeved.

"Well for one, I can't stand the thought of you two mad at me for even a second, and two, I'm too scared of you two being really mad at me together in the same room!" I replied, shivering in horror.

"You really are a smart boy Sweetie. Now, study for a bit while we lay here and try to get comfortable" one said as she laid back and closed her eyes.

The other mirrored her so I continued my studying. I finished the chapter and started the questions at the end, filling a couple of pages in my notebook as I worked through all of them. I finished them and closed up the books and watched my ladies as they slept. I felt for these two like nothing I had ever done before, except for my parents. I knew it was too early for the word love to enter in to the equation but it sure felt more than just an infatuation with a healthy dose of lust. Well, better to keep that word inside for as long as possible so a complicated relationship didn't get even more difficult I thought.

I quietly scooted out from between them and put away my Algebra books and grabbed my Creative writing textbook and notebook and got back in bed. I read a few more lame poetry examples and then tried to write a poem using my twins as inspiration. It was not a masterpiece but it would do. I attempted another in a different form and had just finished a fourth when the girls stirred, both at the same time. They were amazing in how tuned they were with each other, to wake up and to know what the other was feeling and thinking. In some ways I thought they wanted to be considered to be one entity and that's why they didn't want me to know who was who.

"Good afternoon my darlings" I said with a smile as I gazed into one and then the other's eyes. "How are you feeling now after your nap?"

"Better now Sweetie, thanks for letting us sleep it off" one beauty said with a sweet smile as she stretched. "Did you get lots done?"

"Yes, thank you. I'm up a couple chapters in Algebra and I attempted a few poems for Creative Writing" I replied.

"Oh let us see them Michael" demanded the other one as she sat up.

I handed them my notebook and scooted out so they could get close and read them together while I went to the bathroom after putting away my textbook. I took a few minutes and then came back out to see my girlfriends sitting up against the back wall with space enough for me in between. They had identical small smiles on their faces as they patted the space in between them for me to come back onto the bed. I smiled and crawled back up to the head of the bed and sat between them.

"So, how bad were they?" I asked with a grimace. "I don't have a poetry bone in my body I'm afraid. Maybe you two could help me get through this course."

"Sweetie, they were pretty good actually" replied a smiling twin. "Did you happen to use two sleeping girlfriends for inspiration?"

"Well, what better subjects than my two gorgeous girlfriends for romantic poetry?" I answered with a grin.

"You did a fine job Michael. You can write about us like that anytime" stated the other twin with a matching smile.

They moved in sync and came in for hugs and kisses while caressing me through my shirt. I rubbed their backs and returned the kisses the best I could but I was basically at their mercy. They each grabbed the bottom of my shirt and pulled it up over my head and then started kissing my chest and neck. One started kissing down my stomach while the other proceeded to kiss and suck on my neck. I felt my pants starting to be undone as the other girl started French kissing me with abandon as she wrapped her arms around my neck to pull me close. The other twin pulled my pants down firmly, causing my underwear to come off as well. She had them off my legs and had me flat on my back quicker than I thought possible.

The girls backed off of me and were helping each other unzip their dresses and wiggle out of them. They then unfastened each other's bra and removed them from their sister's breasts, giving them a quick rub as they turned to look at me with sultry eyes. Finally, they pulled each other's panties off their bent legs, with each sister raisin their asses to make it easier.

"Wow ladies, you look marvellous" I said as I stared at their fantastic nude bodies.

"Thank you Sweetie. You look very sexy as well" said one twin.

They quickly moved to either side of me and moulded themselves to me, rubbing their breasts with their hard nipples on my chest and their bare pussies on my thighs. I could feel their juices on my legs as I grabbed their asses with my hands, grinding them into my legs. They each grabbed at my cock and started jacking me off. I moaned and gave each of them an open-mouthed kiss as we all got hotter. They started moaning as they moved their hips in time to their hands, while I thrust my cock into the air between them.

"God, Michael, I want you in me so bad. Where are your condoms Sweetie?" one of the twins asked.

"They are in the night stand drawer Honey" I croaked out.

She rolled over and quickly opened the drawer and grabbed a condom out of the open box. She tore open the foil wrapper as she crouched over my body and quickly rolled it down my hard cock that her sister had held straight up with her hand. They both made sure it was all the way down to the bottom of the shaft as I gasped. The one who wanted me swung her body over mine while her sister held my cock up for her to mount. She moved my cock to lubricate it in her sister's pussy and teased her by rubbing the head on her clit as her sister moaned.

"Becky, that feels so good, yeah rub my clit with Big Mike, you're making me so wet and hot for him" moaned Vicky as she crouched over me panting with desire.

"Yeah, I want you begging me to put him in you Vicky. Do you want him, do you need him? Maybe I should just relieve him with my hand instead" teased Becky.

"No, Becky, I really need him in me, I have to have him. Please put him in my pussy Becky, please, I'll do anything you want, just let me fuck him Becky" Vicky begged and pleaded as she tried to lower herself onto Big Mike.

"Hmmm, anything I want Vicky? Well I will take you up on that later, first come here and give me a kiss and then I'll let you have it sister" Becky said with a smile.

Vicky grabbed Becky's head and pulled her in close and gave her an open mouth passionate kiss. I saw their tongues twirling into each other's mouths and Becky took her free hand and caressed Vicky's breast, making Vicky moan and gasp loudly. She started undulating her hips and looked desperate to get on Big Mike.

She broke away from Becky's mouth and said "I need him now Becky, put him in my pussy."

Becky said "Ok Vicky, here it is, it's time to fuck our Sweetie."

Becky lined up Big Mike with Vicky's pussy and told Vicky to go for it. Vicky lowered herself down slowly as Becky helped guide it in. Vicky raised and lowered herself trying to open her pussy up to accept my cock in deeper. She felt so tight and wet around my cock and looked so wonderful as her face showed her passion. I looked at Becky and she looked quite turned on as well, watching her sister take in Big Mike.

Vicky worked her hips until she finally had her groin nestled in mine and said "Oh it's all inside me now Michael; you fill me up so well."

"Vicky, you feel so wonderful around my cock honey, you're so tight, hot and wet" I replied as reached up and caressed her breasts.

"That looks so hot guys, I can't wait until it's my turn" said Becky as she rubbed my chest and Vicky's back.

Vicky raised her hips and then slowly lowered herself again and then started slowly moving up and down. I was finally making love to a woman! It felt fantastic and I had to concentrate on not blowing my load too soon. Vicky looked so beautiful and sexy as she started riding my cock while moaning out her pleasure.

"Damn you two are turning me on so much, I need to get some relief too" she moaned. She moved up to me and gave me a passionate kiss and then sat up and did the same with Vicky. She swung her leg over my body while facing and kissing Vicky and then backed up until her pussy came up close to my face. She looked down at me and said "Michael, please lick my pussy, I need to cum so bad, please Sweetie."

"Well, I seem to remember someone forcing a loved one to beg earlier" I teased.

"Yeah Michael, make her beg for it like she did me" Moaned Vicky as she sped up on my cock.

"Becky, how bad do you want to cum" I asked.

"I need to cum so bad, I feel Vicky getting close and I need to feel that too Michael. Please, I'm begging you, make me cum, I'll do anything you want Sweetie" she pleaded.

"Ok, start kissing and playing with Vicky and I'll eat your pussy and make you cum. I want you two to cum together darlings" I commanded her.

"Oh yes Michael, make us cum, I'll make out with Vicky now, just lick me Sweetie" she moaned as she turned around and started making out with her sister.

I pulled her down onto my face and started licking her pussy, lapping up her juices as I sped up my hips to drive my cock faster into Vicky's juicy tight pussy. I heard them both moaning as they both ground their hips into me. I wished I could see them kissing and playing with each other's tits but it was a small price to pay to have two beautiful woman sharing their passion with me.

It didn't take long until we were all getting close to cumming. Vicky started jack hammering her hips up and down as she gasped and starting shouting she was going to cum. Becky followed her with her hips grinding her pussy into my mouth and she said she was close too. I sped up my thrusts into Vick's pussy and groaned as her pussy started contracting around my cock like a vice as first Vicky screamed and then Becky quickly joined in telling the world they were cumming. I lost control and felt my cum start shooting up out of my cock into the condom as I rammed it up into her pussy with a shout. We all moaned and gasped for air as our hips slowed and my cock softened slowly. The girls collapsed off of me onto the bed on either side onto their backs. I sat up and quickly went to the washroom to dispose of the filled condom and wash up my face and groin a bit. I detoured into the kitchen and grabbed three water bottles and went back in to see how my lovers were faring.

They were looking so gorgeous and sexy lying on their backs close together. I moved onto the bed and gave them the water bottles receiving a tired smile from both ladies in return.

"Vicky and Becky, thank you so much for such a beautiful experience, I can't say how much that meant to me to have my first time be with my gorgeous wonderful ladies" I told them.

"Sweetie, it's us that have to thank you for giving us such a splendid time" said one of the twins.

"We haven't felt anything like that ever Michael, you make every time so special!" added the other twin.

"Well, I think we have something real special together ladies. We need to make sure nothing happens to break us up ok?" I said.

The two girls got up on their knees and gave me huge hugs and kisses as they dragged me down to smother me with their bodies. I laid my head back and closed my eyes as they snuggled in close. We dozed for a bit until I heard one girl's stomach growl. I looked at the clock and saw it was getting on to five thirty.

"Becky, are we driving you home tonight darling?" I asked.

The twin on my left looked up and said with a sad smile "Michael, I don't want to go home, Sweetie, I want to be here with you two. I really miss you two when I'm not around."

"And we miss you too darling" I said. "But soon enough we will all be together here Honey. And you can come every weekend and spend it with either both of us or at least with Vicky; or she can come home to see you and your parents when I'm on the road."

"You know how much I miss you Bec, but we can have some fun next weekend with Amanda like I know you want to" said Vicky with a grin.

"Aw yeah, I think she will be great to hang out with. I'll come here right after school on Friday Vic and we can have her corrupted before the guys come back Sunday night" she said with an evil laugh.

"So, what plans do you have for that poor defenceless girl?" I asked.

"That's a secret until you get back Michael. Don't worry, she'll love it Sweetie" said Becky.

"Ok, just try not to damage her too much. So, are we to drive you or is your dad coming to get you? We should figure out supper as well" I said.

Vicky spoke up "We'll drive Bec home after we grab a bit of supper somewhere, maybe at a Chinese buffet perhaps?"

"Yeah, that sounds good Vicky, I haven' had Chinese food in awhile" agreed Becky.

"Ok, let's get dressed and on our way ladies" I said as I sat up and reached for my clothes. The girls groaned, sat up and grabbed their clothes.

"Ah Michael, we have to take a shower first, and maybe you should too, before we go out. Everyone's going to know what we've been doing if they get too close to us" suggested Vicky.

"Shucks, I wanted to see the look on Dad's face when we gave him a hug" laughed Becky.

"Shower it is Ladies. Care to join me?" I asked with a leer.

"We need to feed Becky before she faints Michael, that won't happen if we shower together, now will it?" Vicky said with a frown.

"Well, probably not Vicky, I know I couldn't keep my hands off you two beauties" I replied with a grin.

"Vicky, you go shower at your apartment, Michael and I will shower here" stated Becky as she started dragging me to the bathroom.

"No way Bec, you're coming with me and he can shower alone" demanded Vicky.

"Hey, you get him all week, I want him for fifteen minutes alone Vicky, please?" begged Becky.

"Oh alright, but no funny business in there, remember you're not protected" she relented.

Becky just stuck her tongue out at her sister and dragged me into the bathroom and started the shower. We got in quickly and washed each other's hair and bodies before starting to caress each other. She had her hand on Big Mike and I had a finger in her pussy while having her pinned against the wall with a breast in my mouth when we heard a throat clearing outside.

"Are you two still in there? It's been half an hour already" Vicky said exasperated.

"Give me a few minutes more Vic, I'm almost there" moaned Becky as I sped up my thrusts while rubbing her clit with my thumb.

I heard the shower curtain pull back a bit and saw Vicky peek in to see her sister's passion rising.

"That's it Michael, give it to her good, make her cum on your hand" Vicky encouraged.

"Oh yeah, that's it Sweetie, It's close, yeah that's it, I'm going to cum Sweetie, Yeahhhh I'm cumminggg" Becky shouted with her hips bucking on my hand as she hugged me with her arms.

I saw Vicky shivering and heard a small moan escape from her lips as well. I released Becky and held her as she relaxed while the water cascaded around us. I quickly grabbed a washcloth and gave her another quick wash and then myself before shutting off the water and opening the curtain. Vicky handed me a towel and had another to bundle up Becky as she stepped out. Vicky gave her a hug and a soft kiss on her lips as she helped her dry off.

"Did you enjoy that Bec darling" she asked softly.

"Aw Vicky, that was so nice, thanks for giving some time with our Sweetie" she replied while giving her a hug in return.

"You're welcome Bec; that should hold you for awhile" she said tenderly.

I quickly got dried off and dressed while the girls had their sister moment. It was nice to see them care for each other so much and let me be a part of that loving.

Vicky had brought clothes from her apartment for Becky so they got her dressed and we left after grabbing all of Becky's things, putting them in her bag. We stopped at a buffet and had a quick supper without stuffing ourselves and then drove to Dearborn to deliver Becky home. We all went in and greeted the girls' parents.

"Hi Mom and Dad" said the girls in unison as they entered the TV room.

"Hi girls and Michael" replied their mother. "How was your weekend kids?"

"Oh, it was good Mom" said Vicky. "We had a nice brunch after Michael had a workout and did some studying. We ate too much and had to have a nap so Michael wrote some poetry about us."

"We just came from eating some Chinese buffet so we're going to be getting fat dating this guy" added Becky.

"Poetry Michael?" asked Mr. Waters with a smile.

"Just doing my assignment for creative writing class Mr. Waters" I replied with a smile. "Definitely not getting all mushy or anything."

"Hmmm I'm glad to hear it Michael" said Mr. Waters. "So just eating and watching Michael do his homework was all you kids did today? That doesn't seem like too much fun."

"It was nice just to be together Daddy" replied Vicky. "I miss my sister and she doesn't get much time just to talk to Michael, so it was a good time, even if we weren't having great fun. Besides, we had fun watching Michael yesterday at the game."

"It sounds like our girls are turning into women dear" said Mrs. Waters. "Can I get anybody something to drink or eat?"

"No thanks Mrs. Waters, I'm stuffed" I replied. "We should probably get going soon anyway."

"Michael, I need to get a few clothes out of my room, just give me a few minutes ok?" asked Vicky.

"Sure Vicky" I said and sat down in a chair while the girls went upstairs.

The girls' parents and I sat watching some silly home video show until the next commercial came on.

"I better go see what's taking them so long Michael" Mrs. Waters said as she got up and left the room.

"So you're off to New Hampshire on Friday Michael. That should be fun for you" said Mr. Waters.

"I hope so, it will be a long trip for one game but it will nice to see parts of your country that I've only heard about" I replied.

"Yes, the Northeast is a wonderful place to visit" he said. "Too bad it's a little early to see the fall colours but you should see some fantastic old homes as well as old towns and cities on the way."

"The long bus ride should also let me get ahead on my reading and assignments" I told him. "I'm missing my Friday computer programming lab so I'll have to do it via remote access."

"Well, try and enjoy the University experience and the hockey while you can Michael; all too soon it's done and you're off in the real world trying to find a job and raising a family and wondering where the time went and your dreams get traded in for a mini-van and an one hour commute each way" warned Mr. Waters.

"Sounds like you wanted something different when you were younger?" I asked.

"Well, I was a pretty good football player in my younger days but my parents always pushed school and not athletics" Mr. Waters replied. "It would have been nice to have had a chance to see how far I could have gone. I also always wanted to design buildings but had to settle for designing cars instead to pay the bills. Don't get me wrong, I love my family and I have a good career but not many people can say they don't have some regrets. Just make sure you enjoy your time at school but also work hard to make your dreams come true. I think you could have what it takes to go far in hockey if that's what you want."

"When I was a kid, we all dreamed of a career in the NHL playing for our favourite team and scoring the winning goal in the Stanley Cup finals" I stated. "I gave up that dream pretty early in my life and concentrated on getting good grades in a field that I enjoy. This hockey thing is all so new and unexpected to put much stock in or depend on so I'll keep school as my top priority and hockey more as my extracurricular activity. I'll work hard at it but I won't count on it as a career path."

"That's probably the best way to approach it. I've heard of too many athletes that have gotten injured and had nothing to fall back on" agreed Mr. Waters.

We finally heard the girls coming down the stairs with a bag in Vicky's hand. I got up and wished the Waters a good night as Vicky and I got ready to leave. I gave Becky a hug and a kiss and said "I'll see you in a couple of weeks but I'll talk to you soon Becky"

"Michael, I had a great time this weekend. Good luck in New Hampshire next weekend Sweetie" she said with a smile. "I'll see you Friday night Vic."

"Alright Bec, have a good week. See you Mom and Dad" Vicky said as she hugged them both.

I gave Mr. Waters a handshake and Mrs. Waters gave me a hug and whispered in my ear "Thank you Michael for taking such good care of my girls this weekend. I knew you would be gentle and caring. Keep up the good work."

I just smiled at her and wished her a good week as well. Vicky and Becky were whispering as we walked out to my car and they giggled and hugged before Becky came over and gave me another hug and kiss and whispered in my ear "Thank you so much Sweetie for the fantastic weekend. I can't wait to get Big Mike all alone and get rid of my pesky virginity soon. I'll be thinking of you licking my pussy every night as I'm caressing myself to orgasm. I'm going to call you on your cell when I'm close and have you talk me through it Michael."

I turned red but whispered back "Ok Becky honey, you do that and I promise to help you cum for me. I can't wait to make love to you too darling. I'll talk to you tomorrow night ok?"

Becky smiled a big smile and nodded and then stepped back as I got in the car. We waved as we drove off and saw Becky slowly walking back to her parents as her mother gave her a hug.

"I wish we didn't have to be separated from Becky like this. I miss her already" I said to Vicky as I reached for her hand.

"I know Sweetie, I always miss her when she's not close to me and I know she feels the same way" Vicky said sadly. "Mom has been really good about being there for her when I can't be but now Becky misses you too. We're going to have to call her every night we can ok Michael?"

"Sure thing Vicky, Bec and I just talked about it and she said she was going to call me when she's um, in bed" I replied.

"That little slut said that? Well maybe we will be busy when she calls and she can listen in our action while she plays with herself!" Vicky said in a huff.

I laughed and asked what took so long upstairs.

"Oh just girl talk Michael, Mom wanted to know all the details of our weekend and if I was ok with everything. She'll talk some more with Becky as well this week to make sure she's fine with how things are progressing" Vicky replied.

"I still can't get over how much you girls share with your Mother. I won't be able to look her in the eye anymore" I stated.

"We are very close to her, especially after what happened last year" she said. "I owe those two, and Dr. Peterson, so much in putting me back together, physically and more importantly, mentally. I wouldn't dream of not reassuring her that I'm ok with what the three of us are doing. I know it's hard for you but she's really likes you so don't worry about her. She keeps the details away from Dad so he doesn't get upset."

"Well that's something at least. I don't need your Dad getting mad at me. I think he already suspects that we are intimate but he hasn't come out and said it."

"I'm sure he probably knows but is trying not to be the typical Father even after what happened last year. He likes you Michael so he's actually being pretty mellow."

We drove the rest of the way home chatting about our schedules next week and got there about nine. We went into our separate apartments for a bit to get some stuff done and then Vicky came over dressed in a camisole and shorts outfit and we got into bed.

"Sweetie, I'm a little sore down there tonight, can we just cuddle" Vicky asked in a soft voice.

"Sure darling, I'm sorry you're hurting. Did we make love too hard or was it something I did wrong?" I said with worry in my tone.

"No Sweetie, don't worry" Vicky reassured me. "You were perfect Michael. You're just bigger than usual, and I haven't had anything in there since the incident, but I'll be fine after a good night's sleep. We can continue in a day or two."

"I'm glad you're ok Vicky, or will be" I said relieved. "Please make sure you tell me if I'm hurting you Honey."

"I will Michael, not that you ever would" she replied. "Now lie down so I can get warmed up Sweetie."

She burrowed her way over to me and draped herself over my body. I rubbed her back with my hands and her legs with my legs until she stopped shivering and sighed.

"Thank you for a wonderful weekend Vicky and for making love to me" I whispered to her. "I couldn't imagine a more beautiful first time with anyone else."

"Sweetie, you made our first time so special and Becky's first intimate time wonderful as well. Thank you for being so gentle but still such a man" she whispered back as she looked into my eyes.

"Darling, you make it easy to be a man" I said as I kissed her gently and hugged her tight to me.

She smiled and squeezed me tight and then laid her head on my chest.

"Good night my wonderful man" I heard her whisper.

"Goodnight my wonderful woman" I answered as I kissed the top of her head.

I lay there until I heard her breathing deepen as she fell asleep. I fell asleep caressing her hair and dreamed of Vicky and Becky lying naked on either side of me...



-------

Chapter 15


I woke up Monday morning with Vicky still draped on top of me hugging me tightly. The clock showed it was quarter to seven so it was time to get up. I gently lifted her up and put her beside me and quickly got up to shower and shave after using the washroom.

I got dressed and wrote her a note that I would see her at lunch at the cafeteria at the Central Campus at noon and hoped she had a good morning. I left the note on the table and left the apartment for morning practice. It was early so I grabbed some breakfast in the cafeteria and read my Logics textbook for a bit. I read until about ten after seven and then went to the locker room and got changed.

We did our normal skate and shoot warm-up and then Fred and Frank called us together.

Fred started talking "I trust everyone had a good weekend after our first game. Congratulations on your first win of the season. We had some good things happen and we found out some things that we really need to work on for our next game. You had better believe that The Wildcats of New Hampshire will see the tape of Saturday's game and try to exploit our weaknesses.

Albert Summers is still feeling the effects of the concussion he suffered Saturday. So we are moving up the second and third pair to the first and second pair and Steve Mason will pair with freshman Ian Pratasky for the third pairing unless Albert is ready for Saturday. John and Mike will have to practice for the penalty kill this week and still be on the power play.

We will have to give our defence more help in our defensive zone like we did on Saturday. We will continue with the extra two forwards helping deep and only one forward to shadow the point. On offence we will only send two forwards in deep and have the centre out in the slot to quickly help defensively if needed.

So, we are vunerable this week to speed and with our inexperienced defence. This is where we are now. Let's make sure we have a good week of practice to solve these issues before Saturday night. Are there any questions?"

There were none so the coaches started us off with some special team practice, but this time John and I were on the penalty killing team. Frank gave me a few pointers before we started and stood near me and basically told me what to do for the first few shifts until I got the hang of it. They decided that whenever possible, I would be the guy in front of the net trying to tie up the offensive player from getting an open shot or an easy deflection. That was when they had already established the power play in our zone. Prior to that John and I were to stand up at the blue line and try to force them to dump the puck in and we would chase their forwards and let them retrieve it if it was going to be a close race to the puck. That way we could hit them rather than they hit us.

We worked the power play versus the penalty kill for a good half hour and then did some five on five drills; emphasizing the schemes that Fred wanted us to run. It was a more conservative game plan but it would hopefully save us from costly mistakes or too many odd man situations. John and I got to work more with the first and second lines so we could get used to how they played. They were faster than the third and fourth lines and expected passes that much quicker.

Finally we had a full blown five on five game with first and fourth lines against second and third lines. The defence pairs were split up as well. Fred and Frank stressed the game plan to all lines and defence pairings.

The let us go at nine so I quickly went in and got showered and rushed off to the math building for my logics class. I got there a little early so used the front door and got a seat. Stephanie came in and sat a couple seats over from me. I gave her a small smile and said "Hi there Stephanie, I didn't know you were in this class too."

"Hi Michael, it's a requirement for Comp Sci. So how was your weekend?" she asked.

"Good Stephanie and yours? I replied.

"Not too bad. I spent it with the family" she said.

"That's nice to be able to still spend time with your folks. Do you have brothers and sisters too?" I asked.

"Yeah, I have two brothers and a sister all younger" she said. "They are a pain most of the time but it's nice to see them once and a while."

The professor came in and started the lecture. He quickly reviewed the first chapters and then went onto the next couple, hitting the high points with a couple of examples that left most of the class looking confused, including Stephanie. As the class finished and the professor had given out the next assignment after collecting our first one, Stephanie asked me if I got this stuff.

"I read ahead and do all the questions in the back of the chapter so I can follow him in class. He really doesn't do much to help people understand it. You have to do it yourself mostly" I replied.

"Maybe we can get together and you can help get me caught up?" she asked.

"Well I don't have much free time, except between 2:30 to about 3:45 or after 7:00 when I study. We can try and hook up then, but my girlfriend might be with me too. Let me give you my cell number and we can hook up today or tomorrow ok?" I replied as I quickly gave it to her.

"Ok, I'm free then as well. I'll call you to hook up after my class gets out. Thanks Michael" she said.

"Sure. Now I have to hurry to my next class. See you later Stephanie" I replied and took off for Creative Writing in the English Department. I ran up the steps to the third floor got in just as the professor walked in. I went and sat down quickly before she started. The professor continued the poetry theme, concentrating on symbolism as the major tool in most poetry. At the end she gave the first assignment to write a short poem for next class. I quickly grabbed my stuff and went to meet up with Vicky at the cafeteria. She wasn't outside waiting so I went in looking for her but couldn't see her in there either. I went back out and stood for a few minutes and then grabbed my cell and called her. She answered on the third ring.

"Hi Sweetie, sorry I can't make lunch with you. We just got out of Sociology and I have to get something done for Bio-Chem. class before it starts. I was just about to call you" she said.

"Sorry to hear that Vicky" I replied. "Do you want to meet after your Bio-Chem. and my Algebra class? I might have to help another Comp Sci student with some logic work but I told her you might be there."

"Sure Michael, I had better check out the competition" she replied. "Where should we meet?"

"How about this cafeteria? It's close and hopefully she will know where it is" I stated.

"Ok Sweetie, see you at 2:30" she said before hanging up.

I went in and grabbed some food, paid with my card and then found a seat. I opened my Algebra and read ahead while quickly shovelling in my food. After about a half hour I packed up, put my tray away and went back to the math building. I walked up the stairs and got there in time to grab a seat before Professor Adams entered the room.

He asked for everyone's assignment to be passed the end of the row and then collected them himself. He then rushed into his lecture on the next couple of chapters leaving most people in the dust quickly. Man, I was so glad I had continued to read ahead and do the work at the back of the chapters. I understood what he was saying and showing us for the most part but I didn't see how he got an answer to one of the equations he had just solved. It looked wrong but I wasn't sure. I put up my hand when he asked for questions and asked him about that answer when I thought it should be something else. He looked it over very quickly and said it looked ok but when I pointed out where I thought it incorrect he stood back and then said "Why yes, it looks like I made a mistake there. Ok, let's quickly fix that shall we?"

He spent the next couple of minutes redoing the problem from that point on and finally getting the answer I got as well.

"Does that match what you got, sorry, what's your name?" he asked.

"It's Mike and yes it does. Thanks" I replied.

"No, thank you Mike, I don't like to put an example for the class and get it wrong" he said. "Ok, any other questions?"

There were none and he quickly gave out the assignment for next class, most of which I had already finished on the weekend thankfully. I left with the masses and walked back to the cafeteria to find Vicky and Jessica waiting outside for me as my phone rang. I didn't recognize the number so I just said hello.

"Michael, it's Stephanie, can we meet now to go over the Logic assignment?" she asked.

"Sure, we're at the cafeteria near the math building. I'll be inside sitting with a couple of girls, a brunette and a blond" I replied.

"Ok, see you in about five minutes. Thanks" she said as she hung up.

"Nice to see you again Jessica" I said as I walked up to the girls. "Hi Vicky, how was your day?"

"Hi Michael" said Jessica as Vicky came over and gave me a quick hug and kiss.

"Hi there Sweetie, my day was ok but busy. How was yours?" Vicky asked

"Not bad Honey, but I'm glad I'm reading ahead and doing the work before the classes so I can understand what the professors are doing" I replied. "So many people are lost already because they're trying to learn from the professor rather than by themselves."

"Good for you Michael, you've learned the secret of success at University early" said Jessica. "It took me a whole semester to learn that one."

"So where is this girl that you've agreed to help out?" asked Vicky. "I bet you she's hot Jessica and I'm going to be cast aside like yesterday's newspaper."

"Now now there you poor thing, I'll take care of you in your old age while he gallivants around with the new younger woman" Jessica comforted her as she gave her a hug.

"Ladies, Stephanie is cute but she can't hold a candle to either of you gorgeous ladies. She needs some help in my Logics class that's it" I said shaking my head. "So, shall we go in and get something to eat and grab a seat?"

"We might as well Jessica, at least I will get a last meal before the end" Vicky moaned in despair.

"You know, you two really have the wrong major; you both should have enrolled in the drama school" I said with a grin. "Though the moan was a little overdone I think."

"Yes Michael, I have to agree, the moan was a touch too dramatic for this scene. What was your motivation for that Vicky?" asked Jessica, switching to a reporter's voice.

"Well Jessica, I was following the director's instructions in that scene. I told him it was over the top but he insisted. I do hope it doesn't cost me the Oscar this year" said Vicky in a fake superstar diva voice.

"Well, you might have to sleep with this critic here to get him to change his tune" suggested Jessica as we walked into the cafeteria.

"Again, isn't once enough" Vicky replied. "The things I do for my career!"

I just shook my head, grabbed a tray and put some food and snacks on it. The girls added some more stuff and we all grabbed some drinks and I paid at the check-out with my card. We had just sat down when I saw Stephanie come in looking for me. I waved and she smiled and came over to sit opposite me.

"Stephanie, this is Vicky, my girlfriend and her friend Jessica, Ladies, this is Stephanie, a girl in my Computer Science classes" I said.

Hi everyone, thanks for letting me take up a little of Mike's time to try and get a handle on this Logic stuff" Stephanie said as she sat down.

"Nice to meet you Stephanie and it's no problem at all. Vicky and I can stay for only a few minutes anyway and then I have to go for an appointment. You just have to make sure he leaves for the arena in plenty of time to get changed" replied Vicky.

"Sure thing Vicky, I'm just going to grab a drink and be right back" Stephanie replied as she got up.

"Oh she is a cutie Vicky" teased Jessica. "You have some competition there I think.

"Her, no way, I can take her easy" said Vicky.

"So Michael, what do you know about her?" asked Jessica.

She went home on the weekend, she has two younger brothers and a younger sister, she's in first year Computer Science and I have Logics and Programming classes with her. That's it I'm afraid" I said.

"Ok, it's a start. I'll find out a bit more before we leave for Vicky's appointment with Dr. Peterson" replied Jessica as we saw Stephanie walking back to the table.

She sat down and pulled out her Logic books and I did the same. She had a big drink and a bite of a sandwich so I continued to eat for a couple of minutes. Vicky and Jessica were talking about the weekend and Jessica worked Stephanie into the conversation.

"So Stephanie, did you have a nice weekend? Maybe a big date with your boyfriend" asked Jessica.

"I spent it back home with my family. No date I'm afraid, I'm not seeing anyone right now" she replied.

"Me either" said Jessica. "These two lovebirds spent all weekend together and left me all alone."

"I'm surprised a gorgeous girl like you doesn't have a boyfriend" Stephanie replied.

"Vicky got to Michael first, and I haven't seen anyone else lately that impresses me in the male population of this school" Jessica answered.

"Tell me about it, now that I know Michael is taken, most of the rest of the Computer Science guys are pretty geeky" said Stephanie. "We might have to get Vicky to loan us Michael once and awhile!"

"You ladies know I'm sitting right here" I spoke up.

"Don't worry Sweetie, I don't think the Ladies could afford the stud fee" Vicky said as she patted me on my leg.

"Well, some friend you are Victoria Waters" said Jessica with a pout, "leaving poor Stephanie and myself all frustrated and lonely. We'll end up poor old spinsters, pining away for Michael as you get serviced by your stud every night."

"Yeah Vicky, poor Jessica is looking at Mike like a wolf looks like a poor little lamb. I'd love some lamb chops too" added Stephanie.

"Good try girls, but he's mine so buy a vibrator and help each other out" said Vicky to both of them.

"Damn, it was worth a try Stephanie" said Jessica. "I guess we'll have to spend our nights together pining away for what could have been."

"Oh well, maybe he isn't any good anyway Jessica. He looks a bit skinny to be um, substantial" Stephanie mock whispered.

"Well Stephanie, sorry to burst that bubble but he is not only quite talented with fingers, and tongue, my nickname for him is Big Mike; and it's not because he's tall let me tell you!" replied Vicky with a grin.

I of course turned beet red as the girls looked over at me with undisguised interest.

"Ok, enough about me ladies please, if I cut myself shaving right now I would bleed to death in a matter of seconds!" I said. "Can we get to studying while there is still some time?"

"Fine Michael, But Stephanie and I are not giving up so easily. Stephanie, give me your number will you. We need to get together and plan our strategy or just go out together and commiserate" said Jessica.

Stephanie laughed but did give Jessica her number.

"Ok Michael, I have to go to my appointment now" said Vicky. "I'll either meet you at the arena or back at our apartments ok?"

"Ok Vicky, tell her I said hi too" I said as I gave her a hug and kiss.

"I will. It was nice to meet you Stephanie. I hope to see you more often at this time ok?" Vicky said.

"It was nice to meet you too Vicky" replied Stephanie. "It looks like I will need Michael's help for both my classes so I'm sure we will be seeing lots of each other as long as you don't mind."

"Why would I mind Steph? I think we will all be good friends" asked Vicky.

I stood up and kissed Vicky again and watched as Vicky and Jessica walked away. Stephanie was watching them and we waved when they both turned around to look at us.

"So, shall we get to work Stephanie?" I asked as she looked at the girls.

She looked over at me and nodded. We went through the first chapter and did some of the questions in the back. Once she said she had a handle on those we went through the second chapter and did some more examples. She caught on fairly quickly and did a couple on her own. I quickly showed her a couple things in the third chapter and said we could meet tomorrow at the same time but at the Arena cafeteria if she wanted to continue.

"Sure Michael thanks so much for spending your time with me. Now, you better get going to the Arena if you're going to be on time. Why are you going their anyway, some intramural hockey game or something?" she asked.

"I have practice for the University team Stephanie. So, I'll see you in programming class tomorrow ok? I asked.

"Ok Michael, thanks for all of your help" she gushed. She gave me a quick hug and then gave me a big smile.

"You're welcome Stephanie, just don't let Vicky see you do that or we're both dead" I said.

She just laughed and we walked out of the building together. We split up and I hurried to the arena and got changed quickly. I got in a couple minutes of stretching before we got on the ice for our normal skating and shooting warm-ups.

Practice was more of the same from this morning's practice. John and I got a lot of time on the penalty kill and some on the power play. We also were pitted against the first line in the scrimmages to improve our play against top players. We got burned a few times but I felt better as the practice went on. We tended to play better against better competition and we certainly learned a lot about playing against elite players.

We had our usual game at the end and I was feeling pretty good as we kept playing. We were up in the offensive zone against the number one line and the new number one D pair but the second line with John and I on D were keeping them pinned in their zone. John faked a shot and went in around their right winger and wound up for a big shot. It clanged off the crossbar and rebounded out to their left winger who spotted the right winger breaking out while John was caught in deep. I had moved to cover the middle and quickly turned to cover the streaking winger. The pass was perfect and the right winger took it in stride without having to slow down. I had the angle to get to him before he could get in on our goalie all alone so he quickly stopped, hoping I would skate by uncontrolled and let him walk in alone. I stopped just as quickly and ended up in front of him between him and the net. He tried to deke his way by but I played the man and let the puck go as I checked him away from the net. The puck squirted to the centre of the zone and I saw the other winger had followed up his pass and was desperately trying to get into the play. We both rushed to the puck and I managed to tip the puck by him just before we collided hard and sprawled out on the ice. Our centre corralled the puck and quickly passed it back up to get a four on three odd man rush while their two wingers and I tried to get back into the play. The puck ended up in their net via a shot from John so the extra effort was worth it.

We continued for a while longer and then practice was called. I looked up to see both Vicky and Amanda sitting together along with Susan Wheeler, Mark's girlfriend up in the arena seats. I waved and smiled and they all waved back with big smiles. I hurried up and got into the shower and got dressed. John and Mark had seen the girls too so they were quickly getting ready too. We all went out together and greeted the girls who gave us hugs and kisses.

"So, shall we get some food in the cafeteria Ladies?" suggested John.

Amanda replied "Sound good to me, girls?"

"Sure, saves us from cooking right Michael?" Vicky agreed.

"Yep, and no dishes either!" I said with a smile.

Susan looked at Mark and he nodded so she said "Fine with us too."

"Great, let's go" John stated and led the way to the cafeteria with Amanda by his side.

We paired off and I held Vicky's hand as we walked up the stairs. We entered the room and got in line to grab some food. The guys paid for the girls and we found seats together at a table. The guys dug in as we were all quite hungry after practice while the girls ate at a more sedate pace.

"So, it looked like a good practice out their today guys" said Susan.

"Not too bad Sue, we've had to switch up a few things due to all of our injuries on defence" Mark answered. "John and Mike here are moved up to second defence pair temporally while Albert is still out with a concussion. We have to get them up to speed on penalty killing and working with and against the top lines quickly or we will be in big trouble on Saturday."

"Well, they looked pretty good by the time we all got there" she replied. "Mike broke up that breakaway by the first line nicely and John put the puck in their net right after."

"Just got lucky on that one Susan" I said before putting in another bite into my mouth.

The other two guys laughed and John said "You seem to be getting lucky a lot Mike."

Mark added "I guess I'm just lucky to have you as a defenceman then."

I just kept eating as Vicky smiled with pride.

Susan then turned to John and said "Your shooting has improved a lot from last year John. Your offseason workouts seemed to have really helped."

"Thanks Susan, I think they have helped" John replied. "I have Amanda to thank for motivating me."

"Well it certainly helped. You two make a dangerous pair back at the point. They won't know who to concentrate on with both of you having good shots" Susan said.

Amanda was smiling now as well and added "Well, it would be all for naught if we didn't have Mark here stopping just about everything that comes his way."

"Thanks Amanda but these guys made it pretty easy last game for me to look good" Mark said.

"Yeah right, you deserve all the credit you get Mark, you're the reason we will go far this year" John piped up as Susan now got to smile.

I just kept eating and kept out of the discussion. I had no interest in getting a big head or stroking people's ego. I knew we had a long way to go to be a good team and I needed a lot of practice before I felt comfortable out on the ice. Thankfully the topic switched and Susan was asked how she was doing after the incident on Friday.

"I'm much better actually" Susan replied. "Dr. Peterson helped a lot and so did Vicky and Amanda here. Of course Mark was there for me all weekend when I did get upset. I think I've put it behind me now but I'll go see Dr. Peterson a couple more times just to talk things over and make sure."

We were all happy to hear it and Vicky told her to call her anytime she wanted to talk, day or night. It was nice to see the girls getting along and helping each other out. We sat for a bit talking about trivial things until seven rolled around. We got up and cleaned up the table wished each other a good night. Mark and Susan walked back to the dorms with John and Amanda, while Vicky and I drove home.

"Shall we split up to get some homework done or do you want to come over and keep me company Vicky?" I asked.

"As long as we study, I don't mind getting together. I'll get changed and grab my stuff and be over in a few" she replied.

I got changed into a tee shirt and shorts and started working on my Logic's assignment. I had it half finished before Vicky came over with her books, also dressed in a tee shirt and shorts. I made room for her on the table and we worked in silence for awhile. I finished the assignment and then pulled out my Algebra and did that assignment, copying what I had done already and finishing the rest of the questions. Finally, I worked on a new poem, trying to use symbolism instead of writing directly about the topic. I decided to first write one poem without any symbolism and then try and capture the essence of that one using metaphors and hidden meanings. I was always a direct sort of person so it didn't come very easy.

I was reminded of the movie The Prince and I, where Julia Stiles plays a student chemist, and the in disguise Prince has to explain Shakespeare to her with the sun rising meaning something other than the actual sunrise. I felt just like her when it all went whoosh over her head. She was cute and the only reason I watched the movie in the first place.

I went back to translating the direct poem about my ladies into stupid symbolic poetry using a nature theme. I finally got through it and sighed in relief as I finished the poem. I looked up to see Vicky sitting there grinning at me.

"What?" I asked her. "Do I have something on my face or something?"

"Sweetie, you looked so cute trying to figure out that poem. I wish I had a video camera to record that. You really don't have a poetic bone in your body do you?" she said with a smile to lessen the critique.

"Sorry Honey, I don't think so. I wrote a poem how I would say things and then tried to translate it into symbolic poetry" I explained to her. "Here, read them both and see what you think."

I handed them to her and watched as she read the two versions. I saw her wince once reading the second one so I knew it needed help a lot of help.

"Well Sweetie, I give you an A for effort but a D for the final result. I think I can help though if you want?" she asked.

"Please Honey, I would so appreciate it. But we have to make it still sound from a guy ok?" I replied worriedly.

"Of course Sweetie, like I would make my man sound like anything else than manly" she assured me as she put a hand on my face. "Remember, I know how much a man you are Michael."

"Thanks Vicky, I don't know how to repay you Honey" I said as I leaned in and kissed her.

"Hmmm, that's a good start Sweetie, I'm sure we can figure out proper compensation later" she replied with a grin. "Ok, leave me alone for a bit and let me see what I can turn your original concept into something more poetic" she instructed me.

"Sure honey, I'll go and work on my laptop in the bedroom. Thanks" I said as I got up and gave her a quick hug before moving to the bedroom.

I logged on to the network and checked my email. My lawyer actually emailed me an update. The company that owned the mill had offered a half million as a settlement and if I accepted it the insurance company was also going to pay off on their policy, having worked out some sort of deal with the company. He recommended accepting the offer as it was fair and it would be difficult to get more from them without a long drawn out legal battle with only a small chance to win. The lawyer also said that the realtor had said a fair offer was in the works for the house so hopefully all of my parent's affairs could be wrapped up soon.

I responded back to him telling him to accept the company's offer and to let me know when both the company and the insurance people would transfer the funds. I thanked him for his efforts and signed off.

I was happy that it looked like it things were looking up with my parent's affairs. It was nice to know I wouldn't be hurting for money for a long while and could concentrate on school and hockey. I really didn't need much money right now but it was nice to have in case something came up unexpectedly.

I played some games for a bit until Vicky came into the room with a sheet of paper.

"Here, see what you think Michael" she instructed me.

I read the poem and quickly saw how she had taken my ideas and transformed them into a simple but eloquent poem with lots of imagery. I probably wouldn't have gotten all of it if I hadn't written the original but I could easily see how it mirrored what I started out with.

"Vicky, this is fantastic" I complimented her. "I can't believe how well it captures what I wanted to say but looks and sounds so different. You could be a very good writer if you wanted to be one."

"Thank you Michael, I always did well in creative writing. So, do you think you can pass it off as yours?" she asked.

"Nope, not a chance. I'm not good at lying so I will try and do something similar using just a small amount of yours. It won't be as good but at least I know it's mostly mine. I really do appreciate you doing this so I get a good idea on what a good poem should be" I said as I stood up and hugged and kissed her.

"Well your welcome Sweetie. You're in a good mood all of a sudden" she replied.

"I got some good news on my parent's affairs from the lawyer. He got a good offer from the company so we should be able to wrap it up soon. There's going to be an offer on the house too" I enthused.

"What are you talking about Michael?" she asked with a frown.

"Oh that's right, we never talked about this" I said. "I talked it over a bit with your Dad the weekend I stayed over at your place but I haven't told you two about it yet. I'm not sure why I haven't. Anyway, the lawyer handling my parents' affairs, my Dad's really as my Mom died earlier in the year, finally got an offer from the company that owned the Saw Mill where my Dad died in an industrial accident a few weeks ago. The insurance company was waiting for that to happen before they would pay off on his policy. And he also said that the realtor expects a good offer on the house in the next day or two."

"Wow, you never mentioned your parents or your family, but I just thought you didn't get along with them and that's why you moved so far away. I'm so sorry to hear that they both died just a little time ago Michael, it had to be so rough on you Sweetie" she said as she hugged me tight. "I wish you would have told me sooner, and I could have helped you get through it."

"Well we had just gotten to know each other and I didn't want to complicate things. I appreciate all you have done for me without knowing it. Believe me having you in my life has made it so much easier to deal with all of it" I said as I held her face and kissed her.

She smiled and kissed me back and said "Good, because I love being in your life Michael Stewart."

"Ok, so let me try and write this poem again, using yours as an example only" I said. "Can you give me a few minutes to try tonight?"

"Sure Sweetie, I'll work a bit more on my stuff before we go to bed" she replied with a smile.

I grabbed my notepad and both my original and her poem and tried to substitute words and phrases while still keeping her overall tone. I ended up with a poem, while nowhere near as good as Vicky's, at least something I could honestly say I wrote. I walked out to the kitchen and showed it to Vicky. She didn't wince once so it wasn't horrible.

"It's not bad Michael. You kept to your basic idea but it's definitely different from mine. I would give it a good B+ and you can honestly say you did the work. I'm proud of you Michael" she told me with a smile.

"Thanks honey for all the help. I couldn't have done it without you darling" I told her as I gave her another hug. "So, are you done for the night?"

"I think so Michael" she said. "Just let me pack up here and go over to my apartment for a few minutes and we can head to bed ok?"

"Sure Honey, let me help you pack up" I said as I gathered up her stuff for her.

"Thanks Sweetie. I'll be back in a few" she said.

I put my stuff back on my desk and got my programming books ready for tomorrow. I remembered to bring my Logics stuff as well to help Stephanie. I washed up and brushed my teeth and then decided to give Becky a quick call before we went to sleep.

"Hi Becky" I said when she answered. "How was your day darling?"

"Hi Sweetie, you called!" she said happily. "I had an ok day, nothing special. And you?"

"It was busy but pretty good" I replied. "Vicky's over at her apartment for a few minutes before we head to bed so I thought I'd give you a quick call."

"That was nice of you Michael" Becky said. "I miss you already but it really helps to hear your voice. I'm just about to head to bed now as well. So, what are you wearing to bed Sweetie?"

I laughed and replied "Just some shorts Honey. And you?"

"I've got on some sexy tiny panties and a little crop top on Sweetie" she said in a sultry voice.

"Hmmm that does sound sexy Becky" I said to her.

I heard Vicky come in and she had on a see through babydoll and panty outfit.

"Wow, Vicky just came in and she's wearing a see through little babydoll and panty outfit Becky" I told her. "You two are going to be the death of me."

"So Michael, do you like what you see?" asked Vicky in a sexy voice.

"Sure do Vicky" I assured her. "Becky's wearing just a crop top and panties too she says."

"Oh goody, tell her to lie down and take off her top and I'll do the same" instructed Vicky.

"Becky, take off your top and like down Honey" I told her.

"Oh yeah Michael, my breasts are bare now and my nipples are getting hard" she said.

"Vicky is lying down with just panties on now too" I told her. "I'm going to hand her the phone and she can tell you what I'm doing to her so you can follow along at home."

"Ok Sweetie, talk to you in a few minutes" she said.

I handed the phone to Vicky and then quickly moved my head to her chest and started sucking on her nipples, making them stiffen and stick out.

"Oh Bec, he's already sucking on my nipples and making them so hard" she moaned to her sister. "Play with yours Bec and imagine our Sweetie is sucking and licking yours."

"He's moving his hand down my stomach and teasing me just above my panties. He's trying to drive me crazy."

"Oh yeah, I'm getting wet Bec, I can't wait until his fingers start rubbing my pussy through my panties. Oh no, he's moved his hand past my pussy and he's caressing my legs instead. He's such a tease Becky."

"Yes, he's still sucking on my nipples and he's got my legs opening up for him. His hand feels so good against my skin and he's so close to my pussy. Oh God, he just brushed my pussy and then he took his fingers away Becky."

"I know, me too, they're soaked right through waiting for him to touch me. He's driving me crazy, my hips are starting to move waiting for him to get busy."

"Aw yeah, he's touching my pussy and I think I just came. I'm so hot Becky. You felt it too? Good!"

"He's rubbing me through my panties and I think his fingers are all wet with my juices. I'm so open and wet for him. Oh, he just slipped his fingers inside my panties and he's touching my bare wet open pussy!"

"Oh he's so good with his fingers Bec, he's found my clit already and he's making little circles on it and using my juices to make it feel so fantastic."

"Not yet but I hope soon Bec, he's making me pant and hump against his hand. Oh shit, he just did it Bec, his fingers are deep inside my hot wet pussy and I'm squeezing my pussy tight against them so he knows how snug I am for Big Mike."

"Yep, he's moving two fingers in and out of my wet pussy Bec, they feel so good and his thumb is still rubbing my clit as I hump his hand. Oh yeah Bec, I'm fucking his hand faster now, are you doing yours too?"

"Good, we can come together real soon Bec, he's making me so hot. His hand is soaked with my juices and he's still sucking and biting my nipples. Oh, he's speeding up his hand and my hips are speeding up. Oh yeah, I feel it Becky, oh yeah you too? Good! We can cum together ok? Yeah, I'm so close, oh yeah; I'm going to cum, Yeah I'm cumming Bec, cum with me Bec Awww yeah!"

Shit that was fucking hot listening to Vicky describe everything I was doing to Becky. I kept up my speed for another minute or two until Vicky slowed her hips down and then I slowed my hand down and stopped sucking on her nipples and moved up to give her a passionate kiss as she panted and gasped for air. She finally came down from her orgasm and put the phone back up to her ear.

"Bec, you there? Becky? How was it? Oh, I'm so glad for you Honey. Yeah, wait a minute and I'll put him on. Ok, you too, and we'll talk to you tomorrow night Becky."

"Here Michael, she wants to talk to her Sweetie before she falls asleep" Vicky informed me as she handed me the phone.

"Hi Becky, did you have a good one?" I asked.

"Oh yeah Sweetie, I sure did, thanks so much for that Michael. It was like I was there. I'm so glad you are taking such good care of my sister. I feel it when she cums like that and it made me cum so hard right after. You are so good to us Sweetie, thank you for being such a wonderful lover" she gushed.

"Becky, it's all you two, you make me want to take extra care to make sure you are happy and cared for. I can't believe how much I feel for you two" I said as I looked at Vicky with a big smile.

"Well, we feel the same way Michael Stewart, you're stuck with us for a long time Mister" she told me.

"Good. Now, it's time for you to have a good sleep thinking about us as we will dream of you. We'll call you tomorrow night ok?" I asked.

"Ok Sweetie, have a good sleep yourself. Goodnight and kiss Vicky for me too" she said with a yawn.

"Ok honey I will. Goodnight" I replied and hung up the phone after she did.

"Thank you Michael for making sure she's happy too. She's so lonely without us but I think we helped. We'll have to do more of this until she can be with us in January" Vicky said.

"I'm happy to do it, and I miss her almost as much as you do Darling. Don't worry, we'll make sure she's ok and make every effort to keep her happy until then" I reassured her with a smile and a kiss.

"You're the best Michael. Now lie down on your back, it's time for your massage" she instructed me in a no nonsense voice.

"Vicky darling, you don't have to do that, I'm sure you're tired. We can just go to sleep Honey" I told her.

"Not a chance, now lie down Mister" she spoke in the Voice.

I lay down on my back and she lay down beside me and started kissing me passionately while caressing my chest and stomach. Hmmm this was a different type of massage but just as welcome, I thought. I caressed her back as she stuck her tongue into my mouth and thrust her wet pussy against my leg.

"Vicky, you feel so good against me Darling, you're making me so hard" I moaned.

"Oh yeah? Let me feel" she said as she lowered her hand down and grasped my cock through my shorts. "Yes, you do seem to be hard down there Michael. Hmmm too bad I'm so tired right now to help you out Sweetie. You have a good sleep Michael" she said as she removed her hand from my cock and patted my chest before snuggling up and laying her head on my chest.

"Oh no, Vicky, please don't leave me like this Honey, I'm so hard right now Darling" I pleaded like a schoolboy.

"Hmmm, don't like it now do we Michael? Now you know how it feels when you tease us Sweetie" she said with a grin as she raised her head to look at me. "Ok, let's take care of your problem Michael before you break something!"

"Thank you Honey, thank you so much" I said with feeling.

She smiled and said "I told you I wasn't ever going to leave you hanging Sweetie; I was just teasing you for a second."

She reached into my shorts and grabbed my cock and started to jack me off. It felt so good to have her soft hands touching my cock.

"Big Mike is so hard Michael, and so hot too" she said as she kissed my chest.

She sped up her hand after moving some of the pre-cum around to lubricate me better. Vicky moved her head down, kissing my stomach down to the top of my shorts.

"Raise your hips Michael, let's get these shorts off you" she commanded and sat up to pull them off.

I raised my hips obediently and she pulled them down my legs while kneeling beside me facing my feet.

She grabbed my cock and lowered her head to take the tip into her mouth, using her tongue to lick the head.

I groaned and said "God that feels fantastic Vicky."

She took a bit more into her mouth while her hand started moving up and down. I reached for her back and ass and started caressing her, following the thong down between her gorgeous ass cheeks and caressed her pussy from behind. She looked back with a passionate look as I pushed her panties into her pussy.

"Take your panties off Vicky and get your pussy up here" I instructed her.

She let go of my cock and quickly started pulling her panties off, wiggling her hips while kneeing and then sitting down and raising her legs to remove them. She quickly straddled my chest and backed up until her pussy was close to my head and then lay down and grabbed my cock again. I pulled her hips up until her pussy was right over my mouth and then pulled her down to my mouth, quickly licking her pussy from top to bottom as she gasped before putting my cock back in her hot wet mouth.

I knew I wouldn't last long so I quickly found her clit with my tongue and started making circles around it and sucking it into my mouth. I brought up my hand to help and quickly inserted a finger into her pussy, causing her to moan around my cock and speed up her hand.

I remembered the last time we did this and I didn't want a repeat of the incident so I warned her I was getting close if she wanted to grab some tissues or my shorts.

"No way Michael, I want your cum in my mouth this time. Just stop for a minute down there and let me finish here first ok?" she asked.

"Ok honey" I gasped out as she took me in her mouth and started moving her head up and down, taking me deeper each time. Her hand moved in time to her mouth and I started thrusting my hips up to meet her mouth as she went lower.

"Oh Vicky that feels so good Darling, you're going to make me cum soon" I moaned as I sped up my hips.

"Yeah Michael, cum in my mouth, I want all of your cum Sweetie" Vicky said before putting her mouth back on my cock.

I moved my hips up and down but she controlled how much of Big Mike went in to her mouth with her hand. She sped up her hand and used her tongue to caress the head.

"I'm going to cum now Vicky, oh yeah I'm cumming Honey" I yelled as I thrust my hips up and erupted into her mouth.

She kept moving her hand, milking my cock as she swallowed quickly before the next spurt came out. She didn't let anything escape as she kept the head in her mouth until I stopped thrusting and spurting. She stopped milking me with her hand as she licked my cock clean as I lay there gasping for a minute.

I finally realized that I had stopped licking her so I pulled her hips back and started licking her pussy again as she yelped and then moaned her approval.

"Oh yeah Michael, finish me off now Sweetie, make me cum again please" she said with a gasp.

I stuck my tongue in deep as I could into her pussy and moved my hand around so I could reach her clit and started rubbing it with her juices to lubricate my fingers. Her hips started moving in time with my tongue, making it go even deeper inside which triggered a moan and a squeeze of my cock from her hand.

I sped up the rubbing of her clit and my tongue and she was moaning and grinding her pussy into my face.

"Oh yeah Michael, you're making me cum again Sweetie, yeah I'm going to cum all over your face, yeah I'm cumming Michael!" she screamed as her hips went crazy and her pussy squeezed my tongue.

I kept up my ministrations until she settled down and she rolled off of me panting for air. I helped her turn around and lie down beside me as she came up to kiss me.

"Wait Darling, let me clean up a bit before" I tried to say before she gave me a kiss and licked my lips.

"Hmmm, you taste just like Becky Sweetie, don't worry, I've tasted myself before" she said giggling.

"Oh really, I thought you two didn't fool around with each other" I asked. "Not that I have anything against it mind you!"

"Humph, just like a typical man, wanting to see two women pleasuring themselves aren't you Michael?" she asked.

"Well I loved it when the three of us got together and you two were helping each other on the weekend. I'm sure I would love to watch the two of you together if you ever wanted to do that when I'm around. You are two beautiful women. Who wouldn't want to see you two" I answered honestly.

"Well, we've experimented a few times with each other and each of us has with another girl. Becky likes it more than I do, but she was so great helping me through the incident last year and it helped get over the bad stuff to have her close. It wasn't about the orgasms as much as the love and the protection I felt. We don't do it as much lately but I know she wants to, if not with me then with another girl. It's one of the reasons she's still a virgin. But don't worry, she loves doing stuff with you and wants you to be her first" Vicky said.

"I'm ok with all of that Vicky, and I'm glad to hear that Becky was able to help you even more through that tough time. So who was the other girl you have experimented with? Was it someone at high school, or here at the U?"

"It was a girl that we both knew back home. She moved away just at end of July so Becky is only has us right now.

"But I figure the two of you, but especially Becky, are going to try and seduce Amanda this weekend right?" I asked.

"We haven't talked about it but I'm pretty sure Becky has plans too" she agreed.

"Without the three of us discussing this?" I asked.

"Well, we didn't think it affected you Michael. It would be Becky and maybe me with Amanda. You wouldn't be involved with her" she said.

"Were you going to include John in it?" I asked a bit angrily.

"No Michael, it would only be girls, no guys ever" she said quickly.

"So what happens if you seduce Amanda and then she either wants to be with me or wants to share you with John? Or she tells John and he wants in on it with you two" I questioned her.

"No way Michael, that would never happen. We're yours and only yours. Please believe me Sweetie. We would never cheat on you" she tried to assure me.

"I would like to think that's the case but let's make up a scenario" I said. "You and Amanda are having a nice loving time together in her room. You're both licking each other and this time you're on top, and you're just about to cum. John comes into the room quietly and sees the two of you having fun and wants to join in. He gets undressed and gets behind your beautiful ass and enters you before you know what's happening. You're already so hot, you don't mind and you both continue until he cums in you without a condom.

Or instead, you two are in your apartment and I come in and see Amanda's nice ass and I just have to have her and I start making love to her. Or she starts making out with me.

Or the same thing could happen with Becky and John and we might not even know about it."

She looked at me for a bit and then said "I never thought about that stuff Michael, and I'm sure neither has Becky. You raise some good points. So you don't necessarily object to the girl on girl stuff or even girl on girl on girl, but it's more about the possibility of other guys getting involved?"

"I'm not sure about anything right now" I said after thinking about it for awhile. "I always thought I was an open minded guy and I don't have a problem with same sex stuff if that's what turns someone's crank. I'm not into guys but like all males, I would love to watch two or more women having fun together. What I do know is that I am not a sharer with other men. I would never ever share my woman or women in this case, with another man. I would probably go berserk on the guy and would break up with the girl or girls if they were with the guy willingly. I'm not sure I would want a guy looking at either one of you naked or even nearly naked.

I continued "Listen, we not married and I certainly don't want to tell you two what you can or can't do, I don't have that right. I'm ok with you getting together with other girls but I think we should talk it over and everyone should be up front and honest about everything anyone does, even it's a quick call to the other two saying I'm going to sleep with so and so just before they do so."

Vicky looked at me and then wrapped her arms around my head and gave me a nice soft kiss and then said "I can't believe you are only eighteen and this is your first relationship Michael. You seem like the old wise one in this relationship sometimes Sweetie. We will call Becky tomorrow and have a good talk about this before anything happens ok?"

"Sounds good Vicky and sorry for bringing all this up. I've noticed a few things with you two and other girls so I wanted it out in the open" I replied.

"It's ok Michael, its better this way. There shouldn't be secrets about this kind of stuff" she assured me. "Ok, let's wash up and get some sleep. Someone has to get up early again."

We got up and hopped in the shower for a quick rinse off and then got back into bed naked. She cuddled up tight against me, with me spooning her from behind, as she slowly warmed up. She fell asleep quickly but I lay there, holding her tight for a long while, thinking about all that could go wrong as well as all that could go right if they started up new relationships with a girl or girls. Amanda, Jessica and even throw in Stephanie could all become much closer to us all. Luckily I liked them all and they were all smart beautiful women. But every time I thought about Amanda, John popped up and just the thought of him with Vicky or Becky or even him watching made my blood boil. Of course I would love to see Amanda involved with the girls, she was almost as gorgeous as the twins, but I didn't want to give John the same right to look at the twins.

I finally fell asleep but instead of a nice dream of the twins with a gorgeous friend, I had a nightmare with a guy joining them instead...



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Chapter 16


I woke up Tuesday morning still spooned with Vicky and reached over to shut off the alarm. I was still tired but dragged my ass off to the washroom and had a long shower to try and wake up. I don't know when I finally fell asleep but it was after two in the morning for sure. I finally got out, got dressed and grabbed my books and left for the arena.

I wasn't in a good mood when I got there so I kept to myself, got dressed quickly and went out to stretch before the warm-up skate. I took out some of my frustrations out on our back-up goalie Bob as I shot a few pucks at full power at him. He stopped a few of them and a few went in. John skated up and just looking at him made me mad and I really stepped into one but missed a little high and it shattered the Plexiglas behind the goal. Shit.

"Wow Mike, take it easy man, it's just practice dude" John said as everyone looked at me or at the shattered panel.

I took a deep breath and tried to relax and said "Sorry, I had a bad night."

"Hey it's ok; just try not to hurt our goalie too much, even if he is the backup" John joked and gave my shoulder at pat.

I skated over to Bob and apologized for shooting too hard but he said "Anytime Mike, I need the practice with shots like yours."

I saw Rolf back behind the boards and spoke up "Sorry Rolf, I got a little carried away again. Need any help?"

"No Mike, I've got to get used to this for game time anyway. I expect you to do this pretty often around here" he said dryly.

I laughed and skated to the other end where we all gathered around Fred.

"Well it looks like a good time to talk for a few minutes while Rolf cleans up Mike's mess again" started Fred which got the team laughing. "It's too bad we don't have games in the morning when he's grumpy!"

That got a good laugh from everyone and then we got serious.

"Ok, we have six more practices before we leave Friday morning for the long trip. Its 13 hours driving time from here to New Hampshire University so with a couple of stops we won't get there until late Friday. We leave at seven am sharp, get here at six thirty. You don't have to wear a suit on the bus Friday but you need one to wear from the hotel to the arena. We will head out home right from the arena and drive through the night while hopefully you can sleep. You need a couple changes of clothes and the usual toiletries as well as all the homework that needs completing over the weekend. There will be a couple of tutors on the bus if you need help with anything. All the rookies will get a handout at the end of practice on what to bring, and how to act. Does anyone have any questions?"

Fred continued and said "Ok, we will have the same line-up as on Saturday except for the addition of Ian Pratasky in case Albert can't go. We will be bringing another 3 forwards and 2 defencemen in case anyone gets hurt or sick. That list goes up Thursday morning so those that didn't play had better show us something or you stay behind. Alright, let's work the half rink power play while they finish at that end."

The rest of the practice was uneventful, with John and I continuing to learn the penalty kill as the second unit but also getting some time on the power play. Fred and Frank gave some extra time to the fourth liners and the guys not in the line-up so they could get some more practice. They got into the game more at the end and John and I only got a few shifts. Frank came over and told us not to worry; they were evaluating the other guys and giving us a bit of rest today.

The coaches let the starters go a bit early and continued with the subs. It was nice not to have to rush but I didn't eat so I grabbed a quick bite before leaving for my programming class. I sat down beside Stephanie just as the professor came in.

"Hi Stephanie, how are you?" I asked quietly.

"Ok I guess, and you Mike?" she said.

"A bit tired but ok" I replied before the professor asked for any assignments that were done.

Stephanie and I handed in both of ours but a few people looked confused and angry.

"I know that I said they weren't due until Thursday but I thought I would see who was on the ball already this semester and who is already falling behind" he said. "Now here is the new assignment and it's due next Tuesday. I suggest everyone get cracking early as it's only going to get worse people."

He started the lecture and breezed through the next two chapters like it was kindergarten math rather than University programming. It was time to crank up the studying already. I hoped to get the programming assignment done before I left for New Hampshire, maybe even for next class.

Stephanie and I walked out together and we talked about the course. We agreed to meet at the arena cafeteria at two thirty and we would finish the Logic assignment and start on this assignment together. I walked back to the rink and got changed into my workout clothes and did a legs and shoulders set after checking in with Chris. He made sure I stretched properly and was doing the exercises properly before leaving me on my own.

I took a shower and went to the cafeteria for lunch. I was surprised when I saw Vicky waiting for me outside of the cafeteria.

"Hi Vicky, I didn't expect you for lunch" I said.

"I was worried Michael, you didn't leave a note and I know you weren't happy so I wanted to come and see you Sweetie" she said as she looked up at me with a concerned look on her face.

Yeah, I didn't sleep well at all Vicky, first I kept going over everything we talked about and then when I did fall asleep after two am, I kept dreaming of you and Becky with other guys or with John" I told her. "I had a bad morning and then I took it out on some pucks and broke another panel behind the goal."

"Michael, I told you not to worry, we would iron out the girl stuff tonight and there won't be any other men but you as long as we are together Sweetie" she said soothingly as she rubbed my shoulders. "We wouldn't be with any guys if you weren't around so put your mind at ease on that point ok?"

"Ok Honey, I'm new at this stuff and I'm finding I have a bit of a jealous streak when it comes to you two. I know you won't cheat on me but I find I'm feeling very protective and a bit possessive when it comes to you two. I don't mean to sound sexist or make you scared, because I would never harm a hair on either of your bodies, but the thought of you two with another man makes my blood boil" I said seriously.

"I don't mind you being protective Michael and I'm not worried about you hurting us but you have to know that both Becky and I do talk to other guys in our normal day to day school activities. You are going to have to trust us that we would never cheat on you or even lead on other guys that they have a shot with us. You can't get angry at a guy if I am standing their talking to him" she rebuked me.

"No, I don't mind that, and maybe I overstated it a bit. I'm secure enough that you talking to a guy is ok with me. I was talking about the real physical stuff and what could happen if other girls brought their guys into the picture. I kept imagining you with girls and I liked it, a lot; but then guys would get involved and turned my nice dreams into nightmares" I told her.

"Ok, I think we can work this out tonight ok? Good. Now let's have a quick bite before I have to go back for Biology and you get to work-out again Sweetie" she instructed as she pulled me into the cafeteria.

I followed and watched her in her skirt and tight top as she grabbed food for both of us and put it on the tray I was carrying.

"Ok, where's your card Michael?" she demanded as she dragged me to the cashier.

I got out my wallet and handed it to her and she handed it over to the cashier and then dragged me over to a table and started handing out the food.

"Hey Vicky, you're looking very gorgeous today. I love your outfit. Did you wear that special today?" I asked.

She blushed and replied "I told you I was worried about you. I know how much you like me in skirts so I dressed in one to remind you of one of the things you like about me. I'm glad you love it Sweetie and I can't wait till after practice when you can do more than just look at me in it lover"

"And if it didn't work?" I asked with a smile.

"We wouldn't be eating right now Michael, I would have dragged you somewhere and reminded you about other things you like about me" she said seriously. "I told you I'm not losing you Michael, especially over a girl."

"Damn Vicky, now you tell me. We could have had a quickie with you dressed like that?" I moaned and shook my head.

"She smiled wickedly and said, "Are you sure you have to tutor Stephanie after this Michael?"

"Yes damn-it. We just got another programming assignment and its due Tuesday so I have to try and get it done before I leave Friday. We are going to finish our Logic assignment due tomorrow and then work on the program. We'll be here so if you want to join us you're welcome" I said.

"I don't think I have to chaperone you two yet, but I will be there tomorrow with Jessica so she doesn't get too carried away with Stephanie or you" she replied. "See, I trust you with pretty girls Michael. I know you won't cheat on us. I don't necessarily trust the girls, some of them will really try anything to get you, and I know you're only human. If I left you alone with Jessica in your apartment, she would be naked and have you on your back so quick you wouldn't know what hit you."

"Hey, I could hold her off for at least a minute for you to come save me" I smiled.

"Humph, that girl would already be having an orgasm riding Big Mike in just one minute Sweetie" she said dryly. "Alright, enough about all of that for now. Let's eat before I have to go. I don't want to have to run in this skirt all the way to the other campus!"

"Only if I get to watch" I replied before biting into my sandwich.

"The problem is everyone else looking Sweetie, and I know how much you would like that, my Canadian berserker" she teased.

I just growled and kept eating as she chuckled. I remembered something I had meant to ask her yesterday but forgot to.

"Hey, how did your appointment go with Dr. Peterson yesterday? We didn't talk about it last night" I asked.

"Actually it went pretty good" Vicky said with a smile. "She must really like you because she didn't get upset or worried after I told her about our activities with Becky on the weekend. I think you impressed her both in your session and when you helped out Susan on Friday. She thinks you are good for both Becky and I and only wants to see me every couple of weeks unless I have an episode or any issues."

"That great to hear Honey" I said. "And you didn't have any issues last night when we did that again so hopefully we can put it behind us."

She smiled and we went back to eating. She quickly finished and got up.

"Honey, thanks for coming to see me, I feel so much better now Vicky" I said. "And thanks for dressing so nicely for me"

"I love seeing you whenever I can and I love dressing sexily just for you. I'll see you either after your work-out but probably after practice Sweetie" she said with a big smile.

I kissed her and then watched as she walked out with her hips swishing her skirt around. She looked back and grinned before leaving as I grinned back. I caught a couple guys looking at her and dropped the grin quickly as I looked at them. I gathered up my stuff and threw the garbage away and went to find Frank for our hockey work-out. I found him in the office and he suggested full gear as he found a few guys that needed help.

I went in and got changed and saw a bunch of the team were there, mostly the subs and rookies. I got into my equipment and got on the ice to warm up. Frank had us gather around and went over some of the things he had planned for us. It was mostly a chance for extra ice time without most of the starters hogging the puck or the ice. Frank would be having this time every Tuesday and Thursday from one to two thirty. I would have to switch workouts with the weights to just mornings on those two days.

Another coach, Sam Gardner, came and helped out with the forwards while Frank worked with the defence for a bit. Frank used me as his guinea pig, showing the six others some of the moves he had shown me in the last couple of weeks. I didn't know these guys at all except Ian who was taking Albert's spot. Some were good skaters but didn't have a shot, some could shoot but couldn't skate well and some could do both but couldn't defend. All in all they all had some talent but needed work in other areas, just like me.

After about half an hour of practicing some of the simple techniques, Frank had Sam bring the forwards back and we ran two on two drills to practice what was shown. I was used to show the techniques at game speed as the forwards tried to go around or cut in on me. I found it easier than normal but realized the forwards were learning too so I didn't try and crush them against the boards or anything. We all took turns with Ian pairing up with me usually as we took on the forwards, now three on two. This got more interesting as we were always scrambling not to leave someone wide open for the easy score.

Finally, we had a full five on five scrimmage. I enjoyed being the lead defenceman and carrying up the puck to set up the offensive play while Ian followed behind. I had to direct traffic and pass off to Ian as their forwards came to cover me. It was good experience for me as I knew eventually I might have to do it in a game.

Frank called it a practice and asked Ian and me to wait while the others left.

"So Ian, how was it out there today? Did it help?" Frank asked.

"It sure did Frank. I liked going over all the techniques and then using them in practice. As rookies and subs, we never get enough time for that stuff. And I really enjoyed the game and pairing up with Mike. It's going to really help me if I have to go on Saturday. Thanks for getting us the extra time Frank" he said happily.

"Good, glad to hear it Ian. We'll continue this like I said every Tuesday and Thursday at 1:00 to 2:30 until we have to limit our practice time. Ok, go take a shower Ian. Good work out there" Frank complimented him.

Frank waited until Ian left and said "Thanks for helping out Mike; I'm sure it was pretty boring for you to go over that stuff."

"No problem Frank, I don't mind" I replied. "I like the extra ice time and I like to help out with the guys, not that I'm that far removed from where they are."

"Well, you are but I'm glad you don't rub it in or have a big head about it with your teammates" he said.

"Not a chance. I wasn't even on the team two weeks ago, and some of these guys have been playing organized hockey all their lives. I just had a good teacher at home. I did really like carrying the puck more and doing a bit of directing the play in the offensive end" I told him.

"I saw that and was impressed how quickly you picked it up when you had to" he agreed. "That bodes well for the future when John leaves or if you have to be paired with someone else. So what did you think about Ian?"

"He's not bad, he can skate well and can hold his own against fast forwards but he needs to work on his shot and he will get run over against bigger forwards" I critiqued. "He has to learn how to get rid of a puck quickly or let it go and hit the forward or he will get knocked out of the game quicker than Albert did."

"I agree with everything you brought up" Frank said. "Is he good enough to survive Saturday if he's paired with Steve Mason?"

"Right now I'd say no, but we don't have a choice. We need to work him hard and keep him paired with Steve the whole week so Steve will know what to do if Ian messes up. Ian needs immediate experience with retrieving pucks, getting run and what to do in each situation so he's comfortable when it comes up in a game. We don't have to depend on his offence, just have to make sure he can survive the hits and finish the game" I replied with my opinion.

"Sounds good Mike, we'll continue to do that the rest of the week. I know you will help him out as much as you can. We might have to juggle our defensive pairs if we get in penalty trouble so get used to working with him too ok?" he informed me.

"Sure, I'll do everything I can to help him out. It will help to have another extra practice on Thursday with him" I replied.

"Good, see you at four then Mike" he said as we left the ice.

I went in and got changed and then I went over to Ian and said "Good work out there Ian. If you want, I can get here early tomorrow and Thursday and we can go over some more things together if you want?"

"Sure Mike thanks. How early do you want to meet?" he asked.

"I'll ask Frank later but I'm thinking six thirty if that's ok with you? I can pick you up if you live far away or take a bus" I replied.

"That's sounds ok time wise. I live in the dorms so it's no problem. Thanks Mike, I appreciate it"

"No problem, I could use all the practice I can get" I said and left to see if Stephanie was in the cafeteria. I saw her sitting alone and walked over to her and asked if she wanted a snack or drink.

"Sure, Mike, a diet coke and some chips would be good, here, let me get you some money" she said, offering me a five.

"Don't worry about it, I've got it covered. I'll be back in a few minutes" I replied and went into the cafeteria to grab a few things.

I paid and went back to the table and we opened our logic books and helped her understand the rest of the third chapter and the fourth. She did a few questions for the assignment by herself and I checked them for her and they matched mine.

"Ok, I can finish the rest myself later and check them to your answers if I can get a copy of your finished assignment" she said. "How about we go over the programming assignment for a bit before you have to get to practice?"

"Sounds good" I agreed.

I pulled out my laptop and remotely accessed the data file for the next assignment while she read the assignment over.

"Ok, so it needs to access the data file and read the numbers and one, do a sort from biggest to smallest, and two, get the average, mean and sum like last week" she summarized.

"So, we need to use last week's program as a sub-routine in the new program and also write a sort program that stores the numbers in a different file in descending order but allows us to access the original data file again for the sub-routine to use" I said. "That doesn't sound too hard eh Steph?"

She looked at me and shook her head and said "Did you look all that stuff up today already?"

"No, I didn't even read the assignment until now Steph" I replied. "I've read ahead but that stuff is old hat from high school programming."

"Well shit, I guess my school didn't teach jack to us then" she bitched. "I'm glad you're willing to help me Mike. I'm going to owe you big time for all of this aren't I"

"Hey, I'm not like that Steph, I'm glad to help out. Just stay on Vicky's good side so she doesn't get angry with me or you ok?" I suggested.

"I sure will. So how did you meet her? She is so beautiful and so is Jessica!" she asked.

"Vicky lives in the same basement as I do, in the other apartment. We just started talking and having dinner together and things progressed. And yes, they are both quite stunning, but I have to lean on Vicky's side for who is most gorgeous" I replied with a smile. "Ok, back to work."

We worked on the programs separately and I looked hers over from time to time over her shoulder. She was wearing jeans and a loose blouse that let me see her nicely shaped firm breasts encased in a lacy bra. I didn't gawk or anything but appreciated the view when I could do so discretely. I pointed out a few mistakes in her code and went back to mine. I had the sub-routine instructions copied over to access my program from the first assignment and then quickly wrote a sort program from memory. I had it open another data file to store the sorted data but could have used an array to temporally store the numbers before printing them out instead. I figured I could hand in both ways if I didn't have time to check with the teacher or TA.

I looked at the clock and saw I had about fifteen minutes before I had to leave so I went over and looked over what Steph had done. She was on the right track for the sorting program so I let her know the options for storing or printing. She could attend the lab on Friday and email me what the TA said, since it wasn't due until Tuesday. I thanked her for doing that and then showed her in the textbook about sub-routines and how to access them. She incorporated some more code as I watched, glancing at her discretely.

"Ok, I have to go soon. Are you ok for today Steph?"

"Yep, thanks Mike. I'll see you tomorrow morning. I'm going to stay here for a bit and get more done" she said.

"Vicky said she would be here early. When you're done, maybe you can watch practice for a bit with her and you can have dinner with us" I suggested.

"Maybe I will Mike. If not, I'll see you tomorrow" she said.

I went to get changed, and then stretched before joining the warm-up skate. Ian and John joined me as we shot on Bob, this time without breaking the back panel. We shot until Fred and Frank came out and had us gather around again.

Fred spoke up "We're going to work a lot this afternoon on our defensive game in our own zone today. We'll rotate the starting six D on defence while the D not starting will act as offensive D. We'll do the same thing with the forwards. We will concentrate on a couple of things; one, how to handle dump-ins and two, dealing with large powerful forwards. Our D needs experience with this and the forwards need to help out if the D gets caught out of position or make a mistake.

We are going to start with our normal pairs and then switch them around as if we have an injury or someone is in the penalty box. Everyone needs to be able to play with everyone else. Are there any questions?"

There weren't any so Fred and Frank organized the guys for a bit that were playing the opposition while I talked to Ian while John and Steve listened.

"Ian, the biggest thing when a team dumps it in is to quickly judge if you have enough time to get to the puck and either pass it to your defence partner or clear it up the boards. If you think you do then go for it and then avoid the hit that will be coming. If you don't thinks so or you're not sure then let their guy get it and hit him instead. This practice is about getting you, and me, some experience at game speed to make that judgement. Steve and Frank will help you the first few times on the decision and then it will be up to you. Make the wrong decision and it could cost you a big hit against you which could put you out of the game and the puck in our net, so err on the side of caution. I'm positive that they will be making sure that you have forward help as much as they can."

John took over and said "They will target you and Mike as rookies and will dump to your side rather than Steve's or mine. Once you get the hang of things it will actually benefit us because if you can get a pass to us, we can start the counter attack because that's our job anyway. Like Mike says, err on the side of caution and protect yourself. We need you to play some good minutes or everything suffers if the rest of us are tired. Listen to your partner and the goalie and follow instructions."

Frank skated over and quickly got us set up at centre ice waiting for the offence to bring the puck up and our lines and D stacked up at the blueline to force a dump in. We watched the first line and first D pair execute a good puck recovery and zone exit for dumps to both sides and then the second line along with John and I went on for our turn. I had the first dump in on my side and had a step on the forward so I retrieved the puck along the boards and wrapped it around behind the net for John to get and quickly move it out of the zone. The forward put a hit on me as I got the pass off but I was ready for it and leaned into him as much as he tried to plant me in the boards. We set up again and this time John had to make the decision and he decided to slow down and let the winger get the puck and then hit him and tie him up. The forwards came back to help him while I moved to cover the front of the net. The offence worked hard to keep the puck and got it back to the point for a shot which was stopped by Mark.

Frank stopped the practice and spoke up "So we had two different scenarios with this group. Mike decided to play the dump-in when it was close and John decided not to. The results were an easy clear out of the zone on the first one versus a shot on net on the second. Mike took a hit while John didn't. They both made the right decision in each case. Mike knew he could take the hit from the smaller player while John didn't take a hit from a bigger power forward. It's not just how much time you have but also who will hit you and in what position. You only get that from experience. With John's try we saw good help from the forwards like we want to see. Ok, next line and D pair please."

Ian and Steve went out on D and we watched as they dumped into Ian's corner. He made the decision to play the puck and get it over to Steve and avoided a big hit from the winger. Steve got the puck out of the zone and they reset the play. Steve handled the dump-in and passed it over to Ian who passed it up to his forward out of the zone.

Frank stopped the play and talked about the two plays again "Ian decided to play the puck and avoided a hit while Steve also played the puck and didn't have to worry about a hit. A good play by both but Ian needs to be careful about taking a check like that in a game."

We each had another couple of turns and then the Defensive pairs were switched around. I got paired with Ian, John with one of the first pair and Steve the other. We ran the same thing for another three each with some good and not so good results as we learned about the new partners.

Fred moved us on to five on five defensive zone play, putting together a line of the larger forwards to play the scout team on offence. They were instructed to try and hit the defence any time they could to disrupt them, but Fred suggested keeping the hits clean and trying not to injure any of us. Then he said dryly "Rolf specifically asked me to make sure none of you pissed off Mike again as the new Plexiglas is still on back order."

Frank piped up after the laughter stopped and said "Craig wanted me to remind the forwards that he's running out of bandages too so it would be unwise to get our defencemen too riled up with cheap shots."

I just shook my head as the team laughed it up at our expense. The coaches got us set up and had the scout team start with the puck out at the blueline and blew the whistle. John and I watched as the offence worked the puck in deep and were really physical against our first line. They handled it well with their skill, showing the other lines why they were the top line as they avoided hits and quickly had the puck out of the zone.

John and I replaced them along with the second line and the play was started again. I braced myself as I retrieved the puck along the boards as two forwards converged on me. I flipped the puck back behind the net just as the two of them hit me and drove me into the boards hard. I shook it off and got back to the front of the net as John was pinned behind the net by the third forward. One of our forwards went back to help out but the puck squirted free to the corner so I raced one of their forwards for the puck but let him get there first, getting to hit him this time. We fought for the puck until a second offensive forward came over to double team me again, working the puck free for a second until I could pin him on the boards with the puck in our feet. The three of us battled on the boards for what felt like a minute but was probably only 15 to 20 seconds until a defensive winger came in neatly and picked the puck out between the three of us and calmly passed it out of the zone while we were still trying to pin each other through the boards.

We changed up again and I sat down gasping for air as John laughed at me and said "Getting a work-out are we?"

I told him where to go between breaths and watched as Ian and Steve were subjected to more physical play. Steve was used to it but Ian was soon overmatched and lost the battle on the boards against one forward. A defensive winger was close by to provide support until Ian could get back on his feet and into the play but the offence generated a good shot on net. The play was stopped and Frank showed Ian a couple of things to keep his balance better and how to take a hit.

We switched up and ran the drill a few more times with the same D pairings and then switched up the partners again. I was paired with Ian again and before we got on I told him to pick it up and put some effort and emotion in when battling or he'll be sitting on the bench on Saturday. We got on and they attacked his side again, but he put up a better effort, keeping one forward tied up while I covered the net. The puck was pushed behind the net so I went back to retrieve it and got my head up in time to see a forward taking a run at me. I wrapped the puck up the boards and stepped into him as he hit me and bounced off and fell back, while I hit the boards but stayed on my feet. I skated around him and followed the play as our forward got the puck past their D and we were switched.

"That was better Ian. You have to play with some emotion, some anger in that type of situation or they're run you over. They have to know you're tough enough to take it and dish it out or you'll have a target on your back the whole game" I stated as we sat on the bench.

"I see what you mean" he said as we watched the guy that tried to hit me, skate slowly off the ice. "I don't think he will try and run you again" he laughed.

"No, he won't but there is always someone whose job it is to antagonize and pump up the crowd and his team with a big hit so you can never relax out there. The coaches told him to be aggressive and that's what he did, even though he got the worst of it. It doesn't matter what kind of reputation someone has, he still has to be ready every play for someone just doing his job" I replied.

We watched as the subs tried to earn a spot on the team by being very aggressive on the attack, causing turnovers and getting some shots on net against our third and fourth lines. Just before we got on for our next turn, I turned to Ian and said "Show the coaches you deserve that spot. Battle hard and try and put the forward through the boards or on his ass, but do it smart. This is your chance so grow a pair or go put on a dress understand?"

He nodded a bit angrily and then we were over the boards. The puck went to his side and he gave the forward a check as they met at the puck. They both battled for the puck but I saw Ian was holding his own against the bigger forward, keeping his feet moving and leaning in to keep the forward pinned. The puck came loose and they chased it into the corner with Ian moving the puck with his stick and feet back up the boards while their forward tried to stop him. A second forward hit him hard stopping his progress but he stayed up and kept the puck in tight. Finally one of our forwards came in to help and he flipped the puck out of the zone.

We stayed on for another go at it but it came to my side and I wasn't in the mood to play nice so I crushed the forward and calmly passed the puck up to the winger and he carried it out easily. Fred halted the drill at that point and let us play a scrimmage, this time pairing off Ian with Ralph Fox, the right defenceman of the new first D pair for the other team and me with Mat Cook, the left defenceman, while John played with Steve, again on the other team.

Playing with Matt was different as his style was like mine. Neither of us were the main puck moving D-man for our usual pairing so we had to adjust, just like John and Steve had to as they both were usually the playmakers. I enjoyed carrying the puck up a few times and setting up Mat for shots or getting it in deep. I tried to take advantage of Ian by dumping it in deep to our forward on his side but he held his own most times.

The coaches finally called a halt and passed us rookies the instruction sheets for traveling and what to bring and let us go. I asked Frank if it was ok to come in early to work with Ian and he said it was fine. As I left the ice I looked up and saw Vicky, Amanda, Susan and Stephanie all sitting together chatting away like sisters, not paying attention to the ice at all.

We got changed and I told Ian we were good for 6:30 tomorrow before complimenting him on his play. I told him I would see him tomorrow and then left with John and Mark.

We met the girls and introduced Stephanie to Mark and John and went to eat at the cafeteria.

Amanda brought up a point "The coaches were really switching your Defensive pairings around out there. Are they thinking of splitting you two up?"

John answered "I don't know, I think it's in case we go down a D either by penalty or injury in the game."

"They're concerned about Ian taking over for Albert this weekend. He's has less experience than I do" I added. "They had all the rookies and subs at my practice time today and will again on Thursday. I'm coming in early the next couple of days to help Ian out some more."

"What time?" asked John immediately.

"Six thirty we'll be on the ice" I replied.

"Ok, I'll be there to help out too then" he said. "I'll get a couple of forwards to come in early too to help out."

"You don't have to but you're welcome if you want to" I replied. "The forwards would be handy too."

"Do you need a goalie?" asked Mark.

"I don't think so; it's more just defensive coverage and techniques we have to show him. Thanks for offering though" I said.

"No problem. Let me know and Bob or I will be there to help out or we'll get the rookie to come in" Mark replied with a smile.

We finished eating and the other couples left, leaving Stephanie alone with us.

"So, do you two need to work some more tonight on your assignments?" asked Vicky.

"I have to finish my Logic assignment and I ran into a problem with a couple of them" replied Stephanie. "I could use your help Mike if you don't mind. We could work on our programming some more if you want to."

"Sure, no problem Steph" I answered. "I still have it all here."

Vicky piped up "Let's go back to the apartments and at least be comfortable."

"Fine with me and we can drive you right back to your dorm after Steph" I added.

"Sounds good to me" she agreed and we all packed up and got into my car to drive home. Vicky led the way to my apartment as I watched her long legs in her short skirt. Stephanie reached up and lightly smacked my head and said "Eyes up Michael, quit ogling her ass and legs."

"Oh that's ok Steph, I wore this outfit especially for Michael to ogle me in" she giggled. "He's allowed to stare all he wants at me, but you have my permission to smack him if he stares at anyone else."

We went inside and put our stuff down.

Vicky said "I'm going to get some studying done over at my apartment, so you two can concentrate. Come let me know when you're done ok?"

"Ok Vicky, see you in a while" I replied as I watched her leaving.

We finished off her logic's assignment and the continued to work on our programs. I had finished the program's basic code back at the cafeteria earlier so I started working on cleaning up the code and making it presentable. I made two copies, one for printing out results and one for storing results in a file and saved them both. I logged in remotely to the University and uploaded both versions to compile and then run with the assigned data. I had a bug in the second one so I looked at the file names and found a syntax error and corrected it. I recompiled it and executed it again and it ran correctly.

I looked over at Stephanie and she was looking stressed.

"Steph, you ok?" I asked.

"This damn thing doesn't work. I don't want you to always have to help me on this stuff or I'll never learn but I can't get it to compile" she said frustrated.

"It's probably just a syntax error. I get them all the time. You just have to get experience looking for them that's all. Let me help ok? I've finished mine and that's why you're here, so we can help each other." I replied with a smile.

"Ok, thanks" she sighed.

I moved behind her and looked over her program. I spotted a couple of missing brackets and another missing end statement and showed them to her, and told her she needs to use proper indenting to find them easily herself.

She changed her simple errors and re-compiled her program while I glanced down her open blouse at her nicely proportioned breasts. That bra was really sexy and I loved how it pushed her breasts together to give her a nice cleavage. Big Mike stirred in my pants as I imagined seeing her topless.

She startled me as she spoke up "Alright it worked! Finally!"

"Good. See I told you it was probably something simple. Now just execute it with the sample data file and see if you get the right results in your file" I instructed her.

She went ahead and did that while I watched and glanced down at her from time to time.

I left her to it while I pulled out my logic assignment and re-checked it and then did the same with my Algebra and my Creative writing poem all due tomorrow. I started reading ahead for tomorrow's classes when Steph said it was all done and started packing up her stuff. We went over to let Vicky know we were done and then we all jumped in the car to take Stephanie back.

Stephanie thanked me for helping and Vicky for the time and then we watched her as she walked into the dorm before heading back.

"That Steph is a real cutie, Michael. Did you behave yourself over there?" Vicky teased.

"Of course we did" I replied.

"I hope so. I think she likes you so be nice but not too nice ok?" she said.

"Ok. She's a sweet kid but you're my Honey" I answered back with a smile while she groaned at the bad pun.

We arrived at the apartment and I followed her down the stairs, watching her long bare legs as she was still in the nice outfit.

"Are you all done then with homework?" she asked.

"I can always read ahead a bit but I'm done all my assignments for tomorrow and Thursday's Comp. Sci programs are done too" I told her. "How about you?"

"Give me about another half hour and then I'll come over. You can get ready for bed and read for a bit while you wait" she replied.

"Ok, see you soon" I said as I watched her walk over to her apartment and go in.

I got cleaned up, changed into some loose shorts and t-shirt and got into bed with my logic textbook and continued to read ahead. After reading a couple of chapters I got some paper and did some of the questions for each chapter. I had just started on Algebra when Vicky walked in, still wearing the outfit but she had some high heels on as well. She stood at the end of the bed with her hands on her hips and gave me a sexy smile.

"God you look so hot Vicky, I love you in that outfit" I said.

"I know sweetie, it makes me hot wearing it for you" she said sexily. "Come over here Michael."

I got up and walked over to her and wrapped her up in my arms as I kissed her. My hands roamed on her back and down to her ass as she moved her hands under my shirt and caressed my chest. Vicky grabbed my shirt and made me raise my arms so she could take it off. She dropped it on the floor and then started kissing my neck and chest while her hands caressed my ass. I put my hands under her skirt and caressed her bare ass and followed her thong between her cheeks. At the same time Vicky put her hands under my shorts and caressed my ass for a bit and then pushed down my shorts and underwear. I hooked my fingers under her thong and pulled it down from between her cheeks. I couldn't pull it too far down her legs put Vicky reached down and wiggled it down until it could drop to her feet. As she came back up she grabbed my cock and started playing with it until it was hard as a rock, while I reached in to her loose top and lightly squeezed her breasts, teasing the nipples until they stuck out from her firm breasts as she started moaning.

"Sweetie, you have me so worked up; reach down and feel how wet my pussy is" she commanded.

"As my lady commands" I replied, putting my hand under her skirt and ran my fingers through her pussy. "Oh, yeah Honey, you are soaked and open for me."

"I am Michael; I want you so bad right now. I want you to fuck me from behind right now, while I'm still wearing this outfit. I'm going to bend over right here and wait for you to get a condom on and then you are going take me from behind."

Who was I to argue with a lady? I raced over to the night table, grabbed a condom from the box and ripped open the foil wrapper with my teeth while rushing back to Vicky, who as promised was bent over the end of the bed. I pulled out the condom, quickly unrolled it onto my cock while getting behind her and caressed her ass as I flipped her skirt up to expose it.

"Oh yeah Michael, feel my ass and spread my cheeks Sweetie. Yeah, rub Big Mike along my pussy and get him all wet before you slide him deep inside me" she moaned.

Again, ever the obedient boyfriend, I complied with her instructions to the T. I made sure that my cock rubbed her clit for a bit, making her gasp, before slowly pushing it in to her tight pussy. She moaned and told me to go slowly as I was so big and she was so tight. Soon enough she started moving back and forth, taking more of me into her. I pushed forward as she moved back and we started lightly fucking. I reached down and caressed and squeezed her tits through her top while increasing the speed as she started moaning at every stroke. I stood back up straight and grabbed her hips and pulled her back as I thrust in, making my cock go as deep as it could reach.

"Oh shit, you're going so deep Michael, you're fucking me so hard" she moaned out, gasping for air.

"Damn, your pussy is so tight and hot around my cock Honey, you feel fantastic" I replied. "I love fucking you from behind while you're still in your sexy outfit."

"I knew you would Sweetie, and I love it too, it makes me so hot. I wish I could see us, I bet it looks so sexy, your big cock sliding between my ass checks and fucking me so hard" she talked dirty to me.

"You look so hot bent over looking back at me Vicky, you are so sexy. I'm not going to last too much longer though, are you close Honey?" I asked.

"I'm getting there sweetie, reach around and rub my clit for me while you fuck me so deep" she said.

Again, being a stickler for obeying the hot girlfriend, I gladly reached over and, after getting my finger wet with some of her juices, found her clit and quickly rubbed it in circles.

"Oh yeah, you found it Michael, that's the spot, oh yeah, that's the ticket Sweetie" she chanted between pants.

We continued for a couple more minutes until she said "Ok, Michael, I'm ready now too, you've got me close. Grab my hips and fuck me hard with your big fat cock and make me cum. I want you to come when I do so give me Big Mike deep inside me, yeah fuck me hard Michael."

"Yeah Vicky, work those hips back and ride my cock. Take it deep inside your hot wet pussy" I moaned. "Oh, yeah, that's the way, I love it darling, I want you to cum, I want you to squeeze the cum out of my cock when you cum."

"Oh shit Michael, that's it, you're making me cum Michael, I going to cum while you're fucking me from behind so deep, oh yeah fuck me Michael, yeah, I'm cumming" she screamed and her hips slammed back and her pussy locked up and squeezed against my cock. I kept up my speed and thrust through her orgasm and started cumming myself as I thrust deep into her and then let my cum go into the condom. I continued to thrust a few more times as I shot more cum into the condom until I was done. I stopped thrusting but kept myself in deep as I bent over and hugged her tight from behind.

"Vicky, that was amazing Honey, I've never felt anything like that before. You were so hot and so fantastic" I gushed in praise.

"Michael, that was the best ever, I've never come so hard or had such a fantastic time as this one. I was so hot for you, especially knowing how much wearing this turns you on. Thanks Sweetie for such a wonderful experience" she responded.

I slipped out of her, but made sure the condom came with me. I quickly went to the bathroom and disposed of it and washed up for a minute. When I came out I saw that she had taken off the outfit and was sipping on my t-shirt. She went in and did what she had to do and got into bed with me.

"Honey, I have to thank you for that excellent, wonderful, fantastic time. I'm going to remember that for the rest of my life and it will be the benchmark for all other episodes" I praised her as I hugged her and gave her a nice kiss.

"I enjoyed it just as much Sweetie, believe me. I'm happy you liked it. We have a few more ways to try but I think that will be one of your favourites. You seem to really like my ass, don't you?" she asked.

"I love all of you darling, but you do have a superb ass, unparalleled in its shape, tightness and appeal" I agreed.

"Thank you sir, for your kind words about my derriere" she giggled.

"You are most welcome, my lady" I replied. "Now, I don't mean to sound like a cliché but I'm pretty tired and I have a very early day tomorrow. I'm going to fall asleep on you pretty quick. Will I see you for lunch or just for study break?"

"Ok, Sweetie, I'm tired too. I will probably just meet you for study break but I'll call you and make sure. Ok, have a good sleep Sweetie" she said.

"Ok, Vicky thanks. Have a good sleep Honey" I said.

"I will after that Michael, goodnight" she replied.

I feel asleep quickly and dreamed of all the girls together in a huge bed but there didn't seem to be room for me...



-------

Chapter 17


I woke up Wednesday morning to the alarm at five thirty and wondered why for a minute. I finally remembered I stupidly volunteered to go in early to work with Ian. Vicky was up tight to me but I scooted out from behind her and covered her up quickly before she woke up. I quickly had a shower, got dressed and grabbed my books and went out to the kitchen to eat some breakfast. I jotted down a quick note and left for the arena.

It was just after six when I entered the arena and I watched the girls' hockey team practice for a bit before going to the locker room to get suited up. Ian walked in, said good morning and got dressed. John showed up with Larry and Peter, two forwards from the 4th line and they quickly got changed.

We stretched and watched as the girls finished their scrimmage and left the ice for their locker room. A few said hi as they left the ice and we all smiled at them. Susan asked what we were doing here so early and I filled her in on the extra practice for just a few of us. She said she would see us later and duck walked in her goalie equipment back to her locker room. The Zamboni finally finished cleaning the ice and we helped put Patrick, the practice goalie manikin, on one goal to shoot at later. We did some more stretches and a brief warm-up skate before getting down to business of the day.

John and I showed Ian a few things that we thought he needed to know. John would show him and then Ian would imitate the action a few times before the forwards would help to have him practice at full speed. We worked on dump-ins, on forward pressure, and various two on two scenarios. We finally took pity on him with about ten minutes to go and had some shooting practice on the Patrick goalie before the Zamboni came on to clean before the normal practice. We grabbed some drinks and relaxed while waiting for the next practice. I thanked John, Larry and Peter for helping out and so did Ian.

Frank came over and asked how it went this morning and I let John answer him. He seemed pleased with the report and thanked us for pitching in. After that it was time to join the team for the normal practice.

Fred had the starters concentrate on offence today with some plays designed specifically for the Wildcats. They also had some rookie defencemen that the coaches thought we could take advantage of. So dump-ins, high pressure tactics and strong physical play was the order of the day, but this time we were on the giving end which as nice. They even had drawn up a couple of plays for one of our defencemen to go in and double team their defence while the other one moved over and the opposite winger moved back to help cover. I had fun going in and hitting our scout team D when I got a chance to run the play. I hoped that I would get a chance to participate in the play in the game.

We had some quick special teams practice and then a scrimmage with different D pairings again and then they called the practice. They listed off the players who would be travelling as backups and then told us they would see us in the afternoon. I got changed quickly and rushed off to logics class, actually making it a few minutes before the prof got there. I glanced around for Steph but didn't see her so I grabbed a seat with an extra beside me and opened the textbook to continue reading. I felt someone sit down beside me and looked up to see Steph holding a coffee cup and smiling up at me.

"Good morning Steph, how was your night?" I asked with a smile.

"I had a good sleep, and you?" she replied.

"Not too bad, not enough sleep but ok I guess. I had to get up early for the extra practice" I replied.

"Sorry to hear that Mike, I hope I didn't keep you up helping me?" she asked.

"Oh, no, I read for a while after and then Vicky and I um stayed up too late" I answered.

She grinned and said "stayed up too late doing what, talking perhaps?"

"Yep, talking" I agreed.

"She was still wearing that outfit after you two were done studying right?" she asked.

"Yes, I do believe so, why do you ask?" I wondered out loud.

She smirked "I know how much you liked that outfit and if she was still wearing it that late, then she was using it to get you all hot and bothered, right?"

"No comment" I responded as the professor came in and she had to stop the Spanish Inquisition.

We were asked to hand in our assignments and he put the next one on the board, making it due Monday. Shit, another thing to do before the weekend or on the trip. The prof launched into his normal confusing lecture, losing most of the people pretty quick. I got a bit confused at the end when we went past where I had read up to and I could see that my study buddy beside me was getting frustrated as well. The class ended and she looked at me in disgust.

"Why does he bother even having a lecture? She spat out. "Most of us can't understand his accent and the rest of us can't understand the material. How much of that did you get genius?"

I got everything except the last five minutes when he went past where I had read up to. You really need to read ahead or you're lost in this class. Ok, meet me at noon and then at 2:30 ok?"

Ok, my bestest buddy pal, I'll be there. I'll end up owing you my first kid before long, and we'll have to make it the old fashioned way!" she grinned as she walked away.

I had to go in the other direction for Creative Writing but I watched for a bit, appreciating her fine butt and then went to my next class. We handed in our assignment and then the prof continued with her poetry theme. I listened to her rambling about some of the old English poets until the end and wrote down the assignment, also due Monday before heading out. My phone rang and I picked it up and said hi.

"Hi Sweetie, how was your morning?" Vicky asked cheerfully.

"Not too bad, yours?" I replied.

"Pretty good but I'm sorry I won't be able to meet you for lunch. Jessica and I have to get something done for Bio Chem. class. We will see you after though ok?"

"Ok Honey, that's sounds good. It will give me time to help Stephanie with our logic class, and the assignment. I'll see you at two thirty Darling.

"Tell her I said hi. See you two later Sweetie" she said and hung up.

I put my phone away and walked over to the cafeteria and found Steph looking for me outside.

She smiled and opened the door which I grabbed as she walked in. I grabbed a tray and followed her around as she put a salad and a sandwich on it while I selected a full lunch and then drinks. I paid for both of us and she led us to a far table away from people.

We passed out our food and started eating, while opening up our logic textbooks to the start of the chapter that the professor started that morning. I explained each concept and showed her an example from the back of the chapter for each.

"Shit, Mike, you should teach that class. You make it sound so simple the way you explain it. I bet you could charge whatever you want to most of the people in the class to tutor them" she enthused.

"Yeah right, I keep telling you that you can do this yourself if you read ahead Steph" I lectured her.

"I'll try, I promise. Maybe this weekend, I'll stay here and get caught up" she mused.

"Good. Ok, we have to go Steph; I'll see you back here at 2:30" I told her as I grabbed the tray and put our stuff away.

"Ok, see you Mike, and thanks again" she replied.

We walked out and went our separate ways with me watching her butt in her tight jeans as long as I could.

I walked back to the math building, walked up to the second floor and found a seat in the classroom and read the textbook for a while until the professor came in. We handed in our assignments and then the prof started the lecture. I followed his lecture pretty well and this time he didn't make a mistake on any of his examples. At the end of his lecture he gave out the next assignment, also due on Monday. I left and went back to the cafeteria to find the three girls, Jessica, Stephanie and Vicky, all outside the cafeteria chatting up a storm.

"Hello Ladies, you are all looking fine this afternoon" I said.

"Hello Michael" they said in unison.

Vicky moved closer and gave me a hug and kiss.

Jessica piped up and said "Ok, I'm next."

"Then me" added Steph with a giggle.

"In your dreams girls, only in your dreams" Vicky smiled as she grabbed my hand and pulled me into the cafeteria, putting a tray in my other hand while piling drinks and snacks on it. The other two girls put some stuff on it too and I got to pay for it all with my card and carry it to the table.

The girls grabbed all their snacks and then continued their earlier conversation as if I hadn't arrived. I stood up and started back to the cafeteria when I heard Vicky ask where I was going.

"I thought I might get a snack" I said dryly.

"Um, Michael, why didn't you get something when we were in there" she asked innocently.

"You three used me as a tray holder and filled it up for yourselves" I replied and kept walking while the girls all giggled.

I returned with my food and sat beside Vicky and commenced eating while the girls chatted and munched on their snacks. I pulled out my logic textbook and read the rest of the second chapter the prof had covered so I could understand what he had gone over. I pulled out the assignment and started it while they kept yapping.

"Mike, what are you doing?" asked Stephanie.

"The logic assignment of course" I replied. "That's what we're here for isn't it?"

"Yeah, but the girls wanted to talk" she said.

"So go ahead and talk. I on the other hand, really don't have all that much extra time as I'm gone Friday and all the weekend, so I have to have all of my assignments done before I leave" I replied as I continued with the assignment.

"Sorry Michael, we'll let her be. Jessica and I will work on some of our own stuff ok guys?" asked Vicky.

"Thanks Vicky. I really need his help on this stuff" Steph answered and moved over beside me, trading places with Vicky.

I went over the second chapter for her and showed her some of the problems for the chapter until she could do them by herself. She started on the assignment questions and I continued on mine, a few questions farther along. We were only half and two thirds done respectively when Vicky told me I should head out to get to practice at the arena.

"Ok Ladies, see you later. Vicky, are you meeting me at the arena or at home?" I asked.

"Not sure yet, I think the three of us need to keep working here so look for me and call me if you don't see me" she replied.

"Ok, enjoy your studying Ladies" I said as I gave her a quick kiss.

I walked out of the cafeteria and looked back to see all three staring at me. I waved and they waved and then looked at each other and giggled. I would never understand women I thought as I shook my head and kept walking. So much had changed in my life in the last month and it looked like it wasn't stopping anytime soon.

A few of the guys said hi as I entered the locker room and I returned the greetings in a good mood. I saw Albert getting dressed and asked him how he was.

"Not too bad Mike, thanks for asking. I'm going to try and see if I can handle some skating and some simple shooting today. I don't think I will make the game though.

"Well it's nice to see you back anyway" I replied.

"Thanks" he said.

I quickly got changed and did the normal warm-up stretching and skating while talking to John about the coming weekend. We shot at Bob, picking on his weak spots; his glove hand needed practice, and then shot for the other side when he overcompensated.

The coaches called us together and outlined the practice schedule for today, basically going over all three facets, offence, defence and special teams. We would be having a longer scrimmage at the end as well.

We worked on the same plays from earlier the last few practices, seeing marked improvement in most of them on defence and offence. I was given the opportunity to carry the puck up more which I was beginning to get the hang of and enjoy. John sat next to me at a break and grabbed a drink.

"Geez, now you're going after my job too Mike?" he asked.

"What are you talking about? I don't even play your side of the ice!" I retorted.

"You seem to be carrying the puck up quite nicely Mike. You going to be the offensive defenceman now?" he asked with a frown.

"Hey, I'm just doing what I'm told to do John. You better talk to Frank about it man" I replied.

He laughed, slapped me on the back and said "You're too easy Mike. I'm not mad, Frank and I talked it over and made sure you would get some time to learn some offensive puck moving responsibilities in case we needed you to pick up some slack."

"You shit!" I said as I pushed him away. "You had me going there for a minute. Go play that crap with Ian or something."

He was still laughing as he fell to the side from my push.

For special teams, all new players were used for both the penalty kill and power play units, and I was used exclusively on the penalty kill. We gave up a bunch of goals but all of us were learning new positions and new skills just in case we were needed.

For the final scrimmage Fred piped up and said he wanted to see us use the plays we had worked on and to see full effort and intensity. There were some fierce battles on the boards and some nice hits as everyone got into the spirit of the game. I laid out a couple of guys with open ice hits and got John good deep in his zone using the offensive play we had designed. The same thing was tried on me soon after in our end but I saw it coming and avoided the hit while springing our winger for a breakaway as their D, Steve was caught deep. He said good play as he skated by back to his end.

Soon after, Fred called the practice and told us to work hard on our studies as we would be gone for three days. The rookies were advised to see the tutors for help if needed and reminded to bring their books and laptops for the long bus trip Friday.

I didn't see the girls watching so I took my time undressing after the hard practice and had a longer hot shower as well. I walked out on my own and checked for the girls but didn't see them in the rink or the cafeteria so I called Vicky on my cell.

"Hi Michael, how was practice?" she asked.

"It was brutal this time. I gather you are at home?" I replied.

"Yes Sweetie, I thought we could use some alone time tonight if that's ok with you?" she inquired.

"That sounds good to me. See you soon" I said and hung up.

I drove back, grabbed my book pack out of the car and put it in my apartment before knocking on her door.

She opened up the door dressed in a t-shirt, tight shorts and a smile which I returned as I gave her a hug and kiss. I caressed her ass with my hands as she pulled my head down for a deeper kiss before pushing me away.

"No funny business right now mister, or our meal will burn" she said in mock anger.

"Am I laughing right now? I asked. "This is very serious business indeed" as I tried to grab her as she dodged into the kitchen.

She giggled as she pleaded "Michael, I made a nice meal, please let me rescue it before you ravish me you beast."

"Fine, food first, ravishment after" I replied in my best caveman voice.

"Sorry, food first, group talk second and then ravishment" she corrected me grinning.

"Hmmm this visit is getting worse by the second. Now we have to talk too? The horror, the horror!" I cried as I sat down.

"Yes, It's called conversation and a bit of romance wouldn't hurt either Michael Stewart" she replied, shaking a big wooden stick at me while the other hand was on her cocked hip.

"My, you look very sexy like that darling" I said with a smile.

She tried to stop from smiling but it broke out as she laughed. "Oh you, you pig Michael. That was not romantic at all!"

I got up quickly and wrapped her up in a big hug and bent her backwards to give her a smoking kiss that lasted about a minute before letting her back up.

She looked a bit dazed so I held her as she had one hand on my chest and said "Wow that was um, very nice Michael, very nice indeed."

"Good, now you better stir the spaghetti before it burns Honey" I replied with a smile.

I turned her around and hugged her from behind while she stirred the pot of pasta. My hands wandered from her stomach to her breasts and then down to the top of her shorts to tease her as I slipped them just under her short's waist band. She gasped and pushed her ass back to me and moaned.

"Michael, you know how to turn me on, my handsome stud-muffin" as she arched her back and turned her head to the side to get another kiss. "Shall I shut everything down and let you have your way with me Sweetie?"

I thrust my hips back at her ass and one hand went up to cup her breast while the other moved down the outside of the front of her shorts to cup her pussy. I caressed her for a few seconds and then backed away and said in a normal calm voice "No, food first sounds fine Vicky."

I sat down and watched her moan in frustration before turning around to look at me with hooded eyes and said "Ohhhh, you are so going to pay for that Mister! My panties are soaked and my nipples are ready to cut glass."

"Well, that should make the talking portion of tonight's agenda pretty quick right?" I asked innocently.

She stamped her foot and look at me for a second before whipping around and turning down the heat under the two pots on the stove. She spun around and came over to me and straddled my lap, grasped my face with her hands and said in a serious voice "You have ten minutes to make love to me right now on this chair Michael."

I kissed her while I ran my hands under her t-shirt to pull it up over her breasts and then unhooked the front clasp of her bra. She broke off the kiss and quickly pulled off the t-shirt and bra and then grabbed the back of my head and directed my mouth to a hard nipple to suck. I of course sucked on it while my hands roamed on her back and down her shorts in the rear. She pulled my shirt up and off my head and started sucking on my neck.

I stood up and laid her back onto the table and quickly undid her shorts and pulled them off as she raised her hips for quick access. I bent down and licked her pussy through her small panties and then hooked them with my hands and pulled them down too.

She was trying to get at my shorts and I moved closer to let her undo them and help pull them off as she sat up with me between her spread legs. My underwear came off as well so she grabbed Big Mike as it sprung up and started to jack it up and down. I reached down and ran a couple of fingers through her wetness before inserting a finger into her pussy. She moaned and lifted her hips up to meet my hand. After a couple of strokes deep into her pussy she pulled me close using her hand on Big mike to line me up to her pussy. I removed my hand and she rubbed my little head all over her pussy, getting it wet, before using it as a dildo to rub her clit. She started panting and moaning as her hips gyrated to make circles. She finally lined him up to her pussy and pulled it in a bit and then used her legs to wrap around my ass and pull me in further. I resisted and gasped out "Vicky, I need a condom on. Please stop Honey."

She groaned and said "But you feel so good skin to skin Sweetie, you're so hot."

"I know but we agreed no babies for a few years ok Vicky" I replied as I pulled out and quickly went to her bedroom and grabbed a condom. I had it ripped open and was rolling it on when I came back to see her rubbing her clit with her hand. I quickly moved back in between her legs and eased myself back into her as she moaned "yesssssss."

I tweaked her nipples as she lay back on the table and I started pushing myself into her hot, tight pussy as I said "Damn, you are so tight Honey, it's like I'm in a vice."

"You're so big Michael, in my tiny pussy" she replied. "Now start fucking me, I want to feel you so deep inside me."

I obeyed my Lady and started fucking her while she lay spread out on the table. After a few minutes she wrapped her lovely legs around my ass and started pulling me in even farther as she groaned in passion.

"Yes Michael, that's it, fuck me deeper, fuck me harder, that's it, you feel so fantastic Sweetie" she gasped. "It's time to make me cum Michael so I can squeeze out your cum deep inside my pussy."

That drove me to really speed up and thrust into her deep and fast. She screamed in answer and started losing control of herself as she thrust her hips up and arched her back to take me in as she wailed "I'm cumming Michael!"

I kept up my fast thrusting while she had her back arched and emptied myself into the condom with a shout. I collapsed on top of her and kissed her passionately until our bodies could finally relax.

"Damn Michael, I just can't get enough of you. That's it, you can never leave this apartment again" she moaned as she kept her arms and legs wrapped around me.

"Sounds great to me" I replied with a sigh. "Like I would argue against being trapped with the hottest of the hotties who seems to like sex as much as I do!"

"What am I going to do without you for three whole days Michael? I'll go into withdrawal for sure" she cried.

"Becky will be here and you two can have some fun together ok?" I replied.

"Hmmm, that sounds like fun Sweetie, and we will tell you all about it when you get back!" she enthused.

"You sure you can't film it for me?" I asked with a grin.

"Yeah right, Michael, no video or pictures. You're just going to have to wait and see it for yourself. I think it will be worth the wait. Ok, let's get up and have some supper and then we will discuss this topic further with Becky" she instructed as her legs and arms unwrapped themselves from me.

I pulled out of her, keeping the condom against me and then went to the bathroom to dispose of it and clean up. I went back out and saw that Vicky had put on her t-shirt and panties but left off her bra and shorts. I put on my shorts and t-shirt and snuck up behind her as she was working at the stove and rubbed her ass, following her crack down to her pussy from behind.

"You know I'm going to be hard the whole time you're dressed like that and you're not safe from further ravishment" I said in her ear.

She shuddered and turned her head to look at me and said "I hope so my stud. I'm still so wet and hot for you but I have to keep up your strength so eat first, talk second and fuck again after, with Becky listening in."

"Fine, but who says I can't help you in the meantime? I teased as I reached around and slipped my hand in her panties and rubbed her juices around the outside of her pussy.

"Ah damn Michael, you got me going again, we'll never eat if you don't stop Sweetie!" she moaned.

I moved her to the side and bent her over the counter. I stirred the pasta and the sauce with one hand while I reached from behind her and rubbed her pussy while she looked at me. I kept one eye on the food while I slipped a finger into her wet open pussy, and then started moving it in and out.

"I can't believe you are doing this right now" she moaned. "This is so fucking hot. I'm going to cum again like this and soak your hand. I'm such a slut for you Michael!"

"You're not a slut Vicky, you're mine only, that makes you a nympho, not a slut" corrected her as I sped up my hand. I slipped another finger into her and she screamed and bucked her hips onto my hand as she came quickly.

"Oh God, Michael, I'm cumming again" she screamed as her knees gave out and I held her up with my hand. I let the spoon go into the pot and moved behind her to lift her up and carry her to the bedroom. I laid her down and kissed her while moving her hand down to her pussy and took her fingers and had her rub her clit. I let go and she kept up the rubbing while I went back to the kitchen and finished making supper. I had it on the table in about ten minutes and then went back in to see and hear her just cumming again from her ministrations.

I reached down and picked her up while she moaned and gasped. I carried her to her chair and sat her down and made sure she could sit up by herself. I served her some food and bent down to kiss her and then spooned out some for me and sat across from her and smiled at my girl.

She made an effort to take a deep breath and sit up straighter. She looked at the table and then over at me and managed a weak smile.

"So, how are you doing there Vicky?" I asked.

She sighed and replied "I don't know what you did to me Michael, but that was the most fantastic time I've had ever. I am so horny and wet right now Sweetie. I must be a nympho because I can't stop wanting you."

"I'm glad to hear it Darling" I answered with a big smile. "You look absolutely ravishing and it turns me on to see you like this. Just don't go outside or you'll have a horde of men and some women after you in a minute!"

"Right now I can barely sit up, let alone walk outside Mister" she retorted.

We began to eat our dinner and she slowly regained her composure and strength. I poured her some milk and she drank the whole glass, so I filled it up for her again. I heard her cell phone so I went and got it for her and handed it to her as she said thanks.

"Hi Bec"

"I'm ok; our stud muffin has made me come twice and then had me do myself for a third while he finished dinner."

"No, I'm a nympho, not a slut. I only have sex with Michael, so I'm not a slut."

"I don't know, he makes me so hot. He's looking at me and I'm getting wet, sitting in a chair across the table from him. My panties are soaked and so is the chair"

I'm sorry you can't concentrate on your homework. Listen, we're almost done with supper and we'll call you back in fifteen and we can have our group discussion. Then you can finish your homework afterwards ok?"

I'll tell you all about it on the weekend. It will make you so hot just listening to it I promise Bec."

"Ok, talk to you in 15."

She hung up and looked at me and said "Now she's all horny Michael. She felt it there through our link. Luckily she was in her room."

I just smiled and continued eating as she looked at me for a few seconds and then ate some more. We ate for about ten minutes and I cleaned up while she sat and watched me. I had the food put away and the dishes washed in five and then went to her, lifted her up and carried her to the bedroom.

"Are ok to talk or do I need to help you out some more Darling?" I asked with a smile as I laid her down on the bed.

"You help me out anymore and I'll pass out" she said with a weak smile. "Let's talk to Becky first and then you can put me to sleep with another fantastic orgasm."

She had brought her cell phone in from the kitchen so she called Bec and put the phone on speaker. I heard it ringing and Bec answered with a "Hi Vic, better now?"

"Hi Bec, a little." she replied. "Our stud muffin carried me back into my bedroom and just being in his arms ramped me up. He's looking at me with those eyes of his and it just melts me. I have it on speaker so you two can hear each other."

"Hi Becky, how are you doing?" I asked.

"Ok I guess Michael, except for being horny after what you did to Vicky" she said a bit snappily.

"Sorry Bec, I forgot how it affects you too" I apologized. "I'll make it up to you the next time we're together, I promise. Vicky will too ok?"

"You two had better. You don't know how bad it is this time around. I got close to cumming and then it stopped and then started up again. You have to warn me please. Maybe I can get ready for it so I can come too" she begged.

"We will honey, from now on. We need to get you a vibrator or something to help out" I suggested.

"Nothing goes in me until you do Michael, so you had better reserve some time soon with me Mister!"

"Yes Ma'am" I replied as Vicky giggled.

She took over the conversation saying "Ok, now let's get on topic. We need to discuss anyone extra we may add to this group — specifically female I might add"

"That goes without saying Vic. Michael is it for me in terms of men. So, what's there to discuss?" she asked.

Vicky replied "Michael is worried that we get involved with another woman who might have a man already and he might get involved with us, either just seeing us with his girlfriend or trying to have sex with us while we are with the woman."

"No way, never happen. No other men period" Becky said emphatically.

Vicky went on to explain the various scenarios we had talked about in the last couple of days.

"Well, I suppose it could happen that way, with Amanda anyway. I could see John not having enough willpower to resist an ass like Vic's or mine. Amanda wanting Mike I could see as well, the little slut" she admitted.

"So, do we eliminate any girl with a boyfriend or throw her out if she gets one later? Becky asked.

"That's why we needed to talk before the weekend" replied Vicky. "I know you were going to try and seduce Amanda this weekend, weren't you?"

"Yes, I had planned on seeing if I could seduce her little panties off" she admitted.

"So what's the solution? Only have rendezvous at this apartment so no guys can walk in? Only single girls allowed in? What about Michael, does he get to participate with us when we're involved with a woman?" asked Vicky

"I don't know Vicky. Maybe I have to just find a girl here and keep everyone else out of that part of it. You two have each other and I can have someone here and also get together with both of you. Vicky can come here a few times and have fun with me and the girl when Michael is away every other weekend" she suggested.

I thought about it and then said "That's probably the best I can figure out as long as there's no boys involved at that end. Still that issue there as well. Other than that, I really don't have a problem with either of you or both of you getting together with another girl or woman. Everybody has to be up front and honest about it. I don't want to hear after the fact that one or both of you have a new friend and have been sleeping with her. The boyfriend rule has to be told to her. You have to make sure a couple isn't trying to pull a fast one on you to get him in the equation."

"Ok, it's settled, Becky finds a girl in Dearborn, without a boyfriend, and it's kept in Dearborn. I can join in when I'm home but no boys for any of us except Michael with Becky and me. The girl doesn't meet Michael and it's over when Becky comes to the U in January. Agreed?" Vicky asked.

"Agreed" responded Becky.

"Agreed" I answered.

So are you going to get some of the girls over here for a sleepover this weekend anyway?" I asked.

"That sounds like fun, we could see if Amanda and Jessica want to come over, maybe even Stephanie too" replied Vicky.

"Sounds good to me" added Becky.

"We might be back earlier Sunday if they drive all night after the game to get us back. I could be back Sunday afternoon.

"Really Michael?" asked Becky. "I sure hope so. If you do, promise me that you and I get some time alone."

I chuckled and said "I promise Darling, me and you will have a nice time together if we get back before you have to leave."

"Oh goody!" she said with a giggle. "Ok, you have fun for the next half hour and then I need to get some homework done. Call me tomorrow night guys so I can say bye to our Sweetie."

"Ok Bec, have a good night" replied Vicky.

"Good night Becky" I chipped in.

"Alright good night guys" she said and hung up.

"Ok, enough about this stuff. Do you have some studying to do? I know I do" I stated.

"Hey, we have twenty minutes of together time first" she said as she moved over and got on top of me.

"And what did you have in mind?" I asked.

She smiled and grabbed my shirt and pulled it up as far as she could and caressed my chest and stomach. She leaned down and kissed me hard, then moved down to kiss my chest and down my stomach. She moved her body down between my legs while kissing down my abdomen until she got to my shorts. She rubbed my cock through my shorts until it got hard and then pulled my shorts down as I raised my hips. She quickly moved back up grasped Big Mike while bending over and putting the head into her mouth. Her tongue swirled around the head for a bit while her hand moved up and down on the shaft.

"God that feels fantastic Vicky" I gasped.

She looked up at me with my cock in her mouth with her eyes twinkling. She kept looking right at me as she lowered her head to take more of it in her mouth as she sucked on it like a straw. She raised her head and moved her hand in time and started giving me a real blowjob. It felt like nothing I'd ever felt before. I quickly started to move my hips up to get more of Big Mike into her mouth but she moved with me and controlled me with her hand.

I was moaning and gasping as she went lower on my cock. She went back up and started moving up and down faster and sucked harder. I couldn't take it much longer before I was going to cum.

I told her "Vicky, you're wonderful but I'm going to cum soon if you don't stop Honey."

"Don't you want to cum in my mouth sweetie?" she asked as she stopped for a second.

"I'd love to but I thought we might like to make love one more time tonight" I replied.

"Oh goody Michael" she replied.

She sat up and straddled me as I quickly reached for another condom as she started rubbing her pussy with my cock.

"Vicky, stop that, we need a condom first. You could get pregnant just by doing that" I admonished her.

"Oh you party pooper. Ok give me that and I'll put it on you" she said.

Vicky quickly put the condom on Big Mike and then rubbed herself again with me, getting her pussy wet and open. She lined up her pussy and slowly lowered and raised herself onto me, until she opened enough to take all of me into her. She sped up as she leaned over me and gave me a passionate kiss. I caressed her breasts as she sat back up arching her back as she rode my cock. She moaned as I pinched her nipples, driving her wild as she started thrusting harder as she reached down and started rubbing her clit.

I was getting close to cumming with all the stimulation and it looked like she was getting there too. I started thrusting up to meet her and kept pinching her nipples. She gasped each time I thrust upwards and she sped up her hand on her clit.

"Oh shit, I'm going to cum Vicky; I'm really close, are you ready?" I panted.

She responded with a gasping "Just a little longer, hold out for me Sweetie, I need to cum real bad."

I started thinking hockey plays and checks I had thrown and anything else I could think of to distract me from the feeling for another minute until she came. I even shut my eyes so I wouldn't see her. I heard her start squeaking and mumbling incoherently and opened my eyes to see her start to cum as she screamed out and her eyes rolled back into her head and she collapsed on top of me as I finally let go and came as I was deep inside her. I held her as our breathing slowed down. I looked at her but she was still out so I laid her down beside me as I eased out of her. She was breathing fine so I hoped it was just a system overload. I quickly went to the washroom and disposed of the condom and washed up before returning to the bed. I heard her phone ringing and went to grab it.

"What did you do to her this time Michael?" Becky asked.

"Well, we were making love with her on top and I think she had an orgasm and then her eyes rolled up and she collapsed on top of me. She's breathing fine so I'm hoping she just passed out" I explained.

"She is really getting into it, isn't she?" Becky responded.

"She's really passionate tonight for some reason, that's for sure. Sorry to bother you so much" I said.

"It's ok, I don't mind. I had one too right after she did so I enjoyed it too. I can't wait until we can be together Michael. I want you so bad Sweetie" she stated.

"I can't wait either. I hope I get back early enough on Sunday to spend some time with you" I replied.

"Me too Michael. Ok, I have to go. Let me know if she doesn't wake up in fifteen minutes and no more sex tonight you animal you" she demanded.

"Yes Becky, have a good night" I replied and hung up. I checked up on Vicky and she was still out of it but still breathing so I got dressed and cleaned up the kitchen. As I was finishing up, Vicky came in and gave me a hug and asked me what happened.

"You had an orgasm and then passed out on top of me" I let her know. "Here, sit down and let me get you some juice ok?"

"Thanks Michael. I still feel a bit weak but not too bad" she responded as she sat down.

I poured her a glass and she drank it up pretty quickly. I found a chocolate granola bar and she ate that too.

"So, do you pass out much?" I inquired with a smile.

"Only with you Sweetie, you make everything so intense and wonderful. I guess it's sensory overload or something" she answered.

"We aim to please" I said with a grin.

"Oh you do, you certainly do" she grinned back. "I've had enough pleasing for tonight though. Anymore and I'll be passed out for the weekend. I'm so sensitive down there I couldn't put on panties."

"Oh really" I said as I arched my eyebrow.

"Stay back you fiend. No more you insatiable monster" she said in mock horror.

"Alright, are you ok to be left alone for a bit while I grab some books and come back to study?" I asked.

"Yep, I'm feeling better with the snack. I'll see you back in a few" she answered as she stood up too.

I gave her a quick kiss and went over to get my books, laptop and cell. I grabbed a basket of laundry and loaded up one of the machines down the hall and then went in and asked if Vicky had any to do as well. She gave me her basket to carry and we put some of hers in the other washer and brought the rest back to the apartment. We sat at the kitchen table and got down to business. I tackled all the assignments due next week and made significant headway.

We took a break to switch the laundry around and put in the rest of hers into the two washers. I started reading ahead for tomorrow's programming class and then for each of the other three classes as well. It was getting late when we grabbed my clothes and her first load out and switched her last two from the washers to the dryers. We folded our clothes together and I enjoyed looking at her dainty panties and bras as I helped her. I put my clothes and books back into my apartment and got ready for bed there before going over to hers to sleep.

She was in the bathroom brushing her teeth, dressed in a silky nightie. I lay down on the bed and waited for her to join me, which she did in a couple of minutes. She cuddled up to me with her back to my front after first giving me a nice kiss goodnight. I caressed her through the silk nightie and then hugged her tight as we drifted off to sleep. I fell asleep dreaming of Vicky, Becky and a faceless girl, all insatiable and wanting me to service each of them over and over...



-------

Chapter 18


I woke up Thursday morning still spooned with Vicky in her apartment. I looked at the clock and saw it was already six so I quickly got out and left her a quick note before heading over to my apartment. I got dressed, grabbed my book bag and laptop and headed to the arena.

I got dressed in my hockey gear and waited out by the rink watching the girls playing their scrimmage. Some were quite good and probably could make a run at the men's team. I stood to the side as they came off, with a lot of them saying "Hi Mike" in a teasing voice that girls seem to have down pat.

The guys came up and Ian asked "How do they all know you Mike?"

"Mark's girlfriend is Susan the goalie. She's friends with Amanda and Vicky, John and my girlfriends. They must talk or something." I replied, keeping it vague as we got on the ice.

We went over everything again for Ian, starting from scratch. We even had him run the offensive play for the D to hit their D, with me playing the other D. He could hit pretty good, but with me knowing the play, it was easy to either avoid the hit or be ready for it. By the end of the extra practice John and I were feeling a bit better on his ability to hold his own. Even his shot had a little more power to it after I showed him a couple of things my Dad had taught me.

We took a break while the rest of the team got warmed up. Ian went to hang around a couple of other rookies while John and I sat back to rest up a bit.

"He should do ok I think" John said to me.

"I think so too, if he doesn't panic out there. His partner will have to settle him down, like you did for me. Has it only been a week since my first game?" I asked.

"Yeah, you act like an old timer around him but you're still a rookie too!" John said laughing. "Well at least you don't play like one."

"The extra practice has paid off, that's for sure. I have another one this afternoon before our afternoon one. I can't wait until the games are two a week. All this practicing gets tiring" I complained.

"The coaches will go to one a day soon unless something goes wrong and we need to incorporate new people or new plays. We can't sustain all this extra practicing, someone will get hurt if they are too tired" John informed me.

"Good, I could use any extra time for studying I can get" I replied.

"Just because we're not on the ice doesn't mean you're not here Mike. There will be extra film prep, extra weight and anaerobic workouts and special practices instead" John said laughing.

"No shit?" I asked. "Damn, that's harsh."

"Welcome to College hockey, Michigan style" he said.

I shook my head and then went back on the ice to take my frustrations out on some pucks and Bob the goalie.

Fred called us together and told us to work hard today as we were off travelling tomorrow with no exercise. He had us practice all the defensive and then the offensive plays for Saturday's game, with our normal partners. Albert took some of the practice on defence but Ian took most of the time with Steve.

We had some more special teams practice and then a longer than usual scrimmage. We were let go a little late so I had to rush to get dressed and back to the main campus.

I got there a little late so I went and used the back door and slipped into a seat as the professor was starting his lecture.

"Hi" I said quietly to Steph.

"Hi" she replied.

The lecture was another review for me as one, I had read ahead and two, it was still mostly review from high school and my own extracurricular activities. Stephanie seemed to follow better as well when I glanced over at her. She saw me and smiled back before returning to listen to the professor. At the end he gave out another assignment, due Thursday and asked for any assignments due today or next Tuesday to be put on his desk. Steph and I went down and asked him which version he wanted of the second assignment, print-out or answers in a file format. He said to hand in both and see if the TA markers would notice the difference.

Stephanie and I walked out together and we agreed to meet at the arena cafeteria at two thirty to continue studying together before we split up. I watched her in her tight t-shirt and shorts and fantasized about her body until I had to turn and walk in the other direction. I got changed into my workout clothes when I got there and looked up Chris to tell him of the change in scheduling due to the extra practice this afternoon. He was on board with the change so I went in and did a chest and arm routine.

I took a shower and went to the cafeteria for lunch. I called Vicky after I was done eating and left a message telling her that I hoped to see her at 2:30 with Steph here at the arena cafeteria.

I went into the locker room and got changed with the other rookies and subs, then got on the ice for stretches and a warm-up skate. We had some shooting practice and then Frank and Sam had us gather around. We had enough players here for five on five scrimmage with a couple of subs so we did that for about half an hour with Frank or Sam stopping to point out things as they happened and suggest a better method. The coach would call out a play for the offence to use and the other team had to defend it the best they could. Then the defensive play was called out and so on. It got everyone some extra exposure to more of our set plays, especially if it got screwed up and the coach had to walk everyone through it.

Near the end of the scrimmage I got plastered into the wall from behind just after I had cleared the puck successfully. It hurt but nothing seemed to get damaged as I looked back to see a rookie forward skate away with a smirk. He was a bit shorter than me but built a bit thicker. I didn't know him or anything about him but he seemed very pleased with himself. Frank was watching from the bench but I just skated back to the bench. Frank walked over and leaned down and said "Good control of your temper Mike, I'm sure you will have time to pay him back with a clean hit later."

I just grinned at him and told him to make sure Chris, the trainer looks after our sore battered bodies not requiring and actual doctor, was available just in case. He chuckled and walked away, but I did see him take out his cell phone a bit later.

I got out a couple more times before I got my payback. Their team was doing a bit of a cycle down in the other corner when he got the puck while skating behind the net, being harassed by our forward. I was loosely following another of their wingers on my side when I veered off and skated behind the net and clobbered him. He flew back and landed heavily on his back, while I scooped up the puck and sent a lob pass out to a streaking forward for a breakaway, before skating back to the bench for a change.

I saw Chris go out and see if he was ok and helped him off the ice. Frank and Sam stopped the scrimmage and spoke to everybody for a minute.

"Bobby decided to take a cheap shot at Mike. It probably would have been a penalty in a game and possibly cost the team a goal. So if Bobby's intention was to impress the coaches it didn't work. Mike didn't retaliate until later with a clean hit, which led to an easy goal. Mike had no intention of impressing the coaches but he did, and seems to have paid back Bobby quite nicely and cleanly. Guess who is playing Saturday and who is staying home."

There was a bit of laughter and then we were split up into forwards and defence at opposite ends of the rink and the respective coach went over a few more fundamentals and then more of the plays, teaching everyone their responsibility in each instance. After about a half hour we re-combined and the forward lines ran the plays against the pair of D. Any well run play generated at least a shot on net or a good scoring play as the D were always outmanned. But we played it the way we were taught and got in the way of passes and shots as best we could. Bobby was back in and trying to hit every defenceman any chance he could until Sam pulled him aside, yelled at him and sent him into the locker room.

They finally called the practice and I went in to get changed. Bobby was dressed and came over to confront me.

"Who the fuck do you think you are, asshole?" He yelled as he walked up.

"Bobby, you're on thin ice with the coaches as it is. Do you really want to do this?" I asked mildly. "I consider everything even now and it's over."

"I don't asshole" as he got closer.

"Shall I change then and meet you in the parking lot or somewhere off school property? I don't want you to hurt your hands on my equipment" I said quite reasonably.

"Fuck that, you're mine now" he yelled as he took a swing at my head. I ducked and pushed him away, letting him fall over a nearby bench.

"Give it a rest before you get kicked off the team idiot" I said.

Sam had walked in quietly and said "I suggest you heed his advice Mr. Vickers, or you will find yourself not only off the team but out of the University very quickly. And from what we have seen from Mr. Stewart, that trip might be in an ambulance."

Bobby got up angrily and looked at me for a few seconds before walking off. Sam watched him and then came over to me.

"I'm not sure why so many guys can't stand me Sam? I keep away from everyone and believe me I tried to talk him out of it" I told him.

"They don't like the supposed easy way you got on the team Mike. Jealousy and envy can lead to anger pretty quickly, especially in highly competitive sports. Don't worry; I saw the whole thing as I came in so you have no problems. At least we didn't have any injuries with this one" he added.

I just shook my head and got changed and left to go find Stephanie. I saw her through the window of the cafeteria, working on her laptop, with a pop and chips beside her. I grabbed some food and went to join her.

"Hi Steph, how's it going" I asked.

"Shouldn't there be an 'eh' on the end of that sentence" she asked with a smile.

"Ha Ha, so funny" I said to her.

"Yes I am" she replied with a grin.

I sat down and ate my food while she told me she was working on the new program.

"Did you finish the logic assignment?" I asked.

"Yep, just need to check it over with yours and that's done" she replied.

"Good work Steph" I said in praise.

She smiled and said "I couldn't have done it without your help Mike. Thanks."

"I bet if you get ahead in your reading and do the questions, you won't need my help at all. I'll be coming to you for help soon" I retorted with a smile.

"Yeah right. Now get to work on the computer program Mister" she commanded.

"Yes Ma'am" I replied with a grin as I opened my laptop and turned it on.

I read through the assignment and started up my editor as I thought about how to attack the problem. It was pretty simple so I quickly got into it and had it mostly complete when I heard a voice say "Don't you two look so industrious".

I looked up and smiled at Vicky as she sat down beside Stephanie.

"Hi there Honey, how was your day so far?" I asked.

"Pretty good, but busy as always. And yours Sweetie?"

"I mostly just had hockey practice and one programming class. Steph and I are ahead of the game as we handed in Tuesday's assignment today and we're getting a good jump on next Thursday's now" I responded.

"Good and you will have lots of time to read and get ahead on the bus too" She replied, before turning to Stephanie. "And how was your day today Steph?"

"Pretty good too Vicky. I got caught up on just about everything and can get a jump on things this weekend" she answered.

"Speaking of the weekend, are you sticking around here or going back home? Vicky asked.

"I'm thinking of sticking around here to get in some reading and get ahead of the game. Why?" responded Steph.

"My sister Becky is coming up tomorrow after school and I thought we could get together with you since it's a no man zone at our apartment with Michael gone" she said.

"Sure, I can't read all weekend that's for sure. Maybe we can get together and watch the hockey game Saturday night too?" she responded with enthusiasm.

"Sure, we were planning to watch it at our apartment with Jessica and Amanda, so you can join us and we can have a girl's night in and have a sleep over. I'll pick up some drinks and snacks and we can order in some pizza or Chinese or something. Sound good?" Vicky asked with a smile.

"Ok, Vicky. Thanks for inviting me over. I haven't had much fun here yet at all. My roommate is in some sort of sorority so I never see her. I've spent more time with you two than anyone else!" she answered.

"Well, we like having you around Steph, you should come over and eat with us and hang out at the apartments more often. We would love to have you, wouldn't we Michael?" she asked.

"Sure we would. We don't have much but it would be nice to have you over. Hopefully you can cook better than Vicky here" I teased.

"Michael Stewart, take that back, I can cook quite fine thank you very much!" she stated mock angrily.

"So why did I have to take over last night? You were just about to burn the pasta and the sauce, that's why." I retorted with a grin.

"Humph, you couldn't take your hands off of me and got me all distracted" she claimed. "He does have good hands Steph, but I'll try and protect you from them when he's around."

"The beast! You poor thing, I had better come over and help you survive his mauling" she said as she hugged Vicky in support.

Vicky hugged her back while saying "Maybe we can beat him off together but I can't risk your innocence being exposed to the beast."

"Hmmm fresh meat to eat" I said in my Igor voice.

The girls cracked up laughing as I smiled. I looked at the clock and started packing up.

"So, where do I meet you two, here or at home?" I asked.

"You two probably want to spend some time alone so why don't I join you two next week instead" Steph suggested.

"What about the weekend?" asked Vicky looking sad.

"Oh, no, I'll be there, I just meant tonight" she corrected herself.

"Good to hear that" Vicky said. We would love you to come over tonight or at least have dinner here with us. We enjoy your company and I would love it if you would stay here with me and watch Mike practice."

"Sure, I love watching Mike play hockey. Thanks so much Vicky" she gushed.

"Ok Sweetie, come find us and we'll figure out if we eat here or at home after practice" she directed.

"Yes Ma'am" I replied. "See you two lovely ladies after practice."

I left the cafeteria and looked in the window to see the two girls talking like old friends. It was nice to see they were getting along and I hoped they would continue to do so.

I entered the locker room and looked around to see if Bobby was still out to get me or anyone else for that matter. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary so I got changed and went out on the ice as the Zamboni got off. We all did the normal stuff and then Fred let us know we would be having a full team scrimmage with all the subs and rookies divided amongst the two teams.

It ended up being fun as you never knew who you would be up against, the top line or the rawest rookies or a mix. There wasn't much hitting as offence ruled the day, like at an all-star game. I kept an eye open to be safe but Bobby, nor any of his friends, took a run at me.

The game was called after an hour and one final special teams practice was ran. I got time on both the power play and the penalty kill and finally felt comfortable. At the end of practice I felt ready and was looking forward to the game on Saturday. I looked up and saw a group of girls sitting together watching us practice. Amanda, Steph, Vicky and Susan were together along with a bunch of other girls.

I got dressed as Fred and Frank went over what we would need to bring, including our birth certificates and IDs as we might be taking the shorter route up through Southern Ontario and would need identification. Clothes, books, homework, laptops, toiletries, entertainment devices were all listed.

They finally let us out and John, Mark and I went up to meet the girls.

"Hi boys" all the girls said.

"Hello ladies" we replied.

I wasn't sure who the rest of the ladies were; maybe they were other girl friends of the guys or teammates of Susan's.

"That looked like a fun practice" said Susan.

Mark answered her saying "Yeah, it got everyone in the game and changed up the lines and defensive pairings."

"So, you guys ready for the game on Saturday?" asked Amanda.

"I think so, even Ian has come far this week and should be ok in the game" John responded.

"So Mike, who is this Bobby Vickers and why did he take a swing at you" asked Vicky with a raised eyebrow.

"A rookie forward who ran me into the boards but didn't like it when I hit him with a clean check later" I responded with a shrug.

"Wait a minute, he took a swing at you and he was still at practice later" asked John. "Are you losing your touch Michael? Is Vicky softening you up?"

Everyone laughed.

"Well he missed and kind of fell over a bench in the locker room. Sam came in before he could try again. He was pretty mad though so maybe he's waiting for me out in the parking lot" I said laughing.

"He's just enough of a fool to do that, wouldn't he?" John asked Mark.

"Unless the coaches read him the riot act, he probably is already waiting along with some of the other rookie idiots" Mark answered.

"So, should we eat first and then I let him prove he's a big man, or should I go out there and meet you back in the cafeteria in a few minutes?" I asked them.

"Hmmm fighting on a full stomach will slow you down and could be messy if he gets you good in the stomach; fighting before will make you a little angrier because you're missing your dinner but the blood might ruin everyone's appetite. Hard decision to make Mike" John analyzed the situation. "Mark?"

"Definitely before. The blood can be washed off prior to stepping into the cafeteria to protect the squeamish" Mark said with authority.

"There you have it Mike, let's go and see if Mr. Vickers is awaiting with bated breath for you to show up outside" directed John.

"I can't believe you're going out there knowing a guy wants to bash your head in Mike" said Stephanie. "Vicky, why aren't you stopping this?"

"Stephanie, don't worry ok Honey, Michael can take care of himself. Do you think John or Mark would really let him go out if they thought he would get hurt? I'll tell you more as we walk ok?"

"If you say so, Vicky, I'll worry just the same" Steph said.

"Alright, let's get this crap over with. Hopefully the fool isn't there, I'm really hungry" I said and walked to the parking lot.

Unfortunately, Bobby Vickers was there, along with four other rookies, waiting by my car. They were a little surprised when a bunch of girls along with John and Mark followed me out.

"Gentlemen, was this to be a five on one affair or are you here to see Mr. Vickers have some fun with me by himself?" I asked as I handed my book bag to Vicky and stepped forward.

"I don't need help kicking the shit out of you asshole" he said.

"So just here for moral support then boys? Good, because if not, all rules are off and hockey careers get ruined" I said quietly.

They backed up and Bobby stood alone. I tried one last time to get him to let it go.

"Bobby, we each got a check in and you even took a swing at me. I consider it even and hold no grudges. Why don't we just shake on it and go our separate ways. I really don't want to fight you" I said mildly.

"Fuck you Stewart, you think you so much better than the rest of us. I'm going to show everyone that you're not so tough and then I'm going show your slut girlfriend what a real man looks like" he yelled.

I heard a few gasps from the girls and even the guys behind him winced.

"Oh shit, you poor bastard" John said to him. "Amanda, go see if Chris is still around, poor Bobby is going to need his services. Mike, try not to kill him, we need you on Saturday ok man?"

Bobby made his decision to swing at me then and I let it hit me as I rode with the punch. Then I went berserk, hitting him with rights and lefts with such a fury that it took all of the guys to pull me off of him after I had thrown him on top of my car and kept hitting him. He slid to the ground while I struggled to get at him until Vicky stepped in front of me and said in the voice "Michael enough, it's over."

I stopped trying to get at him and stood there shaking for a few seconds and then pulled away from the guys holding me. Bobby was lying groaning at the front of the car but was still conscious. Vicky bent down and said to him in the voice "Bobby dear, if I hear you or any of your friends say such rude things about me or any other girls, I won't stop him next time. Nod your air filled head if you understand."

He nodded slowly and she looked at the four other rookies and continued "We know you would have helped beat up Michael if he was alone or just with me. You're worse than Bobby here, at least he took a beating like a man; you four are little cowards who need a group to grow a set of balls bigger than the dried up raisins you have."

One of them looked at her angrily and was going to say something but I quickly stepped in front of him and lifted him up by his shirt and slammed him onto the top of the car.

"You looked like you were going to say something to my girlfriend that you would regret" I growled. "I don't want you to even look at her again or I'll put you through the windshield next."

"Isn't he such a nice boyfriend girls?" said Vicky in a pleased voice.

"Yes he is Vicky"

"Oh yeah"

"Can I borrow him please?"

She laughed and came over to look down at the boy. "You weren't going to say something bad about me were you?" she asked in a mild voice.

He shook his head and croaked out a no.

"Ok, Michael, he's turning blue now, let's let the little boy go before he has an accident in his pants" she instructed me as she patted my shoulder.

I let him go and backed away from him.

John piped up "I hope the rest of you don't wish to aggravate Vicky ever again or she won't be so nice. Spread the word that Vicky gets angry when Michael hands get scratched against someone's face. And you saw how much she has Michael wrapped around her little finger."

"Oh John, I don't get angry when there's a scratch, but my Sweetie takes so long to cool down, that we can't fool around for at least an hour. Now that upsets me" she said in such a cold voice that guys stepped back a place and I looked for someone to hit again.

"Sorry Michael, I'm a little peeved because I'm missing my supper with you and the others" Vicky said more mildly.

"I think we're done here now" I growled out. "You four help Bobby back into the arena to see Chris and tell him the truth, you four and he waited for me and he hit me first. I hear anything else and you get to deal with Vicky directly" I commanded them.

I grabbed Vicky's hand, looked for Steph and walked over to her. "Do you want to eat here or go somewhere private ladies?" I asked trying to talk more normally.

"Oh, we have to eat here Michael, it's too late to cook now" Vicky said as she led the way making sure Steph was coming.

I took my bag from Steph and tried to smile. She looked up at me with a face that I couldn't read.

"I'm sorry if that made you upset Steph. I keep that bottled up pretty deep but he shouldn't have brought Vicky into it. Don't worry, I would never hurt a hair on your head Steph" I promised.

"I'm not sure how I feel right now Mike, I have to think it over for a bit before I can let you know" she said.

We went back in and they went to the cafeteria while I went to a nearby washroom to clean up the best I could. I looked in the mirror and saw I had a fat lip that was bleeding from his one punch and my hands were cut around the knuckles and were swollen. The right one had a big gash that wouldn't stop bleeding. I put my hands under some cold water to try and get the swelling to go down as the blood ran down the sink. I looked in the mirror and wondered if it was all worth it. I enjoyed playing the games but hated all the bullshit dealing with some of my supposed teammates.

I shut off the water and dried my hands and looked at them closer. A couple still oozed a bit of blood on the right hand and I picked out some dirt or flakes of something out of them and rinsed them again, wincing as the water stung the cuts. I dried them again and grabbed a couple towels to press up against the cuts.

I walked out to find Vicky, Steph, Amanda and Susan, along with Mark and John walking towards me.

"You ok Mike, you were in there a little longer than we thought you would take" asked John.

"I got a couple of cuts that won't stop bleeding and had some dirt and stuff in them so I tried to clean them a bit better" I said.

Susan came up and took my hands and looked at each cut and said "A couple need band-aids but no stitches I think, even this one on the right hand. We better get them cleaned up better though; they still look a bit dirty with something. Let's take him to the training room and get some stuff from Chris" she said taking over as she pulled me along.

I looked at Mark with an upraised eyebrow.

He laughed and said "She gets like this anytime someone is hurt. She's in the nursing program so she knows what she's doing Mike."

Susan piped up "A little more walking and less talking please gentlemen" in her version of the voice.

I looked over at the girls to see a grin on Vicky's face but Steph didn't look happy at Susan holding my hand. I looked back at Vicky and then directed with my eyes for her to look at Steph. She glanced at her and then looked back at me with a raised eyebrow which I just shrugged at.

We found the trainer's room crowded with the four plus Bobby and Chris inside. Susan took charge and sent the four out and sat me down on the second table while the others waited outside. She showed Chris my hands and then grabbed peroxide and iodine and cleaned the cuts. She had to get some tweezers to pull out some flakes that turned out to be paint flakes from the car hood.

When she thought she was done, she called Chris back over and he inspected them and my lip. They agreed that no stitches were needed and then she bandaged me up and put a plaster on my lip.

Chris had a more involved task with Bobby. He had stitched a cut on his cheek and on his nose after he had straightened it out. He had put plaster on his other cuts and taped his ribs. Bobby would have to go to the University dentist tomorrow for get a couple of teeth capped as well. He looked like crap with a black eye as well to add to his swollen face.

"So, Mr. Vickers decided he had to prove something Mike?" Chris asked.

"I guess so Chris. I'm afraid I got carried away when he brought my girlfriend into it" I replied.

"I'm surprised he's not in the hospital" he said looking at him in disgust.

Susan piped up "Vicky stopped him before he finished. He was about to get loose from all the guys pulling him back when she stepped in front of him and calmed him down. Bobby doesn't know how much he owes Vicky right now."

"Bobby, did you think you were tougher than Taylor Porter? Mike put him out of action for six months" Chris said as if he was talking to a simpleton.

Bobby didn't answer so Chris just kept working on him.

"Thanks Chris for the supplies and sorry for giving you more work" I told him.

"I get a few of these every year so no problem. Thanks Susan for taking care of him" Chris said.

"Yes, thank you Susan, you did a great job. You're going to be a great nurse" I told her.

"No problem guys it's all good practice. Now let's get some food!" she stated and led the way out.

We left and found Frank talking to John and Mark while Sam was talking to the four rookies. Everyone looked up and the coaches came over along with my friends.

"So, how are the hands Mike?" Frank asked.

"Ask the nurse here" I said indicating Susan.

"He's got a few cuts, but we stopped the bleeding and got all the dirt and paint chips out and wrapped them up. Chris and I agree that no stitches are needed. He can play but will have to have the bandages on and wrap them a bit. The lip's swelling should go down before Saturday as well" she informed everyone.

"That's good to hear anyway. Sam, what did they say?" asked Frank, indicating the four rookies.

Sam looked at them and said disgustingly "They went out there to teach Mike a lesson, hopping on Bobby's coattails. Bobby talked some trash and then called Mike's girlfriend a ... bad word and then swung and hit Mike first. This was after Mike tried to talk Bobby out of it. They had to help John and Mark pull Mike off of him. Then one of them was going to say something to his girlfriend and ended up on his back on the car hood."

"That matches John and Mark's story. Is that how it happened Mike?" Frank asked.

"Yes, that sounds about right. There were a few others around if you need other witnesses" I replied.

"We'll need them only if Bobby decides to tell us a different story, Mike. Ok, go get some supper and get some sleep. We'll talk more tomorrow on the bus" he said.

"Ok Frank. I'm sorry for all the hassle. I'm starting to think this wasn't such a good idea if so many guys don't want me on the team" I responded.

"Give us a chance to straighten some things out and we'll talk tomorrow ok, don't make any decisions for a couple of days ok?" Franks asked looking worried.

"Ok, I'll see you tomorrow" I answered.

We walked by the four idiots who looked at the floor as we passed and then we heard Sam call them to go with him while Frank went into the training room. The other couples led the way and Vicky and Steph walked on either side of me. We finally got to the cafeteria and all of us grabbed some food and walked over to some tables.

"I would just like to say thanks to everyone for having my back and I'm sorry if anyone got upset on how I acted" I said to everyone. "In retrospect, we should have avoided the whole thing rather than go out there."

"Bullshit Mike, those five would have jumped you and the girls if we weren't there. Those other four got off easy" Mark said angrily. "I can't speak for everyone but I have no problem with how you handled it, and most of the team will as well."

"For sure Mike" John agreed. "He brought it upon himself."

"Thanks guys, I appreciate the support now and out in the parking lot. I would have been real dicey if I had to take on all five of them at once" I said.

I looked at the four girls who piped up quickly.

"No problems here Michael, he got what was coming to him" said Susan.

"Agreed" said Amanda.

"I'm mad that you had to take that first punch Michael, now we can't kiss properly tonight" Vicky said. "And your poor hands, lucky only the backs are hurt or I'd be really pissed right now."

Everyone laughed for a minute and then looked at Steph.

"I'm just a friend of these two, more a study partner really so it doesn't matter what I think" she said.

"Of course it does, maybe even more than some of the others, because they're used to this kind of stuff happening in hockey, you're not" I said. "I hope we can still be study partners and friends after this?"

"I think so Michael. I was worried out there for you but when you manhandled him so easily I was relieved. You seemed almost out of control, even with the second guy. I worry for everyone around you when you are like that, it took six guys to pull you away from Bobby and you still broke free. I know you wouldn't hurt anyone intentionally, but when you're like that you could hurt an innocent bystander." She said.

Vicky spoke up "You're right Steph; he is very scary when he is like that. But he can control it with a bit of help. We were wrong to put him in that spot when we could have avoided it by staying inside and bringing the coaches into the picture. You were the only one with concerns and we should have listened to you."

"So, let's make a promise to stop the macho shit and avoid this crap if we can. I really don't need to prove anything to anyone as long as they keep the insults away from the girls" I said.

"Sounds good" replied John. "Now can we eat please, I'm starving."

We laughed and dug in, though I had to be careful because of the fat lip. It was pretty quiet as we ate which was fine with me as I didn't feel like talking. Soon enough, John had to say something.

"Are you seriously thinking of quitting hockey Mike?" he asked.

"I am. I really don't need to play. Look, I've had two fights in the two weeks I've been with the team and it's with our own players" I replied.

"Listen Mike that will stop after today I'm sure. The actual games won't have many fights because it's an automatic suspension for the game plus an additional game for each time you have been suspended for fighting before. The coaches won't allow you to fight because you are too valuable not to be on the ice" John explained.

"That's good to know. I'll listen to what the coaches have to say and play in Saturday's game and then make a decision after talking it over with Vicky" I stated.

"Wow, you really have him wrapped around your little finger, don't you Vicky" John said, trying to joke.

"Maybe next time I won't stop him when you're trying to hold him back Jonathon Reilly and we can discuss then how much I may or may not have Michael wrapped around my little finger" she said in her Voice.

The two guys winced and Amanda spoke up and said "John, you really know just how to insert your foot in your mouth don't you, you idiot."

"Sorry Vicky, I was just joking, really!" he said.

"Don't apologize to me, It's Mike you're calling, what's the term? Pussy whipped?" she said with fake sweetness.

"Sorry Mike, bad attempt at a joke. I'll keep my mouth shut from now on" he apologized.

"Good, because I really get irritated when she uses that tone of voice" I replied.

"Hence the warning I believe you said to the guys out there John" said Vicky. "You really should heed your own advice."

"Yes he should and he will Vicky" piped up Amanda while glaring at John.

"Ok, I'm going home now to lie down and try and relax. Again, thanks for your support and I will see you two in the morning and see you two after the weekend Ladies. Vicky and Steph, you ready to go?" I asked.

They nodded yes and quickly said goodbye and we left the cafeteria, listening to Amanda and Susan bitch at John. I just wanted to get somewhere quiet and shut my eyes for a bit.

"Steph, can you come over for a bit to talk some things over once I get Michael lying down for a bit?" I can drive you home later. I could use some company after what's happened" Vicky asked.

"Sure Vicky, I need to talk some things out too" she replied.

I got to my car and looked at the hood. There were big dents in it where the guys had landed and some smaller ones where it looked like I missed them and hit the car instead. I shook my head and opened the doors for the girls and then got in the driver's side and drove home. I led the way and opened my apartment and put my book bag down on my desk. I grabbed three aspirin and swallowed them with some water. I pulled out the list of stuff to bring and put it on the table and then went to the bedroom to lie down. Vicky and Steph came in and made sure I was ok and left after Vicky gave me a soft kiss and hug.

"Thanks ladies, I'm glad you're here. Please wake me in a couple of hours. I need to pack and I want to see Steph before she goes" I said.

"Ok, Sweetie, see you in a couple of hours" replied Vicky.

"Have a good sleep Michael" added Steph.

I closed my eyes and must have fell asleep real quick because before I knew it, I was being shaken awake by the girls.

"What's wrong girls?" I asked groggily.

"It's time to wake up Sweetie, you wanted to pack and say good night to Steph" Vicky said.

I sat up and they both held me up until I shook off the rust.

"Thanks girls, has it been two hours already?" I asked.

"Yes and you were sleeping like a log in here, a loud snoring log I might add" giggled Steph.

"I do not snore, it was just heavy breathing because of the lip" I retorted.

"Sure Sweetie, that's what it was" said Vicky laughing.

"Humph, I don't need to take this abuse from you two lovelies; I have a whole hockey team that wants to abuse me" I replied with a hurt look.

"Oh, you poor baby Michael, Waa Waa" she replied as Steph laughed. "Now get up and check our packing job for you."

I got up and went out to see that they had in fact laid out all the stuff I would need, from a full book bag with laptop, toiletries and all of the necessary clothes.

"Thanks bunch ladies, it looks like everything is all there" I said. "You didn't have to do that. I thought you two had to talk things over?"

"We talked while we gathered things Sweetie. We enjoyed doing it for you, didn't we Steph?" Vicky asked.

"Sure was. It was nice to pack for a man. I've never done that before" she replied with a smile.

"Funny, I couldn't get her to stop playing around with your clothes. I think she wants a T-shirt of yours for a nightshirt Michael" Vicky teased.

"Vicky, I didn't do that" she gasped turning red-faced.

"Sure you can have a T-shirt Steph, Vicky and Becky both have one they have expropriated" I replied with a smile.

"They are all cozy and warm Steph, you'll love it to sleep in, especially if you can still smell Michael on it" Vicky said.

"Ok, if you both want me to have one, I will. Thanks guys" she said softly.

"Ok, now, let's get this stuff into a suitcase or bag or something" Vicky directed.

I found a big gym bag and stuffed the clothes and toiletries in and got it zipped up.

"Thanks girls. Sorry about studying tonight Steph. Let's get you back to your dorm" I said.

We quickly drove her back, thanked her and watched as she walked into her dorm with one of my t-shirts in her bag.

"She is a cutie Michael, it's too bad we can't bring her into the group" Vicky sighed.

I looked over at her in surprise and said "Hey, she's a friend of ours. We don't need to complicate that by seducing her. We could really screw up our friendship."

"I know, but she's so sexy, don't you agree?" Vicky pushed.

"No, I don't. She's cute and pretty and a nice girl, we don't need to go any farther than that" I said angrily.

"Ok, Michael, enough said. All the girls we know are off limits" Vicky said sighing.

We got back home and I had a real quick shower and brushed my teeth before slipping into a pair of shorts and lying down on the bed. I dozed off waiting for Vicky to come back from her room and was startled awake when she slipped into the bed beside me.

"Sweetie, it's time for a good night kiss" said Vickie as she gently kissed the side of my mouth as I hugged her.

"Good night Honey, I'll see you in the morning" I replied.

"Good night Sweetie, have a good sleep" she said and then moved her head down to my chest and caressed my bare chest and stomach.

I slowly relaxed and fell asleep, dreaming of beating up a bunch of guys as more came every time I hit one of them...



-------

Chapter 19


I woke up groggily in the middle of the night with my lip and hands throbbing. I got up after moving Vicky to the side and went to the washroom and then took a couple of aspirin with a glass of water. I got back to bed and fell asleep quickly.

I woke again to the alarm buzzing and reached over to shut it off. It was only five thirty but I knew I should get up and get going to be at the arena for six thirty. I showered and shaved and slipped back in to bedroom to grab some comfy travelling clothes for the long bus ride.

I made myself some toast for breakfast and then when I was ready; I went in and looked in on Vicky.

"Honey, I have to get going, if you want to use the car you have to get up to drive me" I said.

She groaned and opened her eyes slowly.

"What time is it Michael?" she groaned.

"It's about six ten Darling. I have to be there at six thirty so you need to get up now if you want to use the car" I informed her.

"Fine, I'm up, I'm up" she said as she pushed herself up.

I helped her to stand and made sure she got into the washroom without hitting anything on the way.

I went in and made her a cup of instant coffee. She came out looking more awake and looking ready to go with her hair pulled up into a ponytail.

"You look good with your hair like that Vicky. You have a beautiful neck Darling" I said to her as I handed her the coffee.

"Thank you Sweetie for the compliment and the coffee. I really need it this morning" she replied and took a sip.

"Ok, two minutes to get dressed and off we go Michael" she said as she took the cup and walked over to her apartment, dressed in her night gown.

I watched her until she got in her apartment and then gathered my stuff and locked up the apartment. I carried my stuff to the car and put it on the back seat and was heading back when Vicky came up dressed in a t-shirt and sweatpants.

I gave her a hug and a kiss and then led her to the passenger side door.

"What was that for Michael?" she asked with a smile.

"You look so beautiful this morning Darling. I'm the luckiest man in the world to have you as a girlfriend. I'm going to miss you this weekend" I replied.

"Oh, thank you Sweetie, but I don't even have make-up on silly" she said.

"That's why I'm so lucky, you look that beautiful without make-up" I responded with a smile.

"Sure, tell me this when you're leaving for three days so I can't properly thank you Michael. I can't wait until you get home" she told me.

I started the car and we drove quickly over to the arena. I pulled into the parking lot and saw the bus was just pulling in.

"Ok, have a good weekend with Becky and the girls. You can use my apartment if you need to camp some girls over there. I'll see you two on Sunday" I said.

"Thanks Sweetie, we will have a good time. Becky and I will be waiting for you when you get back. So go have fun, study hard, have a great game and remember no women, ever" she stressed.

"Yes Ma'am" I replied and got out. She got out and walked around to the driver's side and gave me a gentle kiss as she wrapped herself around me.

I heard Frank's voice say "No wonder he goes berserk when someone pisses her off. Jesus, I'd cheerfully shoot someone if they made my girlfriend too pissed to send me off like that!"

Vicky stopped her kiss and looked at him with her hands on her hips and said "Frank, you did want him to play well didn't you?"

"Yes Vicky I do" he said with a smile.

"So let me finish my motivational technique without interruption please?" she said.

"Yes Ma'am" he replied with a chuckle and walked away.

She turned back and hugged me again and kissed the good side of my mouth. She went on her tippy toes and whispered in my ear "Sweetie, this is your motivation speech; Becky gets real horny if you hit someone hard, I get real horny if you get one or more assists, and we both get real crazy if you score one or more goals. If you do all three, you are going to have your world rocked when you get back. So, play as hard as you can and your ladies will make sure you enjoy the reward Sweetie."

"I'm suddenly very motivated to play very, very well Honey" I said with a grin.

"Good, we will be watching Michael, make us proud and come back to your women" she said.

I grabbed my bags and had just said good bye to Vicky when Fred Benson walked up.

"Hello, young lady, you must be Miss Waters, I'm Fred Benson, the head coach"

"Yes I am Mr. Benson, It's nice to meet you Sir" Vicky replied.

"I just wanted to come over and apologize in person for the incident last night. Both the words and the actions are intolerable and we have dealt harshly with all five of the people involved. I will be speaking to the whole team and there will be further actions taken to make sure everyone knows proper respect for women and teammates. Furthermore, I would like to thank you for controlling this young man here so no one was seriously hurt."

"Thank you for the apology Mr. Benson" Vicky responded. "It was a particularly insulting and hurtful comment so I am glad to hear that some action will be taken to ensure that the whole team respects the women associated with either team. It is the third incident in the last two weeks that I know of that some player has verbally or physically attacked women in or just outside the arena. The women's team and the girlfriends do not feel safe in that arena with some of your players. There has been some talk about filing sexual harassment charges against some of the players or the whole team in general, to get some action taken."

"It seems that I have let things slide too long around here and have been too lenient" Fred stated. "Rest assured extra efforts by me and my staff will be taken, including counselling and whatever else is recommended. Please, if possible, let me have the weekend and a couple days in the new week to get the proper people in place to monitor and set up everything before that action is taken" he asked.

"I will talk with some of the girls who have expressed that intent and try to get you a few days Sir. It will help that the team is away but some supervision of the players not on the trip should be part of the plan for this weekend if they will be here at the arena. It is usually those players that are involved in a lot of the issues as they have more unsupervised time and are usually the younger, more arrogant players" Vicky suggested.

"Young lady, you are correct in your points and before I leave, I will have that group of players corralled and under heavy supervision. "Is there anything else you can suggest?" he asked.

"Not at this time, but I will discuss this with the women's team and all the girlfriends and provide Michael with that input upon his return. I will leave a message on his cell if something important comes up that has to be addressed sooner. Thank you for taking this issue seriously sir." She responded.

"Thank you Miss Waters for your help in this matter and rest assured it will be taken care of. Mike, I must compliment you on your excellent taste in a girlfriend. Not only is she a beautiful young lady, she is also very intelligent and direct woman. I can see why several people have told me to ensure that Miss Waters does not become the least bit annoyed" he said to me with a smile.

"I'm pretty sure there is not one person on the team who wants that to happen, especially me Mr. Benson." I said seriously.

"Gentlemen, enough about me, you have a trip to get ready for and players to corral. I'm sure Mr. Benson will take all appropriate actions necessary and the players will stop harassing both the ladies and Mike. Mike and I will have a discussion on how we both feel about our participation with the team by Wednesday after things have been implemented. It was nice to meet you Mr. Benson" Vicky spoke.

"And you Miss Waters" he replied. "Have a good weekend."

"Thank you Sir, I will" she responded. "See you later Michael, have a good trip and a great game."

"Ok Vicky, I'll call you tonight if I can. Have a great weekend" I replied as I handed over the keys and closed her door after she got in. I waved as she pulled away and walked over to the bus to put my gym bag in the bottom compartments and carried my book bag onto the bus and found an empty seat near the back. I pulled out my logic books and finished off the assignment and started to read ahead until the coaches came around and made sure everyone was accounted for and team assistants came around and made sure the rookies had everything they needed. I went over the checklist with one of them and told him I had everything, including my ID. Finally everyone was set but before the bus got moving Fred got up and had a few things to say.

"Some of you might know that last night there was an incident involving several members of this team. A young lady was spoken to in an intolerable manner and a fight ensued. Upon further investigation, it was found that five members were going to jump one other member and his girlfriend in the parking lot. Suffice it to say that things didn't work out as planned for the five.

This and other incidents have brought several things to a head.

One, some or many people are not happy with decisions the coaches have made in regards to personnel and have taken matters into their own hands.

Two, multiple incidents involving players of this team have been brought to light in regards to how women have been treated in and around this arena. Verbal, physical and sexual abuse has happened with witnesses to these incidents and with terrible consequences for all parties involved.

Third, several ladies, both girlfriends and members of the women's team are considering filing sexual harassment charges against players and the team as a whole. Should this come to pass, with the cases and witnesses that can be produced, several players and possibly the whole program will be shut down.

Fourth, several players have become so disgusted with these events that they are seriously considering quitting or transferring to another college.

I have never in all my years coaching this team had this much trouble, this much disrespect for women, this much disharmony and frankly I am disgusted with the lot of you. That any team member thinks so poorly of members of the opposite sex, women that could be sisters, daughters or granddaughters of someone in this bus, to verbally assault or worse physically assault them is despicable. I have spoken to the Athletic Department head and they will be helping with obtaining counselling, workshops, additional supervision and extra security in and around the arena to protect these ladies from you until this team can be trusted. It is hoped that with these steps implemented immediately that the ladies in question, can be convinced that additional steps do not have to be taken.

In regards to how a large proportion of this team has been objecting to certain personnel decisions the coaches have made, I have this to say. All of you are here by invitation of this University to have the privilege to play hockey here. All of you can be uninvited just as easily. For anyone to have the arrogance to feel that they know best on who should be on the ice is ludicrous and will not be tolerated. Any such verbal or physical intimidation or abuse will be met with harsh discipline.

I am not happy with the leadership on this team for not stepping up and stopping or at least reporting the abuse. It is a travesty that you are called the captains and assistant captains of this team and you could let this happen. Those honours can be taken away as well, should your leadership not improve, which would not look good when it comes to a further career in hockey.

Finally, to those who are disgusted with what has been happening, I join you in this disgust and pledge to show you that my staff and I will straighten out this team very quickly, even if it means we are fielding a team filled with members of the house intramural league, that would love the opportunity to play for the University of Michigan Wolverines. Please delay any decisions until we can show everyone how serious we are to change the attitudes, the culture and the harmony of this team.

We will be having meetings with all of you individually on this trip and when we get back. There will be mandatory team meetings where School councillors will conduct seminars and possible investigations.

Now, does anybody object or have issue with anything I have said or plan to do? Does anyone think they know better than the coaches on who should be playing for the Wolverines? Does anyone have a different opinion on the way any and all women period should be treated? If so, then please gather your stuff and leave the bus."

No one spoke or got up.

"Then I take it that we are on the same page. We have some ladies joining us on the bus as team assistants, training personnel and tutors. We also have some councillors that are being rushed over to join us on the trip. Should any of these women be spoken to, touched or even looked at inappropriately, the person will be summarily thrown off the bus into the hands of the nearest police station up on charges. Is that understood? I was going to say Gentlemen but you don't deserve that title. I asked if that was understood?!"

We all answered "Yes Sir".

"Ok let them in please Frank. The ladies will sit up front so clear out some of the front rows now! I don't give a shit if someone has to sit in the damn washroom!"

The front four rows were vacated and the guys came back to find a seat. They quickly found seats until for some reason, only I had an open seat beside me.

There was muted discussion with the ladies and the other staff and they sat down. One last group of two older gentlemen joined us at the last minute and were found seats. Then the bus finally got under way.

Fred spoke up "I want the captains and assistant captains up here now. Clear out the next set of seats and have them sit where the captains were."

There was more movement as the players switched seats. Fred went in on them roughly, tearing a strip off of each one of them, quietly but since no one was talking, we could all here the tone, if not all the words. After about fifteen minutes they were told to go back to their seats but to leave the seats up front empty. It was interesting to see what they would do, stand up, or make someone else stand.

They were angry as they came back and found no seats available except the one beside mine. Steve Mason, the defenceman, sat down beside me while the others glared at him. They looked at each other and then sat on armrests where they could rather than kick someone out of their seats. Hazing rookies was not on the agenda this morning I guessed.

Fred introduced one of the older ladies and she got up and gave the freshman sexual harassment speech to the bus. At the end she gave the University policy on offenders and the actions that could take place.

Fred thanked her and said "You have all heard the speech and the appropriate discipline. Those actions will be enforced to the maximum for any incident by any member of this team. Furthermore immediate dismissal from the team and immediate revoking of any scholarship will occur. Are the rules and discipline understood?"

"Yes Sir" we answered.

The morning continued with a teamwork speech by another councillor and then a leadership instructional video was played on the monitors hanging in a couple of spots.

All of it was stopped when we crossed the border into Canada for the shortcut up to Niagara Falls to cross into New York again. We all showed our ID and our personal bag and then got back on the bus. There was changing of seats but at least I got one. We continued on our way and they left us alone for a bit until the rookies were called up front. I grabbed my bag and made my way up to the front. Fred just said to sit in the empty row and then the student tutors went over our studies.

A girl came up and asked "Hi, I'm Pam, and you are?"

"Mike Stewart" I replied.

"Ok, let me get your sheet" she said as she looked through a bunch in her hands. "Ok, here it is, so Computer Science major, with programming and logic, Algebra and Creative writing. A little more intense than most hockey players so I don't know how much assistance we have on this trip, the Algebra and maybe the Creative writing perhaps. But, let's pull out the assignments you have due and see where you are at first."

I opened up my bag and got out the logic assignment that was due Monday that I had just finished and showed her that first.

"Ok, good, that one's done, do you have a new one yet?" she asked.

"Not until we hand in this one Monday" I replied. "I've read ahead and was going to start the questions at the back of the chapters when all of this started."

"Ok, that subject's covered. Let's do the programming next" Pam suggested.

I quickly booted up my computer and showed her the assignment that was due Tuesday that I already handed in and the progress I had made on the new assignment not due until Thursday.

"Alright, two for two" she said. "How about Algebra next Mike?"

I showed her the finished assignment due Monday and told her the plan was to read ahead today after finishing the logic reading, and do the questions in the back of the chapter as well.

"And finally Creative Writing Mike" said Pam.

I pulled out the poetry assignment and my attempt that hadn't been looked at by Vicky yet and showed it to her.

"My rough draft is complete but I know it needs work. I will have to get my girlfriend to help me on Sunday when we get back to help edit it" I told her.

"Well, at least there's something we can help you with I think. Let me get Sandy over here and see if she can take a look at it for you now" Pam said.

She went over and talked to a pretty redhead and they switched places with Sandy coming over to me.

"Hi Mike, I'm Sandy, I hear you have a creative writing assignment that might need editing" she said with a smile.

"Yes, it's a poetry writing assignment and I have a rough draft but I know it needs work" I answered as I presented it to her.

She read both the assignment and the rough draft over and then asked if she could write on it. After hearing a yes, she took out a red pen and marked up the poem, making suggestions, moving some things around and striking out some others.

"Ok, why don't you rewrite that and we'll see how it looks Mike" she said with a smile.

"Sure Sandy, I'll do that right now. Thanks" I replied.

"You're welcome. I'll be back in a bit" she said and went back to relieve Pam.

I quickly wrote the poem on my laptop but couldn't print it out. I showed it to Sandy on the screen when she came back and she changed one more thing on the screen and then pronounced it done.

"Thanks for your help Sandy. I appreciate it" I said.

"No problem. Glad to have helped" she replied with a big smile.

She went back and Pam came up to me and said "Ok, that's it. Read ahead and do some the questions at the back of the chapter and you're ahead of the game Mike. It's a pleasant surprise to see a guy with a hockey scholarship so much into his school work. I'm impressed."

"Thanks, but I'm not here on a hockey scholarship, it's a computer science one. Hockey's just an extracurricular activity Pam" I informed her.

"Wow, now I'm even more impressed. Next you'll be telling me you're a starter!" she said laughing.

"Yes I am actually, second pair right defenceman at your service" I responded.

"Really? Well good for you. Keep up the good work. Ok, you can go back to your seat and read ahead. Let me know if you need any help, but I'm sure you'll be fine" she instructed.

"Thanks for your help Pam" I said as I packed my stuff and went back to find a seat finding one near the back.

I sat down beside Gary Crawford who just nodded and kept reading when I heard someone say "Hey, no rookies back here."

I looked back to see who had said it but before I could see who it was, Gary stood up and said "Whoever said that shit better shut his mouth before it gets shut for him. There will be no hazing or dividing of ranks on this or any other trip. If anyone has an issue with that, the other captains and I will be pleased to escort you off the bus, preferably while it's still moving."

There was silence from the back and Gary sat back down.

"Thanks Gary" I said as I took out my logic book.

"No problem. We don't need that shit on top of everything else, do we?" he asked.

"No, we don't" I answered and got reading. I got the logic reading and questions done before we stopped for lunch in Niagara Falls just after noon. Afterwards, we drove past the falls on the Canadian side and then crossed over on the bridge and got out to show our Ids again at US customs.

Gary had someone sitting with him when I got back on so I found another seat, with Mark this time.

"How's the hands Mike?" he asked.

"Still pretty painful but at least I can flex the fingers so nothing is damaged except skin" I replied.

"Have Chris or one of his assistants look at them and change the bandages as soon as you can. They can accelerate the healing and give you something for the pain" he instructed me.

"Ok, if you think so" I said.

"Hey, with a girlfriend like Susan, I pick up things" he chuckled before putting his headphones back on and closing his eyes.

We got back on the road and after making sure Mark watched my bag on my seat, I went up to the front where the coaches and several of the other adults were talking.

"Yes, Mr. Stewart?" Fred asked.

"Sorry to interrupt, but Mark suggested Chris or one of his assistants take a look at my hands as soon as possible" I replied.

"Ok, Mike. Chris?" Fred said.

"Good idea, we can do it up here Mike" Chris said as he jumped up and pulled me to an empty seat.

A cute pixie faced red headed assistant, named Wendy I think, brought a kit and helped unwrap Susan's work. They looked over each hand closely and checked for any infection. Frank and one of the older gentlemen came over to look at them before Chris and Wendy wrapped them up.

"How do they look Chris?" asked Frank.

"Not too bad Frank" Chris replied. "We need to ice them to get the swelling down a bit and then let them breathe for a while before wrapping them up again. The cuts aren't bleeding right now but they could open up again. Wendy and I will have to monitor them a few times today and tomorrow. If I had to give you a go/no go assessment right now, it would be 75% go. That should improve by tomorrow and we will take extra precautionary steps with his equipment to protect him. Mobility and function of the hands are ok, more just worry about opening a cut during the game."

"Ok, Mike, move up front so they can monitor you better for the rest of the trip today. In fact, Wendy, if you don't mind, could you sit beside him for the rest of the trip? I don't think you need to worry about him doing anything inappropriate" said Frank dryly.

She laughed and said "Between knowing what he did for Susan last week and how Vicky would react I'm safer sitting with him than the Pope."

That got a laugh from the front of the bus. The older gentleman didn't get why everyone was laughing and shot Frank an inquiring look.

"Vicky is Mike's girlfriend and was the lady the rude comment was addressed to last night. She is also the reason Mr. Vickers is still able to walk rather than in intensive care at the moment."

"How so" he asked.

"Vicky happens to be a very intelligent beautiful young lady with the unique ability to control young Mr. Stewart here when six other men could not. I am also told her voice could freeze a rampaging elephant in his tracks when she is mad. Mr. Stewart gets angry when he hears that voice so he and most other sane men and women take great pains to not get Miss Waters annoyed. One of the other miss-guided boys last night looked at her the wrong way and found himself picked up like a sack of small potatoes and thrown on a car hood. Only her intervention stopped another painful lesson being administered.

"Would it be better for all concerned that both Mr. Stewart and Miss Waters be removed from the team?" he asked.

There were gasps from Wendy and a few other people close by and winces from Chris and Frank.

Frank called Fred over and explained what the man had just said.

He frowned and spoke up. "George, it is definitely in your right to ask that question. What was not explained was that the young lady in question could be one of the ladies who might file the harassment suit against the team. She also is friends with the other ladies who have winnable claims should any of them care to file them. I had a long talk with Miss Waters and was impressed with the young lady. While she strikes me as a very intelligent fine young lady who is not out to grab headlines or a quick cash grab, I have the suspicion that she would have no hesitation to utterly destroy both the hockey program and the athletic department if she found cause to. And removing Mr. Stewart without just cause would, in my opinion, cause her to "release the Dogs of War" so to speak."

I really had enough of all the shit and got up, went back to my seat beside Mark and closed my eyes as I put my head back. This really wasn't worth the hassle I thought to myself. I dozed off for a bit and was woken by a cold sensation on my hand. I opened my eyes to see Wendy tying a cold compress to my hand. She saw I was awake and indicated that she had one for the other hand. I lifted it up for her and she slipped the other one it and tied it down as well. She said she would check on me before supper and went back up to the front.

I decided to get some more reading done and started on my Algebra. Over the next hour I got through a chapter and the questions and I took a break to go to the washroom in the back. After stretching my legs I sat back down and did the next chapter and its questions. I finished and had the books put away when I saw Wendy coming back with her kit in her hand.

"Chris thought it better to keep you from the AD so we'll do this back here Mike" she said.

"Ok, thanks Wendy" I replied.

She took off the cold compresses and then inspected the cuts. She individually bandaged a few of them and then wrapped the whole area up for protection.

"Ok, we'll check them before bedtime tonight and again in the morning Mike" she informed me before heading back up.

I laid my head back and fell asleep for a bit until we pulled into Albany New York for supper. We ate at a large buffet restaurant that had been contacted prior to the trip and headed back out. I pulled out my programming textbook and read ahead a few chapters until I got tired of reading for the day. I looked out the window for a bit as we drove through Massachusetts, driving around Boston and up the coast into New Hampshire. I had never been to the east coast and it was nice to see the old houses and towns.

We finally arrived at the hotel in Durham New Hampshire at 10:30pm and were checked into our rooms by 11:00pm. I was sharing a room with John so he called Amanda while I had a shower and we switched right after. I called at 11:20 and Vicky picked up on the third ring.

"Hi Honey, we're finally here. How was your day?" I asked.

"Hi Sweetie, I'm glad you made it safe" she replied. "My day was busy as usual for lab day. Becky is here and we're finishing a movie. We had a nice dinner and a good chat before we came back here. So, how was the trip?"

"Well, Fred read everybody the riot act and we had councillors giving us speeches and lectures on teamwork and leadership" I started. "Then a tutor went through each rookie's assignments like we were in grade school to make sure we were up to date. I did get help with the poem though so it wasn't all bad. Let's see, I read ahead in Algebra, Logics and Programming so I'm all ready for Monday. Finally, I had my hands looked at by Chris and Wendy and they iced them down and re-bandaged them. I did have an incident with an older gentleman named George that was referred to as the AD — that might be the Athletic Director - while they were looking at my hands. He asked about you and after Frank explained a bit about you, then asked and I quote 'Would it be better for all concerned that both Mr. Stewart and Miss Waters be removed from the team'.

Fred was called over and he informed him about you and the others with the harassment claim possibilities and then he said, let me get this straight 'I have the suspicion that she would have no hesitation to utterly destroy both the hockey program and the athletic department if she found cause to. And removing Mr. Stewart without just cause would, in my opinion, cause her to "release the Dogs of War" so to speak.'

I got so disgusted with everything I just left them talking about it and went back to my seat. Wendy, Chris's assistant had to come back and finish there because they were still going at it."

"So do you know their decision yet Michael?" she said in the voice.

I winced and said "Vicky, please don't use that on me, I've already got a headache and in pain. I do not know their decision. No news is good news I guess. I'll let you know as soon as I can in the morning. I'm sorry for getting you involved in all this. I'm really leaning to just walking away from this shit, playing hockey for the University doesn't feel like much of a privilege to me."

"Sorry Michael, I know you can't stand it but I am furious with those people. If they force you off the team I will make them pay. The coaches will be coaching pee wee in the South American rain forest and the pompous ass of an AD will be directing the kiddies wading pool in Fairbanks Alaska when I'm through with them, so help me God" she spat out.

"I know you will. But let's give it a day and then we will talk and make some decisions next week Honey. It's nice to know you have my back Vicky. Ok, I have to go, give Becky a kiss and hug for me and try not to let this affect your weekend with the girls" I said.

"Ok, Michael. Listen; if we don't talk before the game, promise me you will try your absolute hardest. I want you to show them what they could have had if you decide to leave. I promise you a fantastic blow-job if you break a glass panel tomorrow on top of all our other incentives Sweetie" she said sexily.

"You my darling, got yourself a deal. I'll try to call you before the game to see if you or Becky have any more proposals to inspire me. Alright Honey, have a goodnight" I said.

"You too sweetie, Becky says the same" she replied.

"Wish her a good night too. Talk to you tomorrow Vicky" I said and we hung up.

John had been in the room for a bit of that conversation and he asked "Wow, I didn't know you were thinking of walking away from this Mike?"

"It hasn't been much fun John and I came to get an education, not play a game. With so many players and now even the AD not wanting me on the team, it's become more of a hassle then what it's worth" I responded.

"I understand Mike, but you could be really good. This could be the stepping stone to the NHL for you" he said.

I laughed and replied "Now that's funny. In two weeks I've gone from intramural hockey to an NHL prospect and I've played one game in the last four years."

"I've seen weirder things happen Mike" he replied.

We heard a knock on the door and I went to open it. Wendy was there with her kit.

"Time for bandage change Mike" she said and told me to sit down while she pulled up a chair.

She quickly inspected the cuts, cleaned them again gently and then wrapped them in protective gauze for the night.

"Ok, I'll be back before breakfast to inspect and tape them for practice Mike" she informed me.

"Thanks a bunch Wendy and have a good night. You ok getting back to your room?" I asked.

"I think so Mike, I'm just down one floor" she said.

"Hey it's late, let me walk you down, it will only take a minute" I replied as I got up and grabbed my room key.

We walked quickly to the stairs and passed a pair of guys who looked back at us. I turned and glanced back but they kept going as we went down the stairs. I got her to her room and she thanked me and I said no problem and left as she locked the door. I got back to my room and lay down on the bed.

John was already lying down so I made sure the alarm was set for 6:00am and shut off the light. I fell asleep dreaming of Vicky in a courtroom interrogating George the AD until he cried...



-------

Chapter 20


I woke up Saturday morning not knowing where I was for a minute and trying to find the damn alarm button. I pressed every button on the clock before it shut off. John was a deep sleeper as he never even stirred. I put on some workout shorts and t shirt, grabbed a towel and my room key and went down to the main floor to locate the workout room of the hotel. I found it by following the signs and used the key card to open the door. There were a few weight machines a well as a treadmill, stationary bike and an elliptical. After stretching I got on the elliptical and started off slowly for a bit and after about ten minutes I upped the resistance and sped up to get my heart working.

I stayed on for forty five minutes and then switched over for a light weight routine for each muscle group. I finished in about half an hour and then met Chris and Frank in the lobby.

"Morning Frank, Chris" I said.

"Mike, you're up early" said Chris.

"Yeah, I wanted to get in some exercise so I got in some elliptical did some weights too. I'm not used to having a whole day without some sort of exercise so it felt good to get the heart pumping. So what's the schedule for today? You guys never told anyone what the plan was, or at least not me?" I said.

"Damn-it you're right" Frank swore. "We better go around and wake everyone up and let them know Chris. Ok, here's the quick plan — breakfast from 8 to 9. Get dressed in casual clothes and head to practice for 9:30 to 11. Get back here and have lunch from 11:45 to 12:30. Down time, from 12:30 to 4, dinner from 4 to 4:45, get dressed in good clothes and pack. Head to arena for 5:30, pre-skate at 6 to 6:45 go back in to the locker room for final instructions and game at 7:30. After the game, get dressed in casual clothes and get on the bus and sleep on the drive home. We hope to get back to Ann Arbour by noon."

"Ok, thanks Frank, I'll wake John and see you for breakfast at 8:00am" I replied.

Mike, we need to look at your hands after your shower so we will come to your room in 20 minutes ok?

"Ok, thanks Chris" I agreed.

I quickly went up and woke up John so that he could gradually wake up while I had a quick shower and shave. I was out in fifteen minutes and got dressed in casual clothes and got John moving with the fact that Wendy and Chris would be here in five and breakfast was in twenty minutes.

I heard a knock and let the two of them in and we got to work. Chris inspected the hands closely and seemed pleased. The cuts seemed to be scabbed over pretty good. They covered each major cut and then gauzed up both hands for practice.

"Mike, they look better than I expected" he explained. "Take it easy in practice, light shots and no contact if you can help it. We will inspect them after practice and let them breathe and then do it all again for the afternoon practice. I'm looking at 90% for playing as long as nothing opens up later today OK?"

"Sounds good Chris, thanks" I answered.

"Ok, Wendy will tape you up while I head to the rink" he said as he left.

John came out of the washroom, already dressed and he headed down while Wendy worked on my hands.

"So, do you work full time for Chris or is this part of your school training" I asked.

"Part of school training. Third year students get assigned to each of the major teams for a semester to learn the trade so to speak. I'm learning tons and it's great to be assigned to the hockey team" she responded enthusiastically.

"Well, you should do great, you do good work" I complimented her.

"Thanks Mike, I try" she replied. "Ok, that should do for practice. Come see me after practice and we'll inspect them again. Now, let's get you fed."

"Sounds good, thanks Wendy" I said as we left the room and went down to the restaurant to get in line for the buffet style breakfast. We grabbed plates and piled on the food and she found a seat with the training staff while I sat by myself and thought about the team and whether I wanted to be a part of it. I watched as some of them interacted with each other and couldn't make up my mind yet. I liked a few of the guys, the coaches and the training staffs were professional and attentive and the team was well taken care of. If the extracurricular stuff was eliminated, it wouldn't be a bad experience I thought. I loved the time on the ice best so I planned to play to show everyone, including myself, what I could do.

I finished eating breakfast and went up to grab my cell phone and my creative writing textbook to read ahead in that subject as well. I went back down and saw the bus pull up to the front door and went out to grab a seat and read. Everyone started filing in bunches until the team assistants came around and checked off people on their lists before we took off.

Fred got up and addressed the team.

"Today is about hockey men and showing everyone you belong on this team, that this team belongs on the same ice as the other team, and that this team is not to be taken lightly. The Wildcats will not be taking this game lightly, they are out to prove they can beat the Wolverines and won't want to be embarrassed in their own house. They are a hard physical team, we need to be harder, nastier and make them back down first."

"For the practice this morning, we will have a longer warm up skate, a longer shoot around and then we will practice special teams and then have a no hit scrimmage. They will be watching so we won't run our special plays we put in just for them."

"Any questions?" he asked.

There were none so he sat down. I read until we pulled up to the arena. We went in and looked at the ice rink for a few minutes until we were led down to the visitor's dressing room. We got changed and onto the ice to stretch and skate. It felt good to skate after a day off and we all had an extra jump in our step. We built up a good sweat before they switched to shooting on both goalies. I kept my shots easy for a bit, testing the hands, but they seemed fine and I tried a few harder shots with no extra pain.

Special teams practice and the scrimmage went off without any issues and Chris and Wendy inspected my hands and were pleased with the lack of bleeding or swelling. After getting a light gauze wrap on them, I joined the team as they boarded the bus and we back to the hotel just in time for a big lunch. Fred invited anyone that was interested to watch the film of the Wildcat's first game in the lounge. The rest could lounge around the hotel in their rooms or in the pool but everyone was expected back to the restaurant for a light dinner at four.

I was surprised that only about a third of the team took Fred up on the offer to watch the game tape. I sat down near Ian to watch and listen to the coaches' analysis and advice. We pointed out players and plays that we had to be cognisant of to each other and I made some notes of things I wanted to talk to John about.

When the game film was done, I went back to my room and lay down on my bed for a nap after setting the alarm. I fell asleep quite easily and woke up to the alarm blaring. I washed up and packed my stuff except my suit and joined the team for a light supper. We then quickly got changed, packed the rest of our stuff and carried both our bags down to the bus. I had finished all of the reading I needed to get done so I just looked out the window as we drove to the arena.

We got dressed and while we had a few minutes, called Vicky and the girls.

"Hey there Honey, I can't talk long but no one's talked to me and I'm dressed for our last practice so you ladies should see me in an hour and a half on the ice" I told Vicky.

She replied "That's great, how are your hands holding up?"

"Pretty good actually, but we're taking it easy so they hold out for the game. We'll wrap them up tight and hope for the best. I'm not coming out of the game until the hand falls off" I answered.

"That's good that they are ok, but don't ruin your hands permanently for one game Sweetie, I love your hands and what they do to me" she said sexily.

I heard the other girls chime in "We want to see what he hands can do for us too."

Vicky yelled at them "Hey, back off you vultures, you haven't come up with the stud payment yet."

"Ahem, stud payment?" I asked.

"Hey, I could get rich renting you out to these ladies. They seem to like your tush for some reason Sweetie" she said with a laugh.

"Yeah, because it's hot and tight and sexy" I heard a voice, maybe Jessica's shout out.

"Well, yes it is Ladies, I must admit. Sorry about your luck" Vicky replied.

"Just so you know it looks like the plan is to be back by noon. We'll be driving through the night, and we're leaving right after the game" I informed her.

"Sounds good" said Vicky. "So, good luck and make Becky and I wet just watching you tear it up out there tonight Michael. If you can call me before you go on, if not, call us before you get to sleep ok Sweetie?"

"I'll try. You all have fun and I'll talk to you as soon as I can. I have to go now Vicky, Bye!" I replied.

"Ok, bye Michael" she replied quickly as we hung up.

I put the phone away and left the locker room with the team and got on the ice to stretch. There were a few people in the stands watching us but after glancing at them once I put them out of my mind. I joined in a vigorous warm-up skate and shooting practice before we did simple two on two half rink rushes to get people in the flow. All too soon our time was up and we went back into the locker room to allow the rink to be cleaned. Chris and Wendy did a final re-wrap of my hands while Fred gave a last speech. We sat and relaxed for ten minutes while waiting for the game to start. I looked over at Ian and saw how nervous he was so I went over to talk to him.

"Ian, you look nervous, just like I was. Don't worry, once you're out there everything will come back to you and you will react instinctively. Just follow the plan for dump ins and in doubt ice the puck if you have too. In the offensive zone, when in doubt, back away rather than get caught. Steve will back you up. Don't panic, everyone will help out if you get in trouble, so don't compound the mistake by taking a penalty" I explained to him.

"Ok Mike thanks. I don't want to screw up" he said.

"Hey, we all screw up sometime. Now is the time to screw up and let you get experience. So lighten up and try to enjoy the experience.

We heard the five minute warning buzzer and, as everyone stood up and got the blood flowing, I quickly called Vicky.

"Ok, we're going on in a couple minutes, Vicky" I said.

"Michael, good luck and show them why they need you more than you need them. I want you remember what's waiting for you when you get back but also remember the crappy way they have treated you so far and take it out on the other team" she said using the voice.

"Ok, now you're making me mad Vicky, did you have to do that just before the game? I asked annoyed.

"Quit whining and go put someone through the boards Michael" she said coldly as she hung up.

I put the phone down before I threw it across the room and got up angrily. We filed out and had a two minute skate before only the first line stayed on the ice. The national anthem was sung and then the game was set to begin.

John looked over at me and said "What's wrong Mike, you looked pissed. Did one the other team say anything to you while you were skating by?"

"No, I just talked to Vicky and she used that damn tone on me. I fucking hate it when she does that" I growled.

"Oh shit, take it out on them, not us ok Mike?" he said looking worried. "Keep it controlled and don't fight with anyone."

I just looked at him and nodded then looked out on the ice fuming as the game started. There were a couple rushes by the first lines and then it was time for change. We jumped on as the puck was dumped in their zone. John and I waited at the blueline as they came up the ice and dumped it behind me into the corner as their winger rushed in to grab it. I let him get to it first and then pasted him to the boards with a clean shoulder check and then passed the puck to John around the boards. Their winger got up slowly but made it back to the bench as I rushed up the ice to join the play making it a brief five on four until his replacement could get back into the play.

I wasn't covered because of that so I skated into the zone down the middle of the ice and Gary fed me a pass that I stepped into with all the anger I felt. Unfortunately, I shot high and whistled it right past the goalie smashing the back Plexiglas into small pieces. Well at least I get a blow-job out of it, thinking about Vicky's promise. I skated back to the bench while the maintenance crew got out their stuff to clean and replace the panel. The place was buzzing which was better than the boos for the hit on their player.

Frank came over as I sat down and said "Nice shift Mike. Keep up the intensity but play smart. Shoot one more high and then shoot low as they get out of way."

John piped up "Don't worry, he talked to Vicky and she used the tone on him. He won't be settling down for a while."

Frank winced and shook his head and said "That girl is going to be the death of someone."

He walked away and I saw him mention it to Fred and saw him look down the line at me and then say something back to him. Frank walked back to our end and said softly "No fighting Mike, skate away from anyone who says something or tries to pick a fight. John, pull him away from anything that looks bad. His hands can't take it"

John looked at me and nodded back to Frank. We sat for a bit until they had it cleaned up and then the second line along with John and I were sent back out for the face-off just outside their zone. John whispered to use the D play on this if we could and I nodded as I lined up.

Henry, our second line centre, won the draw back to John and he dumped it deep into the opposite corner where our right winger went after their defence, pressuring him to pass it up the boards to their winger near me. I had skated in as per the play we were running and hit him hard just as he got the slow pass. The puck squirted free and Henry picked it up with a clear path to the net as the winger and the defenceman were right against the boards and their centre was caught flat footed. That pulled the other D over to stop Henry from having a clear shot and left Ron, our left winger, open for a second for a quick re-direct of Henry's pass into the wide open left side of the net for a quick goal.

Their fans booed as the red light came on signalling a goal as we congratulated Ron. We skated back and sat down, replaced by the first line and first D pair as they were well rested.

The announcer came on their PA system and gave out the scoring summary "Wolverines goal by Ron Zonk, assisted by Henry Black and Mike Stewart. Time of the goal 2:15."

Just like that using a set play we were up one to nothing. Everyone was patting Ron and Henry for the good play. The coaches behind the Wildcat's bench were mad and yelling at their players, trying to motivate them and correct the mistakes. I turned to Ian and warned him what they would try to do and to follow the plan to let them get the puck so he could hit them.

They came out flying and trying to hit everything in sight. All the practice we had paid off as our D calmly wrapped the puck up the boards and sidestepped the big hit. The first line counter attacked and got a good shot on net for a face-off in their zone. Ian and Steve went on with the third line and they kept them pinned in their own zone, working the cycle deep and finally getting a good scoring chance which the goalie stopped and hung on for another whistle. John and I went on with the fourth line and the wildcats, having the last change on home ice, put on the first line to try and take advantage of the mismatch. They won the draw and we backed off, setting up our version of the centre ice trap, which usually forces teams to dump the puck in and chase it.

They did just that, dumping it to my corner as I wheeled back to get it. Their centre and winger converged on me to pay me back no doubt for the hits I had been doling out. I had a couple of steps so I decided to play the puck around hard to John and try and avoid the hits. I dodged one and leaned into the other check and we all hit the boards heavily and loudly. There was a big cheer for the hit but I stayed on my feet and got back into the play as we had a quick counter play going again. The two forwards were talking trash as we skated back in the play but I ignored them other than to remember their numbers for later. We got another great scoring chance from the play so taking a check was worth it.

The game continued for a few minutes with no major issues until one of our third line wingers got carried away and got called for a two minute slashing penalty. Our first line D pair was on at the time so John and I took the first penalty kill shift. They quickly got the puck into our zone and started passing it around while we stayed in the box. They got it back to their D and he took a slap shot which Mark stopped but gave up a rebound which John and I fought to clear. We had their forwards sticks tied up so they couldn't get at it and John kicked it to the corner where one of our wingers got to it first and slapped it down the ice. I looked up and saw only twenty five seconds had passed so we didn't change up. Their defenceman went back and retrieved the puck and carried it back up the ice, passing it off as our other winger pressured him.

This time they dumped it into John's corner and two of their forwards went after it. John decided not to touch the puck but hit the forward and tied up the puck instead, battling against both of them, eating up precious seconds. Our forward on that side slide closer to our net and when one of them broke free from John with the puck, angled him back to the boards so he didn't have a free way to the net. The puck got back to their open defenceman who faked a shot and passed it over to the other D on my side to take a slap shot. I had their third forward's stick tied up with mine and the shot went harmlessly off his leg into the corner. I raced him to the puck and got their first and lifted it high out of the zone. We quickly changed up and the new unit held them off the scoreboard too. Frank came over and congratulated us on the good penalty kill as we watched the other unit finish the penalty off by trying to spring our forward just getting out of the box for a breakaway.

Brad got the pass but one of their defenceman got back in time to make it a one on one. Brad decided to shoot using the defenceman as a screen, blocking the goalie's clear sight of the shot. He got a good shot off but the goalie saw it at the last minute and made a great glove save and stopped play for a face-off in their zone. Fourth lines went out for both teams along with Ian and Steve for defence. They had a spirited shift with both teams trying to hit whoever had the puck. When the puck was in our end a forward from each team got battling too hard and each got called for two minutes for roughing.

John and I went on and I thought it would be a good time to try out our old play for me to fake a slow skate up and then gun it and take a pass at full speed and see if we could surprise them. We would have more ice as we were going to be four on four. I just said our code word for the play to him and he nodded as we skated to take up our positions. Gary won the draw back to me and I went behind the net to set up the play as they backed off. I passed it to John and let him carry it up and skating up at a normal speed. They were stacked up at the blueline with our two forwards waiting there as well. John raised his stick to fake a dump in to his side and I took off to the blue line. He hit me going full stride and I was past the defenceman as he tried to reach out for me. The other D tried to get over but I had the angle and cut into the net. I faked a pass over to the wide open Gary which pulled the goalie out of position and I roofed it on the short side. I kept skating as the guys came over to congratulate me and we quickly went back to the centre ice for the face of f as the play only took twenty seconds. We were still four on four but they put out another line.

I heard the announcement for the goal as we were setting up for another run up the ice after the face-off win, "Wolverine goal scored by Mike Stewart, assisted by John Reilly. Time of the goal is 16:07.

John carried up and I faked another run to the blueline which had them backing up in panic. That allowed him to carry it in and set up a play. I had drawn two guys to me with my fake so John passed it down deep and our forwards drew the other two to them allowing John to move in and blow a shot by the goalie for another goal before the two covering me could get back into the play. I went over to John with a grin on my face and congratulated him.

The Wildcat coaches were going nuts and called a timeout while we sat on the bench listening to the announcement "Wolverine goal scored by John Reilly, assisted by Gary Crawford and Chris Appleton. Time of the goal is 16:39.

The time out worked in that they calmed down and tightened their coverage so the period ended at three to nothing. Not too shabby of a period, a couple of hits, an assist and a goal. Something for each of the girls plus the broken panel I thought. Chris and Wendy came over quickly and unwrapped my hands. They were a little swollen but the cuts didn't split open so we were pleased. Wendy taped me back up and said "There you go Mike, good as new. Keep up the great work out there."

"Thanks Wendy, you made it possible for me to be out there so great work on the hands!" I replied.

She blushed and went to help out another player. I sat back and ate a couple of orange slices and drank some water. Fred went to the centre of the room and had us listen up.

"Good work so far men, you are following our strategy and our counter plays very well. Their game plan is shot. So we have to prepare for something new. I suspect they will try to carry the puck in themselves and deke or flip it by our guys at the line. We need to set up a neutral zone trap to slow their rush down and the defence needs to be ready to back away from the line quickly. We might try having the defence hold the line on the one side and the other come across to get the puck if they flip it by him. We'll call that option B if you hear it from the bench."

"On offence, let's try and get the forwards involved a bit more" he said wryly as some guys laughed. "Seriously now, they will overcompensate covering the D, especially when John and Mike are on. You'll find mismatches down low and defenders skating around playing catch-up if they play the point tight or double team them."

"Finally, watch for their fourth line to become high energy and really try to hit guys through the boards" he cautioned. "That can energize this team and this building real quick. But if we use our counter plays we can use it against them as they won't be concentrating on defence. A quick flip out to centre and our point winger can get a breakaway" he concluded.

We sat for a bit and then got up to go out with the sound of the five minute buzzer. Fred came up and told me to watch out, they would be targeting me for the rest of the game.

"I know and I'm ready for them" I replied as we walked out.

First lines went back out to start the second period. This period each team had the long skate to the bench as the goalies switched ends but the teams kept the same benches. A bad change would cause an odd man rush against you and possibly a goal so it was a critical part of the period.

Fred was spot on with his predictions. They tried to carry in but were met at the line or in the neutral zone and were slowed up, allowing the defence or the offside winger to help corral the puck and quickly counter attack. They sent out their fourth line whenever John and I came on the ice. It didn't matter what line we had on. They got a couple of hits on me after I had cleared the puck but nothing big. Both times they hit me; we got great chances at the other end of the rink.

We got a break when their fourth line winger got tired and hooked our forward rather than trying to keep up with him. The first power play unit went out and Gary won the draw back to John. He faked a pass to me and put the puck in deep where the three forwards had a mismatch against the two defencemen, as their two forwards were playing John and I tight out by the points. Three quick passes later, the puck was in the back of their net.

We sat back down and the announcement came on "Wolverine goal scored by Daniel Sawyer, assisted by Gary Crawford and Chris Appleton. Time of goal is 13:58."

After that goal, they were out for blood, hitting Steve and then Ian hard in our zone. Our forwards helped clear the puck and both of them got to the bench for a change. Our first D pair went out and calmly slowed down the pace, forcing their line to play defence rather than concentrate on hitting us. The puck was in their zone for almost a minute before they had to ice the puck. We changed up with John and me on D where they had to keep their tired line on. They were slow getting out to us when we won the draw and I teed up a low shot that the goalie never saw through all the bodies in front. It was in the back of the net without him reacting to it until he heard the groan of the crowd and saw the red light on.

We lined back up at centre as they switched their line and John brought the puck back to our end to set up a play. We slowly skated up as we heard the last goal's announcement "Wolverine goal scored by Mike Stewart, assisted by Peter Stromach. Time of goal 16:20.

He passed it to me and I carried it up and we tried our D play in reverse. I faked a dump in and hit John with a pass going full speed into their zone. They played it a bit better, causing him to carry it around the net rather than go in on the goalie. He tried to sneak it in the opposite corner with a wraparound but the goalie got over in time to stop it with his glove and hold it for a face-off. We looked at the bench and they indicated to stay out. Peter won the draw again, this time back to John, who held it until their forward came way out to the blueline to challenge him and then passed it deep to our winger. John took off around the Wildcat forward and got a quick return pass and blasted a shot off the post.

Unfortunately the puck shot out like a rocket right to the forward by the blueline who took off with it. I had moved to the middle to cover John so I went with him step for step. We were going all out and he passed back just as I hit him hard into the boards. I turned quickly to go after the puck but it went right to the other winger who took it in stride and deked Mark and put it in the net before I could get to him.

The place erupted as they finally got a goal as we skated back to the bench. Frank came over to us and said "Rotten luck, that one guys, nobody's fault. Good play at the offensive end John and good play on that forward in the defensive end Mike. Shake it off and don't worry about it."

The first line went on with the first D pair as I saw both Ian and Steve not on the bench. I let John know and he nodded and got ready quicker to get back on the ice. The announcement of their first goal came on to big cheers. "The Wildcats goal was scored by Mat Milton and was assisted by Sam Richards. Time of goal 16:58.

We held them off for the rest of the period, with them pressing for a second goal and targeting the defence as they saw our third pair was not on the ice. We played five back and kept dumping the puck out and survived until the end of the period. I had gotten hit awkwardly and felt a pain in my hand but kept playing without giving the other team a hint of a problem.

As soon as the period ended I went into the locker room and found Chris and Wendy working on Ian and Steve. Frank came up right behind me and asked how they were.

Chris said "They both are a bit groggy I'm afraid. They can't return for the third period" he said.

Frank said "Shit, that's bad."

"It gets worse" I said as I pulled off my right glove. The bandage was red with blood.

Chris said "Fuck, ok maybe we can sew you up for the last period and put extra padding in the gloves. Wendy, get some surgical gloves on and unwrap his hand. Frank, get Jesse working on a new glove with extra padding inside."

They unwrapped my hand and found the big cut had split with the hit. Chris gave me a local and then quickly stitched me up and put layers of bandages on it to contain it and then to protect it. Jesse came in and had me try on the bigger glove and my hand just fit in it with the extra padding. I quickly had a drink and went back out for the start of the third period.

Fred had us in full defensive mode with the centre always back helping the D. The Wildcats threw everything they could at us but we held fast, dumping pucks out, tying them up on the boards and taking the hits. They scored a goal at the halfway point and then another with five minutes to go.

John and I went back on the ice with the first line. Gary won the draw and we retreated to our end, but this time the Wildcats chased us rather than letting us rag the puck for too long. We let them come in and over pursue, then with two quick passes, had our line racing for their end while we caught them out of position. John and I leisurely skated up, saving our energy, while our top line took advantage of the mismatch for a great scoring chance. The puck stayed out of their net but we kept control of it deep in their zone. John and I got to the points while their forwards went deep to get the puck back.

Daniel got the puck back to John and he faked a shot and set me up for a one timer. I knew it would hurt and probably open up the cut but I wanted that hat trick badly. I wound up and blew a rising slap shot past the goalie on the stick side into the top corner of the net. I gasped in pain and skated quickly to the bench. Wendy and Chris were ready and had me in the locker room and the glove off before we heard the announcement "Wolverine goal scored by Mike Stewart, assisted by John Reilly and Daniel Sawyer. Time of the goal 16:47".

The stitches had ripped and the cut was open. "Just pull it together with band-aids. I need one shift, maybe two and it's over"

"I shouldn't Mike but we're so short of D. No more shots ok just dump it deep." Chris said as Wendy and he got it closed temporarily.

I got back out just in time to get back on the ice. We kept them to the outside and cleared the puck, but got called for icing, so we had to stay on. Henry lost the draw and they got a point shot off but Mark came up with a good save and knocked it to the corner. I got to the puck and lifted it high in the air for our forward to chase. We changed up and I looked up to see two minutes left and a six to three score. We held them off and froze the puck in our end with a minute to play. John and I went on to finish the game. They came hard at us and pinned me to the boards with the puck in our feet. I grimaced in pain as my hand got hit but kept the puck away from them for as long as I could. It squirted free and our forward pounced on it and lofted to their empty net. It just missed and we were called for icing. There were 20 seconds left so we just tied everyone up the best we could until the buzzer rang. I went and congratulated Mark and then quickly skated to the bench and walked to the locker room with Chris and Wendy in tow.

"I got hit right on it guys. It's open again" I said.

Ok, let's get the glove off and take care of it right" Chris said. They helped me take off my upper equipment and had me lay on the table. They cleaned up the hand and Chris gave me another local and then closed up the gash with a dozen stitches, closer together than normally necessary. Wendy held the arm tight and then re-bandaged both hands for me. I got the rest of the equipment off with their help and went for a shower with bags on my hands. Jesse helped me get the bags off and I dressed awkwardly with Jesse helping me with stuff as I needed it.

"Thanks Jesse for the help" I said.

"No problem man, glad to help" he said.

I grabbed my phone and wallet and left the rest for the equipment guys to handle and Wendy came up with some orange juice and some cookies for me to eat.

"Here Mike, you need to get some sugar and liquid into you with all the blood loss" she said. I gulped it down and thanked her.

"You're welcome Mike. Now let's get you on the bus. Do you have everything?" she asked.

"I think so" I said, looking around the locker area.

Wendy walked on my right side, shielding my hand and we got out of the arena and into the bus without incident. I found a seat on the right side of the bus by the window so I could protect the hand from someone bumping it. I put my head back and finally relaxed. I grabbed my phone and gave Vicky a call.

"Hi Vicky, how you ladies doing" I asked.

"Don't hi me Michael Stewart, who was that pretty girl walking beside you" she said with the voice.

"That was Wendy, she's the assistant trainer. How did you see us?" I asked.

"They followed a few of you out to the bus. They made a big deal of your hat trick. So why did she walk out with you Michael?" she said still angry.

"She was making sure my hand didn't get hit on that side. Chris and her had to stitch it up after the game. Listen, let me put her on. She knows about you and is a friend of Susan's" I said and went and got Wendy and told her Vicky was on the phone.

She looked worried as she said hello.

"Hi Vicky. No, I know he's yours, don't worry, it's strictly professional. Call up Susan and ask her about me" she said into the phone.

"I've been taking care of his hands for the last two days. They were getting better but one cut split wide open and got bigger on his right hand. Chris stitched it up and I re-bandaged it and made sure he got some food for all the blood loss" she said.

"A lot, it was a bad cut. We're on the bus and I'll make sure he's ok tonight, I promise Vicky. I will see you tomorrow and we can talk more then ok?" she replied into the phone.

"That's ok, I know you were upset. Ok, here's Mike" she said as she handed me the phone.

I mouthed thanks and moved back to my seat.

"Hey Vicky, you ok now?" I asked.

"No, I'm not Michael, You shouldn't have played with the hands like they were" she said.

"They were down one D already and then two more in the third period. I couldn't leave them hanging. Don't worry, it's all stitched up and I'll good as new in no time. It's on my right hand so not as many problems" I tried to reassure her.

"I can worry if I want to, Michael, we all will until you get back here safe and relatively sound. Now listen to Wendy and let her take care of you tonight, understand?" she asked.

"No, but I'll do it anyway. So, have you girls had a good weekend so far?" I asked.

"Yes, it's been good Sweetie, but Becky and I can't wait until our man gets home. I see we owe you plenty of rewards, you dog you" she teased.

"And I plan on cashing in on all of them Honey. So, wish everyone a good night and give Becky a wet kiss for me and I'll see you early Sunday afternoon hopefully" I replied.

"Ok lover, try and get some rest tonight. Good night Sweetie" she said.

"Goodnight Honey" I replied and hung up.

Wendy moved to the seat beside me and said "I've been instructed to monitor you all night Mike" she said with a smile.

"By whom" I asked.

"Chris and now Vicky" she said. "I don't like being on her bad side, even when I know I did nothing wrong, let me tell you!"

"Well, you're on the side of angels as far as we both are concerned, especially if she let you sit beside me all night" I replied.

"Good, I can't wait to meet her" she said with a grin.

The rest of the team came on board with the coaches from the press conference I guessed and the team assistants handed out boxed sandwich meals for everyone while we got underway. Wendy helped me with my food so I could handle it with one hand.

Fred got up and said "Men that was a hard fought game. They attacked us with everything they had, put two guys out of the game but we held on for a well deserved win. Thanks to all of you. You really showed us what you can all do when we need to pull together and fight to finish a game. Enjoy the food and get some well deserved sleep and we hopefully will be back by noon tomorrow."

I quickly finished the food and Wendy grabbed the box from me and went to put it in the garbage. She came back and helped me get comfortable and then got herself comfortable as well.

"Thanks Wendy for all your help this trip, I appreciate it" I said with a smile.

"No problem Mike, it's my job" she replied.

"Alright, I'm going to be asleep quickly so you have a good night" I said.

"You too, and wake me if you need anything Mike" she answered.

I nodded and put my head back, closing my eyes. I replayed the game for a few minutes and then dreamed of my ladies and me as they were giving me my rewards...



-------

Chapter 21


I woke up in the middle of the night having to go to the washroom but someone was leaning on my shoulder. I remembered where I was and figured out it was Wendy sleeping on me. I moved her head back on her seat and got up to walk back to the washroom. It took me a few minutes to get my pants undone with basically one hand, but I finally got them opened and went. I finished up, rinsed my hands the best I could and went back to the seat. I settled back in and my red head caretaker slid back over and put her arm and head on my shoulder and went back to sleep muttering something I couldn't hear. She smelled nice and I fell back asleep listening to her soft breathing.

When I woke up next it was just getting light out and a couple of people were stirring. I looked down and saw Wendy was still sleeping. She looked so cute and peaceful lying on my shoulder and her hand had slid over to my chest. I gently moved her back to her seat so no one would see her and cause problems for either of us.

She woke up as I was moving her and I said smiling "Sorry to wake you Wendy, but I thought it would be best if no one saw you like that, with the issues of the past week and all."

She turned red and stammered out "Sorry Mike, I must have done that after I fell asleep."

She looked around in a panic but I assured her "I don't think anyone saw, Wendy. No harm, no foul. Let's not tell Vicky about it for both our sakes ok?"

"For sure. I'm scared of the girl and I haven't even met her!" she said seriously.

"I am too and I've met her several times" I replied with a straight face.

She giggled quietly and said "I might have to let that slip out."

"So, what time is it?" I asked her.

She looked at her watch and replied "It's just after seven. Do you know where we are?"

I looked at the window but couldn't tell so I answered with "I'm not sure, but we're still in the States so getting back at noon doesn't seem realistic unless we're real close to the border and we drive all the way through."

"Oh well, I've got nothing to do today anyway so no big deal" she said. "I have to go to the washroom so I'll be back in a few."

She made her way to the back while I stared out the window thinking about my future on the team. I enjoyed playing the games, and didn't mind the practices too much, but the interaction with some of the players left something to be desired. I was a pretty solitary guy for most of my life and frankly, didn't play well with others. Unfortunately, hockey was a team sport so either I had to take the bad with the good or walk away. On the one hand, I would be interesting to see how far I could take it as it looked like I could compete at this level. On the other, it was getting real old dealing with idiots and the consequences of their misguided attempts to get me to quit.

I decided to wait and see what, if anything, the team did to address that issue in the next three days, if they or the athletic department even wanted to, before making the decision with the help of Vicky and the other girls.

Wendy came back looking refreshed and more awake as she sat down with a smile.

"That's better" she said. "I just need some coffee to wake up and this would be a good morning."

"So waking up after an uncomfortable sleep in a chair, with no shower or change of clothes constitutes an almost good morning for you? I asked teasing.

"Well, I guess your shoulder was more comfortable than I thought, and deodorant plus a little perfume helps with the rest" she said with a giggle.

"Well, it certainly makes you smell better, not that you were smelling bad or anything" I said hastily when she cocked an eyebrow.

"Good save there Mike" she said wryly.

I smiled and leaned back and closed my eyes. I dozed for a bit as I heard more people stirring around me. The bus slowed and pulled off the highway and I opened my eyes to see us pulled into a large Bob Evans restaurant.

"Oh goody" Wendy said. "Coffee!"

"Breakfast!" I said back to her.

"Men, always hungry!" she said laughing.

"Yes Ma'am" I replied with a grin.

Fred got up and said "Ok everybody, we have a buffet arranged in a separate room inside. We head out in an hour so don't dilly dally. It looks like if we get out in an hour, we can get back by two o'clock with no other delays."

There was a mad rush to get out of the bus but Wendy wisely had us wait until there was no one behind us before getting up and leading me to the front of the bus and down the steps. The older adults were all gathered outside the bus as we stepped down and Wendy took her spot on my right side.

"How's the hand Mike?" asked Fred as they all turned to look at us.

"Pretty painful most of the night but I'll survive" I said.

Chris spoke up "Wendy and I will take a look at it after breakfast Mike and we can give you some painkillers after you have a full stomach."

"That sounds good Chris. Thanks" I replied.

We continued to walk, leaving them in their group behind us. I opened the door with my left and let Wendy in first and following her in. A hostess just pointed to a hallway and we walked down to a large conference type room that was set up for us. The guys were already in line at the buffet but we found a table first and a waitress came over with a jug of coffee and poured Wendy one.

"You wouldn't happen to have a diet coke or Pepsi around would you? I asked.

"I'll look for you Sir" she replied as she walked away.

"Shall we?" I asked.

"We shall" Wendy replied as we rose and went and got in line. We filled our plates and went back and, low and behold, a can of diet coke was on the table. We both got some caffeine into us while we ate. I went up for a second helping and got Wendy some more bacon. Wendy and I left our table soon after and told Chris we were heading back to look at the hand when he was done. He said he was finished so we all went back to the bus and they cut off the wrapping for both hands. My left was healing well so they left it to get some air for the rest of the ride. The right hand was still puffy, red and oozing a bit. They cleaned it up a bit as the rest of the team was getting back on the bus. Of course they had to look and comment on the cut.

"Too bad that wasn't on your face Mike, it would be an improvement"

"Anything to get a pretty girl to hold your hand Mike?"

"You needed stitches for that scratch, what a wimp!"

"That's gotta hurt man. Next time hit him in the stomach"

"Vicky isn't going to like that Mike"

"I'm surprised you didn't faint from the blood Mike"

The comments came without stop until all of the guys were in the bus and Chris and Wendy had my hand wrapped up and had given me a couple of painkillers. The bus pulled out and we hit the border at Niagara Falls by 9:15.

After a quick customs check, we continued on our way with Wendy reading a paperback book while I finished my programming assignment due Thursday, except for the final run with the data. I played some games until I packed it in when my hand got sore. I called Vicky and let her know it looked like it would be closer to two before we got back and told her I would call her from the arena when we arrived. I had a nap for the rest of the trip until we crossed the Blue Water Bridge and had to go through customs again.

We pulled into the arena parking lot around a bit after two. Wendy and I waited again until the bus was clear then we walked out to claim our bags, and went into the arena to do one last wrap of the hands. I called Vicky and told her I was back and in the arena getting the hand looked at. She let me know they would be right there. Wendy had finished with my left and had the right one unwrapped and were inspecting it when several girls entered the training room after knocking.

"Hi ladies, it's nice to see you all. This is Wendy, who has been taking care of my hands all weekend. Wendy, this is my girlfriend Vicky, her younger sister Becky, Stephanie, a friend of ours, Jessica another friend and you probably know Amanda, John's girlfriend" I introduced them to each other.

"Typical Mike, leave him alone for a weekend and he's got a hot girl holding his hands by the end of it" Vicky said with a grin.

"Strictly in a professional capacity Vicky, I swear" said Wendy, looking at them a little worried.

"Oh I know Wendy, I'm just pulling your leg" replied Vicky with a smile. "Susan had nothing but good things to say on your behalf as well so I had no worries about you two and any funny business. We all were worried about Michael's hands though. We saw him having to leave the ice after the last goal so we knew something was up even before he didn't come out for the first star announcement. So how is he?"

"Well, his left hand is healing fine, but his right hand opened up after a hit near the end of the second period. Chris puts some quick stitches in it but he tore those with the slap shot near the end of the third and then got hit on it right before the end of the game. So Chris put in twelve stitches to close the gash and we wrapped it up tight. We've cleaned his hand once this morning after breakfast and I'm just finishing up before I wrap it again. Do you want to see it before I do that?" asked Wendy.

The girls just crowded closer and Stephanie and Jessica gasped and turned away while Vicky, Becky and Amanda looked longer.

"God that must hurt Michael" remarked Becky with a concerned look.

"Yeah it does a bit, but the painkillers have helped. I might need a couple more of those Wendy, at least for tonight" I told her.

"Sorry Mike, I can't hand those out" she replied. "Chris has to give you those or you can pick up some over the counter heavy duty aspirin or Tylenol if he doesn't come in soon."

"OK, well let's get this wrapped up so we can all get out of here" I said with a smile.

Wendy speedily bandaged and then wrapped up the hand. "Be careful with that hand Mike, you probably won't be practicing for at least a week" she instructed me.

"Ok, thanks for all of your help this week Wendy. I really appreciate it" I replied.

"No problem Mike, its part of the job" she responded with a smile.

"I'm sure you went above and beyond for this guy and I for one appreciate it greatly" said Vicky as she came close and gave her a hug.

Wendy looked surprised but didn't seem uncomfortable as she hugged back.

"Ok, time to get you home Sweetie" Vicky commanded as I got off the table. Becky grabbed my clothes bag, Amanda grabbed my laptop and Steph lifted my books while Vicky gently took my left hand and guided us out while wishing Wendy a good afternoon.

"Thanks Vicky, you too" she replied.

"Thanks again Wendy, see you tomorrow" I added.

"Ok Mike, see you" she said with a smile.

We walked out of the arena and found everyone gone from the parking lot. Jessica, Amanda and Stephanie all said they would walk back to the dorms from here so we all said our goodbyes in the parking lot. The girls all hugged and said they had a great weekend and then they all came and gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek under Vicky's watchful eye. They giggled at her look and then walked back up to the campus with their bags. We got in the car and Vicky drove us home.

Becky leaned over and teased "You've got another girl all in a twitter for you, Sweetie, and she's very cute too!"

"Who are you talking about?" I asked.

"I think Becky was referring to your redheaded nurse. She's a real pixie isn't she?"

"Oh, she's cute I guess, but I didn't see any signs of twittering Ladies" I answered. "Believe me, I didn't encourage any twittering."

"We know Sweetie, we're not accusing you or blaming you" Vicky said. "You don't know how you affect some women do you?"

"Hey, I don't know what you two seem to see in me, let alone anyone else. I'll try and be more um, not me around Wendy to try and discourage her from 'twittering'" I replied.

They both laughed and Becky said "Michael, one, you couldn't be mean to that girl if you wanted to be and second, you can't stop a girl from twittering once she starts."

"Well, she can twitter from afar. You ladies are already more than enough" I said emphatically.

"Well, we're lucky you were away or all of those ladies walking back there would have been sneaking over to visit you last night" Becky said.

Vicky put an end to the conversation as she pulled into a drugstore and they got out to get some painkillers, leaving me in the car.

The twins came back quickly and we drove home quietly. They led the way down into my apartment and told me to take a shower and they would be back.

"Can I get a hand to wrap up at least my right hand before you go Ladies?" I asked.

"Sure Sweetie" replied Vicky.

They grabbed a plastic bag and some masking tape and wrapped it up after we got my shirt off first. They left and I took a couple of the painkillers they had put on the table and then got undressed awkwardly, using basically one hand. I finally got in and washed my hair and body with my left hand trying not to bump my right hand or get it wet.

I dried off and got into some shorts and a t-shirt and lay on the bed to relax for a bit. I was dozing with my eyes shut when I heard movement in the room and opened them to see the twins looking down at me.

"Hi ladies, you're looking gorgeous this afternoon" I said, admiring their outfits.

"Do you like our outfits Mister?" asked one of them, swishing around the short catholic schoolgirl skirt.

"Yes I do girls, you look very pretty" I replied.

"We always get in trouble for wearing skirts that are too short and tops that are too thin. Do you think our outfits are bad Mister?" asked the other twin.

"No, I don't girls, I like your outfits just fine" I answered.

"Thanks Mister. We like it when older guys look at us. It makes us feel all tingly inside" she said shyly.

"And then we have to make our tingles go away by making each other feel better. Can you help us with our tingles Mister instead?" asked the other girl.

"I would love to help you with your tingles girls. Why don't you come up on the bed and we can see what it will take to get those tingles to stop" I responded.

"Oh goody" they squealed as they crawled up onto the bed and kneeled on either side of me.

"Mister, your hands look sore, we'll have to undress each other so you can get at the tingly parts real easy" one of them said.

They unbuttoned each other's tops while reaching over top of me. They were wearing tiny half bras that showed off their nipples which they tweaked on each other.

"This is one of the tingle places Mister" a twin said as she bent over and licked and sucked on her sister's nipples.

I had an erection that was dying to get released from my suddenly too tight shorts. My mouth was watering as I watched the most erotic sight I had ever seen. They played their hands around each other's body, from the shoulders down to their stomachs and onto their bare thighs.

"Oh Mister, her tongue is making other parts of me even more tingly and my buds are sticking so far out now, aren't they?" one said to me.

"Yes they are. They look lovely my dear" I croaked out.

"Too bad you can't feel them with your hands Mister. Wait, I know, you could feel them with your mouth if you want, just like Sis did!" she exclaimed as she lowered her breast to my mouth.

I quickly opened my mouth and licked, sucked and nibbled on each nipple as she moved one and then the other to my mouth.

"Ah yeah Mister, you do that just as well as Sis does. I'm getting so tingly down there" she moaned.

"Hey Mister, you got a big pipe in your pocket?" the other sister asked. "Let me get rid of that for you that could poke someone's eye out if you're not careful."

She reached into my shorts and grasped my cock and pulled it out of my shorts.

"Mister, that ain't no lead pipe. Is that your thingy? Wow it's much bigger than the boys at school. It's so hot and hard. Hey Sis, come and look at his thingy! I need two hands to hold it" the sister without a nipple in my mouth said.

"Sorry Mister, I have to see what Sis is all gaga about" she apologized as she sat up. "Holy Shit Batman, that's a huge thingy. Let me feel it Sis! Oh, it' so soft on the outside but hard underneath and it's so hot too!"

I groaned as they both had a hand on my cock and moved it up and down as they moved their heads closer to look at it.

They looked back up at me and one asked "You ok there Mister? You're not getting sick are ya?"

"No girls, it's just that what you're doing feels so good right now" I gasped out.

"Really? I guess it's kind of like when we help each other get rid of our tingles down there, eh Mister?" one girl asked. "Hey, do you want to see where it tingles for us Mister?"

"Sure, if you want me too" I answered the stupidest question in the world.

"Mommy told us never to show anyone our petunias down there but since Sis kind of made you show your thingy to us, we should see ours in return Mister. Besides, my petunia is really warm and it's getting all damp and stuff. It must be hot in here so we need to get cooled off down there" she said.

They took their hands off and reached under each other's skirts and pulled the other's panties down their thighs. They sat down and wiggled their panties off their knee high white stocking covered legs and put them up beside my head.

"We should get his shorts off too, cause he looks hot and bothered Sis" one girl directed.

They pulled my shorts down my legs and off my feet. They came up and started pulling up my shirt as they said "Better take this off too."

They sat back down and opened their legs to show me their pussies as they moved a hand down to play with them.

"See Mister, here's our petunia. It's a lot different than yours. Ours gets slippery and wet and it feels so good to rub it up here by this little button. Does yours feel good when you rub it?" the left one asked.

"Yes it does. You two look so beautiful sitting here like that" I said with a smile.

"Thanks Mister, It feels good to play with our petunias while you're watching. It's too bad your hands are all cut up or you could play with our petunias like we did with your thingy" the other twin teased.

"Don't tease him Sis, he's injured. Maybe he wants to do what we do for each other when we lie on each other? You know how much we like doing it to each other, maybe he will like it?" said the first one.

"Yeah but that means that we would have to put his thingy in our mouth? Ewe, that would be so gross, he pees out of his thingy!" said the second one.

"Don't you know anything Sis? He doesn't just pee out it silly, that's where the baby making stuff comes out too!" the first one informed her sister.

"Well, I don't want a baby so no way am I going to put that anywhere near my mouth" the other sister said as she folded her arms under her breasts.

"Sorry Mister, she doesn't know about this stuff. Becky, you can't get pregnant by swallowing his stuff. It has to go in your petunia when his thingy is inside it. That's why they have to wear a rubber when they put it in so the girl doesn't get pregnant. You didn't pay any attention in health class did you?" she said exasperated.

"Vicky, I was sick that day and you know Mom and Dad think we are still little kids. Maybe he can teach me some stuff, but no way is his thingy going to fit down there. I'm too small for that to go in there!"

"Bec, where do you think babies come out of silly? Your petunia stretches. You've seen me with stuff before" stated Vicky

"Nothing that big ever went inside you Vicky!" retorted Becky.

"Ah, now it's going down. Sorry Mister, we shouldn't have stopped rubbing it. Here, let's get it back up and see if we can show Becky here some things" Vicky said as she reached for Big Mike.

She started rubbing my cock up and down and had Becky come over to watch.

"See, it gets hard real quick. That stuff that comes out at the top is to make it easy to slide in our petunias. It's like his baby making juice — Timmy called it cum — but there's only a bit of it at the beginning" Vicky instructed her sister. "Here, you try."

Becky put her hand on top and slid the pre-cum around the head as I gasped.

"Yeah, Timmy liked that too. He really liked it when I put my tongue on it and swirled it around, like this" said Vicky as she lowered her head.

Becky slid her hand down the shaft and held it for Vicky to come down and lick the head and then put the whole head in her mouth. I groaned and tried to thrust up a bit into her mouth.

"That looks hard to do Vicky. Does it taste gross?" asked Becky.

Vicky sat up and replied "It's not too hard if you practice. It doesn't taste gross if the guy is clean like Mister is. Ok, your turn."

Vicky held my cock straight as Becky slowly lowered her head and tentatively licked the head.

"That's not too bad" Becky said. She lowered her mouth and tried to get the head into her mouth. It popped in and she flicked her tongue around it as I pushed it up a bit.

Vicky got down and said "Now, keep it in there and move your head up and down, taking more into your mouth. They really like it."

She put her hand gently on the back of her sister's head and pushed down as her other hand pulled up on the shaft of my cock, making me thrust up. She got her going up and down as I moaned.

"That's it Becky, you're giving him a blow-job, and it looks like he's enjoying it, aren't ya Mister?" asked Vicky.

"Oh yeah, she's fantastic" I gasped out.

"Good, she's a natural then. Becky, when his thingy gets bigger and he starts getting all worked up and says he's coming, you have to pull back until just the head is in your mouth so you don't choke on his cum. Then just swallow as fast as you can and you'll be fine" Vicky further instructed Becky.

Vicky climbed up onto my chest and moved her pussy to my mouth after pulling up her skirt.

"Mister, can you lick me like Becky does to make me cum too? I'm so hot down there!" she said as she rubbed her pussy on my chin and mouth.

I quickly stuck out my tongue and started lapping up her juices. I quickly moved to her clit and started swirling my tongue around it as I sucked on it.

"Oh, that feels real good Mister, yeah, you've got my little button all hard and tingly" Vicky cooed. "Becky, you have to let him lick you too, he's real good!"

Becky took her mouth off my cock and said exasperated "Vicky, I'm busy giving him his blow-job, let me finish that first."

"Sorry Bec, go ahead and finish and then he can lick you" Vicky apologized.

Vicky got ramped up quickly and was gasping and grinding her pussy into my chin and tongue as I kept up the assault on her clit.

"Oh Mister, I'm going to cum soon, you're doing that so well. Yeah, I'm so close, don't stop, Mister, faster, yeah right there, yeah right there Mister, oh yeah I'm cumming Mister!" she yelled as she spasmed on my tongue and rocked her hips for a minute until she slowed down and fell to the side.

That got me going and I started thrusting faster into Becky's mouth and moaning. So I was at the point of no return and I warned her quickly.

"Becky, I going to cum real soon, get ready" I warned.

She moved her head back and swirled her tongue around the head of my cock while jacking the shaft with her hand as I arched my back and let it go into her mouth.

"I'm cumming, Aw yeah!" I shouted as I spurted into her mouth and she quickly swallowed and then kept the rest in her mouth.

When I had stopped, she moved over to her sister and planted a kiss on her, opening her mouth to share some of my cum with her. They kissed deeply and ran their hands all over their bodies as I lay there gasping for breath. Soon they sat up and Vicky moved Becky over to me and had her straddle my face too.

"Mister, Becky needs to cum. Can you lick her too?" she asked.

I got right to the job at hand, or should I say tongue, and quickly had her moaning and gasping as I had my tongue deep inside her pussy. She moved her hips up and down, grinding herself on my chin and up to my nose as she reached down to grasp my hair and pull me tight into her. I happily licked and sucked her clit when it was in range or licked her pussy juices from her opening if that was in front of my tongue at the time.

I felt Vicky handling my limp cock and felt her hot wet mouth take it in all the way, swirling her tongue around it as she caressed my balls. It felt great but I didn't think I would be ready for more action for a bit longer, not that I was complaining mind you.

Becky was getting very animated as she quickly came to a climax. I concentrated on her clit and she quickly was shrieking that she was cumming as she shook and pulled me into her so I could hardly breathe. She finally collapsed and let my head go as she lay down beside me moaning and panting.

"Wow Mister, you sure made her cum like never before. I can't wait to see you put your thingy inside her and really give her a good one. Timmy did it with me once but he went off so fast I hardly got started. I bet you would last longer eh Mister?" Vicky asked.

"I'll try Vicky, I'll try" I responded tiredly as my tongue was ready to fall asleep.

Vicky's mouth and hand were making me hard again and I was soon erect as Vicky cheered.

"Becky, his thingy is all ready for you. Are you going to try him out and get rid of that pesky virginity?" Vicky asked.

"Vicky, Sister Maria and Mom both made me promise not to do that. They said I wasn't old enough and it would hurt. I don't wanna have a baby and he's too big anyway. You do it if you're so eager Vicky" Becky said.

"Maybe I will Becky and then you will be so jealous. Do you want to put your thingy inside me Mister?" Vicky asked.

"Sure, but you're going to have to do the work by getting on top of me or I'm going to have to stand behind you so I don't have to use my hands" I replied.

"Hmmm, Timmy just lay on top of me and pushed his thing in. Are you sure you can do it another way?" she asked.

"I'm sure Vicky. So do you want to ride me like a horse or do you want to do it like a dog?" I asked. If we do it doggie style, you can get Becky ready with your mouth."

"Ok, let's do it that way. So you stand up and what do I do, lie down like a dog and pant or something?" she said.

"No, get on your hands and knees and put you bum towards me. Becky, lie down in front of Vicky so she can get you ready too" I instructed them.

"Hey Mister, aren't you going to put on one of those rubbers so I don't get a baby?" Vicky asked.

"Ok, let me get one, but you have to put it on me" I said as I awkwardly got one out of the box in the night stand.

I handed it to her and she ripped open the pack and pulled it out. She slid it on and quickly turned around and wiggled her ass at me. I used my less sore left hand to point my cock in the right location and slowly pushed into her wet pussy as I sighed.

"Oh God, Mister, you are so big, you're stretching my tiny pussy as you push it in" she stated. "Are you all the way in yet?"

"No Vicky, only in a couple of inches, lots to go yet" I replied as I pushed in a bit more.

She groaned and stuck her mouth into Becky's pussy and started licking as Becky held her head loosely.

I slowly pushed in and pulled out until I was all in and pushed deep into her.

"Mister, did you push a log into me? I'm so full, you have to be all the way in now" she asked.

"Yes Vicky, I'm all the way in. Now we can have some fun" I replied as I pulled slowly out of her pussy and then pushed back in.

"Oh, that felt good" said Vicky as she raised her head away from Becky for a second.

I started the age old back and forth as Becky pulled her back to get busy. We all enjoyed it for a bit without getting too worked up. Vicky went down on her elbows and used a finger to help get Becky worked up, without breaking her hymen. Becky started moaning and panting as she got hotter.

Becky, are you getting hot and bothered?" Vicky asked.

"Oh yeah Vicky, it feels so good, you're going to make me cum soon I think Sis" she gasped.

"Well, we can't have that, you have to have him in you, it feels so good Becky" said Vicky as she stopped her finger and only lightly licked her clit.

"Don't stop Vicky, I'm so close, Please make me cum" Becky begged.

"Nope, you need to feel this, it will blow your mind" Vicky said as she pulled herself off of me.

"Oh, I feel so empty Becky, he's make you feel so good, won't you Mister?" Vicky said as she moved to the side and pulled Becky to the edge of the bed.

Vicky licked her a few more times and then quickly grasped my cock and rubbed her clit with it after pulling me close. After a minute of rubbing her clit Becky was worked up again and Vicky pointed my cock at her opening and put it in just a little bit and then backed me away. She did that a few times while rubbing Becky's clit with the other hand to keep her hot. Finally she put me in farther and left me in there as I hit her hymen with the end of my cock and Becky gasped.

"Becky, are you ready to become a woman honey?" Vicky asked in her normal voice.

"I don't know Vicky, is it going to hurt much?" she asked, looking worried.

"You're going to feel it for a bit but then you'll be ok. Michael will be real gentle and stay still afterwards, won't you Sweetie?" Vicky asked me.

"For sure Becky, I don't want to hurt you but as soon as I'm through, I'll stop until you're ready Darling" I replied with a small smile.

"Ok, let's do it. Michael, make me a woman" Becky said.

I pushed in quickly and felt her hymen give and then stopped as she cried out "Ouch that hurt Michael, stop!"

Vicky lay down beside her and hugged her tightly as Becky cried for a little bit. After a couple of minutes Vicky whispered to her to move her hips a bit and see if it still hurt. She did and winced but not as badly.

"It hurts but not too bad" she said.

"Ok Michael, move a bit back and forth, but nice and slow" Vicky said as she held Becky.

I pulled back and then slowly moved into her, past her hymen and deeper into her pussy. I pulled back out and then went in a few times until her lubrication started and she sighed a bit

"Feeling better now Becky?" I asked.

"Yes Michael, it's better now. I like it when you go in deeper, I'm so full and stretched" she replied with a small smile.

I bent over and gave her a tender kiss and then we kissed passionately as she wrapped her arms around me. Vicky hugged us both and then kissed each of us as we broke apart. I had to stand up so I wouldn't lean on my hands so Vicky leaned over and kissed and sucked on Vicky's nipples instead.

I started pushing in deeper with each thrust as Becky started participating by moving her hips up to meet me. I finally had my cock as far as it could go and left it there for a minute as she wiggled her hips around and squeezed me with her tight pussy.

"Damn woman, you are going to cut it off if you keep squeezing me like that" I groaned.

"Don't listen to him, Becky; he loves it nice and tight. He's has to struggle not to cum to soon in his new woman because you're so tight" Vicky said.

"God, you fill me up so good Michael, I think I'm going to love having you make love to me often" Becky said as she looked up into my eyes.

"And I'm going to love making love to you Becky as often as I can Darling" I replied with a smile.

"Ok, enough of the sentimental stuff kids, now let's see some action in those hips" Vicky said after a few seconds of us just staring at each other.

We both stuck our tongues out at her but go moving. I pulled back and thrust deep again as she moaned. We started slowly until the pleasure got to both of us and she wrapped her legs around me and pulled me tight. I sped up my thrusts and she started panting and gasping as we really started getting into it.

Vicky helped us along by sucking on Becky's nipples and reaching between us to find and rub Becky's clit. That drove Becky wild and she really started to buck back up to my thrusts and I responded by going even faster.

"Oh yeah Becky, you feel so fantastic, you're squeezing my cock so tight with your hot pussy, I want to make you cum soon" I said looking down at her.

"Yeah Michael, you're getting me close, and Vicky's helping with it too, I'm going to cum all around your cock and squeeze you so tight you're going to cum right with me Sweetie" she panted out.

Becky and I kept at it until she finally shouted "Michael, I'm going to cum, Yes, Aw yeah Sweetie I'm cumming!"

I quickly reached the end as her pussy squeezed me tightly and I joined her in climaxing.

"You're making me cum too Becky" I shouted as I thrust deep into her and let it loose into the condom.

I stood there shaking, as I thrust a few more times before I was finally done and she relaxed her legs from around me and I pulled out.

"That was so fantastic guys" said Vicky. "How was it for you Becky?"

"It was wonderful! It hurt at first but it felt great after a bit. Now I know what all the fuss is about!" she gushed.

"Well, it was great because who you had to be your first Bec. Michael was so gentle when he had to be and then made sure you enjoyed it afterwards" Vicky added.

"Vicky, you helped out lots too. You made sure she was ok and got her through it and then helped us at the end get over hump. You two are the best girlfriends and lovers a guy could have" I told them. "I really enjoyed the costumes too!

They both got up on their knees to hug me tight and give big kisses. "We knew you would love our little role playing Sweetie, just as much as we did" said Becky with a grin.

"Ok Michael, let's get you cleaned up and fed. We need to make sure you're well taken care of if you're going to be taking care of both of us plus be a hockey star" directed Vicky.

I disposed of the condom and the girls wrapped my hand in plastic before joining me in the shower to clean up. They changed the sheets and ordered some pizza as they had Chinese the night of the game.

"So, how was your sleepover anyway?" I asked as we were eating the pizza.

Becky spoke up "It was a blast. We had some wine coolers and Chinese food and all sorts of snacks while we watched you guys play. We all went crazy every time you or John scored or assisted. Amanda was so proud of John just like we were and are of you."

"Even Jessica and Stephanie were really into it Sweetie! You should have seen Steph get mad every time someone hit you and jump for joy when you got a goal. I think she'll be getting your Michigan #5 jersey this week just like we will" Vicky added.

"Well I'm glad you enjoyed the game. So who slept where? I asked with a smile.

"We had a tough time getting that all straightened out, let me tell you!" said Vicky. "Becky wanted the two of us to sleep with Amanda, I wanted us to sleep with Stephanie, Jessica wanted Stephanie and me with her, while Steph and Amanda didn't really care. In the end, I slept with Jessica and Steph in my apartment and Becky was over here with Amanda."

"And, did anything happen in either bed that I would like to hear about?" I asked with a smile.

"Not in our bed" said Vicky.

"Nothing here either" Becky added.

"Oh well, at least you had company and some fun" I said.

We finished up supper and the girls went over to Vicky's apartment to get changed and get ready for their parents coming to pick up Becky. I turned on my laptop to check my email account and found that my lawyer had sent an email with the good news that settlements had been reached with the saw mill and the insurance company. The house also had an offer being drafted and it would be sent to me on Monday. He suggested that I get in touch with the accountant to figure out the best way to handle the payments for tax purposes on Monday as well. I shot him a reply thanking him and letting him know I would talk to the account and the realtor tomorrow.

The girls came back and we spent some time talking before their parents showed up. They came in and, after the obligatory greetings, sat down with us at the kitchen table for a few minutes.

"So, how is everybody doing after the weekend?" asked Mrs. Waters.

"Pretty good Mom, we had a good time with the girls Saturday night watching the game and Michael got back this afternoon so we could spend time with him too" said Vicky.

"That's good to hear. How's the hand Michael?" she asked.

"It's a little sore and it will keep my out of action this week but it's an exhibition game against a Canadian University so I'm not missing a real important game" I replied.

"It sounds like you're going to stay on with the team Mike" said Mr. Waters.

"Well, we haven't decided that for sure actually. We're waiting to see what they do the first three days or so this week before making up our minds" I responded.

"Good thinking. I want you girls to stay in groups when you're at that arena or with Mike ok?" he said to them.

"Yes Daddy, we do that already. The girlfriends' and the women's team know to stick together and after what Mr. Benson said and had done on the bus, it should be better starting tomorrow" Vicky answered.

"I hope so" he replied. So Becky, you ready to go home?"

"I just have to do a quick packing up and I will be. Give me a couple minutes over at Vicky's and I'll be set" she replied.

The twins and their Mother went over and I offered Mr. Waters something to drink but he declined.

"So, you had another great game yesterday Mike; still think you don't belong out there?" he asked.

"Well, I'm getting the hang of things but I have the feeling that my easy time with it is up. If other teams scout ahead like we do, then I'm going to be getting additional attention being paid to me. I'll probably get double teamed or at least shifted defences against me and end up being a decoy for a while until the later teams in the schedule forget about these games" I reasoned.

Well, they can't double team you both so either John or you should be open. John seems to be getting his fair share of chances too" he rebutted.

"True, I'm lucky he's my partner, he's really helped me a lot already and his off-season workouts seem to have benefited him as well" I agreed.

"Good. So how's school? Are you keeping up with the work with all the hockey practices and travel?" he asked.

"So far I can keep up. There's no free time for anything else but school and hockey, but Vicky and I spend time together studying so at least we see each other. The work isn't hard yet, just time consuming, so that's a plus. The team will help with tutoring if I need it. They even had tutors for the rookies on the bus. I actually got some help with a poetry assignment for my creative writing elective so that was handy" I answered.

"Sounds like you got things under control. How about your parents' affairs back home?" he inquired.

"I just got an email with great news that the mill and the insurance company settled and I should receive an offer on the house tomorrow. I will contact the accountant and get some advice on taxes and stuff and then should get things all settled next week" I informed him.

"Well, you've got things under control there too. Last but not least, how are things between you and the girls? Any issues with the councillor or with the girls I need to know about?" he asked.

"I met with the councillor and everything seems to be ok. The girls and I are going fine, little issues only that we seem to be able to talk through. Becky being away for the week is hard on her and on us, Vicky especially. I might be able to help with letting them use my car so Becky can visit us more if it's ok with Mrs. Waters and yourself" I let him know.

"Becky is an adult so she can come more often if she can get here and back, as long as her schoolwork is up to date. She'll be here in just over three months anyway. I don't think Mrs Waters will have an issue with that" he replied.

"With what dear?" Mrs. Waters inquired.

"Becky coming over more often if the kids can handle the transportation issue. I said I didn't have an issue with it as long as Becky's schoolwork didn't suffer" he told her.

"Funny you should mention that, the girls and I were just discussing that very thing. I don't have a problem with it either. How are they going to get her back and forth is the issue" she stated.

"Becky can use my car more often Mrs. Waters, we don't need it here that much. I can walk to the arena in the morning and we use the car to go grocery shopping when she's here" I informed her.

"Well, we can chip in on food and we're going to have to get a bigger bed for their apartment dear. I don't know how they sleep in that one now when they're both here" she instructed her husband.

"That's fine Honey" he assured her.

"Well that settled then girls. Becky can come over more often when Mike lets her use his car. We need to know in advance when that is and if you're staying over so we don't worry. You better set some clothes here in case you do stay over. But no skipping school or any bad grades or it's over, agreed?" she asked.

Becky and Vicky were all smiles as they heard us discussing things and they both agreed to the rules.

"Ok, dear, let's give the kids a couple minutes to say goodbye while we wait in the car" Mrs. Waters suggested. "Good bye Michael, make sure you take good care of my babies now."

"Yes Ma'am, I will" I replied with a smile as she gave me a hug.

"Ok, Mike, see you soon. Get that hand healed up so we can see you in the next game" Mr. Waters said.

"Yes Sir, I hope to get into the next couple in two weeks. We'll probably see you later in the week or on the weekend" I replied.

"Good. Ok Vicky, have a good week and we'll see you soon Honey" he said as he jugged her tight and slipped some bills into her hand.

"Thanks Daddy, we'll definitely come over this week. See you Mom" she said.

They walked up the stairs while Vicky and then I hugged Becky.

"Becky, I had a wonderful time today with you. Thank you for trusting in me" I said to her while holding her hands.

"Michael, it's me who should thank you for making my first time so special. You've made me so happy I could just shout it out to everyone. Mother knew right away something was up as soon as she saw me. Daddy was clueless as always" she giggled.

"Uh, let's keep him that way if at all possible Ladies please" I suggested.

"Well Duh, how can we still be his babies if he knows silly" she teased.

"Ok, good. So, we will talk and maybe we can come get you for the night sometime this week ok Becky?" I asked.

"Sounds good, let make it mid week so I won't be sore from Big Mike anymore you Brute" she said with a grin.

"Are you ok Honey? I'm so sorry you're sore Darling" I asked worriedly.

"I'll be fine Sweetie, We just had to go and pick a guy with a telephone pole between his legs as my first lover, didn't we Vicky?" she asked her sister.

"Believe me, it's better than a toothpick instead, Sister dear" Vicky stated. "Ok Bec, I'll call you later. Just have a nice bubble bath and you'll be fine in a couple of days."

We both hugged and kissed her again before walking her up to her parent's car. I opened the door for her and made sure she was settled before closing it. We waved goodbye as they drove off and walked back down.

"Man I am bushed" I stated as I flopped on my bed. "So, a good weekend no?"

"Yes Sweetie, a very good weekend indeed. Thank you for taking such good care of Becky. She couldn't stop raving about it to Mom. And thank you for letting Becky use your car to visit us more often. She misses us something fierce and she'll so want more of you as soon as she's recovered" Vicky replied with a smile.

"Well, I'm glad she had a good time too. So, do you have anything to do or can we crash here?" I asked.

"I need to get some things done, sorry. You go ahead and crash and I'll come snuggle later" she replied.

"Ok Honey, I'll see you in a while" I said as I gave her a hug and a passionate kiss before walking her to her door.

I flopped onto my bed and was soon dreaming of my sexy twins back in their school girl outfits, but with Steph dressed the same way for some reason, looking very hot too...



-------

Chapter 22


I woke up Monday morning to the alarm ringing and my hand throbbing. Vicky was sleeping beside me but wasn't draped over me like usual. I must have been really zonked out not to hear her come in. I got up and downed a couple of extra strength Tylenol pills and had a shower. After leaving her a note, I grabbed my books and headed to the arena, thinking I could get in some skating and some weight training if nothing else. I went in right away and went to find Chris, even though it was only about seven.

He wasn't in the training room, the weight room or the locker room so I just waited outside in the hallway for Chris or the coaches to come by. Frank finally showed up after several of the players had walked by with greetings.

"Hey Mike, how's the hand?" asked Frank.

"Still throbbing and sore Frank, but I'll survive" I replied. "So, should I do some skating out on the ice or just do some cardio and any weight training I can do in the weight room?"

"We should wait for Chris but I would at least listen in on what Fred has to say on the ice every practice before you go off to exercise" he replied. "You probably shouldn't bother even putting on skates for a few days. Our game this weekend is here, against a team from an Ontario University, so other than practice, it has no real value. We probably won't dress you and let a couple rookies get some ice time instead, so your hand can heal properly" Frank responded.

"That sounds about what I was going to suggest" piped up Chris as he walked up to us. "Listen in on Fred's comments and then we'll set you up with some cardio that doesn't need your hands to do."

"Sounds like a plan to me" I agreed.

I left them to do what they had to do and sat on our bench by the ice as the guys came out and did their warm-ups. I moved out onto the ice to hear what Fred had to say.

Fred began with saying "Ok men, we had a long trip on the weekend and a hard fought game. We have some people hurt, again on D, so we're going to keep our defensive game plan intact as we try and patchwork some people into some spots. Albert is back with us but Mike will be out for this week. We don't know about Ian and Steve yet so we'll move up a couple of rookies to help out. The team we play is the University of Guelph from Ontario and it is just an exhibition game for both of us. They will be playing hard to show us up if they can so I don't want you to take it lightly or we'll get embarrassed on home ice. On the other hand, we will be putting in a few extra rookies and giving a few people some rest this week. So, Frank and Sam will integrate the rookies into our lines and D pairings this morning and we will practice with the new lines the rest of this week."

Frank and Sam took over and I walked back to the bench and left to find Chris. We hooked up in the training room and he looked over the hand. It seemed to be healing ok so he wrapped it up and told me to ride a bike or jog on the treadmill for an hour and if my hand started to hurt, I was to stop immediately.

I got changed and rode a bike for awhile, bored but at least keeping in shape. I finished up and showered, got dressed and headed to the cafeteria for a quick snack to eat on the way to the other campus and then left the arena. I walked to the logic's classroom on the central campus and grabbed a seat in the classroom, opening the textbook to read. Other students trickled in for the next fifteen minutes until professor came in. I looked around for Steph but she wasn't there yet.

We handed in the assignments when the Prof asked for them and then he started the lecture. I saw Stephanie slip in late and sit in the first available seat, probably so she wouldn't disturb the class. There was a guy in the next seat who sat up straighter and started to talk to her while the lecture went on. The professor went through the two new chapters fast, and started the third before giving us the assignment due next Monday. I was watching Steph and the guy beside her and while Steph seemed to be ok with the lecture, the guy looked lost. She wasn't talking to the guy much but he didn't get the hint. I let them walk out first and the guy was doing his best to get her number. She looked around for me and looked at me pleadingly. I cocked up an eyebrow and she motioned me over.

"Hey Steph, I didn't see you come in" I said walking up to her.

"Michael, there you are, I was late and had to pick the first seat I could find so I wouldn't disturb the class" she replied as she gave me a hug and a kiss in front of the poor guy. "Oh, where are my manners, this is um, Foster was it?"

"Hi Foster, I'm Mike, it's nice to meet you. Sorry I can't shake your hand, I got injured in the game yesterday and got a few stitches" I said.

"Hi Mike, sorry for sitting beside your girl. I didn't know you two were an item. I'll see you two next class, I've got to go" he replied as he practically ran off.

"Thanks Michael for saving me from that guy. He wouldn't stop trying to pick me up" she said with a smile.

"Anytime, you know that. You should have just come over and sat with me anyway. The prof said to use the back door if you're late" I told her.

"Believe me, I will from now on. Ok, we both have to go to class, so I'll see you at the cafeteria after next class" she said as she walked away.

"Ok Steph I'll see you there" I replied as I stared at her shapely butt.

I made it to my next class just as the prof started by asking for assignments so I gave her mine and found a seat. She went on about poetry some more but I only half listened until she gave out the next assignment also due next Monday.

I walked back and grabbed some food at the cafeteria and found Steph, Jessica and Vicky already eating lunch at a table.

I sat down and said hi to everyone and then waited until Steph had just taken a drink before I said "Well, I think Steph has a new beau!"

She spat out her drink laughing as the other two started asking questions.

"Yep, imagine my surprise when I look up to see Steph sitting with this guy this morning in logic class. She even stuck the knife in deeper by introducing me to him after class. Foster is her new romantic interest girls" I said with a straight face.

"Oh, I like that name" said Vicky. "Is he a hunk from Australia like Hugh or Mel?"

"Well that was quick. You said you were single on Saturday night Steph, when did you pick him up?" asked Jessica.

"Ok, stop it, all of you. I was late and had to take the first open seat. That cretin was in the seat beside it and thought I sat there because I wanted him or something. He wouldn't stop trying to get my name and number all class. I finally had to signal Michael over to get him to leave me alone. He couldn't get away fast enough when Mike walked up and I gave him a hug and kiss" she grinned.

"Our knight in shining armour has come to save the damsel in distress again" said Vicky. "He has chased the evil suitor away and saved our fair maiden from a life of cruelty and despair."

Stephanie couldn't help but join in when we all burst out in laughter.

"Hey, who gave you permission to kiss Mike" exclaimed Vicky looking at Steph.

"Sorry Vicky, I had to use your boyfriend to chase him off" Steph explained.

Humph, just don't let it happen again, either one of you" she commanded.

"Yes Ma'am" we both said in unison.

We ate our lunches and then agreed to meet to study back in the cafeteria after our next class. I gave Vicky a kiss and we walked to our separate classes.

Nothing exciting happened in Algebra, as we handed in our assignments and got a new one at the end.

I went back to meet the girls and found them all looking at the current copy of the Michigan Daily, the student paper.

"Hi girls, what are you reading so intensely?" I asked.

"Just some article about someone we know" said Steph.

"Oh, Foster's in there is he? I didn't know you were dating a celebrity Steph." I said with a straight face.

"Oh you, you big Meany Michael, quit teasing about that guy!" she said with a frown on her face.

Vicky piped up "Yes, leave poor Steph alone, she's reading a story about you, goof."

"I haven't even gotten my assignments back yet, how do they know I'm doing so well in school already?" I asked.

"You really need to give up the lame attempts at humour Michael, you're embarrassing yourself" suggested Vicky as the girls nodded.

"So, what is it, an injury report or did someone squeal about the fight? I asked with a frown, thinking it could be bad if it was that.

"No, you feeble minded boy" exclaimed Jessica. "It's the report on Saturday's game in New Hampshire."

"How do they know I'm feeble minded?" I asked.

"They don't know that yet, but I'm sure it will leak out soon enough" giggled Vicky.

"Well fine, this feeble minded guy needs to get studying so I'm going over here to get started" I said in a wounded tone.

"Wait, don't you want to read what they had to say about you?" asked Steph.

"I was there remember, I don't need to read their account of the game" I said exasperated.

"They said some nice things about you, Sweetie" Vicky informed me.

"Must have been a slow news day Honey" I told her and opened my logic textbook and got started on the next assignment.

Steph eventually joined me and we got the next assignment done before I had to go to the afternoon practice. I told them I would see them later.

"Mike, you can't practice with that hand" Vicky stated.

"I have to listen to what the coaches are talking about and get in some aerobic training. I should be done by five so why don't I meet you at home and we can cook something together?"

"Ok, I'll see you at home" she agreed as she gave me a hug and kiss goodbye.

I walked to the arena and changed into my workout clothes and again listened to Fred and the coaches start of practice speech. There wasn't really anything new or exciting so I got off the ice and on a bike in the weight room quickly. I rode it for an hour and then had a shower before getting changed. When I got home, I dropped off my books and made a quick call to the accountant up north while turning on my laptop. He walked me through the tax laws for inheriting in Ontario as well as the various options to minimize the total tax payment for all of the money I would either inherit or get paid as part of the suit against the mill.

While we were talking, I opened my email account and found an email from the realtor with the offer on the house attached. It seemed reasonable to me and the realtor also thought so in his comments. I mentioned it to the accountant, who knew where we had lived and he also agreed that it was a fair offer. I told him I would probably take it and that the lawyer would give him the final amounts on all the payments soon. After letting him know I would think on his recommendations and get back to him in a couple of days, we finished the call. I responded to the realtor agreeing to the price and copied the lawyer on my acceptance.

I finished up with my business and then went over to knock on Vicky's door. She let me in and led me to the kitchen where she had a meatloaf and potato dinner ready to eat.

"This looks great Darling" I said.

"Thanks Sweetie, but it's just meatloaf and spuds tonight" she said with a smile.

We sat down and had a nice conversation with our meal. Afterwards we each studied for awhile and then got ready for bed. We made love gently and fell asleep with Vicky lying on top of me.

The rest of the week was more of the same, go to class, go to practice to listen to the coaches, do some aerobic exercises, and then do the assignments and studying with the girls. Vicky let me know she was getting her period soon so our normal routine was put aside as she was not particularly cuddly for a few days. Vicky with PMS was a person to avoid but luckily she also didn't want company so I had plenty of time to study. Becky's cycle was in tune with Vicky's so she didn't visit us for the week as we had earlier planned. Vicky and I postponed any hockey decision until I was back to health and no one on the team or coaches seemed too worried about it anyway. I was a little surprised Vicky didn't push it more but maybe she knew she wouldn't be in a positive frame of mind if she tackled things this week. I also finalized all the money issues up north and had the accountant and lawyer put most of the money in some short term investments while putting enough aside to pay all the taxes we knew would come due. I had him put ten grand into my account to cover my expenses for the rest of the year.

On Saturday I spent a couple hours with the team prior to the game. Ian took my spot, as both he and Steve had recuperated in time to play. Steve and Albert returned to the first D pairing, while John and Ian were the third pair. Ian wasn't so nervous for this game but other rookies that were getting in a game for the first time were. I went around to a couple of them that looked nervous and I talked to them a bit. I hoped it helped but until they got out there and experienced it for themselves, it was only talk.

I watched the game with Vicky and Amanda, with Jessica and Stephanie deciding to visit their families this weekend. Becky still felt bad and decided to stay home in Dearborn as well. It was something to experience a game from the stands with the fans screaming and shouting from the onset.

As the game progressed, I found myself wishing I was in the game, especially when the other team hit one of our players or had a sustained attack in our zone. Our team was playing well without me, and had a three to one lead going into the third period. The University of Guelph Gryphons were taking the game very seriously as the coaches predicted, and they mounted a fierce comeback bid in the third period. With five minutes left in the game they took advantage of a rookie mistake in our zone by picking off a pass up the middle and the puck was in the back of our net before we could recover. The crowd groaned as their team celebrated the goal.

The Gryphons fed off of that goal and pressured us relentlessly with a two man fore-check and a fierce neutral zone trap that bottled us up. Another turnover in the neutral zone forced Steve to take a penalty or a two on one would have developed. They quickly had the puck in our zone and, with the man advantage, quickly had the puck deep where they had the defence outnumbered. Our forwards raced back to help but they quickly passed it back to the point where their defenceman one-timed a slap shot that was deflected on the way, changing the puck's direction and ending up in the net behind Mark.

Fred called a time-out after the tying goal to settle our team down and give them some instructions, probably on how to handle the neutral zone trap and the high pressure fore-check. He put the first line out with the first D pair after getting them revved up and they won the face-off cleanly before moving quickly into the Gryphon's zone. They controlled the puck for over a minute but couldn't put it past their hot goalie before the end of the period.

"So is it a tie or what?" asked Vicky.

"They have a two minute intermission and then they play one five minute overtime. If no one scores then it's a tie. They play for a win only in tournaments" I responded.

"Well that would suck if we couldn't beat these guys. They're good but not a powerhouse or anything" stated Amanda.

"Well, we have five rookies out there, so we're using it as a training game for them" I informed the girls.

"Well, I think they miss you Michael!" chipped in Vicky.

"Yeah right, they're doing fine without me" I argued.

Amanda laughed "Mike, mark my words, Frank will be pushing to get you back on the ice quickly after this fiasco. They need the shot from the point and John is getting shadowed because they don't have to worry about Ian. Trust me; they know they need you badly."

The overtime started and we watched as the play went back and forth with only a couple of whistles. Both teams had good chances to score in the last minute but the buzzer sounded after the five minutes with the score still tied at three. I left the girls in their seats and joined the team in the locker room for Fred's after game speech before the normal press conference.

Fred came in and started "We let that game get away from us men. Blowing a three to one lead in the third period to a team like that is disgraceful. Bad decisions causing others to take penalties or letting them walk in unopposed to the net is not how we play hockey around here. We were lucky to survive with a tie, on home ice no less. If anyone is satisfied with the outcome they don't deserve to be playing next week.

We will expect better effort in practice and in next week's final exhibition games or changes will be made to get those capable of better effort into the line-up. Am I understood?"

Everyone answered with a "Yes sir".

The coaches left for the press conference while the players got changed. I told John that the girls and I would meet him in the cafeteria and left to join them. We moved to the cafeteria and sat down with some drinks and snacks while watching the live press conference on the TV.

We heard Fred answer question about the tie with his usual candour, discussing the team's lack of effort while praising the Gryphon's game plan and execution. He never used the excuse of the additional rookies in the line-up even when it was spoon fed to him in a question. He just replied that it shouldn't matter who was in the line-up when it came to effort.

Near the end he was asked about whether I would have made a difference being in the game. Fred replied "One player should not make a difference in a team's effort but Mr. Stewart does give us full effort every time so it might have made a difference. A few of his well placed shots from the point also could have helped. He should be back in the line-up for next week's game so we will see if he does make a difference."

"See, I told you so" both girls said, almost in unison as they turned to me.

I laughed as they grinned at me as I asked "A new set of twins ready to torment me?"

"Great minds do think alike Michael" said Vicky with a smile at Amanda.

John joined us then and we had a snack while discussing the game.

"I couldn't get free like I could the last couple of games. They were on me so quick I had to pass off most of the time or lose the puck. Even on the couple of power plays we got they were playing the points pretty tight, even when we had the puck deep" John stated.

"We saw that from up in the stands John, they were concentrating on you specifically even to the point of leaving Ian uncovered and daring you to get it to him. Don't worry, they can't do that every game and expect to get away with that" I assured them.

"As soon as you get back over there no team can afford to double team either one of us without leaving someone open that we can find" John agreed. "So, how's the hand?"

"It's getting better, the stitches come out Monday morning and I can get back on the ice with a no-hit shirt right after" I answered.

"Good, you're needed" he said as he grabbed some chips.

We finished up and split up for the night, wishing each other a good night. Vicky and I drove back home and ended up in her apartment for the night.

On Sunday we went for brunch and then did some studying for the first tests in some of our classes. I cooked some pork chops and rice and we ate them while watching a movie we rented. We went to bed after talking to Becky and hoped for a better week for all of us. I fell asleep dreaming of my twins sleeping naked on top of me...



-------

Chapter 23


I woke up Monday morning with Vicky snoring lightly beside me. I so wished I had a recorder to capture the moment but alas, none was available. I got up to shower and shave after using the washroom, then got dressed and wrote her a note that I would see her later today, leaving it on the table. I left for the arena and had some breakfast while reading my textbook before heading to the training room to wait for Chris. He was not in so I slipped down to the floor and re-read my logic textbook to study for the test on Wednesday.

Chris showed up just after seven and said "Hey Mike, you must be pretty anxious to get those stitches out to show up this early!"

"I sure am Chris; I can't wait to finally get the use of this hand again!" I stated.

He laughed and told me to come in and we would have them out in no time. He quickly washed up and then with some scissors, snipped the stitches and pulled them out with some tweezers. They hurt coming out for a second but it was over quickly. He washed the cut and examined it closely.

"It looks pretty good Mike; take it easy for the rest of the week with that hand, protect it from hits and don't take any hard shots for a few days yet. We need to make sure it won't split open again. Mike, there's just one more thing, no more fighting ok?" Chris commanded.

"No problem Mike, I need to get back into the swing of things and just get back my wind and my timing this week. I'm hoping that my fighting is over around here," I assured him.

"Good to hear it. Now, let's put on a protective bandage and get you a bigger glove for practice this week," Chris said as he got out his bandages.

Chris got my hand bandaged up and I went to the locker room to get changed. Some of the guys said hi and said they were glad to see me back, which felt good to hear. I told them all it was good to be back and thanked them for their greetings.

I got onto the ice and did a longer than normal stretching regimen and warm up skate. When I joined the shooting warm-up, I started with some light wrist shots and checked the hand for any issues before proceeding to light slap shots. The hand seemed to be ok afterwards so things were looking up.

Frank came over and said "Hi Mike, glad to see you out here. How's the hand holding up so far?"

"Hi Frank, it's good to be back. The hand's holding up well so far after taking some light wrist shots and slap shots. Chris told me to keep them light for a few days to let it heal as much as possible before the weekend games," I replied.

"Good to hear it, we missed you last week," he said. "Put this shirt over top of your jersey so no one hits you, we don't need to damage it by a check in practice."

"No, we certainly don't," I agreed as I quickly donned the red mesh shirt.

Fred pulled the team together and started his speech by saying "I hope everyone had a relaxing day yesterday and got whatever was ailing this team Saturday night out of your system. I expect a better effort in practice than what I saw in that embarrassing third period. Those that don't can expect to be watching their replacements from the bleachers."

He looked at all of us for a minute and then continued "We have two games this week, our final two exhibition games of the season. These will show us what we have to work with and who we expect to start in the games that count. So you can assume that this week is the start of the season for all of you.

We have the under 18 National team coming in for a late Friday night game and the University of Waterloo in for a Saturday afternoon game. Both teams are better than the team that we just tied so unless you want two weeks of embarrassment I suggest you pick it up. Both teams are very fast and will try to skate around us. Frank, Sam and I think an aggressive neutral zone trap will slow them down as well as some judicious checking will wear them down. When we are in their zone, be prepared for a high pressure defensive scheme, that won't allow us much time with the puck before someone is on you.

Both teams will have seen the tape of our less than stellar game so let's surprise them with a more up tempo pace at the beginning. We might get a quick goal on them that way.

Before we start, I see Mr. Stewart is back on the ice wearing the red jersey. For those who don't know, that means that Mr. Stewart is not to be hit in practice while he's wearing that. I'm told his hand needs a few more days to heal so let's give him that time so he can participate in the games this weekend.

Ok, let's go back to the basics for today and practice the neutral zone trap."

We got into two teams and practiced both running the trap and going up against it. John and I stayed as partners and shot the shit while sitting on the bench. It felt good to be back with the team and on the ice, even though I was sucking wind after about 20 minutes.

Fred had us continue with the same teams for a scrimmage, making sure that we were practicing at an up tempo speed and that everyone was giving their best effort. I found it hard to defend when I couldn't hit the forward's or really battle hard on the boards. It forced me to skate more and try to use my stick more to poke check the puck away from them.

On offence I had to be more involved carrying the puck up the ice or accepting passes to beat the neutral zone trap. In the offensive zone, the other team pressured us quickly, forcing passes or quick shots or we ran the risk of getting the puck stripped and them having a breakaway on our net. As we all tired, it became easier to avoid the slower rush and get better shots off.

We had twenty minutes of special team play and then they let us go at nine. I quickly went in and got showered and rushed off to the math building for my logics class and made it with a few minutes to spare. Stephanie was there already so I sat beside her and said "Hi Steph."

"Hi yourself Mikey," she replied with a giggle.

"Mikey?" I inquired with a raised eyebrow.

"Just getting you back for the Foster boyfriend thing last week," she said.

The professor came in, collected the assignments and did a quick review of what we could expect on the test on Wednesday. He then continued onward with new material and put the new assignment on the board before he left.

"Ok Mikey, we have to get together and study for this tonight and tomorrow night," she commanded.

"We'll talk it over with Vicky at lunch, I'll see you at the cafeteria at noon," I replied.

She smiled and sauntered off, turning around to catch me staring at her butt and grinning when she did. I smiled and walked off in the other direction. I handed in my poetry assignment as I walked into the classroom and found a seat. The prof informed us that our first major assignment was to write a full length poem and it was due in two weeks. After explaining what was required, she moved on to writing short stories, the second of the three major topics of the course. I found this more interesting and had some ideas for a good story already percolating in my mind.

I met Steph and Vicky in the cafeteria after grabbing some food. I sat across from Vicky, beside Steph and greeted them cheerfully "Hello ladies, how were your mornings?"

"Hello Mikey," said Vicky with a wicked grin as Steph giggled beside me.

"Hello darling," I replied as I tried to ignore them by taking a bite of my sandwich.

"Stephie dear has been filling me in on her new nickname for you, Sweetie," she commented.

I just arched an eyebrow at Steph who burst out laughing and then said then she finally stopped "She made me tell, honestly."

"Sure she did, it looks like she really worked you over there," I replied wryly.

"I have my ways to make her talk," Vicky said with an Eastern European accent.

I rolled my eyes and opened my logic textbook and continued studying the chapters.

"So Steph, it looks like our Mikey isn't talking to us. Whatever should we talk about instead?" asked Vicky.

"Hmmm, I don't know Vicky, maybe him perhaps. Did you two have a good weekend together without us girls around to cramp your style?" asked Steph.

"It was ok; we watched the hockey game on Saturday and spent Sunday together studying and stuff. Nothing earth shattering though. How was yours?"

"I went home and spent the weekend with the family," Steph replied. "Nothing special happened except I did meet this guy who seemed interested in me. He gave me his number to call him this week."

"So, is he a better looking hunk than Foster?"

"For sure, he's good looking and in pretty good shape too. He's not as tall as Mikey here but that might be a good thing. I get a sore neck looking up at Lurch here all the time"

"So, are you going to call him?" Vicky asked.

I listened closely, while trying not to show it, to what Steph would say.

"I'm thinking about it. There doesn't seem to be anyone here asking me out except Foster, and Mikey here chased him away. If you're not going to lend him out then I guess I need to see who else wants to go out with me. I really thought someone would have an interest around here, and I'm dying for something more than a simple date."

"Well maybe you should take him up on the offer. What do you think there Sweetie? How do you feel about Steph getting it on with another guy?"

I didn't like the idea at all as I had grown fond of Steph and didn't want another guy touching her, but I also knew I had no claim on her and Vicky could get real jealous.

I looked up and said in my most mature voice "The boy would have to come in and meet us before we could let you go out on a date with him. What do you know about the young man? What do his parents do? I think we might have to chaperone the young couple a few times before they can be left alone Mother."

They burst out laughing and Steph slugged my arm and said "You dolt, I need to know if you are going to be alright if I bring a guy around here?"

"Well as long as the guy treats you and the other ladies of our group with respect, I really don't have much of a say in the matter of who you bring around, do I? Now, if he doesn't treat you like the princess you are, then he will answer to me!" I said with a little growl.

The girls looked at each other and grinned.

"She's a Princess?" Vicky teased.

"Well if you and Becky are the Queen Sisters, Steph has to be a princess right?" I asked.

"I'm fine with Princess," Steph interjected.

"Wouldn't that make her our daughter then?" Vicky reasoned. "She should be one of our ladies in waiting, along with Jessica."

"No, really, I like princess quite nicely," Step insisted.

"So Princess, when are you going to bring around your royal consort to meet the family?" Vicky asked.

"I have to go out with him first, have a few dates, see if we're good together, get him alone to see how he performs, that sort of thing, before I can have you meet him. That should take a week or two max so after that we can double date or something," she said flippantly.

I kept reading, or trying to read while they chatted amongst themselves. Inside I was fuming as she talked about finding a guy so easily and quickly. I knew I had to let it go so I tried to tune them out and went over the page again. I got into the groove for a bit and got a couple of pages done until the girls nudged me.

"Time to go to class Mikey," said Steph.

"Is it already? Time flies when you're having fun I guess," I responded as I packed up.

"Ok, meet back here after class right?" asked Vicky.

"That sounds like a plan," responded Steph.

Yes Honey," I replied as I walked with her to the exit. I gave her a big hug and kiss and then said "See you two soon."

The girls walked away together giggling as I watched their cute butts in their tight jeans. They looked back to catch me staring and they both smiled and waved. I could watch them for hours if I had the time. I reluctantly turned and walked back the math building and got out my Algebra assignment as I sat down in the room. The prof collected them and then did a quick review of what was to be covered on the first test, also on Wednesday. He then went ahead with new stuff and gave us an assignment due Monday before letting us go.

I knew the following few days would be hectic as I also had a computer programming test on Thursday, the major poem to write, assignments and two games to play. It was time to get serious and get studying and working harder.

I found the girls with Jessica giggling about something as I walked up to them. They quieted down as they saw me approaching.

"Hello ladies, how is your afternoon so far?" I asked.

"Pretty good so far," Vicky said with a smile.

"Ok," responded Steph.

"Good," answered Jessica.

I looked to Steph and asked "You ready to hit the books hard? We have the logic test on Wednesday, a programming test on Thursday and I have an Algebra test on Wednesday too."

"Sorry girls, the slave master is getting his whip out already. From Princess to slave girl in less than two hours must be a new record," Steph said sadly.

"He's such a brute to you Steph, I don't know why you put up with him, especially since Vicky won't lend him out," said Jessica. "I've just had a nice hot guy ask me out for this weekend so I won't need Mike's services."

"Steph had one give her his number too," Vicky told her.

"That's great Steph, is he good looking?" Jessica asked.

"Yes he is, not like Mikey here, but cute and he seems like a nice guy too," she replied.

I moved over a seat and started to study while they chattered on about the guys and dates and other crap. I started redoing all of the questions in each chapter and assignment. The girls kept trying to drag me into their web of girly talk but I ignored them and kept working. I was half way through the chapters before I had to leave for afternoon practice. I told Vicky I would see her after practice and we could eat here and left as they kept yapping.

I really need to hang out with some guys sometimes I thought to myself. I was surprised they got anything done in terms of school work when they were together like that. I walked to the arena and found Wendy in the training room.

"Hey Wendy, how's it going?" I asked.

"Good Mike and you?" she replied.

"Pretty good, just need a quick look at my hand and a re-bandage if you have a minute?" I asked.

"Sure, just hop up there and I'll get some stuff ready," she replied.

I followed her instructions and sat on the table and helped out by un-wrapping the bandage that was on my hand already. She came over to look at the hand and then cleaned it before wrapping it back up for practice.

"Well, your hand looks like its healing fine," she informed him. "Just keep on the pad and the red shirt on the ice and you should be fine for the weekend."

"Great. Thanks for everything Wendy and I'll see you tomorrow ok?"

"Sounds good Mike, see you later," Wendy replied.

I walked down to the locker room, got changed and was out on the ice early to stretch and have a longer warm-up skate before the rest of the team joined me. Practice followed the same script but in reverse of this morning's practice with Special teams, scrimmage and then further practice on the neutral zone trap. Everybody seemed more intense this afternoon and I had to avoid a couple of hits, even though I had the red jersey on.

I looked up to find the girls sitting together gabbing as usual, with Amanda and Susan, joining Vicky, Jessica and Steph.

I went in to shower and change, then John, Mark and I joined the girls in the cafeteria for supper. We all went through the line and the guys each paid for two of the girls' food with our cards. We had a nice meal with pleasant conversation and then Jessica and Steph hopped into our car and rode back to our apartments.

"Now you two kids get some studying done and we'll do the same over here," instructed Vicky.

"Yes Ma'am," we replied.

We went in and got down to studying for the logic test immediately. I walked her through what I had done and then left her to it while I continued where I had left off. She asked for help a few times and I walked her through it, sometimes having to get up and look over her shoulder to see what she was doing.

I finished up studying for the logic test for the night and took a quick break, grabbing us some drinks and snacks. We chatted for a bit and then got right back into it, with Steph continuing with logic while I started on Algebra. We continued for a couple more hours until she finished logic and I had a good handle on most of the Algebra. We packed up and went over to Vicky's apartment to find them watching TV.

"Humph, you two aren't even studying!" said Steph.

"Well, if you're good, you don't have too study much," said Jessica with a smirk.

"And how did your studying go children?" asked Vicky.

"Fine, we both got through logic and I got through Algebra too," I responded. "We're beat now so I'm going to drive Steph back if you want a ride Jessica."

"Sure, just let me pack up my stuff," she said as she got off the bed.

We helped her out and then they said goodbye to Vicky before getting into the car. I drove them to Jessica's dorm, making sure she got into the building safely before heading out to Steph's.

Steph gave me a hug after I put the car in park and said "Thanks for helping me so much with this stuff Michael, I really, really appreciate it. I would be lost without you in this class for sure."

"That's what friends are for Steph. I'll be here whenever you need help," I replied.

"I know you will and Vicky is so great for letting me spend so much time with you. I wish I could repay both of you back for everything," she said wistfully.

"Hey you pay us back just by being you. We both enjoy your company; I get a study buddy and peace of mind to know you're around Vicky when I can't be. Vicky gets a girl friend to hang out with and she knows she can trust you alone with me," I retorted.

"Well that all well and good but that's just being a friend. I'll have to think of something good if you get me through this test with a good mark," she answered.

"You don't have to do that. We want you to get good grades so you stick around," I replied.

"We'll see about that later. Ok, you have a good night with Vicky, Mikey," she said and opened the door.

"Good night Stephie," I replied with a grin.

She laughed and closed the door and walked with an extra wiggle in her step as I watched her butt. She looked back and grinned before opening the door and entering her building. I watched until she entered the elevator then drove home. I entered my apartment and found Vicky in my bed covered up with the sheet.

"Hi Sweetie, did you get the girls home safely without being attacked?" she asked with a grin.

"Yep, no attacks and the girls are safely in their buildings," I replied with a grin back at her.

"Good, I really like both of those girls but Jessica would jump your bones in a heartbeat but then move on, while Steph is getting a crush on you I think," she said.

"Well, they were both the model of decency and behaved themselves. I think they like you way too much to try anything with me and I wouldn't stand for it anyway," I responded.

"I know Sweetie. So go get cleaned up and come to bed now that all of our visitors are gone," she commanded.

"Yes Ma'am," I replied and quickly went in to brush my teeth and get ready for bed.

When I came out she had lowered the sheet and was showing off her nude body. I stood there and stared at my gorgeous lover for a minute and then just said "Wow, you are absolutely smoking hot, darling!"

"Why thank you Sweetie, now get those clothes off and get in here and keep me hot," she commanded.

Who was I to argue I thought and quickly got undressed and slid in beside her as she wrapped her arms around me and covered us with the sheet. We made love gently before falling asleep with Vicky lying spooned in front of me.

Tuesday went by so quickly, with practices and studying and the programming class was mostly a review for the test on Thursday. Steph was with us most of the day as we went over both logic and programming, getting ready for the tests. I drove her home again and then studied some more Algebra before slipping into bed with Vicky, too tired to do any more than cuddle as it was almost one am.

Wednesday morning came too quickly for me as the alarm wouldn't shut off for me. I groaned and staggered off to the shower, still in a fog. When I finally woke up enough to realize it was the day of two of my tests, I got my butt in gear and got ready to go. I left Vicky a note and rushed off to practice.

I was pretty early so I got changed and then studied my logic notes until most of the team was ready. I felt pretty comfortable when I shut the book but decided to see if I could leave a bit early from practice to get to class on time.

Practice was particularly brutal as Fred, Frank and Sam pushed everyone hard to be up tempo to match the speed of the under 18 and the U of Waterloo teams on the weekend. I did get permission to leave a few minutes early so, after a quick shower, I made my way quickly to the main campus and met Stephanie in the room.

"Mike, I'm going to fail this," she moaned, looking panicked as she tried to cram in a last minute review of a formula.

"Stephanie, relax," I told her as I put my hand over hers. "You know this stuff cold; just fold up your book and take a deep breath."

"That's easy for you to say, Mr. Genius Hockey stud," she retorted, trying to move her hands.

"Princess, you need to calm down or you will do badly," I replied with a smile. "You've done every question at least twice, by yourself. You just have to apply the same rules to a new question. I'm sure there will be one or two from the assignments or from class that will be identical, just do those first to get your confidence."

Steph closed her eyes for a few seconds and took a deep breath.

"You had better be right Mister or I'll sic Vicky on you later," she threatened, as she opened her eyes.

"Oh, like that's a bad thing," I replied with a grin. "So pack up your notes and tell me about your younger siblings."

She followed my advice and packed up her stuff and then told me some funny stories about her brothers and sisters. She was much calmer when the professor came in and immediately passed out the exam booklets. He gave us some instructions and then told us to start. I looked over the questions and then started tackling the ones I knew how to do easily first.

An hour and a half later we were told to stop writing and hand in our tests. I had been done for the last ten minutes but was reviewing to see if I had made any mistakes. Steph was still working as the professor came around to collect our exams.

"Miss, it's time," he said, not unkindly.

She sighed and closed the booklet before handing it over; saying "Almost got the last one finished."

"Don't worry, I'll make sure you get credit for your work," he said with a smile.

We grabbed our stuff and left the classroom.

"So, how do you think you did?" I asked.

"Actually, not too bad I think," she answered. "About three quarters of it was like our assignments and his examples, the last three or four questions I really had to think hard to figure out how to solve them. I think I got at least two of them right but we'll have to see. How did you do?"

"I think I did ok; the last one was pretty tough but the rest I think I did right," I replied. "I got to go to creative writing; I'll see you in an hour ok?"

"Sure, I got to go too," she said, before she got up on her tippy toes and gave me a kiss. "Thanks Mikey for all of your help and for calming me done. I owe you big time!"

"You're welcome Stephie," I replied with a grin. "Just don't let Vicky see you do that!"

Steph giggled before turning to walk to her next class. Of course she caught me looking at her when she turned around. She grinned and gave her cute butt an extra wiggle before continuing on. I chuckled and went to writing class, just getting in before the professor shut the door. I sat through the lecture, barely paying attention as I worried about the Algebra test after lunch.

I was already through the line and sitting at a table when the girls showed up. I had my Algebra notes open while eating a sandwich when Vicky sat down beside me and gave me a kiss.

"Hi there My Genius Hockey Stud," she breathed sexily into my ear, while Jessica and Stephanie giggled.

"Hi there yourself, my brilliant, beautiful biologist to be," I managed to stutter out, as the blood rushed from my big head south to my little one. "I see our little princess has been sharing."

"Yes she has Michael," Vicky acknowledged. "She has been singing your praises for the last five minutes."

"Well that's nice, but I'm afraid I have to review my Algebra for my next test in less than an hour, so you two will have to stop her up somehow," I replied with a grin.

"Ok, we'll leave you alone for now," she said, as she moved her body back to a normal sitting position.

I smiled at them and then went back to studying. The hour flew by and before I knew it Vicky was nudging me in the side.

"Sweetie, you better get going to class. Good luck on your test," she said with a smile.

"Thanks darling, I'll see you ladies in about an hour and a half, right back here ok?" I asked.

They all agreed and wished me luck. I quickly packed up and gave Vicky a quick kiss before heading out to the math building. I felt pretty confident that I knew the material but you never could tell what tricks they would put on the test to see how well you really understood the material. I walked into the classroom and found a seat and relaxed for a bit until the professor and his teaching assistant came in. They handed out the tests and after some quick comments let us get at it.

An hour and a half later I walked back into the cafeteria and grabbed a snack before joining the girls.

"So, how did it go Michael?" Vicky asked.

"We're definitely not in high school anymore Toto," I said with a frown. "I thought I knew that stuff cold but man that was tough. I only feel comfortable with about half my answers."

"Yep, here they expect you to know all the stuff they show you and what you had to do in your assignments, so you only see enough of that stuff to barely pass. The rest of the questions are to see if you understand it and can apply it to new situations," Jessica said seriously. "When you study for test for the harder courses, you have to find other sources for potential questions to make sure you can apply the knowledge. It helps to get previous years' tests to get a feel for some of the possible questions."

"Don't worry, I'm sure you did better than you think," Vicky said, trying to reassure me.

"I hope so, I need to keep up a high grade point average to keep my scholarship," I mused.

"Don't worry too much about one test Mike; the hockey team will get you tutors to help you out if need be," Amanda said with a smile. "They will have all the old tests and work with you to solve the issue. They can't have their star defenceman failing can they?"

"Well I had hoped to be able to do it on my own," I replied, a little bitterly.

"Mike, you are putting in thirty to fifty hours a week for hockey, the least they can do is help if you need it," Amanda told him. "If you didn't play hockey you would have all sorts of extra time to devote to your studies. They make very good money off of sports here so they owe it to you to provide help, especially since you didn't even come here on a hockey scholarship!"

"I see your point. I'll keep it in mind if I didn't do well. Thanks Amanda," I responded, feeling a bit better.

"You're welcome Mike. If you have any problems with anything while you're here, just ask John or me, we will make sure you are taken care of," she said with a smile.

"Ok, let's get busy studying programming Mikey," Steph said in a no nonsense tone. "We've got another big test tomorrow."

"Yes Princess," I replied with a sigh.

The girls all giggled as we moved over a couple chairs and got busy reviewing from the beginning. I spent the next hour walking her through the first couple of chapters and assignments.

"I have to go Steph. I'll see you at our place after practice," I stated.

"OK Mikey, thanks again for all of your help," she responded with a smile.

"No problem Princess," I said with a grin as I turned to Vicky. "I'll see you at the apartment darling."

I gave her a kiss and headed out after saying goodbye to Amanda and Jessica. It was a quick walk to the arena and I was quickly out on the ice warming up. I put some extra power into my shots and my right hand seemed to stand up well. I was starting to get my wind back as well.

Practice itself was one of our better ones. Everyone was back from injury and both the forward lines and defensive pairings seemed to gel. Even Fred was impressed at the end of practice. I got showered then dressed and drove home feeling tired physically, but pleased with my on ice performance.

Vicky and Steph were in the kitchen, working on supper when I knocked and entered her apartment.

"Hello ladies, it smells wonderful in here," I said, giving Vicky a hug from behind.

"Steph is showing me how to make her speciality, cabbage rolls," Vicky said, hugging my arms while turning her head to give me a kiss.

"Hmmm that sounds delicious," I replied, before turning to Steph. "I see you found a way to reward me for helping you. There's nothing better you could have done than to fill me up with good food and teach Vicky how to do it again. Thanks"

She blushed and then replied "This is just helping with supper Mikey; I still owe you and Vicky big time for all of your help."

I just shook my head and sat down before asking "Did you get some more studying done?"

"I went through the next two chapters but I'd like to quickly review those with you to make sure I understand them," she answered. "Then we can continue to the last few chapters."

"That sounds good to me. So when is supper ready?" I asked.

"Ten minutes or so," Vicky responded. "Why don't you put your stuff in your apartment in the meantime?"

I did just that and put away my logic, writing and algebra books and then laid out the programming notes and textbook. I set up my laptop and got it charging before heading back over. The girls had the table all set up and were dishing out the cabbage rolls when I walked back in.

The meal was delicious and we had a nice discussion about our possible futures. It was nice to have a proper meal with guests and stimulating conversation. Steph and I helped Vicky tidy a bit before she shooed us out to go study while she did the dishes. We thanked her and went to my apartment.

For the next three hours we went over every chapter, every assignment and every program we had written or could find to get ready for tomorrow's test. It was ten thirty when Vicky came in and checked up on us and, when she saw how tired we looked, put her foot down and told us we were done. She helped us pack up and came with us to drop off Steph at her dorm.

"That girl has a smoking hot body, doesn't she sweetie?" she observed, as she watched Steph walk into the dormitory.

Steph looked back and waved while smiling before opening the door and walking to the elevator. We stayed and made sure she got in and the door closed before heading out.

"You didn't answer Michael," Vicky said with a grin.

"Darling, Steph is pretty and all, but she can't compare to you," I answered while squeezing her hand. "You know you have nothing to worry about with Steph right?"

"Oh I know that sweetie; I trust both of you implicitly. I was just making an observation that she has a great body that we both like to look at," she replied with a grin.

"Well, yes, she is well put together and in great shape," I admitted.

"Yeah, she has a fantastic butt, especially in those jeans," Vicky stated.

I laughed and said "I have noticed that."

"We all kind of saw that you did, every time we walked away from you," she giggled.

"Hey, it just wasn't Steph's ass I was looking at, yours is the finest I've ever seen," I retorted.

"Don't worry Michael, we like that you appreciate the view; you do it without acting like the normal Neanderthals around here," she said, patting my leg. "The girls like to look at you too; you are turning into quite a hunk with all your new muscles and getting rid of what little body fat you had."

"Yeah right," I said laughing. "I'm a regular Brad Pitt."

"No, your body is much better than his is Michael," Vicky said seriously. "He's a bit more handsome but put you two side by side in a swimsuit and I bet you more than half the women who saw you would pick you. You're a serious stud muffin sweetie and you're all mine and Becky's."

"You've at least got that right, I'm all yours," I replied. "The rest is just rose covered glasses I'm afraid. I'm just glad you and Becky think enough of me to put up with this mug of mine. Either of you two would give Angelina Jolie a run for her money with Brad. Both of you together are incomparable."

"You are so going to get lucky tonight mister," she said as she leaned over and caressed my chest as she kissed my cheek.

I grinned and sped up to get home a bit faster. I chased her down the stairs and grabbed her by the waist and pulled her close as I unlocked my door. I lifted her up and carried her to my bed and dropped her on it as she shrieked. I pulled off my tee shirt and joined her on the bed as she pulled me down on top of her. We kissed passionately as I explored her body underneath her sweatshirt. Her legs wrapped around me and she ground her hips up against my stiffening erection as I moaned into her mouth. I soon had her sweatshirt and bra up around her neck and my mouth on one of her perfect breasts as her hands explored my back and my butt underneath my jeans.

Leaning on one elbow, I raised myself up and tried to get her sweatpants off while she was undoing my jeans to do the same. We struggled for a bit until I bit the bullet and got up off of her and quickly pulled her sweats and underwear down and then promptly fell on my ass trying to get mine off.

I got up onto my knees while Vicky laughed her ass off. With as much dignity as I could muster, I got my pants off and crawled up onto the bed between her legs. I kissed my way up from her feet to her hips, just missing the junction between her long sexy legs. She quickly stopped laughing and started moaning as I neared the apex. When I bypassed her pussy, she groaned in frustration as I continued up past her breasts to her mouth.

"You are a horrible mean man," she said when I stopped kissing her for a second. "You missed all the good spots!"

"I was getting to those next, but maybe I shouldn't if I'm such a horrible Meany?" I asked with a raised eyebrow.

"I wasn't talking about you, sweetie, I was talking about all those other girls' boyfriends," she said. "You go right ahead and hit those spots now please and thank you!"

I grinned as I lowered myself down her body, spending time at the important places until she came, screaming out her passion. I moved back up and slipped inside her while she was just coming down from her first orgasm.

"Oh God, you feel fantastic Darling," I moaned as I slid all the way in while her pussy was still soaking wet.

"Damn, you fill me up good Michael," she moaned as she wrapped her legs around me and pulled me in tight.

We started the age old rhythm and all too soon were going fast and furious, building up to our mutual release. I barely had enough time to pull out of her when I remembered I didn't put on a condom. She wasn't cooperating when I tried as she was coming again, but I managed to get myself out of her and shoot on her stomach.

"Sorry Vicky, I forgot to put on a condom. Let me get a washcloth Darling," I said, as I got up to go to the bathroom.

"I wondered why you were in a panic there," she said while still panting a bit from her orgasm. "We should be ok; I just finished my period so it's not the right time for me to get pregnant."

I breathed a sigh of relief and then got her cleaned up and joined her on the bed, pulling up the covers over the both of us. I made sure the alarm clock was set and pulled her close and we were quickly asleep with my arms wrapping her close to my chest.

Thursday morning came too quick but knowing I had a busy morning I got up and had a shower. After dressing I gave Vicky a kiss and left for practice. I quickly got dressed and joined the rest of the team at warm-ups. I made sure Frank knew I had to leave early again for the test and then started taking some shots at Mark. I slowly kept raising the power of the shots until I was shooting at full strength for the last few. The hand felt fine so I skated to Frank and gave him the red jersey, letting him know my hand was ok and that I needed some contact before tomorrow's game. He asked if Chris had given me the ok and, when I told him no, suggested Chris look at the hand before they removed the no contact jersey. I went Chris hunting and found him in his room.

"Hey Chris, I need your ok to get the no contact jersey off for today's practice," I told him. "I need to get some contact in before the game tomorrow. I took a few shots at full power with no problems."

"Let's take a look," he answered.

I had the glove off and was moving the fingers around as he came close to look at it. He manipulated the fingers and checked out all the scars for signs of tearing, soreness or swelling.

"Ok, let's put an extra pad in your glove and see how it goes Mike," he agreed. "Come to me if anything hits the hand and again after practice ok?"

"Sure Chris; thanks," I replied as I rushed back out to the ice and rejoined the team.

I gave Frank the good news and handed him the jersey before joining John in the two on two exercises.

"Do my eyes deceive me or does our resident prima donna no longer have his protective shield?" he asked with a grin as the guys started laughing.

"More like you guys have to start worrying now that I can hit," I said, with an answering grin. "I haven't hit anything in two weeks and feel the need to see if I can still rattle some boards."

The laughter seemed to stop rather quickly and I heard a couple of groans.

John spoke up with a laugh "I'm glad you're my defensive partner today."

It came our turn to defend against two forwards and the guy on my side tried to carry the puck around me to the outside. When it became obvious that I was going to cut him off and possibly pound him into the boards, he bailed on the play and fell to the ice to avoid the hit. I coolly scooped up the loose puck and passed it out past the blueline and skated to the back of the defensive line to let the next pair take over.

"You had him quaking in his skates," John said with a laugh.

"It's nice to have a bit of a rep for violence," I said with a shrug, while watching Sam, the forwards' coach, give the guy shit for bailing out.

Practice continued and we had a long scrimmage with our extras mimicking the opponent's plays and speed against the starters. I did get hit with a few checks and dished out a couple as well, with no issues on the hand. I finally felt good in terms of conditioning and the hand so I was looking forward to the game tomorrow night.

I left early and got changed and walked quickly to the main campus to find Steph already in the classroom, looking over a program.

"Hey Steph, you look calmer this morning," I said with a smile.

"Hey Mikey, yeah I feel better about this test than logic, that's for sure," she replied. "How are you doing?"

"Yep, I think I know this stuff pretty good, we certainly put in the time getting ready for it," I agreed.

She asked me a couple of questions to clarify a point and by the time I had shown her, the prof and his assistants were in the room passing out the exams. Steph and I put away our stuff and wished each other luck as they told us to get started.

The first few pages were pretty simple as they asked for small routines to do simple functions. The next couple questions asked for full page programs which were more complicated and time consuming. The final page asked for another program which after I thought about it for a few minutes, needed sub-routines that we had written for our assignments, combined with complex multi layered if statements, while statements and the data needed a large array to store the data. I needed three pages and half hour to write the code and another fifteen minutes to make sure the code was good. A program like that needed to be run to debug all the possible syntax errors but hopefully they were more interested in the theory than the small errors in code. I barely had time to review the test before the time was up and they were collecting the tests. Steph waited until we were out of the room before she exploded.

"Holy shit, that last question was extreme!" she swore as we walked down the hallway.

"I know, that seemed way too massive to be put on a test," I agreed. "I took three pages and half an hour to do that one!"

"Well, I'm glad we did the assignments and then reviewed them again yesterday or I wouldn't have had a clue what to do," she admitted. "I think I might have done ok overall."

"Good to hear it. So, I have to go work out, have lunch and then have a couple of practices. Maybe we can get together tomorrow in the lab and do the next programming assignment," I suggested.

"Sounds good, I need to get caught up on my other subjects this afternoon and tomorrow," she agreed. "Thanks for all your help Mikey."

"You are most welcome Stephie, I'll see you tomorrow," I replied with a smile.

I watched her walk away, enjoying the view for a minute before heading to the arena. I got in to my workout clothes and did an upper body and arms routine for the first time in a couple of weeks, ending with some more aerobic exercise before hitting the shower. After a relaxing lunch in the arena cafeteria, I worked a bit on the full length poem I needed for the creative writing class major assignment due next week. I was definitely going to need Vicky's help with it this weekend.

The rookie practice went well as Frank and Sam ran some drills designed to improve our one on one skills. It definitely helped us get ready for the speedsters coming in tomorrow. The last twenty minutes we had a mini scrimmage and then we got to relax for an hour and a half until the full practice at four.

I got into some sweats and went back to the cafeteria and had a snack while working on the poem and then on the next programming assignment. Some of the guys came in and sat down near me and we shot the shit for a bit. I packed up when it was time and we headed to the locker room to get dressed. The practice concentrated on the neutral zone trap and the special teams. I got the chance to be on the penalty kill a few times as well as being on the point on the power play. The whole team was exhausted when they finally let us go to the showers.

When I got home Vicky had a simple soup and sandwich supper ready for us.

"Hey there Sweetie, how was your day?" Vicky asked as she gave me a kiss and hug.

"Pretty good actually, the test was hard, especially the last big question, but I think I did ok. The rest of the day was hockey, working out and then more hockey," I replied. "How was your day Darling?"

"Not too bad, just a lot of assignments and studying with Jessica," she replied. "You ready to eat?"

"Sure thing babe, it looks good," I replied as I sat down.

"Oh it's simple and quick that's all," she said with a laugh. "I just didn't have time to do anything more."

"I don't mind it at all, I would be making this for myself if I was alone," I told her. "You know we can eat at the cafeteria any time you want. It would save us time and money."

"Oh don't worry, we will take advantage of that a lot as the semester goes on," she replied.

After supper we both did some more homework in her apartment and then we had a nice quiet cuddle before falling asleep in each other's arms.

Vicky was awake when I was out of the shower and we had a brief talk before I left for Friday morning practice.

"Hey, you're awake early," I said as I got dressed.

"Well I won't be able to see you until after four so I wanted to at least talk with you this morning," she said as she sat up in bed rubbing her eyes. "The game is at eight correct?"

"That's right, I'll probably have to eat with the team but I'm not sure of the times yet. How about you call me after you're done with your labs and I can let you know the schedule," I suggested.

"Sounds like a plan, I'd like to see you before the game if possible," she said as the covers fell and showed off her lovely torso.

"Well, show me some of that tonight before the game and I'll probably score ten goals," I said, staring at her lovely breasts.

"Well, I'll see what I can do for the good of the team," Vicky replied as she wiggled her breasts a bit.

I laughed and went to give her a kiss while I groped her breasts for a bit.

"Keep that up and you're not going to make your practice," she said with a catch in her voice.

I laughed and backed away from her and said "Alright, you have a good day and I'll see you this afternoon."

"Ok Sweetie, I'll see you later," she answered, before falling back and closing her eyes.

I went to practice and the coaches took it easy on us, just letting us scrimmage after lengthy warm-up skate and shooting practice. I found out that I had to have supper at five thirty at the arena with the team and then have a quick skate at seven. After practice I met Steph in the computer lab and we worked on the assignment at a nearby table before inputting the program we came up with. After debugging the code we tried it out with the data the TA provided and we were pleased when the program ran as we planned. We printed out our programs and results using the data and left the lab.

"You want to get some lunch Steph?" I asked.

"Sorry Mikey, I'm heading home for the weekend so I'm going to have to pass on lunch," she replied.

"That's ok Stephie, you have a good weekend," I told her.

"You too, good luck in both games this weekend, and be safe," she replied.

I watched her walk away and then went to the nearby cafeteria for a quick bite before heading home to work on other assignments and relax for a bit. I tackled the logic assignment and then the algebra one before lying down and having a nap. Vicky's call at four woke me up and I told her where I was at and what the schedule was for tonight. She decided to come home as her parents and Becky were coming there to meet her before going to the arena for the game.

I stayed in bed and Vicky joined me after freshening up in her apartment for a few minutes. We talked a bit about our week and what we wanted to do this weekend as we held each other and just relaxed for the first time this week. It felt good not to have to be studying or doing an assignment.

"Becky is staying over tonight and tomorrow night so be prepared to give her some attention; she's really missed you the last couple of weeks," Vicky informed me.

"I've missed her too," I told her. "You know, we need to get a bigger bed for the three of us. Maybe we can go get one tomorrow morning if we're up for it."

"That would be nice, but can we afford it" she asked.

"Yep, the money stuff up north got all settled so I have a bit extra we can use to upgrade some furniture in here," I relied.

"Ok, I'll let Becky know tonight so she's prepared to get up early," Vicky said. "Do you think a king size will fit in here? That's probably what we need to fit three people comfortably."

"We'll have to rearrange a couple of things but it should fit," I told her.

Finally it was time for me to go. She wished me luck and made sure I would look for them in the reserved seating. I lugged my suit out to the car and drove to the arena, parking close to the building. I put my stuff in the locker room and then headed to the cafeteria and got in line behind a couple of seniors. We were all having pasta with salad and dinner rolls so the line went pretty quick. I found John sitting with Mark at a table and sat down beside them.

"Hey guys, how's it going?" I asked.

They both said "Eh!" and laughed.

I just shook my head and started eating.

"So, you ready to get back out there tonight?" John asked.

"I sure am, I hate watching from the sidelines while you guys have all the fun," I replied.

"I know what you mean, I hated having to sit out games when I was injured or not in the starting line-up," John agreed. "You luckily won't have to sit out games for that, even though you're a rookie."

"Yeah, I wouldn't bother playing if I was a spectator; I'd go back to the intramural league to play."

Mark spoke up "Really, you would walk away from the team if you had to sit out games?"

"Sure, you know I was only planning on playing some intramural hockey when Frank saw me," I responded. "If the coaches didn't think I was good enough and made me sit a few games in a row, I would rather play in the house league and have fun then be miserable watching from the bleachers."

"I see what you mean, but most of us had to pay their dues before they got on the ice in games," John said.

"The difference is that you came here to play hockey and get an education, while I came here to get an education and wound up playing hockey as well," I replied. "I have no problem walking away from hockey at any time, especially if my schoolwork suffers."

They just shook their heads and we went back to eating. Fred got up and said a few words about the under 18 team we were facing. It was made up of some of the best younger hockey players in the country not at college. Some of them would be drafted quite high in the NHL draft in the spring so he warned us not to underestimate them. There would be a half hour film on them playing in our team room starting in five minutes if anyone wanted to watch prior to getting ready for our seven o'clock warm-up skate and shoot.

I joined about half the team and sat though the scouting film and I was glad I did. There were two lines that looked as good as anyone we had played so far. Their first line was fast, with a great playmaker for a centre and two top notch scorers for wingers. I knew we were in for quite a game as I'm sure they had something to prove.

I went to the locker room and got dressed and after a five minute wait, got on the ice. We had a good warm-up skate and then shot at both goalies. The coaches had us do our usual pre-game drills and while I was waiting for my turn, I looked up at the stands. I saw my cheering section and gave them a small wave as the twins stood up and showed off their Michigan jerseys with my number five on the back. Their parents were there and several of the other girlfriends were close by. The stands were already getting crowded and the press box and the other luxury boxes were already full.

"Jeez, it's getting packed already, especially the boxes," I commented to John.

"Yeah, the National team always gets a lot of press and scouts whenever we play them," he said. "The public also comes out to see 'tomorrow's superstars'."

"Well, it's just another game, it doesn't even count for anything," I said.

"Not to them, it counts a lot to their potential careers," he corrected me.

We left the ice and relaxed in the dressing room, drinking some water and eating some orange slices. Chris and Wendy came over and checked my hand, wrapped it lightly and made sure the glove had extra padding, just to be safe. Soon after that, we were on the ice and ready to go.

As I suspected, they came out flying and had the first line and the first defence pairing on their heels in our end. They were tenacious on the boards, not too rough physically, but they were on the player with the puck so fast he had no time to move or make a pass. Their winger stole the puck and set up the centre for a one timer that Mark had to make a fantastic save on or it would have been one to zip in the first minute.

Fred changed up the lines and sent out the second D pairing after he warned everyone to pick up the pace. They fared better and got the puck out of our end and eventually got a face-off in their zone.

He sent out the third line along with John and me on defence. Shawn, the third line centre, won the face-off and got it back to John. Their forward was a second late getting out to the point to defend him, so John took the shot. It deflected off a foot wide of the net and their defenceman tried to spring their forward by lobbing the puck high out to centre. We both raced back as he corralled the loose puck and took off like a shot towards our net.

I was in a better position to catch him so John picked up their second forward, skating furiously to catch up to the play. As I was coming from the other side, my angle to catch him made him stay to the outside rather than going up the middle of the rink. He tried to cut in sharply to have me over skate him but I had angled to come in slightly behind him in case he did that. If he hadn't I could still poke check him but I remembered a move on film that he liked to do. So when he tried the move I was ready and literally ran him over as he turned right into me. The puck slid to the corner while he slid to the boards on his side. I rushed to get the puck and passed it quickly to John as his guy was coming hard at me to pay me back for the hit to his teammate.

The guy coming towards me wasn't all that big but he had a big head of steam as he left his feet to try and plant me into the boards. I calmly stepped out of the way and skated back up the ice as the two forwards picked themselves off the ice. We had a chance for an odd man rush so I rushed to get into the play. I skated into the zone uncovered and John set me up with a sweet pass that I really stepped into. I had to go high as their last forward back went down to block it. Unfortunately, for both me and the goalie, he leaned his head out to the side to see around the guys in front setting a screen. The puck hit him straight on the mask before he could duck or get his catching glove up. It deflected up in the air into the netting while the goalie was knocked onto his back and didn't get up.

Whistles blew and the training staff from both teams rushed out to attend to him. They kept him lying there for a couple minutes until he rolled over to his side and sat up. The crowd gave him a big cheer and I breathed a sigh of relief as they helped him up. Two teammates helped him get to the bench and the backup goalie came in to replace him. I got onto the bench and sat next to John.

"You put three of their guys on the ice in one shift, I guess you really missed playing!" he said with a laugh.

"Shit, that scared me when he went down like that," I said, shaking my head. "The other two forwards just made bad decisions."

Frank was behind us and said "Nice shift guys. Mike, a couple more high ones will have everyone ducking and then you'll have an open lane to shoot low for a deflection. Don't worry about hurting the goalie; he's got the best protection out there."

We sat and watched for the next few minutes as the game slowed down a bit. We got back on with our first line against theirs, when, in a set play, the centre lobbed the puck into our zone behind me as I was standing up at the blue line in the standard formation for the neutral zone trap. I turned and raced the forward on my side for the puck, but as he was already skating I was left to chase him into the corner. He grabbed the puck before it got to the corner and tried to cut to the net. I cut him off and he went around behind the net with me at his side trying to squeeze him into the back boards. He passed it out front but Mark, our goalie, blocked it and pushed it back behind the net. We both stopped and went back for the puck along the boards. We battled for possession and another pair of bodies slammed into us. The puck squirted free and I went to the front of the net while John chased the puck down and cleared it up the boards.

Our forwards gave chase and we followed to get in the point position. The puck was in deep for a bit and then came back to me at the point. I was covered well so I passed it to John who one timed it at the net. The goalie stopped it for a whistle and we changed up. We got on for a couple more shifts in the first period but nothing exciting happened and the period ended in a scoreless draw.

Fred complimented us on our play in the period and encouraged us to get more physical.

"We proved we can keep up with them, now let's show them there is more to hockey than skating and shooting. Make them earn the puck on the boards, rather than steal it. Forwards, pressure their defence when they have the puck and force them to make passes under duress," he instructed.

Frank came over and told us to keep up the good work and then suggested we try a couple of our plays if we could work them in. We agreed and talked amongst ourselves on how best to spring it on them. All too soon we were out for the second period.

We were the aggressors this period from the get go. They could never get their speed game going as we kept them off stride and on the boards. We got on the score board about five minutes in as John and I used our play to set it up. I brought the puck up and, after faking a dump in, hit John with a pass at full speed. He blew by the forwards and the defence on his side and hit Gary, our first line centre, with a pass for an easy tap in when the goalie committed to stopping John's mini breakaway.

We lined up for the centre ice face off and heard the announcement over the PA system.

"Wolverine's goal was scored by Gary Crawford at 5:15 of the second period, assisted by John Reilly and Mike Stewart. Again, goal by Crawford and assisted by Reilly and Stewart at 5:15."

Gary won the draw back and we kept the pressure on them. I got open in the middle and ripped another high one, making everyone duck. The puck hit the Plexiglas but didn't shatter it this time. The rebound came back out front and was nearly put in the net before the goalie corralled it and held on for a face-off. We switched off and rested on the bench.

"Great play there guys," Frank said with excitement. "Mike, I want you to go deep and take out the forward on your side if you get a chance. It could frustrate them into making a mistake. John, make sure you cover him in case it gets by him."

"Sure thing Frank," John said as I nodded.

We didn't get a chance to try it until the last shift of the period. The play had been going end to end for a bit and we had just come on the ice as the puck was deep in their zone. Our forward was pressuring their defenceman with the puck and I faked that I was going to back out of the zone. He passed it to the forward on my side a bit slower than usual and I rushed into the zone. I got there just as the forward touched the puck and levelled him with a huge check. The defenceman tried to get to the puck but I beat him to it and passed it to Kerry, the forward he had just left alone. We did a give and go and he hit me with the return pass that I redirected into the net past the hapless goalie and we were up two to nothing.

We stayed on the ice and we heard the announcement from the PA for the goal.

"Wolverine goal was scored by Mike Stewart at 18:45 of the second period, assisted by Kerry Simpson. Again, the goal was scored by Stewart, assisted by Simpson at 18:45 of the second period."

They came hard at us but the period ended at two to nothing. We relaxed in the locker room while Fred advised us to continue to be high energy and physical as they certainly would be as they needed to impress the coaches and the scouts present. If they got the upper hand we would switch back to the neutral zone trap and the forwards would come further back to help the defence if needed. Frank and Sam wanted more low point shots so they could be easily deflected, now that they were a bit gun-shy about the high shots.

The third period started out with both teams going end to end trying to get the next goal. Each team had an odd man rush with a good scoring chance that was stopped by the goalie. Both John and I got a low shot off from the point that was deflected and either stopped or went wide. During our second shift of the period the forward on John's side made a tape to tape pass to their streaking centre and John was caught trying to hold the point. I had seen the play develop and took off with the centre and the race was on. The guy was their first line centre and boy was he fast. I put my head down and went all out trying to keep up with him. He had a step on me from the get go but I stayed right beside him as we entered our zone. In desperation I stretched out and dove for the puck with my stick, knocking it away just as he was either going to shoot or deke the goalie. We both slid into the net and knocked Mark on his butt and the goal net off its moorings.

We got untangled and much to my surprise, the referee had called a penalty shot on me for tripping a player going free to the net.

"What! I hit the puck first!" I shouted at him.

"Get to the side or I'll call you for a ten minute misconduct," he threatened.

The crowd booed and the coaches were all furious as the ref lined up the penalty shot at centre ice. Their player came in on Mark, deked right and roofed the puck over his stick side shoulder. Just like that they were back in the game with fifteen minutes to go in the period. I was furious as I sat on the bench. Both Frank and Fred came over and told me that it was a shitty call and to shake it off. Frank added to play mad but play smart as the ref would be looking for me to retaliate somehow.

Frank put me out right after the next shift and boy I wanted to either hit someone or put a puck through the goalie. And everyone on both teams knew it as I lined up. They won the draw and made their way up the ice and dumped it into the corner behind me with the forward chasing for it. I was going to let him get it first and hit him but he stopped before touching the puck so I couldn't hit him. I just continued on and wrapped the puck around the boards to John who got it up to the forwards. I raced up the ice and manned my point, hoping for a chance to shoot. Unfortunately they gained possession and John and I had to retreat to defend against a break-out of two forwards. The puck carrier tried to deke me and go wide but I kept with him and forced him by the net where I finally got to paste him to the boards. I retrieved the puck and lobbed it to centre ice to spring Shawn for a one on one breakaway with one of their defencemen. Shawn used the defenceman as a screen and shot though his legs and hit the post, the puck careening to the corner. John and I went to the bench for a change.

The game went on with our team tightening up the coverage in the neutral zone and in our zone, trying to protect the lead. The extra pressure worked as Peter Stromach, our fourth line centre knocked the puck away from the defenceman carrying the puck out of his zone. Pete went in on their goalie and deked him one way before sliding the puck under his outstretched leg for our third goal. The place erupted in cheers as we high fived him on the bench.

The late goal took the pressure off us so we went back to the high pressure physical play and had them trapped in their end for the last minute. We added a last goal off a deflection and the game ended four to one in our favour. We shook hands at centre ice and I made sure to check that the starting goalie was ok when we met.

After a quick congratulation speech, Fred let us know we had to be back at the arena at two for a four o'clock start time tomorrow. He asked for some of the juniors and seniors to attend the press conference and then left us to get changed. I had a shower and my suit on and told John I would see him tomorrow as it was already eleven and I was going home. I found the twins and their parents waiting in the lobby.

"Great game Mike," Mr. Waters said, giving me a handshake.

"Thanks Mr. Waters, though I'm still pretty ticked about that penalty call," I answered.

"That was a terrible call, the replay clearly showed you got the puck way before you tangled up with him," he said in disgust. "That ref was not in a good position because he was too slow. They even showed how far back he was from the action and why he called it like he did."

"Oh well, at least it didn't affect the final outcome," I said, before turning to Mrs Waters. "Hello Mrs. Waters, you are looking more like the twins' younger sister every day."

"Well, flattery like that will get you a hug, young man," she said with a smile as she reached up and pulled me down for a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

"Hey, keep your hands off our man Mother!" one of the twins said as she hip checked her mother gently away to take her place in front of me. "You played fantastic Mike!"

I got hugs and kisses from both of them and then the girls insisted we had to go to the cafeteria to see the press conference. It started with the visiting coach answering questions.

"Well, we were totally outplayed out there today; I can see why this program is so highly rated. They dominated us physically and kept up with our speed players," he responded to a question on how he thought they played.

"The neutral zone trap certainly slowed you down and caused the third goal Coach," stated another reporter. "Why was it so effective against you?"

"It bottles up the middle zone and unless you are in full flight with crisp one time passes, it is a very effective defence against any speed oriented team. We just couldn't solve it tonight and we will have to spend more time in practice against it," the coach replied.

"What did you think about the penalty shot call?" asked another reporter.

"I thought it was a good call from my viewpoint on the bench, but looking at the replay on the screen the defenceman made a good play on the puck first," he replied. "But I'll take a goal anyway we can get it!"

The crowd chuckled.

"How is your starting goalie?"

"He was just shaken up from the shot and the hit on the back of his head when he fell to the ice," the coach responded. "We'll keep an eye on him but he should make a full recovery. I'll turn the mike over to coach Benson after I thank him and the University of Michigan for allowing us to be part of their exhibition schedule and for being such great hosts. Thank you and good night."

Fred shook his hand and said into the mike "Coach Clarkson, thank you for the compliments and let me also congratulate you on a fine team who played very hard and gave us a run for our money to the last minute."

"Please remember everyone, that those are teenagers on that team, from ages sixteen to eighteen, who kept up with our older, more experienced athletes, while only being together for the last month," Fred added. "So I wholeheartedly commend their coaching staff and the team for a well played game. I think the future of U.S. hockey is in good hands and is very bright. Now, any questions?"

"Can you tell us your thoughts about the game?" one reporter asked.

"Basically, our team played them even in terms of speed and won the game by being more physical. We played well defensively and didn't give up many odd man rushes. Neither team had many penalties, and before you ask, Mr. Stewart's play on their centre was clearly not a penalty when you looked at the replay, but a fine defensive play," Fred answered. "Obviously, the ref could not keep up with two very fast players and was not in a position to see the stick hit the puck before they got entangled."

The girls, sitting on either side of me, both gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

"What did your team do to prepare for this game?" asked a reporter.

"The neutral zone trap was practiced as well as how to deal with their speed in both ends," Fred answered. "We took them very seriously and you could see why out on the ice tonight."

"Is your team ready for the start of the season?" asked a local reporter.

"We have one more game tomorrow and then next week is the start of the regular season. The players have progressed steadily and are starting to mesh together as a team, rather than a bunch of talented individuals. There is room for improvement in all aspects but there is room for some optimism," Fred said. "I have time for one last question before some of the team's leaders come up here for a few minutes."

"What was the catalyst for your team's improved play from last week?" he was asked.

"The extra practice and the return of several key players from injury helped significantly, Fred answered. "Motivation to keep or earn your position for the start of the season was also a factor I'm sure. Ok, that's it for me for tonight, here is the team."

"Ok, shall we go?" I suggested.

Ok Mike, let's go back to the apartment, we have some good news too!" one of the twins said.

We left the arena and the girls drove home with me while their parents followed. I quickly got changed in my apartment and then went over to find them gathered around Vicky's laptop.

"So, what's the good news?" I asked.

"A representative from BT Modeling Agency came up to Vicky and I and she wants us to go into their office here in the Detroit area for a trial photo shoot. If they like what they see, they might sign us to a modelling contract!" Becky told him with excitement in her voice and on her face.

"Wow that is good news! I've told you both you are just as beautiful as any supermodel I've ever seen!" I said in congratulations. "What do you think Vicky?"

"It sounds exciting but I don't know how we are going to fit it all into our busy schedule," she replied.

"If you guys want to do badly enough, we will fit it in, just like we fit in my hockey," I told them. "School is still the most important on the list and everything else can be worked out. So when do you go in for the shoot?"

"Tomorrow morning at nine," Vicky said, looking worriedly at me. "I don't know if we'll be back in time for the start of your game at four."

"That's ok, you need to see if this is something you want to do," I reassured her. "Opportunities like this don't come along very often. Do you guys need to get an agent and a lawyer?"

"They will if the shoot goes well and they need to sign a contract," Mr. Waters piped up. I'll work on that tomorrow with some friends I know."

Ok, I think we all need our beauty sleep for a big day tomorrow," I said. "Are you two staying here or would it be better to stay at your parents' home so you can get ready together?"

They looked at each other for a bit and then said "We better go home."

Vicky went quickly to grab a bag of clothes, makeup and hair products and came back in.

"Sorry about this Sweetie, we'll see you after the game for sure," Vicky said, trying to be cheerful.

"No problem Vicky, call me when you can." I said with a smile.

Becky came over and gave me a hug and a kiss before saying "I miss you Michael. I can't wait to spend some more time with you."

"I missed you too Becky and I'm looking forward to tomorrow night," I agreed.

They quickly got ready to go and I watched them drive away before heading back down to my apartment and getting ready for bed. I lay there thinking about the game and then the girls' photo shoot and what it could mean for all of us. Hopefully between their modelling career and my hockey we could still find time to be together. I knew that they would have a modelling career as they had the beauty, the height and the bodies to be models and maybe even supermodels if they got a couple of breaks. I fell asleep dreaming of the two of them on the cover of the SI swimsuit issue.

It was odd to wake up alone in my bed Saturday morning as I had gotten used to having Vicky there with me. I looked at the clock and saw that the girls were probably in the car driving to the agency. I found my phone and gave Vicky a call to give them some encouragement.

"Hey Sweetie, you're up early," Vicky said.

"I just wanted to say good morning and good luck today, not that you need it. I know you and Becky will knock them dead," I said.

"Thank you Michael, it's nice to hear your voice and your encouragement," she told me. "We're both a little nervous this morning."

"Don't be Darling; you two are a sure bet to impress them. Just be yourselves and show them your cheerful side and you two will be shoe-ins."

"You're our biggest fan and our best motivator aren't you?" she said with a laugh. "Here's Bec for a minute."

"Hey Michael, it was nice for you to call us this morning," Bec said.

"It's good to hear your voice honey," I told her. "How are you doing this morning?"

"I'm a bit nervous but also excited," she replied.

"Well, I know you're going to do great, so just smile your best smile and be as cheerful as you can," I told her. "Everything else they will teach you so don't be nervous, ok beautiful?"

"Ok Michael, you're so good to us. I can't wait to see you tonight," she replied. "Here's Vicky."

"Ok Michael, Dad says we're almost there. We'll see you at the game ok Sweetie?" she asked.

"Ok, good luck and have fun; I love you both," I replied.

"We love you too Michael, bye for now," Vicky said and then hung up the phone.

I got up, had a shower and some cereal for breakfast before heading out to the nearby furniture store. I found the king size bed along with a head and foot board that I liked and arranged for immediate delivery as part of the sale. I rushed back home and moved some stuff around and dismantled the old bed and frame. The delivery guys showed up soon after and quickly had the head and foot board set up on the frame, the box springs on it and the large mattress wrestled down the stairs and into the apartment. I gave them a nice tip and then realized I needed some new sheets, blankets and more pillows and pillow cases.

I made the trip to the mall and got two sets of sheets, pillow cases and blankets as well as some extra pillows. Walking through the mall I passed a jewellery store and stopped to look at some items in the window. I thought about the twins and realized I had some money to get them something to show how I felt about them. I went in and looked around, trying to decide what to get them. I settled on a necklace and matching earrings for each of them and found a set with a small diamond hanging from the necklace with matching diamond earrings. I asked if they had another identical set and purchased both when they brought it out. I had them wrap them and headed back to the apartment.

I put the sheets and pillow cases in the wash down the hall and then relaxed for a bit. I had some lunch and wondered how the girls were doing. I put the sheets in the dryer and then had a short nap.

After putting the dry sheets on the bed and the pillow cases on the new pillows, I put the gift boxes on the two outside pillows before heading to the arena just before two o'clock. I watched a short scouting video of the University of Waterloo's team and then got dressed and headed out to the rink. The rink was pretty empty still as the Canadian team wasn't as big a draw as the National team. I looked up but didn't see the girls in the stands.

After our warm-up skate we relaxed in the locker room while the visiting team had their skate and the ice was cleaned. Fred gave us the usual pep talk and motivation speech and then we were out on the ice. I looked to find the girls but didn't see them in their usual spot. I focussed on the game as the puck was dropped.

The first period was fast paced and Waterloo was very physical. John and I got on the ice and were immediately back on our heels as they put pressure on us in our zone. I was pinned against the boards with the puck in our feet for a few seconds until I pushed back and kicked it along the boards to John. A forward was immediately on him as well. Finally Shawn came back to help and scooped up the puck and lobbed it to centre ice. Their defence shot it back into our zone but we got to the puck faster and John was able to carry it out of the zone. He got to the centre ice line and dumped it deep into their zone and the two of us changed up.

"It's going to be a hard one today," John remarked, breathing hard.

"It looks like it," I agreed.

We winced as Pete got crushed into the boards in their end.

"Let's start hitting their forwards any chance we can," John suggested. "We need to back them off a bit."

"I'm always up for a few body checks," I replied with a grin.

We got our chance a few minutes later on our second shift, as they came into our zone. I hit the forward carrying the puck hard into the boards and John did the same to their centre who tried to pick up the loose puck. Our centre, Gary, swooped in and made a quick pass out to a streaking Chris. He took it in full stride and split the two defencemen stuck at the points. He had a clear breakaway from centre ice and made no mistake as he deked the goalie easily and scored the first goal of the game.

We congratulated him and lined up at centre ice. Gary won the face-off back to John and he skated slowly to their zone and dumped it in. Our first line forwards went after their defence and hounded them on the boards. They stole the puck and sent it back to John, who faked a shot and slid a hard pass over to me. I one timed it, aiming for the top stick side corner of the net. It looked good for a second until it actually hit the top of the shaft of the goalie's stick and careened into the corner. Our left winger, Daniel, chased it down and tried to pass it to Gary in front of the net. The goalie picked off the pass and held it in his glove for a whistle. We changed up and rested on the bench.

Frank came over and said "That's how we do it gentlemen, take it to their guys! Good work out there and keep it up."

The other lines kept up the pressure until a forward from their team retaliated with a slash after a hit. We went on with the first line and set up for the power play. Gary lost the draw so their defenceman sent us back by slapping the puck back to our end. We regrouped and John carried the puck into their zone and we passed the puck around the outside of their penalty kill passive box formation. They didn't chase the puck too much, and were content to let us stay on the outside. Gary carried it into the middle of the box and when they converged on him, passed it back out to me at the point. I one timed it towards the net and Daniel deflected it past the goalie into the net. Just like that we were up two to nothing.

The period ended at that score and we were pleased to be up against such a good team. Fred let us relax and just told us to keep up the physical play and warned about taking penalties. Chris came by and checked my hand as a matter of routine and everything was fine.

The second period was uneventful except for a penalty kill we had to do. With Steve Mason, our top defenceman in the box for tripping, John and I had to do the first shift as the second pair was just on. We tried to stay in the box but our penalty was more aggressive and the forwards challenged their point shots. I was battling with a large forward in front of the net, trying to tie up his stick when the shot came from the point. The first shot hit a leg and didn't get through, but the rebound was pounced on by their centre and he shot quickly. Mark stopped the shot but the rebound came out in front, right to the forward I was trying to tie up. I pushed him hard as he swiped at the puck and he fell down to one knee, still whacking at the puck. Mark was down trying to see the puck amongst all the legs and sticks. I got my stick on it and pushed it towards the boards before falling on top of the guy as I was hit from behind. Chris shot the puck down the ice and John and I got to the bench for a change.

Unfortunately, they came back and controlled the puck better and used our aggressiveness against us. They pulled the one defenceman out of the box chasing a forward, and then slid the puck down low. The lone defenceman in front of the next had to cover two forwards and one was left wide open to bang in the short pass into the net behind Mark. The period ended with the score two to one and the girls still not there.

Frank got together with the defence and told us to be more physical with their forwards and to take more shots. Fred also tried to get the team to show more intensity and grit for the last twenty minutes. I was starting to feel tired, the two a day practices, the game last night, the bad sleep alone and worrying about the girls all were getting to me. I tried to relax and take in some sports drink and some orange slices for energy.

I dragged myself up from the bench and walked back to the ice and our bench. I sat down and just sat there watching the five starters out on the ice.

"Hey, you ok there Mike?" John asked.

"I'm tired for some reason and I can't seem to snap out of it," I told him.

"Well, you might want to look up there," he said with a grin, pointing up at the reserved section.

I followed his hand and saw the twins in their jerseys jumping up and down, waving their arms at me. I smiled and waved back and they got big smiles on their faces before sitting down.

"Feeling better? Those two would make a condemned man jump for joy," John remarked.

"Yes they certainly would. I'm feeling better already," I agreed.

The period started and it continued to be a hard fought battle. Both teams were hitting everyone they could and John and I added to the bruises. I clocked a forward who was skating with the puck with his head down. He flew backwards and I scooped up the loose puck and took off down the ice. I crossed their blueline and had Henry Black, our second line centre catching up to make a two on one. I faked a hard slap shot and passed it off to Henry, just over the sprawling defenseman's stick and Henry one timed it at the net. The goalie made a miraculous save with his glove and froze the puck for a face-off. We stayed on and John put a blast low and on net that was steered away by the goalie. The rebound was cleared by their defenceman and I went back to get the puck.

I tried our signature play and hit John streaking back at full speed into their zone. He was past their forwards standing still at the line and went outside the defenceman before cutting into the net. Henry was the decoy, being tied up by the other defenceman, so John dragged the puck in front of the net and tried to outwait the goalie before shooting. The goalie didn't go down so John shot for the far corner along the ice and hit the post. Their entire team converged down low and the puck was dumped out of the zone. I went to get it and passed it to the new defenceman coming on for John, before heading off for a change.

Our next couple of shifts were tame in comparison as the other team opened things up. They tried to change their offence to a more run and gun, using long passing attempts from their zone to spring speeding forwards on breakaways and odd man rushes. Unfortunately, their passes were easily intercepted or missed their target and went for icing calls more often than not.

With less than two minutes left, they pulled their goalie for an extra attacker. John and I had just come on with the second line and as they dumped the puck behind us we saw their goalie skate for the bench.

"Empty net and extra attacker" John yelled as I retrieved the puck.

I spun and slapped the puck hard along the boards. Their defenceman got his body alongside the board and stopped the puck from going past him. He quickly wristed the puck at the net, as he didn't have time to wind up for a slap shot. Ron Zonk, our second line winger blocked the weak shot and got the puck to the side boards on my side. I raced to try and clear it while their large defenceman came in from the point to keep it in. We each had our sticks in front of us to get to the puck and just tip it by the other. He was coming straight down the boards while I was coming in on an angle to the boards from the side of the net when we hit. Unfortunately for him, he had nowhere to go except into the boards when we hit. He slammed into the boards and the Plexiglas on top of them and then lost his footing and fell down. I fell to one knee and then swatted at the loose puck, hitting it out of the zone.

The puck slid for an icing call so we couldn't change up our players and the face-off was back in our zone. I looked up at the clock and there was 1:05 left to play. Henry won the draw and John lobbed the puck high in the air to centre ice and Kerry took off racing their defencemen for the puck. John got off the ice but their defenceman had gotten to the puck and slapped it back into the zone off a player so, one it wasn't icing and two, I couldn't get off for the change. I got to the puck first and with a second to look around tried to hit Kerry out in the centre ice area with a hard pass. He was right at the centre line so he just tipped the hard pass towards their open net and he got lucky as it went right in.

We were up three to one with forty seconds left so they put in their goalie to finish the game while I finally got off the ice. The game ended soon after and we shook hands and left the ice, tired but happy with the win. I waved to the twins before I left the rink and collapsed on the bench when I got to the locker room.

"Wow, that was a hard game," I said to John. "They certainly came prepared."

"Yep, but you better expect that level and better from now on," John said. "You played well though so I know you can handle it."

"Thanks; so did you," I replied.

We got undressed slowly and then took a shower and got dressed in our suits. I told him I would see him Monday and headed out to find the girls. They were waiting with their parents in the lobby and I got hugs and kisses from the girls and another hand shake from their dad.

"Another good game Mike," Mr. Waters complimented me.

"Thanks Mr. Waters, they were pretty tough," I replied. "So, is everyone ready to get something to eat? It's my treat."

"You don't have to do that Michael; you need to save your money," Mrs. Waters said.

"Oh, I finalized the money situation up north, so I have a bit of spending cash now," I said. "You have been kind enough to me in the last couple of months; please let me treat your family for once."

"I for one am starved," said one of the twins. "Let's head over to Morton's for a nice meal."

They all agreed and I followed them to the steakhouse. We got a big round table and I sat between the two beauties. The waitress took our drink order and then our food order before we started talking.

"So, tell me girls, how did the photo shoot go?" I asked.

"It was so much fun," Becky started. "We each got made up by professionals and then they took lots of pictures and video of us in all sorts of clothes, dresses, swimsuits, and even some lingerie. They had us do some catwalk practicing after they showed us how models walk. There were all sorts of food and drink for everyone and they really treated us well."

"It sounds like you really liked it Bec. How did you like it Vicky?" I asked.

"I enjoyed it too; we were pampered and it felt good to see how well we looked in some of those outfits when they made us up. I know it won't always be like that, they seemed to be putting on a pretty major sales job to make us want to sign with them. I'm not sure why though," Vicky responded.

"So what did they say at the end of it all?" I inquired.

"They were going to meet with the executive here in Detroit and conference in the head office big wigs in New York on Monday. They are going to email us a copy of the pictures as well. Miss Perkins, the lady who approached us at the rink, was pretty adamant that the agency will offer us a contract," Becky told me.

"Well I'm not surprised, you two are naturals," I told them. "So it's agent and lawyer time?"

Mr. Waters spoke up "While my lovely daughters were strutting their stuff, I was on the phone finding an agent and a lawyer familiar with modelling contracts. Mrs. Waters stayed with the girls while I met with an agent that came highly recommended by a friend that works in marketing at Ford. He recommended a lawyer and we have both ready to come on board starting Monday if BT offers the girls a contract."

"Wow, that was quick work," I complimented him. "So, did you talk about scheduling and how to fit modelling in with school?"

"For the rest of the year it would be on weekends, with an occasional Friday evening shoot," Becky answered. "There could be some work over the holidays at the end of the semester too."

"I have road games every other weekend so hopefully your shoots will fall on those weekends," I commented.

We talked a bit more about some of the possibilities and the girls seemed to be pretty excited about the opportunity. Our meals came and conversation waned as we enjoyed the excellent steaks. After desert, we said goodbye to the girls' parents and headed back to the apartment. I carried Becky's bag down and left them in their apartment to get ready for bed before coming over. I changed into some loose shorts and relaxed on the new bed.

The girls came in wearing robes that were all wrapped and tied to hide their bodies.

"Oh, you got the new bed today Michael!" Vicky said in excitement. "I can't believe you did that with a game to play."

"I wanted to be able to spend the night with both of you in our new bed this weekend so I just got it done this morning," I told her. "I even got more pillows, proper sheets and blankets and got them all washed too."

They jumped on the bed and bounced a couple of times before lying down on the pillows beside me.

"Ouch, what did I just hit" asked Becky, rubbing the back of head.

She sat up and grabbed the box before asking "What is this?"

"Just a little something to show you two how much you mean to me," I replied with a smile.

Becky grinned and started opening the box while Vicky and I watched. Vicky was looking over my shoulder as Becky quickly had the box unwrapped and opened. They both gasped as the necklace and earrings sparkled in the low light.

"Michael, they're lovely but you shouldn't have spent so much money on us," Becky said.

"I have a bit of money now and I wanted to finally get you two something that would enhance your beauty," I said.

Vicky leaned over and kissed me on the mouth and said "Thank you Michael, but you know we don't need you to give us stuff to know how you feel about us."

I just smiled and said "I know, but I wanted to so I did."

Becky leaned down and kissed me as well and then said to her sister "So do you want to wear the necklace or the earrings sister dear?"

"Oh it doesn't matter Bec, you pick first and we can change every week," Vicky said.

"Um girls, those are both for Becky; Vicky, yours must have slipped off your pillow there," I said, indicating the one on her side.

"Michael, you didn't!" Vicky said, looking around to find the other box.

She shrieked as she found it and hurriedly unwrapped it to find the same necklace and earring set as Becky's.

"Oh Michael, they are so beautiful. Thank you so much!" she said as she pulled me onto my back and then proceeded to squeeze the air out of me with a hard hug.

Becky moulded herself to my other side and they both started taking turns kissing me. They finally let up after a couple of minutes and insisted that I help them put the necklaces on. After they were on they put the earrings on and then looked at each other to see how they looked.

"Absolutely stunning ladies," I complimented them. "Now you look like supermodels!"

"Speaking of which," Becky said with a grin and a look at Vicky. "They let us have one of the items we were modelling so we thought you might like to see how we looked."

With that the girls stood up at the end of the bed and, in unison, slowly undid the belt holding their robes closed and slowly let them fall to the ground. They were wearing matching black lacy crop tops and boy short panties that were very sexy. They did a couple of poses, with their hips cocked to one side and then rotated 180 to let me see their delectable asses.

"Wow, you two look so gorgeous and sexy in those outfits!" I said in awe.

They split up and used their newly acquired modelling skills to glide around the bed and join me on it. I pulled them close and they smothered me with kisses as I caressed their backs and butts. We quickly got all worked up and Vicky moved to the side to allow Becky to lie on top of me after we had removed what little clothes we had on. Becky sat up after we had kissed passionately for a bit and slowly lowered herself onto me. She was so tight but was very wet and excited. Vicky's hands were caressing both of us as Becky and I slowly started making love. It didn't take long until Becky was riding me for all she was worth as Vicky and I caressed her breasts. Vicky reached between us and started rubbing Becky's clit and soon after Becky climaxed with a shriek, her hips ground down on me as her pussy squeezed my cock, trying to milk my come from me. I held off so Vicky and I could have a turn.

Vicky and I gently lowered Becky to the bed and lay beside her until she recovered.

"Oh that was wonderful guys, thanks for making it special," she purred with a satisfied smile. "It's been way too long."

"You are most welcome darling," I replied, returning the smile.

She noticed I was still hard and turned to Vicky and said "Well it looks like our man is still raring to go; you had better take advantage the opportunity!"

"Hmmm, that sounds like an excellent idea," Vicky responded as she pushed me onto my back. Becky reached into the nightstand, took out a condom, tore open it's package with her teeth and rolled it onto me while Vicky waited impatiently. She got up on her knees and quickly straddled me.

She had me in her hand and used me to rub her clit until she was moaning and undulating her hips. It felt so good against the head of my cock I was quickly back into it. I caressed her breasts and pinched her nipples as Vicky aimed me to the right location and lowered herself on me, gasping as I filled her up. She was just as tight as her sister and I sighed as she enveloped me into her hot wet core.

Vicky started slow but her passion soon got the best of her as she had to speed up. Becky sat up and reciprocated the earlier help from Vicky, caressing both of our bodies to further arouse us. This time, I didn't have to hold off for the second twin so I let myself go and started thrusting up in time with her. We both were just about there when Becky reached down and tweaked Vicky's clit, which put her over the edge. I soon followed as her pussy clamped down on my cock and milked me dry. I made sure I had a good hold on the condom as I slid out of Vicky; then I took it off and tossed it into the garbage can by the bed.

Becky helped Vicky lie down beside me and then got some washcloths and helped clean us up. She shut down the lights and cuddled up on one side of me. After a couple of kisses and some good nights, all three of us quickly fell asleep.

Sunday the twins and I went for brunch at a nearby restaurant and then went for a drive to see the wonderful fall colours the trees were turning. Along the way the girls, especially Becky, talked about how cool it would be if they were offered a contract. I knew it would seriously affect our relationship if they made it big, but I couldn't begrudge them the opportunity, as they had been supporting my hockey all along. Time would tell.

We went back to get Becky's bag and then, after calling the twin's parents, picked up some Chinese take-out and had supper with them in Dearborn. After supper we gave them all hugs and left for Ann Arbor, where Vicky and I did some homework. I had Vicky go over my long poem assignment and she made a few corrections and improvements. I incorporated them into the final copy and printed it out and I was done. After watching a hockey game on TV, I got ready for bed and Vicky joined me. We enjoyed a passionate bout of lovemaking before falling asleep in each other's arms.



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Chapter 24


Monday morning started out as any other normal morning with Vicky lying half on top of me. If I knew what this week would bring I probably would have stayed in bed with her rather than getting up. However, I wasn't clairvoyant so I got ready and left for the arena, grabbing a granola bar for breakfast. I sat beside John as we changed for practice.

"How was the weekend?" I asked.

"Pretty good, Amanda and I went out Saturday night to a party and then spent yesterday together getting caught up on homework," John replied. "How was yours?"

"Went out to supper with the twins and their parents and then drove around on Sunday after brunch," I answered. "It was good to relax after last week with three tests and two games."

"Welcome to Wolverine hockey," he said with a grin. "Two games a week until probably April and less time for homework and studying. Just wait until we go to Boston in three weeks and then Alaska soon after."

"Well, I guess I'll get to see the country a bit more than I thought I would," I said, shaking my head.

We joined the team out on the ice and warmed up with a skate and shooting practice. Fred had us gather around sooner than usual.

"Good morning gentlemen, I trust you all had a good weekend after our two final exhibition games," he started, with a smile. "The other coaches and I were pleased with the results and how you battled to preserve the win, especially against Waterloo. You definitely came together as a team and worked hard to finish the game well."

Fred paused for a second and then got serious, saying "Those two games mark the end of the exhibition season and the start of the real thing. From now on every game counts for both teams and believe me, the competition is much higher than what you've seen so far. We'll be picking up the pace in practice and adding additional team meetings to view game film of each week's opponents, to discuss strategy and design a game plan.

This week's opponent for both games is St. Lawrence University from Canton New York. They will be coming here for Friday and Saturday night games. They are an aggressive, physical team who perennially compete for the title every year. Expect a hard fought game and everyone had better be prepared to step it up a notch or get steamrolled over."

After Fred's remarks, the team was put through the ringer, with a half hour of intense drills and then full contact half ice scrimmages. Fred got on my case when I went light on a hit on Shawn in the corner.

"Stewart, what the hell was that! My five year old girl hits harder than that!" he yelled as he stopped the scrimmage and came over to stand in front of me.

"You do want him to play in the games this weekend don't you?" I asked mildly.

"You think that lowly of Cason here that you have to coddle him?" Fred yelled at me before turning to Shawn. "Well Mr. Cason, do you require a red no hit shirt so Mr. Stewart doesn't hurt you?"

"No coach," Shawn replied, looking a bit pissed.

"Well, Mr. Stewart, you have your answer. Start hitting like it's a game or go find a spot on the bench," Fred yelled.

I just nodded as I got a bit pissed. They started the scrimmage again and when I had the opportunity to hit someone, I really stepped into him. Peter Stromach, the fourth line centre, was the unfortunate recipient of my anger. He flew a few feet in the air and landed in a heap, while I grabbed the loose puck and passed it to a streaking winger.

A couple of guys helped Peter off the ice and then we continued with the scrimmage. This time Shawn's third line was against us. They dumped it into my corner and I went in to retrieve it. I knew I had a target on my back, but calmly passed it over to John and leaned into Shawn's check. I was pushed into the boards but kept on my feet, while Shawn bounced off of me and fell to the ice. I skated around him and got back into the play. John was pinned on the boards and the puck squirted loose to Brad Eddings, the third line right winger. I hit him as he gained possession of the puck along the boards, looking down at the puck. He crumpled against the boards as I pounced on the puck and passed it to a wide open left winger for a breakaway out of the zone.

Fred stopped scrimmage again and had Brad helped up as Shawn got up by himself.

"I've just used Mr. Stewart to re-emphasize what we will be facing," he stated with a grin. "This is what everyone can expect this weekend from St. Lawrence from each one of their players. You need to have eyes in the back of your head and keep your head up at all times!"

Our line went off the ice for a rest and scrimmage continued, with increased hitting from all players. They finally let us go to the showers and I stayed under the hot water a bit longer than usual. I had to dress quickly and hurried off to logics class where I found Steph already seated.

"Hey Mikey, you just made it," she said with a grin.

"Practice was brutal so I stayed too long under the hot water," I told her. "How was your weekend?"

"Not bad, it was nice to relax after last week," she replied.

"That's for sure," I replied, as the professor came in.

"I have last week's tests marked and I must say that the results are rather dim," he started. "The correct answers have been posted on the department website, so I suggest you all download them and find out where you went wrong. I will be available at my usual office hours if anyone wishes to discuss the test or their future in this course. For those few of you that did well, congratulations, your hard work paid off so far. Keep up the good work."

He called us down to get our tests in alphabetical order. Stephanie was called about half way through and the professor said something quietly to her before giving the test to her. She looked at the mark and then smiled at him and said something back. She was beaming when she came back to her seat.

"You looked pleased," I said to her.

"Eighty five percent!" she said happily as she gave me a hug.

"Wow, great job Steph!" I told her.

"I owe it all to you Mikey," she replied with a smile.

"Bull. You worked your butt off for that mark and you earned it yourself," I contradicted her.

My name was called and I went down to collect my paper

"I see that playing hockey has not affected your school work so far Mr. Stewart. I'm glad you are taking your scholastics as seriously as you do your athletics. Very well done," the professor said.

"Thank you Dr. Quinn, I'm here for an education first and foremost, hockey is just a game," I told him.

"Well, keep up the good work," he replied, handing me the test.

"I will, thanks," I answered before heading back to my seat.

"Well, how did you do?" Stephanie asked, looking more eager than I was.

"I don't know, I haven't looked yet," I said with a grin.

"So look at it already!" she commanded.

I turned the paper over but hid it from her as I glanced at the ninety seven percent at the top of the front page. I shook my head and put a frown on my face.

"Damn, I blew that one! I thought I did so well too," I said, as I tucked it into my binder.

"What! You didn't do well?" she asked, looking shocked. "What happened?"

"I don't know, I'll have to review it later," I replied, putting on a sad look.

The professor finished with the tests and then started in on today's lecture. He gave the assignment out at the end of the class after collecting last week's assignment from us.

Stephanie and I walked out and she tried to console me.

"Listen Mike, we will go over the test and see what happened tonight ok? This test is just worth thirty percent of your total mark. With our good assignment scores and a good final you can still do well in the class," she encouraged me.

"I know, thanks for trying to cheer me up," I replied.

"Ok, I'll see you for lunch," she said.

She left me there after giving me a hug. I watched her butt as she walked away and was caught when she looked back. She grinned and wiggled her butt before heading away. I smiled and then walked to creative writing. I handed in my full length poem when the professor asked for them and then paid attention when she continued with elements of a short story. After getting this week's assignment, I headed over to the cafeteria to join the girls.

Vicky was on her phone and Stephanie and Jessica were listening to her conversation while nibbling at their food when I sat down beside her.

"Hang on Bec, Mike is here," she said into her phone. "Sweetie, we got the offer from BT!" she said excitedly.

"Congrats!" I replied with a smile and a hug. "Tell Bec too!"

"Thanks, it's so exciting!" she gushed. "Bec says they want to meet with us this afternoon and get us signed up. The head honchos in New York want us to get started as soon as we can so they can use us for some shows there coming up this month."

"Wow, that is real quick," I said in response. "They want you to go to New York?"

"Yes, can you believe it!" she responded with a grin. "We fly out this Friday after my lab is done."

"What, they want you to go this weekend? When do you come back?" I asked.

"Sunday evening, I'm sorry to say Sweetie," she replied, looking sad. "Don't worry; I'll call you every night."

"Ok, but I'll miss you just the same," I told her.

Vicky put the phone on speaker and the twins talked to the girls about how it happened. They finally hung up twenty minutes later and Vicky steered the conversation to the others.

"So Stephie, how was the weekend?" she asked. "Did you hook up with that guy you told us about?"

She blushed and replied "I did actually; we went out Saturday night to dinner and a movie. We had a good time."

"That's great!" Vicky replied. "Are you going to see him again?"

"Yep, he called me on Sunday and already asked me for a Friday night date," she informed us.

"Good for you," Vicky said.

"I've got a new boyfriend too!" Jessica said. "Brent and I went out Friday to a party and then to dinner on Saturday."

"Wow, that's great too!" Vicky responded. "Now I don't have to hear about renting out Michael to either of you."

I tuned out the girls as they answered questions about their new boyfriends and asked Vicky about the modelling. I finished my lunch and started working on the logic assignment. I was progressing nicely when the Vicky nudged me.

"Hey Sweetie, it's time for class," she reminded me.

"Ok, so when are you heading to the agency?" I asked, packing up.

"Right after next class, so I won't see you until later tonight," she replied, standing up. "I'll call you after six to let you know what's up, but you might as well eat at the arena."

"Alright, you be safe and have fun," I told her as I gave her a hug and kiss. "I love you and let Bec know as well."

"Ok, I love you too, I'll see you later," she replied as we walked out the door.

I watched the trio as they headed off to their next class chatting away about the new boyfriends and the modelling offer. I turned and walked back the math building and sat down in my Algebra classroom. The professor came in a couple minutes later with the tests we wrote last week. He also had some remarks about the low scores before handing them out. This time it was apparent that he was going from worst to best as each student was shaking their head when they looked at their grade. I felt better each time my name wasn't called. Eventually the students were smiling as they walked back to their seats. My name was finally called and I walked down to retrieve it.

"Good work Mr. Stewart," said the professor. "I'm pleased to see a computer scientist doing so well in this class."

"Thank you Professor Adams, you make it easy to understand," I replied, buttering him up a bit.

He smiled and handed me the test. I walked back and then looked at the mark. I saw the ninety two percent and had to grin. I had done much better than I expected. Four more students went up and then the professor got busy with the new material. An hour and a half later he had us all lost and, after giving out the assignment, left the classroom quickly.

I went back to the cafeteria but Jessica and Steph weren't there. I stayed and finished my logic assignment and started the Algebra one before heading over to the arena for practice. I walked down to the locker room and got some pissed off looks from a couple of guys before I sat down beside John.

"Hey, did I hurt one of those guys this morning?" I asked him.

"No, why?" he asked.

"I've been getting a few less than friendly looks from some of the guys," I told him.

He laughed and handed me a paper from his locker before saying "The school paper talked you up again, saying you're a combination of Bobby Orr's skating ability, Al MacInnis's shooting and Chris Pronger's hitting. Some of them don't like it when a rookie gets all the press."

"Shit, you know I don't read that crap," I replied, handing it back to him unread.

"I know that Mike, but some of the others do and get jealous," John told me. "Just make sure you don't talk to the press without permission."

"You don't have to worry about that!" I replied vehemently, starting to dress.

Frank pulled me aside as I was skating in the warm-up.

"Mike, you didn't talk to any reporters from the paper or anywhere else did you?" he asked.

"Of course not Frank, I know the rules," I stated. "I haven't talked to anybody at all and I don't read the paper."

"Good, that's what I wanted to hear," he replied. "There's going to be more coverage about you I'm sure, just don't let it go to your head."

"It can't go to my head if I don't read it," I replied with a frown. "I've got too much to do to read that crap."

"Ok, now when Fred says to go all out with the checks today, we don't mean you," Frank added. "We do need some of our guys to play this weekend. Fred told me to tell you to keep it at half strength."

"Sure thing Frank, maybe he should have said that yesterday," I replied.

"I'm sure a few of the guys think that," he laughed.

Practice was another physical one as the coaches had the rookies and other non-starters try and knock out a starter out of the line-up. They took to it very enthusiastically, hitting everybody in sight. A few of them took great pleasure in hitting or trying to hit me. I guess they really didn't like the article in the paper. I took the hits as best I could, and leaned into them when I saw them coming. I made sure to make a note of some of the numbers and returned the hits when I could.

The hitting disrupted our play enough that Fred had to stop the scrimmage and get people on track, showing a couple of the lines how to counter the rough and tumble play. Quick passing and skating didn't allow the opposition enough time to hit and still keep in the play. Frank and Sam showed everyone some fundamentals about how to pass the puck off at the last moment and avoid the coming hit.

After practice I had a quick bite to eat and then went home to study. I finished the Algebra assignment and then started the creative writing weekly assignment. After that was completed, I attempted to write a short story for the second major assignment in the class. It wasn't due until the end of the month, but with the schedule I had, it didn't hurt to get ahead. I had a few pages done of the first chapter when my cell phone rang about nine.

"Hello," I said.

"Hey Sweetie, It's me. I'm sorry I'm calling so late," Vicky said. "It's been hectic to say the least. We're all signed up and we had our first shoot so they could get some publicity shots of us. We're just finishing some supper and I'll be home in about an hour ok?"

"Alright Vicky, drive safe and I'll see you soon," I responded.

I watched a bit of the Monday night football game before falling asleep. I woke up briefly when Vicky came into bed a couple of hours later.

"Hey, you're getting in late," I said groggily.

"I had to get some homework done so I was over in my apartment for a bit," she said as she slid over to me.

"So, did you have a good time?" I asked, giving her a hug and a kiss.

"It was busy, with lots of reading and signing of contracts this afternoon with our lawyer and new agent," she replied. "Then we went over to BT and did some more signing and picture taking. Finally they had us made up and we did a shoot, which was fun."

"So, how busy are you two going to be with this?" I asked. "I can't believe you're going to New York this weekend already."

"I know! We can't believe it either!" she answered. "It looks like we could be busy every weekend, and, if we hadn't put our feet down, we would be busy every day too! The money is going to be fantastic but Becky needs to finish high school and I have to finish this semester at least."

"And what comes after that?" I asked.

"I don't know Michael; we'll have to see how things go over the holidays. They have some big plans for those two weeks, so they tell us," she admitted.

"How is Becky handling it?" I asked.

"She loves it, if it was up to her, she would be out of school and going fulltime already!" Vicky laughed. "If it goes well, she won't be coming to University in the new year."

"Everything is changing, isn't it?" I said a bit sadly.

"Yes it is Sweetie, but we'll still be together, we made sure you were included in our plans," she said. "Either we can fly back here or you can fly to us on BT's tab when there is a break in either of our schedules."

"You two mean so much to me, but I know you deserve your shot at this," I said. "Just make sure you two stick together and watch out for each other since I can't be around to protect you."

"Mom and Dad already took me aside and made me swear to watch out for Bec," Vicky told me. "We all know she will be the one to embrace the wild side of modelling."

"Well, I'm adding my request for you to watch out for both of you," I said. "I'm going to be jealous enough with all the guys that are at the photo shoots and shows, let alone any of the high rollers I'm sure you'll meet. I'm sure you'll both have your choice of handsome models and rich millionaires that will be after you."

"Michael Stewart, you do not have to be jealous, we're both committed to you," she said emphatically. "Frankly, we're worried that someone will trip you between her legs while we're away."

"No worries there Darling, I'm a two women man," I said with a grin. "Now with Steph and Jessica both having boyfriends, there's no one to worry about."

"I'm sure there are not many women who would like to hear that you're a two women man" she replied with a laugh. "Now, let's get some sleep, we both have an early day tomorrow."

She pushed me down on my back and snuggled up to my side. After a nice kiss and hug she settled down and was soon snoring away. I had no such luck as I had my doubts about how well things would work out. I pictured handsome rich playboys in Ferraris draping their arms around the twins possessively while I was stuck writing a damn short story. I fell asleep with those happy thoughts and dreamed of punching out a Fabio look-alike who had his arms wrapped around a half naked Becky.

Tuesday morning arrived too soon as I had a horrible sleep. I staggered to the shower and took too long to wake up. I kissed Vicky and rushed off to practice, arriving in the locker room as everyone was going on the ice. I changed as quickly as I could and got on the ice as Fred called the players in for the start of practice.

"Glad you could join us Mr. Stewart," he said sarcastically as he looked at me. "I trust you had a pleasant sleep dreaming about your fantastic career after reading your accolades in the paper?"

"Sorry I'm late, I had a bad night. And no, I don't read the paper," I said as some of the team laughed at Fred's comment.

"See that it doesn't happen again," he said before carrying on.

The initial game plan devised by the coaches was to play the fast transition game against their physical play, rather than slug it out with them. The practice concentrated on hitting streaking forwards with outlet passes before getting hit by their fore-checkers. Fred kept John and me out longer than the other defensive pairings, letting us take more hits from the non-starters. Near the end of the practice, John took a viscous hit from behind from a rookie and crumpled to the ground. The rookie pounced on the puck but forgot to look out for himself as I paid him back by crushing him to the boards before slapping the puck in the general direction of a forward. I went over to John and helped him up and over to the bench.

John was groggy and staggering so I helped him walk to the trainer's room rather than leave him on the bench. Chris took one look at him and helped him to a table to sit down on.

"You'll probably have another one in here in a minute or so; I hit the asshole who hit John from behind," I told him.

"Swell," Chris replied as he removed John's helmet and shone a light into this eyes.

I looked at the clock and seeing it was already almost the end of practice, went to the locker room and had a shower. The rest of the guys came in a few minutes later as I was dressing. Frank came up to me and shook his head.

"I thought you were going to go easy out there?" he asked quietly.

"You don't seem to tell anyone else to take it easy or fairly," I retorted. "At least it was a clean hit, and, believe it or not, I pulled up at the end."

I left the room and quickly walked out of the arena, starting to get mad at everyone there. It was turning into a crappy day already. I slipped into the programming classroom just before the professor did and sat down beside Stephanie.

"Hey Mikey, just in time," she said with a smile.

"Yeah, rough practice again," I said.

"So, how did you do on your Algebra test?" she asked as she got her notebook out.

"I did ok, how about you in Calculus?" I asked.

"I got an eighty three, so I'm pretty happy about that," she replied.

"Way to go Steph, good work," I said, congratulating her.

"Thanks, I worked hard for that one. The big one is this class, I hope he gives me a good mark for my work on the last question," she worried.

"I'm sure you did fine," I reassured her as the professor started up.

"I have your tests and it seems most of you learned the basics but couldn't apply that knowledge to a previously unseen problem," he began. "The last question separated the men from the boys and the women from the girls. The class average was sixty seven percent. I expect better from you people, especially from those in a computer science major. Please make an effort to see me or the teaching assistants to go over your test if you did not do well. It is imperative that you also do well on your assignments or you will fail this class."

He called my name first and I went up to get my test.

"Excellent work Mr. Stewart, as can be expected from a scholarship winner," he said as he handed me the test. "Keep up the good work, in the classroom and at the rink."

"Thank you Dr. Albert, I'll try," I replied, as I took the test.

I walked back, glancing down at a one hundred, a perfect paper. I closed it and slid it into my book as I sat down.

"Well?" she asked.

"I did pretty well," I replied.

"Oh you, so secretive all of a sudden," Steph said, with a pout.

"Stephanie Merks," the prof called out.

She went down and after a couple of words with the professor, came back with a smile. I looked at her with an upraised eyebrow and she couldn't stop from telling me.

"I got a ninety four!" she said excitedly. "He said my work showed I had the right solution but wasn't finished enough to give me full marks."

"Congratulations, you certainly had a good week of tests," I praised her.

"Well, it's all thanks to you," she said.

"Oh don't go there, you did Calculus all by yourself and I certainly didn't help you with that last big question, you handled that all on your own," I contradicted her. "Face it, you're one smart woman."

She grinned at me and then looked at the test while the professor kept on with handing out the tests. The recipients started getting frowns when they received their tests back until the final few had serious long faces as they trudged back to their seats.

"Ok, let's get busy with some new topics," the professor said as he went to the blackboard.

He flew through the next couple of chapters in the remaining hour and a quarter and I knew I had to put in some extra time to go them again to comprehend everything. Reading ahead had been put off due to all the tests and hockey, so that became a priority so that the lectures could be understood. The professor gave out the next assignment, due next Tuesday and left the room. Stephanie and I grabbed our stuff and left the classroom.

"I'll see you later Mike, I'm late for next class," she said, scampering away in haste.

I headed reluctantly back to the arena and got changed for my work-out. I took my frustrations out by adding twenty five pounds to each upper body exercise and doing an extra five reps for each set. I bumped up the weight on my leg exercises by fifty pounds and, using my anger, really pushed myself hard. I was in a zone, doing my last set of calf raises, when Chris tapped me on the shoulder and shouted in my ear.

"Mike! What's going on?" he asked.

"Oh hey Chris, just in the zone, working out the legs," I said, finishing the last rep.

"You've bumped up the weight and the reps, why?" he asked with a frown.

"I needed to work off a bit of anger and the weights you had me at were too easy," I replied, getting up and towelling off.

"You need to check in with me before you do something like that Mike," he told me. "The weight room is not the place to get aggressive and work out your anger issues."

"Well, apparently the ice isn't either," I retorted. "I guess I had better find a place on my own where I can."

I left the weight room and had a hot shower to try and settle down. After dressing I grabbed some lunch and sat in the corner of the cafeteria jotting down some ideas for the new programming assignment. All too soon I had to leave for the rookie practice at one.

I got changed, ignoring the dirty looks from some of the others, and got on the ice before them. I did a quick warm-up skate and was shooting pucks into a net when the rest came onto the ice. I rested on the bench while the others did their warm-ups and then joined them when Frank came out.

Today's practice was dedicated to the tip drill in front of the net. I was the designated shooter for most of the drill while all of the forwards took their turn trying to get their stick on the puck. The other defencemen defended against the forwards, trying to tie up their sticks or push them out of the way. After about a half hour of that we had a scrimmage and then hit the showers.

While eating a snack in the cafeteria I read the new chapters of the programming textbook and then started the programming assignment on my laptop. I accomplished a fair bit before saving it and heading back a bit early for afternoon practice. I was changed and out on the ice skating a full fifteen minutes early so, after a quick warm-up skate, fooled around with some pucks closer to the net than usual, normally where the forwards would be shooting from. I concentrated on wrist shots and backhands, trying for the corners. After a bit, I started flipping pucks into the air with my stick and tried to shoot them into the net before they hit the ice. I had done this since I was a kid with my father so I hit most of them into the net. I quit when the rest of the team came out for their warm-up.

Practice was again 'pick on defence day' as the forwards took advantage of the green light given to them by the coaches to hit us every chance they could. John was still out of commission from the hit this morning so I had Ian as a partner. We worked on pick plays to get the forwards off the other player by standing still and letting the other go around us close enough that the forward would run into the stationary player. If the forwards weren't watching closely, they would be put flat on their back when they ran into us at full speed.

Another thing I taught him was how to take a hit so that the forward would be more wary when he came in on you. Subtle placement of elbows or sticks would be enough to hurt the forward without taking a penalty. Leaning into their check would minimize the force of the check as well.

By the end of practice, enough forwards had received enough punishment that they cooled their checking somewhat. I was sore and a bit peeved when we were done. I showered quickly and then called Vicky as I walked to the lobby.

"Hey Vicky, you home?" I asked.

"Nope, I'm at Jessica's trying to catch up on stuff," she told me. "Why don't you eat at the arena and we'll grab something here. I'll be a couple of hours at least."

"Ok, call me when you're done and I'll come get you," I said.

"Sounds good, I'll see you later," she replied, before hanging up.

I turned into the cafeteria and had a meatloaf dinner before heading home. I got caught up on assignments and some reading until Vicky called for me to come get her. She walked out of the dorm when she saw me pull up and gave me a kiss when she got into the car.

"Hey Vicky, did you get caught up?" I asked.

"Pretty much, but now I have to get ahead so I get my assignments and studying all done before the weekend," she replied with a sigh. "I wish this modelling gig would have come when the semester was over."

"I'm surprised you two didn't put it on hold until then," I agreed. "Your parents must have suggested that as well."

"Becky was so gung-ho on it I didn't have the heart to say no," she admitted. "She's had it so hard with the whole being sick and still in high school thing."

"Well, I'll help out as much as I can, we can eat at the school as much as we want to so we can save cooking and clean-up time, and I'll help more with the laundry," I volunteered.

"Thanks Sweetie, I appreciate it," she said with a smile.

She got changed and came over and I gave her a nice massage to relax her. She fell asleep at the end of it and I joined her soon after.

Wednesday was a busy day but nothing much exciting happened in practice or in class. I spent my time away from the rink doing assignments and catching up on reading. Vicky and I had supper at the arena cafeteria before heading home. I did some laundry while she did some homework and studying. We called it an early night and made love prior to falling asleep.

The excrement hit the proverbial wind propulsion device on Thursday shortly after I got to the arena.

"Tell me you didn't talk to anyone from US Today or ESPN magazine," John asked.

"Of course not. Why, what happened now?" I asked.

"One, you made the top points list for pre-season, but that's just a list. Secondly, you've in their 'Players to watch' article and their pick for rookie of the year in ESPN Magazine's college hockey edition," John told him.

"I didn't talk to anyone about anything, I have no inclination, opportunity or time to talk to reporters," I said.

"Well you better let Fred and Frank know as soon as possible, and be prepared for more heat from everyone," John remarked.

"Just fucking swell," I said. "This is really not worth the hassle."

I finished getting dressed and went out for the skate and shooting practice. A couple of guys shot me dirty looks but I ignored them. I stayed to the back when Fred called us in.

"Ok, last day of practice, so let's make it a good one," Fred started. "We'll work on our fast break out for a bit and then special teams this morning. This afternoon we will have a scrimmage and some specialty drills."

Nothing was made of the articles so I hoped it wouldn't be an issue. The practice was intense but everything seemed to click. I left the ice quickly and got to my programming class before anyone could approach me.

Programming class was more of the same from Tuesday, going over two new chapters and new concepts faster than ever before. Steph cornered me after the class.

"Can we go over this stuff at two thirty, I'm lost already," she asked.

"Sure, meet me in the cafeteria at the arena," I agreed.

"Thanks Mike, you're the best," she said, skipping away with a smile.

I had a few impure thoughts watching her butt in those tight jeans and then went back to the arena.

After another hard work-out and lunch at the cafeteria, I went and got changed for rookie practice. Fred and Frank called me over to the boards while the others shot on the back-up goalie.

"Mr. Stewart, have you seen these articles yet?" Fred asked, holding up both the US Today and the ESPN magazines.

"No, but John mentioned I'm in them," I replied. "And before you ask, I have not talked to any reporter or anyone else about anything. I don't plan on reading those either."

"It's like I said Fred, they got everything from stat sheets, and whatever they could from our media information. They didn't mention his scholarship status or nationality," Frank said, defending me.

"You had better not get a swelled head from this Mr. Stewart, I will have no problem benching you if I see you lording this over your teammate's heads," Fred threatened.

"I told you both I don't read that stuff, so I won't be getting a swelled head," I told them. "Anytime you don't need me anymore just let me know and I'll be happy to leave. I've better things to do than to play for and with people that treat me like shit because someone writes something about how I play."

I skated away leaving them looking at each other in shock and hammered a few shots at the net, taking out my anger on the goalie. I stopped when one of my shots broke the goalie stick blade and went in between his legs, leaving the goalie shaking his head while looking at his stick.

Frank came out and had us do some drills and then scrimmage for a while. Some of the others on the team thought they would prove that the articles were all bogus, but after a couple of checks into the boards they left me alone. I even took a rush up the ice when I stopped a defenceman at our blue line while the rest of his team was all going into our zone. I pulled away from him and, after deking his partner, came in alone on the goalie. I faked a slap shot and flipped the puck high into the top corner on the backhand while the goalie sprawled out to cover the bottom of the net. It felt good to go on offense once and a while.

After practice I grabbed a snack and went over the latest four chapters in the book with Stephanie before doing some of the questions in the back of each chapter. We then went over the assignment and I finished mine while she started hers. I ran my program with the data from the website and after correcting for some syntax errors, it worked like a charm. All I would have to do is print it out along with the solution and it was done.

I left her there, letting her know Vicky should be joining her, and went to get dressed for practice. The specialty drills were some two on ones and three on two mismatches and then we had a full scrimmage.

The girls were waiting for me in the cafeteria and we went through the line and grabbed our super. I helped Steph for a bit on her assignment while Vicky did some of her homework. We dropped Steph off afterwards and went home. I told her a bit about the magazine articles and how the team and the coaches reacted.

"Those idiots don't appreciate you Michael," she said. "They were happy when you could help out in a small role, but now you're attracting too much attention and they don't like it. I want you to keep up your great play and prove that the magazines are right and you deserve all the accolades."

"I hadn't planned on changing anything, that's for sure," I replied.

Vicky had to pack as she would be heading out right after her last class tomorrow. The agency was sending a car to take her to the airport. We were both exhausted when we finally got to bed.

"Are you going to be alright, alone here for three days?" she asked.

"I'm sure I'll survive just fine, except worrying about you two," I said dryly. "How about you, are you going to be alright in New York?"

"I think we will be ok," she replied. "We're going to have an assistant with us the whole time as soon as we get off the plane. She will make sure we're taken care of."

"I'm glad to hear it," I told her. "Enjoy your time there and come back safe."

I wrapped her up in my arms and we fell quickly asleep.

I gave her a kiss and left her a note in the morning before leaving for the arena, even though there was no practice. I skated for a bit and then got out Patrick to shoot on. I spent the next hour putting the puck in the small cut-outs from all over the ice. The last ten minutes or so I was taking shots from the other end of the ice, deliberately bouncing them once before the net and trying to get them in the small holes. I found the spot, after a dozen tries, that would allow the puck to bounce right into the top corner, if hit just right. It was a shot that might just catch the goalie off guard, especially near the end of a period. I did a few breakaways from centre ice and then left to meet Steph in the computer lab.

I quickly had my assignment printed out with the solution and helped her a bit. I worked on my short story while she finished it and then we had lunch together before she left for home. I went home and had a nap.

Vicky came in just after four and woke me up with a kiss.

"Hey there Sweetie, have a good nap?" she asked as she moved on top of me.

"Yeah, pretty good Darling," I replied as I ran my hands down her back and onto her butt.

"Hmmm, don't start that or I'll be wet all the way to New York," she moaned.

"Do we have time for me to handle that for you?" I teased as I slipped my hands into her pants.

"No, the car will be her in five minutes and Becky will be so jealous if you do," she groaned as she pulled away.

"Too bad, I'm going to have to take care of both of you when you get back, so see if Becky can come here Sunday night and she can use the car to go home on Monday," I suggested.

"She will love that, I'm sure," Vicky said with a grin. "Come and help me with the suitcase will you?"

I got up and carried it up the stairs as the car pulled in. It was one of the luxury Lincoln full size cars with a chauffeur. An older man in a suit got out as we moved to the car. I gave him the suitcase to put in the truck and, as he was doing that, gave Vicky a hug and a big kiss.

"Ok, that should last you a couple of days," I said with a grin. "Take care of yourself and Becky and remember I love you both. Come back safe and sound ok?"

"We love you too Michael and we'll be back soon," she replied. "Just remember not to let a girl get you alone, we'll take real good care of you as soon as we're back, I promise!"

"You don't have to worry about that, you and Becky keep the guys away too!" I told her.

"We will, you are all we'll ever need," she assured me. "We'll call your cell tonight around eleven and you can let us know how the game went."

I put her in the back seat and after once last kiss, shut the door. I waved as they pulled away and then went back inside. After a quick shower I drove to the arena and had supper with the team and watched some game film of the St. Lawrence Saints. We then got dressed and had a warm-up skate and shooting practice before doing some drills. John was dressed as well as Ian, giving us seven defencemen. Gary would be the centre on both the first and fourth lines.

After a rest in the locker room we finally got the game started. The Saints came after us as we had prepared for and we countered with our quick break offence. Our defence were taking hits to get the passes out of the zone but it generated a couple of good scoring chances. They got their first power play chance when Ian got an elbow up on a forward coming in to deliver a big check.

Half a minute later and they scored off a deflection of a point shot that eluded Mark. Just like that we were behind one to nothing.

Frank sat Ian down and John went back to being my partner for every shift, not just on power plays. We got back on the ice together a few minutes later and I fed him a pass using our special play. He got past the blue line and the forward standing at the line. The defenceman wasn't fooled and forced John to the outside, though he was still skating at full speed. John fed a pass in front of their net where Henry was stationed to quickly one time it past the goalie. Just like that we were tied and both John and I had an assist. We went back to the bench and the first line and first pairing of defence went back out.

"Great play John, that was a perfect pass to Henry," I congratulated him.

"Thanks, for a second there I thought the play wasn't going to work," he said. "We better be careful, I think they're prepared for it."

"It's hard to defend against unless they tag you at the line," I replied. "Let's not use it again until the third."

Just before the end of the period, their high pressure forechecking paid off as the puck squirted loose from Mat after a big check along the boards. Ralph, the other defenceman, was left with defending against a two on one. He went down to block the pass over, so their forward kept the puck and blasted a shot past Mark over his shoulder. The period ended soon after with the Saints leading two to one. Fred got up to talk to us while we rested with drinks and fruit slices.

"Ok, this is a first for us this year, being behind in a game," he started. "I don't think we need to change anything yet, just get our passes out quicker and force them to defend more against our transition game rather than continue their physical game. Let them get the puck in our zone when they dump it in and punish them a bit."

He continued after looking around a bit, saying "We also need to sustain some offence in their zone, use our speed to get them chasing us a bit. Setup some point shots and get in there to deflect them."

We rested for a bit longer and then went out for the second period.

The Saints came out even more aggressive, trying to catch us off guard. They sent two forwards in to forecheck but luckily Steve let their forward get to the puck first and then hit him hard. Their second forward was hit soon after he picked up the loose puck and Albert sent our forwards off to their zone with a long hard pass out of our zone. Their goalie was forced to make a great save to preserve their lead.

John and I got on the ice a couple of shifts later. We followed the forwards into their zone and manned the points as the third line kept possession of the puck. The Saints had a forward well out covering me so Shawn, our centre, got it back to John who put a low slap shot towards the net. It was deflected into the corner off a leg and their defenceman pounced on it and lifted it to centre ice behind John. The forward shadowing me raced for the puck and I had to let him get it while I got between him and our net. He came in on me one on one and tried to deke around me. I played the man and didn't bite on the move, so he had to shoot from the outside, trying to use me as a screen. Mark made the save and passed it to John, who had gotten back by then. He passed it up to Shawn and, with Brad Eddings, the third line winger, went into their zone and had a good chance to tie it up, forcing the goalie to cover up.

The rest of the period went the same, with us having them on their heels a bit, but their goalie keeping them in the lead. The period ended with the score still two to one. We were shaking our heads when we went into the locker room. Frank came over and talked to John and me.

"Have you two watched the Red Wings play lately?" he asked.

"Sure, I watched a game last week," John said while I nodded.

"Do you two think you can cross over like Lidstrom and Rafalski do to get a shot from the centre of the ice?" he asked. "It might get Mike's shadow away from him."

"We haven't practised it but we could try I guess," John said for the both of us.

"The puck carrier goes inside and the other goes behind to cover if something goes wrong," Frank instructed. "If the puck carrier can't shoot, he should be able to pass it to the other guy to step into one as he might not be covered. Try it once or twice if you feel comfortable. Mike, you are going to have to move around a bit to shake your shadow, maybe move in to the slot or down the boards if the puck is on your side. John move into the centre to cover him as he goes in. I'll talk to Sam to let the forwards on your side know what's up."

"Ok, I'll do my best," I said.

He left to inform the forwards' coach and John and I worked out signals and code words for the new plays. Fred spoke up near the end of the second intermission.

"We outplayed them that period and only a hot goalie saved their bacon. Let's pour it on right out of the gate and try to surprise them. Put pressure on them for a change!" he shouted and then led us out to the ice.

John and I were paired with the first line for the start of the third period. I was feeling pretty well rested and told John I was going to carry the puck up and go in deep if I got the opportunity. He said go for it and told me he would cover me. I felt I had something to prove to my teammates and coaches. I had a couple of moves that no one had seen, but I knew they would work if I had enough speed.

Gary got the puck back to John who delayed as long as he could, pulling two forecheckers to him, before rifling a pass over to me. I took off down the ice, faked a pass back to Gary near their blueline and blew by their remaining forward, flaying away trying to block the pass. Daniel Sawyer, our first line left winger dashed in from the left, which pulled the far defenceman over to cover him. I faked going outside on the remaining defenceman and, when he crossed his feet to turn to keep up with me, turned inside of him and had a straight shot to the net. I faked a shot for the near side and, when the goalie reacted to that side, continued on and put a backhand into the top corner on the other side.

Just like that we were tied as I received congratulations from my teammates. I heard John and Gary got assists as we lined up again at centre. They won the draw and came into the zone to try and get the lead back. The puck went deep into the corner and John pinned a forward to the boards while I tied up the centre's stick if a pass came out in front of the net. Gary came back and gained control of the puck and connected with a pass to Daniel. He and Chris, the right winger, took off and had a good two on two breakaway against their defence. Their goalie had to make a good save from Chris's shot through the defenceman's leg. We all changed up and had a rest on the bench.

"Great goal there Mike," John said. "You've been holding out on me, those were some good moves."

"I probably know more about playing forward than defence actually," I told him. "Dad usually played defence and let me come in on him."

"Don't tell anyone else or they will all be worried," he said with a grin.

We watched from the bench as our team gained the momentum and kept the pressure on the Saints. One of their forwards was forced to grab hold of one of our players and was called for a penalty. John and I went out with the first power play unit and set up for the face-off. We gained control of the puck and passed it around the perimeter. John called for the switch when he got the puck and I skated behind him as he dragged the puck to the middle of the ice, still out near the blueline. He took a shot that got all the way through but the goalie stopped it, leaving a juicy rebound. Ron Zonk pounced on the loose puck and flipped over the sprawled goalie into the net. John had his third assist of the game and we were up three to two with twelve minutes left in the game.

The score remained the same for the next ten minutes until a lucky deflection of a point shot got past Mark to tie it up with just over two minutes left. Fred put out the first line and first pair of defence to try and get the last goal. They actually got pinned in our zone and had to defend for over a minute as the Saint pressed for the go ahead goal. Mark stopped a shot and held on for a face-off to the left. Frank nudged us to go in with the second line with fifty seconds left.

Henry won the face-off back to me and I immediately passed it to John behind the net. He was set upon by two forwards and the puck was in their feet with precious time ticking off the clock. Henry went back to help out while I stayed in front of the net guarding the forwards. The ref finally blew the whistle when there was no movement of the puck for a good while. There was twenty seconds left so we stayed on. Henry lost the face-off and they got a shot off that got through. Mark saved it and the rebound came to me. I looked up and saw the time winding down so I tried my bounce shot that I had practiced during the week. I put all I had into the shot and aimed for a point just before the goalie.

The fairy tale ending would be that the shot went in off the bounce, fooling the goalie. Unfortunately, he reacted fast and got his blocker on the puck, knocking it wide to end the third period in a tie. We gathered around the bench as Frank explained the situation.

"Ok, we get a two minute intermission and then we have one five minute period to break the tie or it remains a tie," he told us. "So, let's leave it out on the rink and win this one."

John and I sat for the start of the overtime. We watched the play go end to end with the lines changing on the fly. We got on with the third line in the third minute and John carried the puck up the ice. I faked a special play run into the zone, and as we suspected, they were prepared for that play, with two forwards and the defence converging on me to intercept the pass or stop me with a check. John faked the pass and then passed it to a streaking Brad on his side. Shawn and John made up a three on two as the three opposing players rushed to get back into the play. With a tic-tac-toe passing play, from Brad to Shawn to John, they got the open shot they wanted and John made no mistake, blowing it by the goalie up high on his glove side.

The arena erupted as we swarmed John, congratulating him on the goal. After a couple of minutes we left the ice, happy for the hard fought win. The players were whooping it up and in a good mood in the locker room until Fred came in a few minutes later and asked for quiet.

"An excellent hard fought game men, congratulations," he shouted. "We never gave up and came from behind to win against a highly touted hockey team. I am proud of all of you."

There was a big cheer from most of the guys before he continued.

"Now, I'm afraid we cannot enjoy this win as much as we can as we have another game against this team tomorrow at the same time," he continued. "So, there will be no wild parties, no celebrations, no going out to a restaurant or anything else tonight gentlemen. If you're hungry, grab something from the cafeteria before it closes. The coaches will be making rounds and phone calls to make sure you are in for the night by midnight. Is this clear?"

Everyone responded and got to getting out of their equipment and getting into the showers. We got dressed into our suits and the senior members went to the press conference while the rest of us went either to the cafeteria or home. I skipped the cafeteria and went home. After getting out of and hanging up the suit, I grabbed some leftovers and heated them up for a snack. My cell rang as I was rinsing the plate.

"Hello"

"Hey Sweetie, how was the game?" Vicky asked.

"Hey Darling, it was ok, we won in overtime on John's goal. He had three assists and a goal," I responded. "How was the flight?"

"It was good, they had us in first class so we were pampered all the way," she said. "Amy, our scheduler/caretaker met us at the airport and took us to our hotel and supper. They have us at the Plaza, right downtown overlooking Central Park, can you believe it?"

"I'm glad you're being taken care of, you deserve it," I responded. "So what's on the agenda tomorrow?"

"Early tomorrow morning we go to the agency and get some more runway training and how to act at photo shoots," Vicky informed me. "We also get some pointers on how to act at events where we might be photographed. In the afternoon we're going to a small fashion show and actually model some of the clothes!"

"Wow, so soon eh?" I said. "I'm sure you will be fantastic and impress everyone."

"We hope so, we're going to really work at this, it's a once in a lifetime opportunity and we don't want to blow it," she said. "So, how did you do tonight?"

"I had a goal and an assist, so it was a good game for both of us," I replied.

"Great work there Sweetie, you get some sleep and have another one tomorrow night," she said. "I'll try and call you during the day but I don't know if or when. We'll call tomorrow night at this time for sure. Here's Becky."

"Hey Michael, I here you did well tonight Sweetie," she said with a warm voice. "You're showing all of those pricks that don't like your articles in the magazines aren't you?"

"Well, I guess I'm trying as hard as I can to prove I deserve to be on the team," I replied. "I don't care about the stories but it does piss me off when they treat me like crap because of what someone wrote about me. But enough about me, how are you enjoying the trip Honey?"

"It's been great so far, they're really spoiling us with this room and the dinner was in the Oak room downstairs that is really famous here in New York," she gushed. "I hope we can learn quickly and show we deserve all this attention."

"Well I know you both will work really hard to earn what they are investing in you," I assured you. "I know you are both beautiful enough, now you just have to learn the skills to be a model. You should be able to charm everyone with your personalities soon enough."

"Thanks for the encouragement Michael, it helps build our confidence talking to you, she said. "Ok, we have to get our beauty sleep and you need your rest too. You have a good night's sleep and we'll try and call you during the day, maybe before the show to calm us down."

"Sounds good, I love you Becky, let Vicky know I love her to and have a good sleep," I replied. "Good night Honey."

"Good night Sweetie, Vicky says she loves you and I love you too!" she said before hanging up.

I climbed into bed thinking about the twins. It was comforting to know they were being so well taken of; but I had the suspicion that, with that much effort and cost being put into them, the odds that they would be coming back to school after the holidays were pretty low. I fell asleep with that depressing thought. My cell rang at midnight and I picked it up groggily.

"Hello?" I asked.

Mike its Frank; you home?" he asked.

"Yeah, you woke me up from a sound sleep," I said grouchily.

"Sorry about that Mike; get back to sleep and I'll see you tomorrow afternoon," he said.

"Alright, goodnight," I said, hanging up and falling back asleep soon after.

I was at the rink for seven the next morning and had a good warm-up skate before getting out Patrick. I spent some time shooting from the right point and also practicing the switch to centre and shooting from the middle. After that I did more skating in on the net, practicing my deking and close in shooting. At the end I practiced my real long shots and then called it a morning.

When I left the ice I found Frank watching from the stands.

"Hey Mike, you didn't have to show up this morning," he said.

"I know, but I need all the practice I can get, besides it's become routine to be here first thing in the morning," I replied.

"Just don't wear yourself out before the game tonight," he cautioned.

"I'm going home to study and relax," I reassured him. "I'll see you for supper at five."

"Ok Mike, have a good day," Frank said.

I left the rink after showering and went shopping for some food. I ran the car through a carwash and then went home. After putting away the groceries I made myself an early lunch and then continued working on my short story. I debated calling the twins but I didn't want to disturb them if they were preparing for their first show. I worked for a couple of hours on the story before having an afternoon nap. At four my cell rang and it was the twins.

"Hey Sweetie, how's your day been going?" Vicky asked.

"Not too bad, I had a skate, got some groceries, worked on my story and had a nap," I answered. "How was the show?"

"It went pretty good, no real mistakes and Amy seemed real pleased," Vicky said. "It was so busy and it seemed so disorganized backstage, but Amy really helped us from panicking."

"Good for you," I complimented them. "So the instruction you both got in the morning really helped?"

"It sure did Michael, we would have messed up big time if we skipped that!" she said. "You wouldn't believe all the celebrities in the audience and who came backstage to meet the models and the designers. Amy thinks we got some great exposure and maybe an invite for another show for tomorrow!"

"Fantastic news Vicky, I knew you would do well," I congratulated her.

"Thanks Sweetie. So, Amy and some bigwigs from the head office are taking us out for dinner and then to an industry get together. I don't know when we'll be back to the hotel but if it's not past midnight we'll call you ok?"

"Ok, but please keep together and watch out for each other," I pleaded. "Watch the drinking and no drugs."

"Of course not Michael, we're not into that stuff," she said, a bit miffed.

"Sorry, I worry about you two, that's all," I said. "Have fun ok?"

"We will and I'll call you by midnight," she said. "Good luck tonight at the game Sweetie."

"Thanks Darling, let Becky know how proud I am of both of you," I told her. "I love you both."

"Ok, we love you too, talk to you later," she said and hung up.

I worried about them going to a party without me but I had no control over what they did there and hoped all went well. I read my logic textbook to get ahead and then left for the rink just before five.

After grabbing some supper I sat by myself in the cafeteria as John was sitting with other teammates. I read my Algebra textbook and did some questions at the back of the chapters until it was time to dress for our pre-game skate. I was getting some good wood on my shots by the end of the shooting practice so I felt ready to go. We did a few two on two drills and then headed back to the dressing room to relax. Fred came in and gave the pre-game speech.

"As we found out, this team is the real deal," he started. "We need to keep the pressure on them from the get go and force them to play our game, not theirs. There should be more room down low as they concentrate on our defence when we're in their zone. Let's put a few more pucks into the corners and see what they do. Defence, move around more if they put shadows on you at the point and watch out for more hitting from their forecheckers."

We walked down the corridor onto the ice to the cheers from the full house. It felt good to have our fans cheering for us. The game got started and right away the Saints were targeting the defencemen; hitting them any chance they could. We had expected it, so quick passes and dodging hits became the norm for the first half of the period. One of those quick passes sprung Shawn on a breakaway as he split the defence going full bore. A quick deke and he had the puck behind the goalie for the first score.

With that goal, the Saints lifted whatever restrictions they had on themselves and hit anyone who had the puck. It worked a few minutes later as a loose puck from a hit was picked up in our zone by their top line and before we knew it, it was in the back of the net to tie the score at one.

Frank sent John and me out with the first line for the face-off at centre ice. They won the face-off and dumped it behind John into the corner. I went for the puck a bit slower than usual while John went in front of the net. Their forward, hoping to hit someone in the corner, actually got to the puck first and I arrived a second later, hitting him hard into the boards. He crumpled to the ice and I calmly wrapped the puck around the boards to a waiting right winger, Chris. He hit a streaking Daniel Sawyer on the left side and, with an accompanying Gary in the centre, went in on a lone defenceman. He tried to stay in the middle of the two of them, but he was quickly out of position as they passed back to each other once. Daniel faked a last pass and shot the puck above the goalie who was cheating to the other side.

The Saint's forward who I had hit skated slowly to their bench with the help of another player. We lined up at centre ice and this time Gary won the face-off back to me. This time two Saints players came at me with full intentions of putting me into the seats through the boards. I let them come close and bounced a pass off the boards past their winger to Chris. He took off into their zone while I dodged one hit and leaned into the second one from their centre. All three of us went down in a heap and I made sure I came down on their winger but still tangled up with their centre.

While I occupied two of their players, the rest of the team took quick advantage of the numbers mismatch and had the puck deep in their zone. They set up in a box formation around the Saints trio, who were loosely set up in a triangle, and passed the puck around. Three quick passes later and they got it to the open man, Chris, who one timed it on net. The goalie miraculously got a pad on the shot, but couldn't control the rebound. Gary was crashing the net and got his stick on the puck just before their defenceman did and tapped it into the open side of the net. Just like that, we were up three to one. Frank congratulated John and me when we went back to the bench.

"Now that was a great shift guys. Keep it up!" he said, slapping both of us on the shoulders.

Neither one of us had gotten an assist so we just shrugged and watched the game. The first period came to an end with the score still the same. The crowd cheered us loudly as we walked back to the dressing room.

"Great first period gentlemen, I think we're learning how to counteract their physical play," Fred started. "They will probably come up strong at the beginning so continue with the quick passing and avoid the hits when you can. Let's try hitting them a bit more as well."

We rested for a bit and then went back out to cheers when it was time for the second period. The Saints, as suspected, came out hitting everyone they could, even at the expense of the puck. We, for the most part, calmly passed the puck to a teammate well before the checker arrived and then avoided the check. Eventually they followed through with a check much later than was allowed and the ref called a penalty.

We went out with the first power play unit and Gary won the face-off back to John. The two forwards from their team were way out to cover both of us so John banked a pass to Daniel, who went down low to further spread them out. Gary took a pass from Daniel behind the net and the two defencemen had to worry about a pass out in front of the net. The penalty killing box became a long rectangle with a wide open centre. Gary faked a pass to the front and hit Chris on the wing while I broke for the centre of the ice, past a startled forward. Chris sent a pass to me that I one-timed a slapshot past the helpless goalie. As quick as that we were up four to one.

The rest of the period was unexciting and the score remained four to one. We felt good going into the locker room for the second intermission.

Fred just complimented us on the game so far and told us to keep up the intensity. Frank came over and talked to me.

"Mike, I'm going to put Ian in for the third period so we can get him some experience, is that ok with you?" he asked.

"I'd rather play than watch but I'm ok with it," I replied.

"Thanks Mike, I appreciate it," Frank said, before walking away.

"Good luck out there with Ian," I said to John with a grin.

"Next time I'm sitting out and you can deal with him," he retorted with a frown.

The team rested and joked around with a comfortable lead and were still in a good mood heading back to the ice. The Saints were not. They came out determined to get back into the game. The coaching staff must have lit a fire underneath them because they had found some extra speed somewhere. I sat on the bench and watched them take it to us hard. It paid off with a goal about seven minutes in, when a forward jumped on a loose puck after a hit on Ian and went in untouched to score. Frank kept him in the rotation and he held up his side on the next couple of shifts.

We were not mounting much of an offence, basically being content to defend the lead. That backfired as they scored again with five minutes left off a deflection of a point shot. Now it was four to three and they smelled blood. They swarmed our end and with a minute and a half left, pulled their goalie for an extra attacker. Mark stood on his head; stopping three shots close in and smothered the puck for a face-off. Fred sent out the first line and first pair of defence to close out the remaining thirty seconds of the period.

Gary won the face-off and Steve lifted a high floater out of the zone. It slid down the ice and crossed the goal line before the defence could swipe it away. The score ended five to three and the place exploded with cheers of relief. After congratulating Mark at his net, we went back into the locker room and started getting undressed.

Fred spoke up "Well, that was a bit too close there at the end. We lost our intensity out there and let them dictate the pace. We only had four shots on net! Be certain we will address this Monday morning."

We got showered and into our suits and I headed home soon after, not wanting to watch the press conference tonight either. I got changed and after a quick snack went to bed with my cell close by, hoping for a phone call from the twins. I fell asleep and didn't wake up until the morning.

Sunday morning I went to the rink and messed around on the ice, shooting and skating. I then did a work-out and returned home around ten thirty. There was still no call from the twins. After a big breakfast with eggs, bacon and toast, I settled down to read each of my textbooks do some of the questions in the back to get ahead in each subject. I then worked on the short story, completing the rough draft for Vicky to peruse.

I finally relaxed and watched an afternoon NFL football game. I must have fallen asleep because my cell jarred me awake just after five.

"Hello?" I mumbled.

"Hey Sweetie, you sound tired, did I wake you?" Vicky said cheerfully.

"Yeah, I must have fallen asleep watching a football game," I replied. "So what have you two been up to?"

"Well the dinner was pretty fancy again last night but the party was so cool," she said excitedly. "It was so hard not to gush every time we were introduced to another celebrity or fashion icon. Amy must have gotten ten requests for us to do shows for them this fall."

"That sounds great. So what else happened?" I asked.

"Well you were right about the attention we got from men, and some women, asking for dates or to join them after the party. Before you blow a gasket Michael, we told all the men we had a boyfriend. The women we took their cards but didn't promise them anything. You are going to be surprised at a couple of them when we show you their cards."

"Well, I'm glad you were careful and were up front with everyone about me; I have to admit I'm worried that you will find someone you like better there," I said. "Anyway, you were probably there too late to call before midnight, but I hoped you would call this morning."

"Yeah, we were there pretty late, so we slept in a bit. We were hoping for a leisurely day before flying home when Amy came in about nine and let us know we were just booked for a Sunday afternoon show. So we had to rush to get ready and get over to the Trump building to get fitted and made up," she responded.

"Wow a second show, and at the Trump building," I said. "You two must have been so excited."

"We were and we even met Donald Trump afterwards," she told me. "We got to wear all sorts of gowns, dresses and some swimwear. It was a bit difficult to go out in a bikini when everyone else is in a suit or dress, but they sent us out together with Becky in white and me in black, with matching high heels. We got a lot of applause at the end of the runway."

"I wish I could have seen you two, I bet you looked gorgeous," I said wistfully.

"Oh, we might be able to get the video for you to watch Michael," she said with a giggle.

"That would be useful when I'm all alone in bed when you're gone," I laughed.

"I think someone is a bit frustrated," she said with a laugh. "Well, we're back at the hotel and Amy just told us our flight doesn't leave until eight thirty. We probably won't be back into Detroit until close to eleven so Becky will just go straight home. They are getting separate cars for us so I'll see you by midnight. Don't wait up; I'll slip into bed with you when I get there."

"Damn, I was hoping to see you both," I complained. "Ok, tell Becky how proud I am of both of you and that we'll try and see her during the week. I'll see you in a few hours."

"Ok Sweetie, we love you," she said.

"I love you two as well," I replied and hung up the phone.

I made a simple supper of soup and sandwiches and, after cleaning the dishes, watched a movie before falling asleep. I woke up briefly as Vicky tried to warm her cold hands and feet on me and then wrapped her up tightly and fell back asleep.



-------

Chapter 25


Vicky didn't stir a muscle when the alarm rang. I quickly shut it off and reluctantly left the warmth of our bed. After a quick shower, I dressed in the dark and headed out to the arena, leaving a note for her.

I said hello to John but we kept quiet as we got dressed, not feeling the need to talk. I finished first and went out to warm up. After our shooting practice, Fred had us gather around for his regular Monday morning speech.

"Good morning gentlemen, I trust you relaxed yesterday because after our tight games last week, it's obvious we need more work on finishing up games and our offence," Fred stated. "This week we play the Northern Michigan University Wildcats up in the Upper Peninsula or the U.P. for those not native to Michigan. The Wildcats are defensive specialists who play the neutral zone trap and have a superb goalie. They don't score much but they don't have to. They wait for a mistake and pounce on it. So we will work on how to counter the trap; we will work on our offence and then work on holding a lead in the third."

I moved to the bench with John but was intercepted by Frank, looking a bit nervous.

"Mike, you'll be playing the scout team this week, Ian is moving up to your spot with John," Frank said, holding an orange jersey that they wore.

"What! Is this for real or am I being punked?" I asked him, looking around at the other players to see if they were in on it.

"It isn't a joke Mike, Fred's made this decision," Frank stated, looking serious.

"No offence to Ian, but he's not ready," I said, looking at him for a sign of what was going on.

"Fred thinks he is, and he's the coach," Frank said. "You better take this and go see Sam; he coaches the scout team in practice."

I turned to John but he looked just as puzzled as I did. He shrugged at me and leaned in.

"I don't know what's going on but I suggest playing it cool for now and see what happens before you make any hasty decisions," he whispered. "We'll talk before this afternoon's practice after I do some digging."

"Listen, you had better not be in on this if it's some sort of rookie hazing, I'm not into that shit," I warned him.

"No way dude; this is the first I heard of this, I swear!" he said emphatically.

Fred came up and asked "Is there a problem here?"

"Frank tells me Ian is taking my place, is this true or so kind of joke?" I asked him.

"Mr. Pratasky is indeed taking your place Mr. Stewart, his performance in the last couple of games shows he needs all the practice he can get," Fred replied. "So, you will be on the scout team while he gets that practice."

I looked at him for a few seconds and debated whether to chuck it in or stick it out for at least this practice. I finally decided to heed John's advice and see what he could dig up before I made a decision. I took the jersey and skated away from them, over to the other bench. Ian was being informed by Sam and he looked happy when he passed me. The rest of the scout team, who had been watching what was going on, were smirking or grinning at my demotion. I ignored them and stepped off the ice, and, before sitting on the bench, put on the jersey. I was seething inside but kept my face expressionless.

Sam came over and talked to defensive pairings and Bob, the second string goalie.

"Ok, we'll be emulating a neutral zone trap so you guys stand up at the blueline and force them to dump it in behind you," Sam said. "The goalie has to help out more because of that, so Bob, you'll have to get out more and help the puck along to either defenceman when you can."

Sam waited for Bob to nod and then looked at me and said "Mike, you'll be playing with Brian Smith here as the second pair," patting the shoulder of one of the players.

I nodded and he continued.

"After this session, we'll be simulating the Wildcat's defensive zone schemes and give the offence a chance to practice. The last bit we will go on offense simulating a team desperate to tie a game up," Sam said, before moving down the bench to instruct the forwards.

The practice started and Brian and I slid down the bench to get ready to go out for the second shift. I watched as the starters struggled on the first shift to crack the trap the scout team was using. Both teams switched up and I moved up to the centre line as the starters had the puck in their end. I skated backwards as they approached, slowing down at our blueline as Ron Zonk, the second line left winger, tried to skate into the zone with the puck. I met him at the boards by our blueline and pinned him on the boards with a solid check. The puck squirted free and one of our forwards pounced on it and hit a streaking forward for a breakaway as the starting defence pair were caught heading up ice. The forward, Bobby Vickers, deked Mark to one side and slid the puck under him on the other.

Fred stopped the practice and yelled at the starters "This is what will happen against the Wildcats; they will take advantage of every mistake. Zonk, you don't try and carry it in on a neutral zone trap unless they are out of position. Dump it behind the defence and chase it down. Defencemen, don't be in a hurry to get to the offensive zone until the puck is actually in the zone, controlled by us. Ok, start it up again."

This time Kerry dumped it in behind us and tried to chase it down. Bob moved the puck along to me and I wrapped it hard on the boards past the defencemen as Ron came in to hit me. I shrugged it off and skated back out of our zone. They tried one more time without success before we went to the bench.

After a half an hour of practice against the trap, the coaches switched to practicing just the offence for the starters. Sam let us know to use a very aggressive man on man defence to simulate the Wildcat's modus operandi. I got on against the first line and shadowed Daniel Sawyer in our zone, hitting him when he got the puck and tying up his stick when he tried to deflect the point shot. The shot was stopped by Bob and the offence was sent to centre to try again.

This time they lobbed the puck into my corner and came after me. I let Daniel go in and get it first and hit him hard, pinning him to the back boards. Gary came in to help dislodge the puck and his man followed, pushing Gary against the boards as well. Both Gary and Daniel didn't like being pinned and got rough with some elbows. I took one in the facemask, pissing me off. I shoved Daniel into Gary, knocking them both down before shooting the puck around the boards out of the zone. Brian and I changed up.

The starters continued to practice their offence and I tried my best to disrupt everything on my side of the ice, punishing every left winger they had. I even rode John hard into the boards when he tried our specialty play, shaking my head at him when he looked up at me from the ice.

Finally, Fred called for the starters to be on defence and we got to try and score on them. I ended up taking a lot of point shots to allow for deflections by the scout team forwards. The starters were running at me to give me a check each time I got the puck. They learned quick enough not to come head on when I was shooting when Rick Franklin, our third line left winger, took one off his leg, putting him down on the ice for a bit. I finally ended practice when, after taking a cross check to the side a bit earlier, let out my anger by slamming a shot just over the net, smashing the Plexiglas behind Mark.

The coaches called it a practice and I quickly left the ice, had a shower, got changed and left the locker room in disgust. I had barely cooled down during the walk to the main campus, when I entered the classroom and sat down beside Stephanie.

"Hey Mike, you look angry, have a bad practice?" she asked, looking concerned.

"I got demoted actually, to the scout team," I told her. "I'm not going to be good company."

Are you kidding me? I thought you won both games on the weekend?" she asked. "Did you have a bad game?"

"We did win both games and I had a goal and an assist in the first and a goal in the second" I answered. "Fred benched me for the last period so Ian could play. He moved him up to the starting squad this morning, even though he didn't play well either game when he was in."

"So what's going on?" she asked.

"I don't know," I replied, shaking my head.

The professor came in and started his lecture after he collected last week's assignments. He went through two difficult chapters very fast and at the end, reminded everyone to read ahead so the class was a review, not something new for us. He gave out next week's assignment and left the room.

Stephanie and I walked out and I told her I would see her at lunch as I walked away first this time.

"Ok, I'll see you there," she said as I turned away.

I handed in the weekly assignment and then listened with one ear to the creative writing professor, while I thought about what happened at practice. I seemed to have pissed off Fred as well as most of the team, even though I had nothing to do with the articles written about me. Hopefully John would find out more for afternoon practice.

I met the girls in the cafeteria and they were already talking about their weekends, the dates for the two of them, and Vicky's modelling.

"Hey Sweetie, Steph told me about practice. Are you ok?" Vicky asked, giving me a hug.

"I'm pretty angry about it but I'm waiting until I can talk to John after Algebra in the arena cafeteria to see what he dug up," I responded. "I don't know much about how teams run so maybe this is a normal thing."

"It doesn't sound like it, you don't demote one of your better players without a reason," she retorted.

"I'm trying to keep an open mind and not lose my temper until I have a better idea of what is going on," I said. "I'm going to wait and see what happens after the two games this weekend and then make a decision if nothing changes."

"Ok, but let's talk more tonight and after the games before you make your decision Michael," she suggested.

"Sounds good," I agreed.

The girls had to know more about how the modeling went, so I moved over and started the logic assignment. I had it almost done when the girls reminded me about class. I gave Vicky a kiss and said I would see her at home after practice; I didn't want her at the arena while this stuff was happening.

I watched the trio as they headed off to their next class still chatting away about the new boyfriends and the modelling. I turned and walked back the math building and sat down in my Algebra classroom. The professor collected the assignments and went onward fast and furious. I followed most of what he showed us and, after writing down the assignment, left for the arena.

I walked to the arena cafeteria, grabbed a snack and finished up the logic homework before starting the Algebra assignment, waiting for John to show up. It was almost an hour later when he finally came in, allowing me to complete the math assignment too.

"Hey John, did you find out what's up?" I asked.

"A couple of guys have theories about it but no one knows for sure," he admitted.

"Let's hear them," I said, as he sat down.

"Ok, one is that Fred hates anyone getting more publicity than the team and is taking you out of the spotlight any way he can. Two, he thinks you will get drafted high this year if you keep going like you have been and leave the team at the end of the year, so he's again taking you out of the spotlight. Three, he's using you as the lesson or scapegoat, as a lot of players already don't like you. Four, he hates that he doesn't have any power over you, as you're not in his scholarship program, so he's trying to get you to quit," John listed off some possibilities.

"Wow, that is some list of theories," I said, shaking my head. "Do you have one or do you think one of those is correct?"

"I'm not sure yet actually, it doesn't seem like he would deliberately sabotage his own team to ruin your career, especially when you haven't expressed any interest in a career in hockey," John mused, almost thinking out loud. "Everyone agrees you're so much better than Ian and that we need you out there. Maybe he thinks we're relying too much on you and he wants to see what we can do with you not in the line-up."

"If he's trying to send a message of some sort to the team, I think he's walking a real fine line with me," I told him. "I'm not going to bother playing if it's on the scout team, and he must know that."

"We all had to play on the scout team when we first got here Mike," John told me.

"Yes, but you came to play hockey and had to put up with it; I'm here to fill in a hole you needed and to get an education," I responded. "It looks like the hole will be filled by Ian now, so I can get back to being just a student."

"You would give it up just like that?" he asked, looking shocked.

"Of course, it's just a game John, everyone takes it way too seriously around here," I responded. "One or two of you will make a NHL team from each year and have a career. The problem is that all of you, from the worst rookie on the practice squad to the best player on the team, think you will make it big and be a big star. Between the players all competing with each other, and the coaches all working everyone to the bone, with three practices a day plus workouts and meetings, I don't know anyone who is having the least bit of fun playing a game."

"So what do you think of my chances?" he asked.

"They were higher when I was your partner," I said honestly. "I took some attention away from you and allowed you extra space to get open and to skate in. They will concentrate on you now and you won't get the stats you need to get attention. You're good enough to make it I think, but you need a good year and you won't get that if you play with Ian."

"Don't try and sugar coat it," he said dryly.

"Sorry, you'll be invited to every teams' camp and be a starter after the first day," I told him. "Better?"

"Yeah, thanks," he said with a grin. "Alright, let's go see it anything has changed"

I packed up and reluctantly followed him to the locker room where there were all sorts of looks thrown my way. I ignored them all and got dressed and out on the ice as quick as I could. I was practicing hitting the posts on the empty net until other players joined me on the ice.

"Why do you do that?" Albert Summers asked me.

"Do what?" I looked at him puzzled.

"Shoot at the posts when you're alone," he said.

"The empty net is a bit too easy a target, don't you think?" I said.

"I guess so, but don't you think you will screw up in a game and hit the post instead?" he asked curiously.

"I generally hit what I aim for, in practice or a game," I stated. "It's just more of a challenge I guess."

Once the goalies were out, I shot for the inside of the post, rather than the middle of it. The puck almost always deflected in and it was so hard to reach for the goalie. Albert was still beside me and he caught on and started trying for the same target. All too soon the coaches came out and ruined the fun.

I was relegated to the scout team again and I went without a word. Practice was on the same three things, in a different order. I made it a point to make it as difficult as I could for anyone on the starter's team to come into my area of the rink. I noticed after a while that the tendency was to play on the other side of the ice when I was on. When we went on offence I had everyone ducking or moving out of the way, as I shot for the top corners of the net at full strength. It was actually a fun practice for me as I didn't have any pressure to conform to the system Fred was trying to coach.

"You were having way too much fun out there dude," John said, when we sat down to change.

"I was actually," I said. "You guys have to play inside the system the coaches have in mind for the game. The scout team has a loose guideline they have to follow but don't get in shit when your team does something right. Unfortunately, it sets you guys up like ducks on a pond because it makes you too predictable."

I drove home after showering and made supper as Vicky had been trying to catch up for the lost weekend. We had another simple meal of grilled cheese sandwiches while talking about her weekend and the hockey situation. I cleaned up the dishes and then we both settled down to do more homework. I worked on my weekly creative writing assignment and then proofread the rough draft of the short story. I made all the corrections I could and then printed it out for Vicky to read.

I took a break and did a couple loads of laundry and read my textbooks to keep ahead of the professors. I folded the laundry and had it put away when Vicky came over, ready for bed.

"Someone's been neglecting his boyfriend duties," she said as she pushed me back onto the bed.

"Well, I had better take care of them right now," I replied as I watched her take off her robe.

She was wearing a crop top and thong bikini panties underneath the robe and I immediately sat up and pulled her close, caressing her back and bare ass, while kissing her bare abdomen. Her legs straddled mine and she sat down on me as I bared her breasts and started licking and sucking them. She moaned and pulled my head tight to her as I pulled her lower body to meet my rapidly growing erection. I pulled her down on top of me and lifted her up to sit on my chest. I moved her panties aside and proceeded to lick and suck her to one climax after another. She finally slumped to the side and begged me to stop.

I pushed her to her back, pulled the panties off of her and then got my shorts off as well. I stood up and grabbed a condom and put it on quickly. She spread her legs and crooked a finger at me to get on top of her. She grabbed my cock as I hovered over top of her and pointed me in the right direction as I lowered myself down gently. I slid right into her soaking wet pussy and she wrapped her legs around me tightly.

"That's where you belong, Sweetie," she said with a moan. "God, you fill me up so well."

"Wow, you feel so good, Darling," I responded. "We need to do this more often!"

She laughed and replied "Well, we better find a room at the college then so we can have a quickie at school!"

"Sounds like a plan," I said, starting to speed up.

"Oh yeah, fuck me Michael," she gasped, raising her hips to meet me.

I was well on my way so I changed my angle a bit to grind my cock on her clit, so she would come with me.

"That's the spot Sweetie, fuck me like that and you'll make me come again," she said into my ear. "I need you to come in me too."

I sped up and told her I was getting close.

"Oh yeah, I want you to come in me Michael, I'm so close as well," she panted.

I groaned and came then, ramming myself into her a few times before holding myself deep in her. She screamed and came around my cock, squeezing me with her pussy and her legs. Finally we relaxed and I pulled out of her, making sure I had a good grip on the used condom and rolled to lie on my back.

"That was a fine resumption of your duties, boyfriend of mine," she said as we lay side by side panting.

"That was fantastic, I've missed that the last few days," I replied, reaching over to hold her hand.

I got up and disposed of the condom and brought her a washcloth and a bottle of water. I cleaned her up while she had a drink and then we got under the covers and were quickly asleep in each other's arms.

I felt good getting up Tuesday morning for the first time in a while. Making love to your smoking hot model girlfriend will do that for you I guess. I had a shower and left for the rink after giving Vicky a kiss and leaving her another note. I was early and got out Patrick to shoot on until the rest of the team showed up. I moved out half way between the blueline and the centreline and shot from there, aiming for the small slots. I was less accurate from there but a good portion still went where I wanted them too. I was surprised when some of the guys wanted to keep him up for their practice, but Bob didn't have a problem with it so we shot on Patrick until the coaches came out.

Practice was more of the same, with the addition of special teams practice thrown in. The first and second pairing of defence were now on the power play and on the penalty kill, leaving John and Ian on the bench for the starters. The power play didn't click too well, I was sad to see. Ok, I was jumping for joy inside but kept an expressionless face on the bench. I did go out in a penalty killing roll and kept the net clear so Bob could see the puck. We, the scout team, got to have a few minutes of power play against the starters and got to step into the middle and slap one by Mark. All and all it was a good practice for the scouts. We went in and I showered and got dressed, whistling all the while. I ignored the dirty looks and left for the main campus.

I sat down beside Stephanie and said "Hey there Steph, how's it going?"

"Good, it looks like you're in a good mood today, did you get back on the starting team?" she asked.

"No, but I got to hit them and shoot at them the whole time, it was fun," I said with a grin.

"Well, I'm happy to see you so chipper," she responded with a smile.

We handed in our assignments and away to the races the professor went, covering almost three chapters, before handing out the next assignment.

"We had better get together and go over that, how about two thirty at the arena cafeteria?" Steph asked.

"Sounds good to me; I'll see you then," I replied.

I went and did my workout using even more weight than I did last week. It felt good and I still wasn't at my maximum. I grinned at Chris and told him he had better bump up his chart for me because I wasn't going to lower the weights.

I grabbed some lunch and started the programming assignment. I wanted to get it done before Thursday afternoon, the time the bus left for Marquette in the U.P. We would be getting in late but could sleep in on Friday if we wanted to. Then again, I didn't even know if I was going on the trip, being on the scout team and all.

I went back to the locker room and got changed for the rookie practice. I dragged Patrick back out and shot for awhile. Brian and a couple other rookies joined me at one end while the rest shot on Bob. Frank didn't come out so after half an hour we started up a scrimmage, using Patrick as one of the goalies. We had fun just playing the game without anyone coaching us. A few of the guys were actually quite talented when allowed to be a bit more creative.

I rushed from end to end a couple of times but mostly stayed back, letting the others have their time to shine, even if it was just us. I got to know the guys a bit and, while we didn't become lifelong blood brothers, we at least got on speaking terms.

I had noticed Frank and Sam standing in the hallway watching the practice but didn't mention it to anyone. I guess they wanted to watch the rookies uninhibited. The time finally ran out and we trooped off the ice, laughing and joking around. I hit the showers and got dressed quickly as Stephanie was probably waiting.

"Jeez Mike, you got a hot date or something?" Brian asked.

"Well I do have a lady waiting for me, but she's not my girlfriend," I replied. "I was taught never to keep a lady waiting."

"Does Vicky know about this lady?" Bob shouted from across the room.

"Of course, I'm not that stupid!" I said laughing. "I'll see you guys at four."

I actually got a few replies back which were a nice change. I found Steph in the cafeteria reading the textbook.

"Hey Steph, got it all figured out now?" I asked with a grin.

"Not likely Mister and you're late!" she said, trying to keep a straight face.

"Hmmm, trying out our big girl voice are we?" I asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Needs some work, doesn't it?" she responded with a grin. "It works on my younger siblings though."

I sat down and we went through the chapters, with me explaining a few things as we did some of the questions for each chapter. I continued with my programming while she started hers. We both made good progress on it before I had to go. I told her I would see her in the morning and left for the locker room.

Once on the ice the scout team seemed to congregate at one end of the ice, shooting against Bob. We were relaxed and generally happy and somewhat carefree, but still putting a lot of shots at the net. Fred finally pulled the whole team in to talk.

"Gentlemen, we have four more practices before we leave Thursday afternoon. We need to focus and get it together or we will be in a world of hurt. We'll work on special teams first and then on offence starting from our end while the scout team is in the neutral zone trap," he instructed us.

The scout team became the penalty killers and the starters practiced their power play for a bit. Then we switched so the starters could practise their penalty kill. Finally we got in the Wildcat's neutral zone trap and each line for the starters was shown, in excruciating detail, how to break out from their zone and get the puck through centre ice and into the attacking zone.

"We could be in trouble when the games start," I said quietly to Brian, while we were on the bench. "Somehow I don't think the other team is going to just stay still like that the whole time."

He chuckled and said "He does seem to be micro-managing a bit this week."

"I wonder why?" I asked, not really expecting a response.

"He's probably regretting what he's done with you, but he can't go back on it now," Brian replied. "It will look bad if the team doesn't do well without you in the line-up."

"True enough. So tell me, why did he do it then?" I asked.

"No one knows for sure, but I think the focus on the ice was getting too tied up with John and you, and he didn't like it," Brian theorized. "In a way he's right, we can't depend on you two every game, especially as the opposition will key on you."

"I can see that, but it's like he's starting from scratch again" I remarked. "Oh well, right now I'm glad I'm over here this week. You know this is the first time I've had any fun playing hockey here?"

"We can tell, it's like you're a different person," Brian said.

"I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders," I told him. "The scout team doesn't have to worry if a pass goes wrong or we miss an assignment or a check. We follow a loose scheme and then get to have fun screwing with the starters. I really liked our practice this afternoon."

"What you said was all true, but come game time, sitting in the box watching the game from a seat really blows," he said with a slight frown.

"Yeah, I guess it would," I agreed.

The practice finally ended and I quickly got cleaned up and left for home. I smelt some wonderful aroma as I entered my apartment. I got a big surprise when I saw two lovely women in short sexy dresses putting food on the table.

"I can die and go to heaven happy with my life after seeing the vision that the two of you are," I said with a big smile. "You two are a sight for sore eyes."

I dropped my stuff and wrapped them both up in a big hug.

"This is a great surprise," I said, looking at the both of them.

"I thought you could use some cheering up after yesterday and Becky was tired of feeling how good I felt without getting a little something for herself," Vicky said.

"So Mom dropped me off after school and here I am," Becky said. "Now kiss me you fool!"

I proceeded to do just that as Vicky slipped from my arm to finish putting out supper. After a couple minutes of passionate kissing, and a bit of groping, she tapped us on the shoulder and coughed.

"Children, eat first and play later," she said, sounding like a parent.

"Yes mother," I replied, pulling back a bit from Becky.

"Yeah, let me at least greet our man properly," Becky pouted.

"He's still a growing boy and needs his nourishment, especially if you do all the things to him you were talking about earlier," Vicky said with an evil grin. "The sooner you eat, the sooner you can get to it."

We both sat down quickly.

The meal was delicious, fried chicken with potatoes and vegetables, and for dessert, pumpkin pie and whipped cream. The conversation was great too; we talked about their weekend, everyone's school and of course, a bit about hockey.

"So, we have a question to ask you Michael," Vicky said.

"Ok, shoot," I replied, putting my fork down.

"Just keep an open mind and hear us out before you answer Ok?" she asked.

"Ok, but you're starting to scare me," I said, feeling a bit anxious.

"Don't worry, it's not that bad," she said. "Becky and I are going to be meeting a lot of gorgeous women when we go to New York and other places. We were wondering if we could talk about altering our agreement about women a bit."

"How so?" I asked warily.

"Well, we would like, if you agree, the chance to have some discreet fun with select women; but only those that don't have boyfriends," Becky answered, looking worried.

"Wouldn't it affect your career if it came out?" I asked.

"We would have to be careful, and judging by some of the offers we got, the other women would have to be as well," Vicky answered. "We wouldn't be picking up any women off the street; these would be known models, actresses and celebrities at the shows."

"We would be very careful, tell them up front no men could ever be involved," Becky added.

"Do you have someone in mind already?" I asked.

"No, not really," Vicky said. "We got offers, from both sides of the fence, and some of the women were very beautiful, but we want you to be ok with this first."

"Vicky is really just helping me talk to you about this, she's not so much into women as I am," Becky elaborated. "She'll join me sometimes, but she leans more to guys by the same amount that I lean more to girls. Luckily we have you right in the middle for that."

They stopped talking and let me think for a minute. I really didn't have anything against it, as long as it didn't get out publicly and no guys were ever involved. I looked at both of them.

"Ok, I don't have a problem with either or both of you having some fun with women while you're away," I started. "But it has to be secret and it can only include women, no guys ever. That means they come to your room by themselves, you don't go to them, where a guy could be waiting."

"I think that's more than fair," Vicky said. "Becky, what do you think?"

"I can agree to those terms," Becky said with a big smile.

"I have a couple more requests," I said. "I would like to know with who and when you do have an encounter. I might even want to know some details."

"I don't have a problem with that either," Becky said. "The women might not want you to know though."

"Well, they get told up front that we have a boyfriend and we have no secrets from him." Vicky said with some authority. "If they don't like it, they don't join us, simple as that."

"I like the sound of that," I said. "One last thing; I think you should be together when these things happen. I don't mean you both have to join in, but each of you should protect the other by being close, in case something goes wrong or weird. I know that might put a crimp in the situation, but I would feel better knowing you're both ok."

"Hmmm, that's a tough one Michael," Vicky said. "Sometimes I like to join in, and being twins is part of the attraction these women have for us, but other times I'm not in the mood when Becky is. I would feel real awkward having to be in the same room."

"Where would you go?" I asked curiously.

"I don't know actually," she said. "The room they had us in was a one bedroom with two queen beds in it. I couldn't see me going down to the hotel bar for a couple hours. I would be hit on by every guy in the place."

"We will just have to ask for a two bedroom hotel room and pay the difference," Becky stated. "You'll alright is she's in another room aren't you, as long as she's in the suite?"

"That's ok with me, if Vicky is ok with it," I replied.

"That's fine with me, except I'll probably get horny getting your feelings so close," Vicky said, resigned.

"Then you can join us and feel all better," Becky said with a grin. "So are we agreed; we can have some discreet fun with known women in our two bedroom suite as long as we are both there and no men."

"Agreed," said Vicky.

"Agreed," I said.

"Great! Now you come with me mister, you have been derelict in your boyfriend duties far too long," Becky said, grabbing my hand and pulling me up out of my chair.

"You two go ahead, I'll clean up and go across the hall to give you some privacy," Vicky said.

"You could join us," I said.

"Becky needs some time alone with you first, I'll come back over later," she said, giving me a soft kiss and then her sister. "Enjoy each other."

Becky pulled me gently and she got me to the bed where she pushed me down to sit on the edge of it. She pulled my shirt off and rubbed her hands all over my torso.

"Wow, you have gotten so ripped Michael, you are such a hunk," she purred.

"Well, my super hot model lover, you're looking quite sexy in that dress," I said, running my hands all over her dress, feeling her tight body beneath the silky material.

"Oh God, you're hands are making we so hot," she said with a shiver.

She moved her hands down my body and undid my pants, urging me to sit up so she could pull them down. My underwear came down with them and my cock sprang up. She reached for it and rubbed it up and down, then moved closer to me and straddled my legs.

I reached behind her and undid the zipper in the back of her dress before slowly sliding it down to reveal her gorgeous body. I pulled her in for a kiss while I ran my hands down her bare back. Her breasts rubbed against my chest and her nipples hardened against me. The kiss became very passionate and we were panting as our hands moved around on our bodies. I was pinching her nipples with my fingers while she grasped my cock in her hand.

She went down on her knees and took me into her mouth, swirling her tongue around the head. I moaned and laid back on my elbows watching her as she lowered her head down, taking more into her. She was looking at me as I groaned in appreciation. She started moving up and down on my shaft, still looking up at me.

"Damn Becky, that feels fantastic, but if you continue, I'm going to be out of commission for a while," I said.

I sat up and pulled her up to stand in front of me. I slipped down her panties and caressed her ass and then put a hand in between her legs as I tongued her nipples again. She was wet already and I easily slipped a finger inside her, making her groan and her knees to buckle. I held her up and moved her to the bed, where I climbed between her legs and proceeded to lick and suck her to a couple of big orgasms.

She finally pulled me up and, after I put on a condom, guided me in with her hand, pulling me into her body. She wrapped me up tight with her arms and legs and kissed me passionately.

"God, you make me feel so good Sweetie," she said into my ear. "I wish I could be with you every day and every night."

"I know, I feel the same way," I told her, as I started moving inside her.

We started off slowly but eventually we were making love passionately. I stopped and quickly rolled her over and she took over, riding my cock and grinding her clit when she bottomed out. I mauled her tits and she went wild, bucking up and down until she screamed her release and I followed her closely, filling the condom as I thrust upwards hard as she grunted. She collapsed on top of me and I held her tight until we caught our breath.

"Damn woman, you were getting so wild there, I thought you were going to break it off," I said with a chuckle.

"If it would still work like that, I probably would break it off and take it home with me," she replied. "Damn, you wore me out lover, you always do."

I eased her to the side and pulled out; making sure the condom came with me. I went and washed up and brought a washcloth and did the same for her, before tucking her in under the covers. I slipped in beside her and wrapped her in my hands as we dozed. Vicky came back in after she had drifted off to sleep and moulded herself to my back. I turned my head and she leaned over and kissed me.

"Did you two have a good time?" she asked in a whisper.

"It was wonderful, just like last night," I said, reaching back to pull her to me.

"Good, she really needed to get laid," Vicky whispered.

"I'm glad I was here for her," I said dryly.

She giggled and then said, "Ok, we both need some sleep. I'll see you tomorrow after practice."

"Ok, I love you, and tell Becky the same when you see her in the morning will you?" I asked.

"I love you and so does Bec," she said. "I'll tell her in the morning."

She lay back down and we soon joined Becky in dreamland.

I woke up between my lovely ladies and couldn't think of a better way to start the day. I guess having them awake and horny would be better I thought to myself as I sat up and crawled out the end of the bed. They stirred a bit and then moved closer to each other for warmth. I pulled the covers over them and got ready for the day. I wrote a nice note to the both of them and, grabbing a granola bar, left for the arena, leaving the car for Becky to get back to Dearborn.

Wednesday morning's practice was a repeat of Tuesday's boring ones. I got out of there as soon as I could and met Steph in class. We understood most of what the prof was lecturing about thanks to our study session. I got caught watching her butt as she looked back at me after class. I just grinned when she faked a frown.

After another dry creative writing lecture, I met the three amigos for lunch. They were huddling around a magazine, all on one side of the table. I sat across from them and put my tray down.

"Hello ladies, how was your morning?" I asked.

"Hi Sweetie, the morning was good," Vicky replied. "Bec got away ok."

"Good. Jessica, how are you this fine morning?" I asked.

"Just fine, and yourself Michael?" she replied.

"Not too bad at all, thanks for asking," I said with a smile. "So what are you three looking at over there Steph?"

"Oh, just a fashion magazine," she said with a grin. "Nothing you would be interested in."

"Well not usually, but now that my girlfriend is a super hot model, I guess I should pay a bit more attention to that stuff," I responded. "What's so interesting in there?"

The three of them were about ready to burst when Vicky turned the magazine around and showed me a picture. The twins were in white and black bikinis at the end of the runway and, with their hair all done up and in high heels, they looked damn hot. I read the caption underneath.

'Victoria and Rebecca Waters, brand new on the fashion scene, model newcomer designer Daniela's bikini swimsuits at Saturday's "What's hot for Fall" show at Donald Trump's Hotel in New York.'

"Damn, you two look smoking hot," I enthused, looking up at Vicky. "Congratulations for getting in the magazine!"

"Thanks Sweetie, this could really kick-off our career," she said. "Amy called and let us know that BT is getting swamped with requests to use us at all the shows. She says we're going to be doing four this weekend!"

"Good for you, I so proud of both of you," I told her. "I'm going to need a couple copies of that picture."

"Amy is getting us a few copies direct from the magazine so we'll bring them back with us," she said.

I dug into my lunch as the girls talked about some of the other models and the clothes they were wearing. Vicky was so animated and happy that I knew, barring some major catastrophe, the twins would be staying in New York, maybe even before the end of the year. It made me sad to know that I would lose them, but I vowed to spend as much time as I could showing them how I felt about them.

All too soon it was time for our next classes. I made sure we would meet back here afterwards and then gave her an extra long kiss and hug.

"I am so proud of the both of you; you mean the world to me," I told her quietly.

"Thanks Sweetie, we love you too," she replied with a smile. "I'll see you back here soon."

I stood and watched as they walked away, grinning as they all turned at the same time to look back at me. They all shook their fingers at me and then couldn't hold their serious looks and laughed at me. I turned and headed off to Algebra class, getting there as the professor did. I nodded to him and found a seat as he got ready to lecture. I followed him pretty well as he went through the last chapter from Monday and then quickly moved on to the next topic in the new chapter. I reminded myself to bring my textbooks to read ahead on the trip.

Only Stephanie was in the cafeteria when I arrived back there. I grabbed some snacks and joined her.

"Any word from the biologists?" I asked.

"Nope, maybe their class ran late," Steph suggested.

I checked my phone but there were no messages and it had a signal. Just then I saw Vicky and Jessica walk in, with Vicky on the phone. Jessica guided her to us as she seemed distracted.

"We agreed to finish school Becky," she said into the phone and then listened.

"Yes, I know how much they are willing to pay us, but unlike you, I can't miss three days of school and get caught up, especially if I'm gone on the weekend too!" she retorted.

"We don't know that for sure," she said, looking at me a bit guiltily while listening.

"I'm not agreeing yet, you better get a hold of Mom and Dad and tell them what's going on and then call me back," she said. "And don't you tell them that I'm ok with it yet. I'm going to talk with Michael and see what he thinks in the meantime."

"Ok, I will, talk to you soon," she said and hung up the phone.

"Damn-it, why couldn't this have happened in a couple of months!" she said, looking pissed.

"Let me guess, Amy or someone higher at BT, wants you in New York right away," I surmised.

"My genius boyfriend gets it in one guess," she said. "They just offered to double our hourly rate if we would go to New York tonight and do two shows Thursday, Friday and Monday, on top of the weekend shows."

"So Becky is all for it and you're not so sure," I said, looking at her.

"I don't want to blow off this semester so quickly, in case modelling is just a flash in the pan thing," she stated.

"But, you don't want to give up this opportunity to make hay while the sun shines either," I guessed.

"It is great money, we could make a ton of it just for this one week," she agreed. "Claudia, our agent, thinks we're crazy not to jump on this and go full time right away. She says she and BT can line up print and commercial advertising for us when the fall fashion season slows down so we'll be busy for months."

"Well, I think it comes down to whether you will be happy as a model for your career, at least for the next few years, rather than as a scientist," I told her. "You can always come back and finish school if you really want to."

"I guess that's the base question isn't it," she agreed. "I'll have to find the answer to that real soon. So, you think we should go and do these shows?"

I looked at her and thought for a second, before saying "You seem to like it so far, so I think you owe it to yourself to try this week out. If you love it after that, and they still have lots of work for you, then stay. If you hate it after a week, come back and Jessica can help you get caught up. You're only missing three days."

She looked at Jessica who nodded and then as Stephanie who smiled and nodded too.

"Ok, as long as my parents agree," she said.

"It won't be easy to convince them will it?" I asked.

"No, that's why I'm letting Bec do it," she said with a smirk.

Her phone range and she picked it up.

"Well, what did they say?" she asked.

"Really? I'm impressed. Michael thinks we should go and see if we love it or hate it this week and then make a decision," she talked into her phone.

"I thought they would. Ok, we'll come back Monday night no matter what, and have a family discussion on Tuesday," Vicky said. "Ok call Amy and I'll call Claudia to let her know. I need to get home and pack before the car gets here. Speaking of cars, make sure you leave Michael's keys at home in case he needs to get it."

"I'll tell him," she replied to something Bec said. "We'll talk about that on the flight."

She hung up and looked at me and said "They agreed but want to talk on Tuesday with all of us, so I guess I'm off to New York again."

"Cheer up, you're going to have fun and I would be out of town by tomorrow afternoon, so we wouldn't have much time together anyway," I told her. Come on, I'll walk you home."

We said goodbye to the other girls after Vicky asked Jessica to explain to her lab teaching assistant. I grabbed her bag and slug it over my empty shoulder and we held hands as we walked to the apartment quickly. She was on the phone with Claudia for a bit and continued to talk when we went down to her apartment. I put her book bag down and got out her suitcase from the closet. I put stuff into the case as she pulled stuff one handed out of her drawers. She moved to her closet and pulled out some shoes and a couple of fancy dresses as well as some pants and blouses. Finally she threw in a couple of textbooks and indicated that she was done. I closed it up and put it by the door as she hung up.

"Ok, she's on board and will make sure we have Tuesday off to discuss things with the family," Vicky said. "She is raring to go though."

"Of course, she makes ten percent off of you two and hardly has to do anything right now; everyone is coming to her," I said.

"I'm scared all of this is happening too quickly," she said, looking worried. "It's out of our hands and I'm not used to not being in control."

"For the next week, let Amy and Claudia worry about everything, just try and enjoy the actual modelling," I suggested. "On Tuesday you can address all the other aspects with your family and try and gain a measure of control."

"You're pretty smart for a jock you know," she replied with a grin.

"Well, thanks, you're pretty smart for a model too," I replied.

I pulled her in for a kiss and a hug before saying "I've got to get to the arena; I don't want to be late for another practice and give Fred any more ammunition. You two be safe, stick together, have fun and call me as often as you can. I won't call you as I don't want to interrupt you at a show."

"Ok Sweetie, you take care of yourself and I hope those idiots get their heads out of their asses and put you back in the starting line-up this weekend," she said. "Bec and I love you and we're sorry this is happening now."

"I love you both too and please don't worry, we'll be fine," I assured her. "Just remember, be discreet with the women and no guys."

"We probably won't have any time for women this trip anyway," she replied. "You better get going."

We kissed again and I left the apartment. I dropped off my book bag over in my apartment and then jogged to the arena. After changing as fast as I could, I joined the team for the skate.

John came up beside me and said "Just made it Mike, be careful!"

"Vicky is leaving for New York again so I went home to help her pack," I told him. "Becky has the car so I had to jog all the way here."

"What is Vicky doing in New York?" he asked.

"Vicky and Becky just got signed by a big time modelling agency and they are modelling in a lot of the fall fashion shows in New York," I said. "They were in a couple shows last weekend and now they're going to be in ten more in the next week."

"No shit?" he asked. "They are beautiful enough to be models, that's for sure."

"Can't argue about that," I agreed. "They got their picture in one of those fashion magazines already."

"Wait until I tell Amanda, she'll flip," he told me.

We split up to shot on the goalies and I wired a few past Bob. Fred and the other coaches brought us in for a talk.

"Ok, the starting line-up from last week stands for the trip tomorrow, except Ian replaces Mike," Fred started. "We'll be taking one extra line and one pair of defence from the scout team so let's see how bad you want to join us on the bus."

After some time practicing against the trap, the starters then concentrated on special teams play. The last half hour was a scrimmage against the scout team. I was feeling a bit down by that point and took out my frustrations on the starters. A few weren't quick enough trying to get past me on the outside and got rode hard into the boards. When we did get up into the offensive zone, I made sure everyone knew who had the hardest shot on the team.

Fred called it a practice and pulled us close.

"Ok, we'll be taking Bobby Vickers, Alex Trammel and Sergio Valens as the extra forward line and Brian Smith and Mike Stewart as the defensive pair," Fred said, after consulting with Sam and Frank. "We'll be leaving at four thirty so be here at four with your luggage and books for the ride."

I congratulated Brian as we left the ice and then sat beside John.

"I half expected him to leave me here this weekend," I said quietly.

"Most of us thought he would be taking you," he replied. "If the first game doesn't go well, I think you will be in."

"I'm eating here, you want to join me," I asked.

"Sorry Mike, I'm meeting Amanda for supper," he replied.

"Tell her I said hi," I told him as we left the locker room.

"I will," he said, before heading out the door.

I grabbed some supper at the cafeteria and then went home. I worked on the computer programming assignment until it was finished and tested. After printing out the solution and the program, I took a break and watched some hockey. During intermission I got out my creative writing assignment for the week and finally completed it during the last period. I had finished all my assignments due next week so I could just read ahead during the bus ride and relax. I hit the hay after the game was over and lay awake thinking how quickly our lives changed. I drifted off to sleep picturing the twins in their bikinis.

Thursday was fairly routine, except I packed my suitcase, including my suit, before I went to the arena. I left it home and would have to come back for it after rookie practice, if there was one. Morning practice was a hard skate, with drills and scrimmage, rather than working on schemes.

Computer class went fairly quick as the professor moved on to new concepts. Steph wanted to get together but I told her I had to go home to get my stuff. She wished me well and I told her I would see her Monday.

After a heavy workout and then lunch, I found Frank in his office and asked if rookie practice was on.

"Not for the guys going, your equipment is being packed already. Take a break and be back by four Mike," Frank said.

"That sounds good. While I've got you here in private, can you tell me what I did to piss off Fred so badly that he demoted me?" I asked.

"He never came out and said why," Frank admitted. "I think you know that everyone, including Fred and Ian, know you're much better than Ian. I don't know if it's an attitude thing or a team thing to tell you the truth. I wouldn't worry about it too much unless he keeps you there for more than a couple weeks."

"Ok Frank thanks," I replied, before heading out.

I walked home and decided to have a nap, setting the alarm before I lay down. It took me a while to fall asleep but I got a couple of hours in dreamland before the alarm buzzed rudely. After a quick shower to wake up, I grabbed a snack, my suitcase book bag and hustled out the door. I munched on my piece of chicken as I walked to the arena, throwing the bones away before I got there.

I handed my suitcase to the guy packing the cargo spaces below the bus before going inside to find a seat. I nodded to a few guys and found an empty pair of seats half way back. I took the aisle seat to allow my legs stretch in the aisle later. I put my headphones on and started up my favourites and then pulled out my programming textbook and started reading the latest chapters.

The bus started filling up and a few guys said hi as they walked by. I replied each time, trying to at least be polite. No one asked to use the seat beside me until the bus got crowded and there weren't any spots left.

"Dude, can I sit there," Brian Smith, the scout team defenceman asked.

"Yeah, sure," I replied, standing up to let him in.

"Thanks man, a couple of the starters wouldn't let me sit back there," he told me.

"Yeah, they can be jerks sometimes," I commiserated.

Frank and Sam took roll call and made sure we were all here. Fred reminded us to act like adults and also treat the tutors civilly and respectfully. At least there weren't any lectures this time. We took off right at four thirty and headed north. I had looked up the trip and it was four hundred and forty one miles and would take seven hours with no stops. It was four hours just to Mackinaw City, where we would probably stop for food.

I went back to reading and Brian pulled out a book as well. We were both concentrating pretty well so I was surprised when Sandy, one of the tutors, tapped me on the shoulder.

"Sorry about that, you were really into that book," she said. "I'm Sandy, one of the tutors. You two are rookies right?"

"Yes, I'm Mike and he's Brian Smith," I told her.

She looked down on her list and found us and read the information there.

"Ok, Brian, you're a business major, let's go over your subjects, Mike, why don't you go sit with Pam for a few minutes and she can go over yours," she suggested.

I got up and moved up front and sat down beside Pam, carrying my book bag.

"Hey Pam, I'm Mike Stewart, Sandy sent me up here to you," I said.

"Hey Mike, let me look you up," she said, finding me on her list.

"Ok, Computer Science major; you have programming, logic, algebra and creative writing," she read off. "I'm not going to be much help if you need it, except maybe creative writing.

"That's ok, I'm done all the assignments due next week for each class, I'm just reading ahead to keep up with the professors in class," I told her.

"Good for you. How did you do on your first set of midterms?" she asked.

"Pretty good, no issues on any of them," I told her.

"I see we don't have your marks listed, I wonder why?" she mused.

"It's probably because I'm not on a hockey scholarship, and I was a late addition to the team," I said.

"I'll have to get that corrected," she said, making a note of it.

"Alright, we all set then?" I asked.

"I guess so, you were an easy one," she stated.

I went back to my seat to find Sandy still there.

"I'm going to be awhile with Brian, can you stay up there with Pam for a bit," she asked.

"No such luck," I said, after looking back up front, "She's got another one already there."

"Alright, I'll take him back up with me then to my seat," she said with a sigh. "Let's go Brian; you're going to need help with every subject."

They gathered up his stuff and moved forward, leaving me alone in my pair of seats. I read some more of the programming textbook and then switched to the logic one after an hour or so. I finally got tired of reading and closed my eyes for a while. Brian slipped by me and put his books away for the night as well.

The bus pulled into a restaurant in Mackinaw City around nine and we got out to eat. It was buffet style so we all ate with relish. An hour later we were back on the road crossing the Mackinac Bridge and into the Upper Peninsula. We both settled back down and fell asleep, waking up when we pulled into the hotel in Marquette. Half an hour later, Brian and I were in our room sawing logs.

My internal alarm woke me at six in the morning and I couldn't get back to sleep. I had a quick shower and then went down to the main floor and found the workout room. I rode the bike for an hour while watching the sports channel. I did a few exercises on the one weight machine there and then took another quick shower back upstairs. Brian slept through it all so I went back down, with my algebra textbook and pad, to find the restaurant. I grabbed a table and ordered a breakfast and a diet coke when the cute waitress came by. I spent the next hour reading a chapter and doing the questions in the back.

Someone slipped into the chair on the other side of the table and I looked to see Fred.

"Morning coach, you're up early," I said.

"I could say the same about you Mike," he replied.

"Oh, I've been up since six, had a workout and some breakfast already," I told him. "My body seems to want to wake up then, no matter what."

"I see you're keeping up with school work, even here," he remarked.

"Getting ahead of the professors so I can understand what they say in class," I said.

"That's a good attitude to take," he replied. "How were the marks on your midterms?"

"Good, no issues on anything," I told him.

"Good for you, your hard work is paying off," he said. "Are you finding you have enough time for everything, school, hockey, girlfriend?"

"Never enough time for everything, but Vicky lives next door, so we spend time together in the evenings, even if it is studying," I answered.

"And how is Vicky?" he asked.

"Great, she and her sister just became fashion models, they just went to New York for a week to model in a bunch of high end fall shows," I told him. "They're going to see how they like it this week and then make a decision on whether to continue or come back to school."

"She's certainly beautiful enough to be a model," Fred said. "How is it going to affect your relationship if they move there?"

"We're not sure yet, I'm certainly going to try and make it work," I told him. "I'd be a fool to let them go if they wanted to make it work too."

"Let me know if I can help in any way, we can be reasonable on missing a practice or two if you need to get together with her," Fred offered.

"Thanks coach, I didn't think you would be so accommodating," I said honestly.

"Just because I come across like a hardliner, doesn't mean I'm always am one," Fred said with a smile.

"While I've got you in such a giving mood, do you mind letting me know why you demoted me?" I asked.

"It took you long enough to ask," he said with a chuckle. "One, the team is becoming too dependent on both John and you to score or be physical. Two, we need to see how Ian and Mr. Smith will go in game situations. Finally, you were getting too serious about hockey and I think the week on the scout team has done some good in showing you that it is still just a game."

"I will admit I enjoyed playing on the scout team, and I suggest you might want to rotate some starters for a day or two during the week," I said. "On the other two reasons, I'm afraid that, putting modesty aside, I wasn't impressed with the starters this week and we're going to have trouble scoring goals."

"You saw what we saw Mike, and we're concerned as much as you are," Fred agreed. "We're committed to the line-up for tonight's game. You will most likely be in tomorrow night."

"That's good to hear," I said. "One last thing; you might have explained this to me prior to demoting me, I nearly lost my temper and I was seriously thinking about packing it in earlier in the week."

"I was well aware of how close you came to losing your temper," he said. "I was counting on your maturity to come through, and I'm glad it did."

"You might want to give a bit of a heads up if you do the same thing with other players," I suggested dryly. "That supposed maturity would have been able to keep things quiet from others if asked. We're all supposed to be adults here now."

"Well there are different levels of maturity as I'm sure you are aware," he said with a smile. "Mr. Smith needs hours of help on the simplest of courses, while you are a week ahead on the most difficult. You live in by yourself and handle it easily; others can't find their way home to a dorm room, let alone pay bills or clean their own clothes."

"Coach, you're acting almost friendly here, aren't you worried someone will see you like this?" I asked.

He laughed out loud and said "I made sure we were alone before I came over," he said. "No one will believe you if you try to tell them yourself."

"I suppose not, but now I'll always wonder if you're acting or are really angry at someone," I said.

"I suggest you act like I'm mad while you try and figure it out," he said with a grin.

The waitress came by and Fred ordered a coffee and had her put both of our bills on the Michigan tab.

"So what's the agenda for today?" I asked.

"We will be having breakfast soon, and then lunch at eleven thirty before going to the rink to get on the ice at one for an hour, he replied. We're free after that until four thirty, when we eat here. We have the ice again for half an hour at six thirty and then we start the game at seven thirty. You and the other five will sit up in the visitor's box with the other staff and sorry, but you can't participate in the skate at six thirty."

"Ok, thanks for the update," I replied. "I think I'm going to head back to the room to read some more. Thanks for filling me in Coach."

"You are welcome Mr. Stewart, I'll see you for lunch," he replied.

I woke up Brian and let him know breakfast was being served and that I had eaten already. He had a quick shower while I finished my Algebra questions at the back of the last chapter. Brian left for downstairs and I started on my Logic textbook. At this rate I would be done my reading ahead by today, with two days of free time on my hands. I made a note to get a couple of novels to read for tomorrow and on the trip back on Sunday. At least I had my laptop for entertainment as well.

After lunch I got on the bus with the rest of the team and headed to the Berry Events Center, their arena, just east of the main campus of the University. We all got suited up and had a good skate and shooting warm-up, before we did some drills and had a scrimmage. I felt good at the end of it, physically anyway. I was still very disappointed that I wouldn't be playing.

After the bus dropped us off at the hotel, Brian and I headed out to look around town for a bit. We found a book store, where I purchased a couple of paperbacks and then we hit a music store. We both bought a couple CDs and then headed back to the hotel. I ripped the CDs and downloaded them to my MP3 player and put it in my jacket to bring with me.

I relaxed on the bed until suppertime and then went down with Brian and got in line for the buffet. I ate a bit more than I usually did as I wasn't playing tonight. We all went back upstairs and got changed into our suits and then piled in the bus for the ride over.

We came in through one of the back doors and the starters got suited up and did their on ice warm-up. The rest of us followed a guide and got comfortable in the visitors box up on the luxury box floor. The Berry Events Center was very modern, and the box they provided for the visiting team was well appointed and seated twenty. The arena seated about four thousand people, and it looked like it could be a sell-out with the way the people were filing in.

It felt really odd to be watching the game from above, rather than playing in it. I sat inside and watched the first period while munching on nachos and chicken wings. The first period ended in a scoreless tie and Ian played fairly well, with only a couple minor mistakes. The Wildcats, as advertised, played a very tight defensive game and counterattacked only when they could capitalize on a mistake. Our team couldn't generate much offence against their trap and stifling defence, hence the score.

The second period was more of the same, tight checking and few chances to get into the attacking zone, let alone a good scoring chance. With about five minutes left in the period, Ian had the puck and passed it out of the zone with our forwards heading fast towards their zone. Unfortunately, one of their forwards deflected the pass onto the stick of their centre, who took the puck back into our zone with a three to two manpower advantage. Three quick passes later and the left winger had an open side of the net to shoot at and he didn't miss. The arena erupted in noise as the red light came on behind the net while we all groaned.

The Wildcats gained momentum with the goal and they were more aggressive with their forechecking, disrupting our attempts to get anything going. The second period ended with the score one to nothing.

The other four subs and I stood up and walked around a bit, stretching our legs. I left the box and found the washrooms down the hall. On my way back a gorgeous girl with dirty blonde hair, exited the luxury box beside ours. She was tall, tanned and dressed in a blouse and tight skirt. She smiled as she walked towards me and I returned the smile while trying not to let my eyes roam as she passed by. She was all that, but didn't come across as knowing it with that warm smile that seemed to make her blue eyes sparkle. I turned to open the door to our box and glanced down the hallway to check her out. Damn, she was hot, rivalling the twins in looks and physique.

I reluctantly entered the box and went over to the food table to grab another plate and diet coke. I moved through the outside door and sat in one of the outside seats to eat while people watching.

A few minutes later I heard a voice on my left saying hello. I looked over and the blonde girl/woman was looking at me from the seat closest to the rail dividing the two sets of seats. She had put on a short jacket that matched her skirt and she looked very chic and stylish, and still very hot.

"Hello, how are you enjoying the game?" I asked with a smile.

"Not so good with the score the way it is," she frowned for a second.

"Tell me about it!" I replied. "What's a Michigan fan doing way up here?"

"My parents have a house up here, so I came up for the weekend with my father and we decided to take in the game while we were here," she told me. "And you?"

"I'm on the team but not playing tonight," I told her.

"That's too bad, I bet you would rather be down there playing," she remarked.

"That's for sure, It's the first game I've haven't played in and let me tell you, it's really hard to watch from up here and not be able to contribute," I admitted.

"Well, hopefully your teammates can pull out the win for you and you can get back into the line-up for tomorrow's game," she said encouragingly.

An older man, distinguished looking and dressed in a suit, came out of her suite and sat down beside her.

"Who's your friend Lisa?" he asked.

"Oh, hi Daddy, I'm afraid I don't know his name, but he's one of the Michigan hockey players not playing tonight," she answered.

I stood up and introduced myself, "Hello Sir, I'm Mike Stewart, defenceman for the Wolverines; your daughter was just kind enough to try and lift my spirits for not playing tonight."

"Good to meet you Mike, I'm Russell Peterson, and this is my daughter, Lisa" he said, shaking my hand.

"It's very nice to meet you both, especially far away from home territory so to speak," I said with a grin.

"So, Mike, are you the rookie that everyone is raving about?" he asked. "I would think that you would be in the game if that is the case."

"I am a rookie but I don't think anyone is raving about me," I corrected him. "The coach has another rookie taking my place tonight."

"I'm sure he's regretting his decision now," Russell replied. "Well Lisa, shall we let Mr. Stewart watch in peace and head in? Your mother would probably enjoy your company."

"Ok, Daddy. Mike, it was nice to meet you, maybe we'll bump into each other back at school," she said, turning to me.

"It was nice to meet you Lisa and you too Mr. Peterson, enjoy the rest of the game," I replied with a smile.

"We will, Mike, thanks" Mr. Peterson replied as he guided Lisa back inside. I could see a bunch of men in suits with a couple of ladies sitting off to the side. Lisa joined them and the three of them began a discussion, with looks being thrown at me. I looked away so as not to look like I was staring. I stayed out for a bit longer until the game started up again, and then moved back inside.

The game didn't go as well as the intermission did. Our team did put some more pressure on the Wildcats and had a few chances to score, but their stifling defence and excellent goaltending stymied every chance. With a minute left, Mark was pulled for an extra attacker, but with thirty seconds left, one of their defencemen lobbed the puck out of the zone and, with a lucky break, it slid into our empty goal. The place erupted with cheers and the loud horn blasts signalling a goal.

"Damn-it," I swore, as I hit the railing in front of me.

"That seals it," Brian said. "Our first loss, and to Northern Michigan no less!"

The play resumed with Mark back in the net and the final horn sounded soon after. The five of us got up and left the box, heading down to the locker room via the back stairs. We got into the locker room in time to hear Fred's speech.

"Well that was a fine showing of offensive prowess," he started sarcastically. "Fifteen shots for three periods, maybe five good scoring chances for sixty minutes of hockey!"

He looked around the room in disgust before continuing "That will not do gentlemen, it won't do against this team, or against any of our other opponents in the future. I don't think we could have put a goal in on a midget girl's team from Brazil with the effort and play I saw out there tonight. I think a few of you will be sitting up in the box tomorrow night and see if our alternates can generate some enthusiasm and effort out on the ice."

He stepped down and left the room. The room was silent as the players quickly got undressed and hit the showers. The five of us left and got on the bus, where we talked quietly about getting in tomorrow night's game. We all had a pretty good idea I would be getting in, but they weren't so sure about the rest of them. The team joined us soon after and we drove to the hotel. Brian and I went upstairs and got changed. Brian wanted to head back down to the restaurant to partake in the snacks they had for the team, but I wanted to call the twins. He left as I hit the button on my cell. It rang for three rings and, just as I thought it would be going to the message feature, it was picked up.

"Hello Sweetie, how was the game, did you get in?" Vicky asked.

"Hey Darling, it sucked. We lost and no, I didn't get into the game," I answered. "How is going with you two?"

"Busy, busy so far," she replied. "Two shows both Thursday and today, with two more the next three days. It's pretty hectic from six am to six pm every day. Amy had us pass on the usual industry get together both nights, but we have to go tomorrow night."

"Are you enjoying it at all?" I asked.

"It's hard work and a bit stressful during the show, but yeah, I think we both are enjoying it," she said. "I don't think we could do this schedule every day for too long, but Amy says most models only do a few shows a season. We're just taking advantage of the situation to get exposure and earn a few extra bucks."

"Well I'm glad you're enjoying it," I replied. "I won't keep you long; you're probably ready for bed, as am I."

"Yeah, Becky is snoring in the other room and I'm in bed too," she agreed. "I hope you get in the game tomorrow night and we'll try to call you Saturday if we get back before midnight. I love you Michael."

"I love you too Vicky, let Becky know I love her too and you both have fun and be safe tomorrow night," I replied.

"We will, goodnight Sweetie," she said, before hanging up.

I plugged the cell into the charger and then slipped into bed. I fell asleep quickly, dreaming of the twins with Lisa and didn't wake when Brian came in later.

Saturday, I repeated my early schedule, getting up early and working out before showering. I was reading my logic textbook in the lobby waiting for the buffet room to open at eight, when Fred sat down beside me.

"Morning coach," I said, marking my spot with a piece of paper.

"Morning Mike, how did you enjoy watching the game from the expensive seats?" he said with a smile.

"Oh the food was good, but not playing sucked big time," I replied. "It's hard to sit still knowing you could be out there contributing and changing the outcome of the game."

"Now you know what coaches go through every game," he said. "I had hoped we could win a game without you in the line-up but that was not the case. So, your demotion is over Mr. Stewart, you're on the ice tonight, hopefully you can generate some offence and some physical play this evening."

"Oh, I'm sure I'll be able to help out," I replied with a grin. "Thanks for letting me back on the ice."

"You are welcome, in hindsight, you should never have been off of it," he replied. "But then you wouldn't have met Miss Peterson, now would you?"

"Oh, you heard about that?" I asked. "She seems like a nice girl and her Dad was polite at least."

"She is a wonderful girl and Mr. Peterson is a long time alumni and supporter of the College," Fred agreed. "He's very protective of his only daughter so be careful there."

"I was only being polite, Vicky would castrate me and do who knows what to Lisa if she thought I was doing anything more than talk to a pretty girl," I said with a laugh. "Mr. Peterson's daughter is safer with me than with the Pope."

"It was mentioned that you were taken and with a fashion model no less," he stated. "I think he was satisfied but she was a bit disappointed."

"You can never please them all," I said diplomatically.

We moved into the buffet room when it opened and joined the line for breakfast. After a couple of trips though the buffet for everyone Fred got up to talk.

"Ok, the coaches and I have decided to make a few changes," Fred started. "We're going to replace the fourth line with the alternative forwards. We want you three to be high energy and hopefully you can catch them off guard with your speed. On defence, Mike will replace Ian and with John, will move up to second pair. Brian Smith will replace Mat Cook and join Ralph Fox as the third pair. We need to generate some offence and hopefully this will let us do that. Any questions?"

Of course there were none.

"Relax for a bit, do some studying and then meet back here at eleven thirty for lunch before we go to the arena," Fred instructed.

The players all left quickly after that and I went back upstairs to read. I did an hour with the logic textbook and then surfed on the web with my laptop. Brian and I went back for a small lunch and then joined the team on the bus for the rink. We had a better practice than yesterday, with the new fourth line skating up a storm in the scrimmage and John and I peppering Mark with shots from the point.

The couple of hours we had to ourselves went by quickly. I went for a walk to the lake that was close by. Marquette is on the southern edge of Lake Superior and the wind was damn cold coming from the north. I walked a little down the beach, past some big houses and mansions, until it was time to turn around and walk back. I was looking out at the lake, watching a freighter go by, when I heard a voice.

"Hey there stranger, long time no see," Lisa Peterson said with a grin.

"Hello there, are you following me?" I said with an answering grin.

"I was going to ask you if you were stalking me, since this is our house," she said, turning to point at the mansion behind her.

"Well no, I'm just out for a walk along the lake here," I said. "You have a nice house there; it must be great in the summer to be right on the lake."

"Yes, we spend every summer up here, we're just up to close it up for the winter," she said. "So, do you get to play tonight?"

"Yes I do actually, are you coming to watch?" I asked.

"We weren't going to, but I'll see if I can talk my parents to go again," she said. "Do you want to come in for a bit, to get warmed up?"

"Thanks for the offer, but I'm expected back in about an hour and it's going to take that long to walk back," I told her.

"Well come on in and I can drive you back in five minutes," she said, moving close and grabbing my hand.

"I shouldn't intrude, I got the impression that your Dad, and maybe your Mom too, didn't approve of me talking to you," I said, not moving when she pulled.

"Jesus, you must weigh a ton, you goliath" she said with a smile as she looked up at me. "Come on, they won't bite and Daddy was mad that you weren't in the line-up."

"Ok, but I can't stay long," I reluctantly agreed, allowing her to pull me up the stairs.

We entered the house through the back sliding door on the porch that led into a big kitchen, and I took off my shoes when she did. After taking off our coats, I saw she was in a Michigan sweatpants and tee shirt that hugged her body quite nicely. I was in jeans and a tee shirt and luckily had socks on with no holes.

"Mom, Dad, I found a wandering urchin on the beach," she yelled.

"Well, give him some food and we can find an older coat for him or her to wear," her dad yelled back.

"Oh, it's definitely a him and I don't think we have anything big enough to fit him," she yelled back, before whispering to me, "That should get them in here quickly."

She was right as they both were in the kitchen a few seconds later. Lisa was smiling and giggled as they rushed in, looking concerned.

"Who did you think I brought in, a rabid beachcomber?" she asked with a laugh. "You remember Mike Daddy? Mom, this is Mike Stewart, the hockey player I met last night."

"It's nice to meet you Mrs. Peterson, your daughter was kind enough to invite me in for a few minutes," I said with a smile. "I was just out for some fresh air walking along the beach when she popped up to surprise me. She wouldn't take no for an answer, I'm afraid."

"Well it's nice to see it's you Lisa dragged up, she's usually not so selective with her strays," Mrs. Peterson said dryly.

"Yes, we've had a few strangers pulled up here every summer," her dad added. "So, you just happened to be walking by our place did you?"

"Just a coincidence Mr. Peterson, I promise I didn't know you lived along here," I said.

"Daddy, he wasn't even looking at the houses, he was looking out at the lake," Lisa said a bit angrily. "Besides, I already grilled him on stalking me."

"Well then, you must be safe then if you're still standing after she's done with you," her mother said. "Come on in and have a seat in the living room while I make some hot chocolate for all of us."

Lisa grabbed my hand and pulled me though the dining room into a cozy room, with a couple of couches and a large TV along the wall.

"So, is Coach Benson coming to his senses and putting you in the line-up?" her dad asked, following us in.

"Yes, he is back in, and I think we should all go and see the game tonight," Lisa said, pulling me down to sit beside her on one of the couches.

"Hmm, we'll have to see what your mother says about that," he answered, sitting down on the opposite couch.

"Well, if you two have other plans, maybe I can still go," she stated. I'm sure I can get a seat out in the arena someplace."

"And sit alone, I don't think so young lady," her mother said emphatically.

"Mother, I am an adult now you know, I do go out by myself down at Michigan," Lisa said with a bit of strength in her voice.

"Humph, you're with friends there usually and there has been some issues up here lately, according to Madge next door," Mrs. Peterson said. "I don't want you going anywhere alone. We have dinner plans with the Richardson's tonight so I'm afraid we can't go."

"This is the first I heard of that," she said. "Dad, can you get me into the box again?"

"Sorry Lisa, the other company gets it tonight, and I'm not letting you anywhere near those vultures," he said with finality.

"There is lots of room in the team box, and there are a few girls — tutors and other staff, that will make sure she's ok," I offered. "The coach can talk to the five players to make sure she's left alone. I can call him and ask if it's alright."

"I can call Coach Benson myself," he said, a bit abruptly.

"Sorry, I guess I should have stayed out of a family argument," I said, standing up. "I need to be going anyway. It was nice to see you again."

I walked quickly back to the kitchen and had my shoes on as voices were raised in the other room. I got out of the house and started jogging back along the long beach back to the hotel. The team was streaming into the buffet when I finally entered the lobby. I joined the end of the queue and found a seat after filling up a plate, finally able to relax. Suits me to even talk to another girl, I thought to myself, shaking my head in disgust. After shovelling my food in quickly and going up for another plate full, I headed upstairs and got into my suit.

Brian came up a bit later and got dressed as well. We joined our teammates on the bus and headed over to the arena. We got suited up and had our half hour warm-up on the ice and then relaxed in the locker room. Fred gave us a rousing speech and Frank talked to John and me on the bench.

"Ok, you're two are moving up to get more ice time and to provide a spark to the offence and the physical play," Frank informed us. "Let it all out there tonight gentlemen. John, I expect Mike will be a bit wound up at the beginning so feed him the puck and stay back to cover in case he gets in too far. Mike, no strings attached; hit everything in sight and carry the puck up as far as you want. I want you both to shoot every chance you can. Eventually, they will key on you two, feed the forwards down low then and we should get some mismatches. Sound good to you two?"

John answered "Finally! That sounds great to me!"

I just nodded and grinned at both of them, raring to go.

"Good, I want you out there second shift, let them be lulled by the normal first line and then I want you two to surprise them off the bench," Frank instructed.

The game started soon after and the first line was pinned in our zone for a bit. They finally got it out and dumped it in to their zone and peeled off for a change. John and I got on as well and were in position when they broke out from their zone. I read a pass to the forward on my side to spring him into our zone, and moved quickly to cover it. The puck no sooner hit his stick when I slammed into him, knocking him off his feet cleanly. The puck was loose so I scooped it up, dodged a check from their centre trying to pay me back, and took off for their end. Their defence backed up as I was joined by the third line. The remaining Wildcat forward was stuck between a rock and a hard place, not knowing who to cover. I kept the puck and drove to the net, forcing the defence to collapse to cover me. As they converged on me, I dropped passed the puck to Shawn just as both defencemen hit me. All three of us went flying and Shawn took advantage of the confusion to pass the puck to the wide open Rick Franklin on the left wing. He one timed it past the sprawling goalie and just like that it was one to nothing.

I untangled myself from their two defencemen still on the ground and skated back to centre ice, noticing both their centre and left winger were just getting up out there. There were a bunch of boos from the crowd but I ignored them and got ready for the face-off. Fred sent out the new fourth line and Alex won the face-off back to John. He skated the puck up and faked a dump in once he got to centre ice. He hit me with a hard pass as I took off again for their blue zone. I caught their new line flat footed and deked out the defenceman trying to plaster me to the boards. The lone defenceman came over and cut me off from the net but Bobby Vickers, the left winger, had a step on his defender. I let the defenceman come over and when the goalie slid to my side as well, lobbed a pass over the stick of the defenceman to Bobby who tapped it into the open side of the net. Two rushes and two assists was a pretty good shift in anyone's book. John and I skated back to the bench for a rest to a loud chorus of boos.

The team congratulated us as we skated by the bench and sat down at the far end.

"I'd say that was a good start," I grinned to John. "Next shift you go in, they will be watching for me."

"You got it, just be ready at the point, this is going to be a big night for you," he grinned back.

Frank was behind us quickly and said "That is what I'm talking about gentlemen, one shift three assists from you two and two goals in the net. Keep it up, but be careful now, they'll key on you now Mike."

"We're expecting them too, John's going in next time," I informed him.

He nodded and moved away to watch how Brian was doing on his first shift. He held his own and got the puck up to the forwards and followed them up. He got a pass back at the point and got a shot on net that was stopped by the goalie and stopped for a whistle. They changed up and play continued.

"Nice shot Brian, and good work in our zone," I said as he sat down.

"Thanks, but I was hoping for a goal," he replied with a grin.

"Hey, just getting it through all those people is an accomplishment," I told him.

The play went back and forth for a while, with John going in deep as I became the decoy, pulling two forwards over to me before passing it off. John got a couple of good scoring opportunities and had them even more confused. The period ended at two to zero and we were much happier as we walked back to the locker room. I looked up at the luxury box but didn't see anyone through the dark glass.

Fred cautioned us, saying "Good work that period; we had lots of jump and energy. Let's be careful next period as they are well coached and they will have a solution to our first strategy. Switch it up and play some physical hockey and set up an offence in their zone if we can. Try and deflect some point shots past their goalie."

We rested and then went back out for the second period. Frank had us out there with the first line and when Gary won the face-off to John, the Wildcats moved into a flat neutral zone trap, with all five players in the centre zone. John gained the centre line and then lifted the puck high into the far corner, allowing our team to skate by their team to get the puck. Chris was first on it and held the puck for a second to let us get situated in the zone. He faked a pass to the middle of the ice and moved to the side boards. The forward and defenceman on our side moved towards him and Chris bounced the puck off the boards back to me. I let a hard low shot go towards the net and Gary got a stick on it to deflect it upwards. Their goalie proved his reputation as he snagged the deflection with his glove and held it for a face-off.

We lined up on my side again for the draw and Gary won it back to me this time. I leaned into it and shot for the high stick side. The goalie barely got his blocker on the puck and it ricocheted off the back Plexiglas with a load bang, and shot back out to the line. John shot it right back on net, going low and hitting the short post with a clang. Daniel, the winger on that side, jumped on the rebound and went around the net, trying a wrap around shot. The goalie did the splits and covered the post, stopping the puck from going in and holding for another faceoff.

Their coach couldn't get that line changed up fast enough and Fred had us change as well. The next couple of shifts had us still putting pressure deep in their zone and it finally paid off when they took a penalty when a defenceman tripped Sergio behind the net. John and I took to the ice with the first line and set up for the faceoff. The faceoff was a draw, with both centres tying each other and the puck in their feet. Daniel came in and swept it to the point where John waited. He wound up and faked a shot, drawing two players down to block the shot. He passed it over to me and I rocketed one high on the glove side, between the goalie's head and glove over his shoulder as he went down in a butterfly position. He ducked and swung his glove to try and catch it but he saw it too late through the screen in front. The score was now three to nothing.

We went back to centre ice as we were only on the power play for fifteen seconds before I scored. They won the face-off and dumped it in deep behind me, with the centre and forward on my side coming in hard. I wrapped it around behind the net to John and leaned into the checks that were coming. It sounded and looked worse than it actually was. The centre missed me and hit the boards hard while the forward and I bounced back off each other, me to hit the boards and him to stagger and go down to one knee. I stayed on my feet and motored up ice to get back into the play. I got to the point in their zone as the puck was in deep in the opposite corner. John went in on his side and I moved over to the middle to cover for him. Daniel and John did a give and go passing play and Daniel broke free to get the pass back from John. He went in on net and almost stuffed it in the short side before being knocked down by the defenceman. The puck was still loose and was lobbed to centre ice, over my head. The centre and forward, had just gotten out of our zone, were the beneficiaries of the pass and before I could get back, went in two on none against Mark. They passed back and forth, pulling Mark to one side and slipped it the open side to make it three to one, much to our disgust. We skated to the bench as the fans cheered.

Frank came over and smiled, saying "Only their ineptitude put them in such a bad position to be at the right place at the right time. They should be ashamed to even count that one as a goal."

The Wildcats found new life with that trashy goal and took advantage of the inexperience of the fourth line. They picked off a pass and immediately went on the counter attack and, with numbers on their side soon had the puck behind Mark to make it three to two. Frank put us back out with the second line and we slowed things down a bit, bringing the puck up the ice into their zone. John and I did the switch at the blueline and I got a chance to really step into his soft pass as two of their forwards got tangled with John. I shot high to miss the diving centre trying to block it low. Unfortunately, I went just a bit too high and it whistled by a ducking goalie to shatter the Plexiglas behind him. The building was all abuzz as we skated back to our benches to allow the maintenance staff to get a new sheet installed. Apparently it didn't happen a lot at this arena as it took them fifteen minutes to find one and replace it.

As a slow down device it worked great because when we finally started back up, neither team could get anything going and the period ended with the score three to two, still in our favour.

Fred let us rest for almost ten minutes and then said a few words.

"Ok men, we need to finish this one out," he said. "You have to assume they are going to come out with both barrels firing. We need to have all five barrels firing from the drop of the puck. Don't let them get set and gain the momentum. Make a big hit if they win the draw; if we win it, break for their zone and surprise them. Whatever happens, keep at them for the next twenty minutes and we'll come away with a split."

Frank and Sam met with the fourth line along with John and me and mapped out a couple of plays to use for the start of the third period. After that it was time to go out for the final period.

We lined up and Alex won the draw back to me. Sergio was breaking for their blue line hard on an angle into the centre of the ice between their two defencemen, as we planned. I slap passed the puck to him and thankfully hit him at full stride as he skated between the two defencemen, just starting to back up. Just like that he was in all alone and he deked the goalie out of his jockstrap before putting it by him into the net. Six seconds in and we were up four to two.

The crowd was silent as we congratulated Sergio and lined up again. The Wildcat's coach changed their line and was yelling at the unfortunate pair of defencemen that came off. The ref dropped the puck and Alex won it back to John, who this time carried it up ice as their team back pedalled after he faked a pass to a charging Bobby. John gained their blueline unmolested and fired a low shot for Bobby to tip. The goalie stopped it with his mask but had the presence to smother the puck. He made a big production of having his mask checked over and Fred changed us out.

The rest of the period was anti climatic as we kept them off their game, hitting them all over the ice and keeping them pinned in their zone. John finally got his goal as I fed him the puck going full out, as he hit their blue line. One deke, a fake to the winger and he shot the puck into the top corner for our fifth goal. The Wildcats managed one more goal in the last minute but the game ended with a win for us, five to three.

John congratulated me on a one goal, four assist night and I did the same, as he had one goal and two assists. We all congratulated Mark and then skated off the ice. We were all in great moods as we hit the locker room. Fred quieted us down and said a few words.

"That is how we finish a game out gentlemen, Good work to all of you," he said with a satisfied look on his face. "We need to keep up this energy for our next games. Ok, get changed and seniors and juniors to the press conference and the others to the bus. There will be food out at the hotel. Just a note that we're heading home at nine thirty tomorrow morning, right after breakfast, so pack up before you come down to eat. Congratulations to you all for a well played game."

We cheered and then got showered and back into our suits for the walk to the bus. The staff and alternates were waiting in the hallway to congratulate us and I was surprised to see Lisa and her Dad waiting there as well.

"Hello Mr. Peterson, Lisa," I said, stepping off to the side of the hallway. "I'm surprised to see you here."

"Well, let's just say that Lisa here can be very persuasive when she puts her mind to something," Mr. Peterson said dryly. "Anyway, I'm glad we came, that was some performance out there Mike."

"Thanks, but it was a team effort, and I was just happy to be on the ice," I replied, trying to play it down.

"Don't be so modest Mike, four assists and a goal in one game, that was a great game," Lisa enthused.

"Two or three of those were just a simple pass to someone else who did all the work," I tried to correct her.

"Humph, I know what I saw and who made the difference tonight versus last night," she said in a no-nonsense voice. "So, do you head back tonight or in the morning?"

"In the morning, right after breakfast," I said. "We are headed back to the hotel for some food and to bed."

Lisa looked at her Dad and waited.

"My daughter has convinced me to ask you to accompany us back to Ann Arbor in the morning instead of taking the bus back," her dad told me.

"Um, I don't think that would be allowed and I barely know you folks," I said, looking between the two of them. "I probably should have told you that I have a girlfriend, and she won't be pleased with me as it is. You're obviously a very nice girl, but I hope I didn't lead you on that I was being anything more than being friendly to a friendly face."

"Oh, we were made aware of that last night, when I checked up on you," Mr. Peterson chuckled. "My daughter is not so easily swayed."

"Daddy, I'm not trying to steal him from his girlfriend, I'm just being friendly and trying to make up for our appalling lack of civility this afternoon," she corrected him before turning back to me. "We do have lots of room and you would get back to see her much faster if you go with us."

"She's in New York with her twin sister, modelling until Monday night, so I'm in no rush," I said. "Thank you both for the offer, but I think it would be better for my relationship and your family tranquillity if I pass."

"Well, if you change your mind, call me on my cell," Mr. Peterson said, handing me a card. "It was a pleasure to meet you Mike, and I'm sure we'll bump into each other again. Come on Lisa, we've left your mother alone long enough."

Lisa looked at me with a frown and then said "I can't believe you turned a plane ride home."

She shook her head and turned and marched away.

"Your daughter usually gets what she wants, doesn't she," I said to her dad as we watched her walk away.

"I've spoiled her rotten, but she's actually turned out not too much of debutante," he said chuckling. "But she is very stubborn and independent so good luck with that. I'm sure this won't be the last time you'll run into her."

"I hope she's not going to cause me problems with my girlfriend," I said worriedly.

"No, she's not like that, but you better be honest with your girlfriend, like you were with Lisa," he advised.

"Oh, I know that, I wouldn't be surprised if she doesn't already know about it," I said with a rueful grin. "I'm expecting a call tonight from New York for sure, with her knowing how long I spent talking to her last night, how long I was in your house and what we just talked about."

"A wise man always knows that the women always know everything," he chuckled. "If she gives you permission to fly home with us, give me a call in the morning. I'm sure that the coach won't mind."

"Thank you again for the kind offer, and have a good night," I replied as we split up.

I headed for the bus and found a seat easily as the press conference was still going on. They finally came in twenty minutes later and sat in the remaining seats and we were off to the hotel. We headed to our rooms to change quickly and then rushed down for food and drink. They had an impressive array of hot and cold finger foods along with all types of non-alcoholic drinks and deserts.

We were all making a good dent in the buffet when John came over to sit on the opposite side of me.

"We're going to have to petition the coaches to get you to attend the press conferences Mike," he said with a grin. "I had to answer three questions about you and so did a couple other players, let alone the coaches."

"Better you than me," I replied with a bigger grin. "I would look like a doofus up there. Sorry to make you guys do it though, I hope no one is getting pissed."

"They're not to mad about it yet, but some might get jealous," he replied. "Now, more importantly, what's this rumour I'm hearing about a gorgeous blonde hanging around you?"

"She was in the box beside us last night, she's from our college and she's up here with her parent's closing their summer house," I told him. "She actually just offered me a ride home, in what I thought was their car, but turns out was their plane. Her dad is an alumnus and pretty important I guess."

"So was she hot?" he asked.

"She comes in a close third behind Vicky and Becky," I said.

"What's her name?" he inquired.

"Lisa Peterson," I answered.

"No shit? Is her dad Russell Peterson?"

"Yes. Why, do you know him?"

"Yeah, he's a heavy hitter in the state, he owns several companies and is on the board of a few others," John told me. "He is friends with the president of the college and with the AD and the coach. His daughter is the apple of his eye so be careful."

"I already told them I had a girlfriend and couldn't accept the offer of a ride back," I told him. "I'm in enough trouble with Vicky over this already."

"I'm sure you are," he replied, getting up. "Good luck with that."

He left chuckling as I finished eating. I didn't go up for a third plate as I had lost my appetite over the Lisa business. I left the room and went upstairs to bed. I plugged in my phone and got undressed before slipping into bed. Ten minutes later the phone rang and I knew it was Vicky.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Not sure if it was me or your new girlfriend Michael?" a frosty Vicky asked.

"Hi darling, how were the shows today?" I asked cheerfully.

"Don't avoid the subject Michael, who is this blonde slut you're hanging out with?" she asked.

"She's not a slut, she goes to our school and she was in the luxury box beside me last night at the game" I told her. "We talked for maybe ten minutes before her dad came out."

"She was there tonight too!" she spate out.

"She watched the game with her parents and then came down to offer me a ride home with her family — which I declined," I stated. "And before you find out from someone else, I took a walk along the beach this afternoon and she saw me from her house and dragged me in for a few minutes. Both her parents were there and I left when they got into an argument about going to the game. I told her tonight that I have a girlfriend and I think they already knew because Fred said something about it this morning at breakfast."

"Is this Lisa pretty?" she asked.

"I won't lie to you, she is very pretty, but you two are still the most gorgeous women I have ever seen, and I love you both," I replied. "Please don't worry about a thing."

"How can we not when we get this information from our sources and we're a thousand miles away from you?" she asked, sounding sad.

"You can trust in me like I trust you two to be faithful when you're surrounded by all sorts of rich handsome men," I responded.

"Point taken, there have been a few guys trying to pick us up," she let me know.

"Oh really, do I need to get on a plane and come to New York to talk to these guys?" I asked with a growl.

"Of course not Michael, these are the second tier talent, we're holding out for the top of the line studs," she replied with a laugh.

I could hear Becky laughing in the background as well.

"I know you two will have ample opportunities to upgrade from me while you're there," I admitted. "Just do me a favour and let me know before I find out I've been replaced in a magazine."

"Well, I was also calling to let you know not to panic when you see a picture of the two of us with a guy between us," she said. "He's an important designer that we just did a show for and the publicists wanted a picture of the three of us."

"Thanks for warning me," I said dryly. "So are we good?"

"All right we're good, but we're going to check this Lisa out when we get back there," she warned.

"You go right ahead, though I have no idea where she lives or how to get a hold of her," I responded. "Now, you two get some sleep, you have two shows tomorrow. I love you two very much and I'll talk to you tomorrow night."

"Ok you get some sleep too," she said with a yawn. "I love you too."

A voice from farther in the room yelled "I love you two, you big lummox!"

"Tell her I love her too," I said with a chuckle. "And let her know I'm deeply hurt by that lummox comment, I'm graceful as a swan."

"Sure, my ugly duckling, you're a real figure skater in tights out there," she said with a laugh, before she hung up with laughter coming from Becky.

I smiled and plugged the phone back in before lying on my back. The relationship with the twins was getting more complicated as the distances grew. We needed to have a serious talk when they got back on Tuesday. I fell asleep with all sorts of thoughts in my head about them and other girls, like Lisa and Steph.

Sunday was a long dull day as we got up, showered and dressed before packing and then ate breakfast before piling onto the bus. Brian and I sat together again and while he did more homework, I read my novels or played on the computer. We stopped for lunch at the same place we had dinner at on Thursday night and then I slept for the rest of the ride home. We arrived around six and I drudged home, lugging my suitcase and book bag along.

After eating some leftovers for dinner, I did some laundry and then watched the Sunday night football game before heading to bed. Vicky did call and since we were both tired, just wished me a good night sleep after a quick rundown of their day. She did mention she and Becky would be in late on Monday, so they would slip in to my apartment when they got there. I went to sleep quickly, dreaming of having my girls back with me.



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Chapter 26


Waking up alone was a real drag I thought, as I shut off the damn alarm. I never slept well when the twins were gone. I reluctantly got up and, after dressing and grabbing a couple of granola bars, left for the arena.

Most of us were semi-catatonic as we dressed in silence. The morning people, a group that I usually was one of, kept quiet rather than face the stares and growls of the zombies. We finally got out on the ice and got our bodies and minds going as we skated and shot to warm up. Fred called us together after about fifteen minutes.

"Good morning gentlemen, we have an interesting week ahead of us," he started. "We have the Purple Eagles from Niagara University coming in for a Thursday night game and then we fly out Friday morning to Boston to take on the Boston University Terriers Saturday night. This leaves us very little time to prepare for two different teams. Welcome to the whimsical world of college hockey scheduling."

Fred continued after we stopped laughing, saying "We've decided to tackle this week a bit differently. Rather than base our practices around what the other team is doing, we're going to just enhance our strengths and make them have to respond to our game instead. Of course we will review their strengths but we will try and adapt our style to counter anything unique."

So we worked on special teams, offence and defence without any major changes to our normal schemes. I was back on the starter side but others were rotated over to the scout team for the practice, with a promise from Fred that all starters would be over to the scout team sometime this week.

I left the practice in a better mood this week and sat down beside Stephanie in the logic's classroom twenty minutes later.

"Morning Princess, how was the weekend?" I asked.

"Pretty good actually, Ryan and I had two dates and he has officially asked me out," she gushed.

"Well good for you, I hope he's treating you well?" I asked.

"He is, he's a sweet guy," she answered with a blush. "So, you got to play Saturday I hear, and tore it up! A goal and four assists is fantastic Mikey!"

"Thanks, but a couple were really just simple passes, the others did all the work," I downplayed it.

"Yeah sure," she said with a smirk. "The article in the paper begs to differ. Ok, enough about hockey, how are the twins doing?"

"Busy, but still enjoying it I think," I told her. "Two more shows today and then they fly back tonight. I'm not sure of the schedule on Tuesday, but they have to talk things over with their rents to see what's next."

"I envy them, even though it's hard work," she said with a sigh. "It was always a girlhood dream of mine to be a supermodel, but it was pretty clear by grade nine that I joined the height challenged group."

"Do you still go to the meetings?" I asked with a straight face.

"No, it was more of a list really, with a membership card mailed to us rather than official meetings," she replied. "I tried to get a local chapter started but Federal laws prohibited discrimination so tallies kept trying to crash the meetings."

The professor came in then and I couldn't respond. He collected last week's assignments and continued with the next chapters. I followed easily as I had read them and done all of the questions. He gave out the next assignment and left the room.

Stephanie turned to me and said "Tell me you understood that!"

"Yep, it was pretty easy if you read ahead in the textbook," I told her.

"Ok, you get my firstborn if you can help me understand that," she said. "We need to go over that today."

"Ryan and Vicky might have something to say about the conception of that child Princess, though it would be fun to practice," I said with a grin. "It will have to be at your room though, Vicky is already jealous enough."

She blushed and corrected me," I didn't say you would be the father, just that you would get the child; I just don't want to breastfeed it. I will see you in the cafeteria."

She walked away as I laughed and watched her cute butt. I walked to Creative writing and handed in my assignment before sitting down. The professor continued talking about short stories and reminded us our stories were due at the end of the month, before handing out the weekly assignment.

I met Steph at the cafeteria and we had lunch while I explained one of the chapters for logic class. She professed her undying gratitude, but luckily would keep the first born, no matter who was going to be the father. I envied Ryan as I watched her walk away.

It was back to the math building and into the Algebra classroom to hand in my assignment and listen to the lecture. It was pretty cut and dried if you had read ahead. I returned to the cafeteria and helped Steph understand the new chapters of our logics course and worked on the assignment with her. No babies were exchanged when I left for the arena for the afternoon practice.

At practice they went over the systems that Niagara used, mostly a run and gun fast break offence, using their speed and quick passing on offence and quick back checking when the puck went the other way. Fred let us know we would counter with physical play and quick counter strikes when they made a mistake. We should also try and keep puck possession and pin them in their zone, where their speed could be bottled up.

We practiced all of that and then called it a day. I changed and ate at the arena cafeteria before heading home and getting a start on my assignments. I finished the logic one and made significant headway on the algebra one before calling it a night. I was watching the Monday night football game when Becky called. She let me know they were at the airport in New York and they were going to stay in Dearborn tonight; then drive my car to the University sometime Tuesday after they had talked with their parents.

I wished them both a good flight and told them I couldn't wait to see them tomorrow. After the requisite three word sentiments we hung up and I finished watching the game before heading to bed. I was asleep soon after.

Tuesday morning brought hope that I would see the twins so I was full of energy as I headed off to the arena early. I was out before anyone got there and had Patrick on the far net soon after my warm-up skate and stretching. I was shooting from the point and practicing the switch over to the centre of the blue line when the rest of the guys started trickling in.

"You're out here early," John remarked.

"Well it's a fine day to be out and about early, don't you think?" I asked with a grin.

"Aw that's right, it's homecoming day for the twins," he said with a smirk. "Couldn't sleep?"

"Well, that is the reason for my current good mood," I replied loftily.

"I'm happy for you, it's probably been a long week without them," he said.

"It most certainly has," I agreed.

Practice started soon after and we went over Boston University's schemes and modified some of our plays to suit counteract them. The rest of the practice was spent perfecting those plays.

After I showered and dressed, I walked up to the main campus and met Steph outside the programming classroom. We handed in our assignments and sat down while we waited.

"Big day today Mikey, your woman finally comes home," she said with a grin. "Don't have to rely on that bikini picture anymore."

"Yes, I'm sure they will bring me more pictures," I said.

"And maybe relieve some of you pent up stress, so to speak," she said with a giggle.

"They do know how to give a great massage," I agreed.

"I was talking about sex Mikey," she said exasperated.

"Oh no, we're waiting for marriage for that," I said with a shocked look on my face. "Don't tell me you and Ryan aren't practicing abstinence?"

She blushed and stammered "We're talking about you and the twins, not what Ryan and I may or may not be doing."

"We just kiss and hug before bedtime and then split apart into separate apartments Steph," I said with a straight face. "Why, how far have you two gone already? I had better have a word with this Ryan character if he has been besmirching your innocent honour!"

"Never you mind about defending my honour, innocent or otherwise Michael Stewart, and you leave Ryan alone, you big lummox," she told me emphatically.

"Like I told Becky, I'm not a lummox, I'm as graceful as a swan," I replied, pretending to be hurt.

"Tell that to the opposition on the ice as you mash them into the boards," she said dryly.

We had to stop conversing as the professor went full speed ahead, determined to beat his two and a half chapter record. When the smoke cleared, the class was blown away, with casualties spread around the room. I, being the smart ass that I could be, calmly packed up my stuff and stood ready to leave. Steph was furiously still writing down stuff from the boards, while holding a hand to the wound on her forehead.

"Come on Princess, I'll help you out at two thirty, but you need to read the textbook while I practice, deal?" I asked her.

"That's it, screw Ryan, I'm your slave now," she said in relief.

"I don't wish to screw Ryan, I thought that was your job now that your honour is besmirched," I said with a grin.

"Michael Stewart, what kind of lady do you think I am?" she asked, a bit pissed. "I'm not a tramp or a slut that sleeps with a guy after three or four dates. I've only known him three weeks for God's sake."

"Sorry Princess, I was joking," I said quickly, trying to placate her. "But since you're my slave now I guess he's out of the picture anyway."

"Humph, with your attitude, I'm not sure you deserve me anymore," she replied loftily, packing her stuff up. "I will see you at the arena cafeteria at two thirty Mister, and don't be late."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied as she stormed off, wiggling that excellent ass of hers.

I went back to the arena and had a very satisfying workout in the gym.

"Jesus Mike, you're really bulking up," Chris the trainer said. "You might want to start levelling off and go for more reps and definition. It will improve your speed and quickness; you have enough mass and strength to compete with any defenceman in the country."

"Ok Chris, if you think so, but I really enjoy seeing how much more I can lift every week," I replied. "I'll just keep the weights I have now and increase the reps for each set."

"Come by my office and we'll mark down your new weights and current reps and then do some measurements," he instructed me.

I showered and went in to see Chris. He took some measurements and then got my chart out and wrote my new weights for each exercise.

"Ok, you've gained twenty five pounds in two months, up to 230, and you've grown a half inch to six foot three," he stated. "Your chest measurement is now forty eight, up from 44 inches and everything else is bigger too. You're just eighteen right?"

"That's correct, just a couple of months ago," I replied.

"You could still grow taller and definitely bigger," he stated. "Ok, for your workouts, add a few more reps every time until you can do three sets of thirty and then we will talk again. Your weights are up fifty percent already in less than two months, so good work so far. Now we will sculpt you rather than bulk you up."

"Sounds good Chris, I'll let you know when I'm up to that number," I agreed. "Thanks for all the help."

I went and got a quick bite to eat and then got ready for rookie practice. Frank had us do all the normal drills and then scrimmage for the last half hour. I showered and met Steph in the cafeteria, first getting snacks and drinks for both of us. I was surprised that the twins hadn't showed up or called yet, but I figured they knew my schedule and would either show up soon or meet me at home afterwards.

Steph and I reviewed the chapters for programming quickly and then did some of the questions. Then we started the programming assignment with the small amount of time left before I had to leave for afternoon practice. She thanked me again but no mention was made about her slavery proposal.

I left for practice and got dressed and on the ice with the other players. We went back to our normal schemes and practiced special teams, offence and defence against a new scout team. The last half hour we had a scrimmage and then we were let go. I showered and called the twins before leaving the arena.

"Hey Michael, is practice done?" Vicky asked, sounding tired.

"Yes Darling, where are you two?" I asked.

"We're at the apartment, shall we come get you?" she asked.

"I can walk if you're busy, have you eaten?" I asked.

"No, we haven't, I'll order a pizza to be delivered," she said. "Why don't you walk, we're in the middle of something here."

"Ok, I'll see you in fifteen," I said.

I had the feeling that I wasn't going to like what I found waiting for me when I got there. I trudged home and walked to the back of the house to find a moving truck there and Mr. Waters in the back packing a box away.

"Hey Mike, I bet this comes as a bit of a shock," Mr. Waters said, climbing down from the truck.

"So they're moving there permanently?" I asked.

"Let's go down and have a talk with the girls," he suggested as he led the way to the door.

I looked in the truck and saw Vicky's bed and other furniture already in there, so they must be packing up dishes and clothes. I followed him down the stairs and into their bare apartment, surprising their mother.

"Oh, hi Michael, sorry you had to find out about it this way," she said, laying a hand on my arm.

The girls came up with sad looks on their faces and came and hugged me.

"So, you're heading to New York just like that?" I asked as they stepped back.

"Let's go to your apartment and talk," one of the twins said, leading the way. "There is no place to sit over here anymore."

I unlocked the door and threw my book bag on the bed before grabbing some diet cokes from the fridge and sitting down with the two of them.

"Are your parents joining us?" I asked.

"No, they will keep packing, we wanted some privacy for this," a sister said.

"So, you've decided to move, just like that?" I asked.

"Michael, I'm afraid we were a big hit in New York," the other one started. "We made close to twenty thousand dollars each last week and the agency made probably triple that. They promised us, in writing, over a million each for one year, not even including any exclusive contracts with cosmetic or clothing lines. They threw in a fully furnished condo rent free at The Plaza and all of our expenses are paid, unlike some other models' contracts. That is on top of our agent's cut as well. We don't want to leave you just as we got so serious, but the offer is a once in a lifetime opportunity."

"I understand ladies, and I support your decision, but so quickly?" I said.

"They want us for more shows and then they have some big print ads and a commercial lined up already," the other one said. "We're back on the plane in the morning Michael."

"So the stuff is going back to your parent's home?" I asked.

"Yes, into the basement for storage."

"So, the big question, what about us?" I asked, looking at both of them.

"Michael, we're going to be so busy, and so are you with hockey and school, that we probably won't see you for a few months," one of them said.

"It's better if we make a clean break now rather than in a few months when anyone of us finds someone else," said the other twin. "It's more painful now but the healing can start right away rather than later."

"Do you have someone in mind already?" I asked.

"No, of course not," the first one said. "We just don't want you to be alone here for months waiting for us to come back. We are all young adults and none of us should be alone for that long. I know you don't want to give us up and we don't want to give you up either, but it won't be a long distance relationship, it won't be a relationship at all."

"This is bullshit," I yelled. "How can you calmly sit there and tear my heart out like this? Did it mean nothing to you?"

"Of course it did and will always mean something to us," the second sister said. "We didn't plan for this to happen and didn't want this to happen. We love you and know you love us too, but whether we do this now or in three months, it is still going to hurt us all. You knew this was a possibility, but we all thought it would be in the New Year."

"Why can't we stay together until one of us finds someone else," I asked.

"We know you, you won't even try to move on," a twin said. "Look, we're not going to go out and take the first guy we see into bed. We're going to be too busy and frankly you're a very hard act to follow. But we don't want you being jealous for months worrying about us and we don't want you celibate here either. If our career slows down and we're all still unattached, we can get back together. We're too young to get so serious at this stage of our lives."

There was a knock on the door and one of them got up to open it.

"Ok, you're all packed, you just have to deal with the wireless and the landlady," their father said.

She nodded and turned back to me and said "You'll need to keep up the wireless, it's paid up for a year but you need all the information, I'll go find it."

She left the room and Becky turned back to me.

"She's taking it as hard as you are Michael," she said. "This is the hardest thing we've ever had to do. I want you to know we're not going to be looking for any men for a long while. We will eventually hook up with some ladies, the whole industry is bisexual and most of the guys are gay. I don't want you to stay celibate, waiting for us, even though I know you will for a while. Neither of us will ever hold it against you if you do find another girl, in fact we want you too. We want you to be happy."

"I don't understand why we can't just keep it going," I asked. "I can wait for you to come back. Maybe we can meet once and a while, we both have money now."

"We will be swamped every week, all over the place, not just New York," she replied. "We won't be available for months. This is best for you and for Vicky. If she has to worry about you every day she will drive herself sick. You have to be the tough one and fake it when she comes back or you will derail this opportunity for her. You have to let her go and hope for the best in the future. You have to trust I will take care of her."

"And who will take care of you?" I asked.

"Vicky will, I know my parents have always had her do that, because of my wild side," she said with a sad smile. "She's actually the fragile one so I keep her up and she keeps me grounded."

"Well, you make sure you take care of both of you, and call me if you ever need anything," I said. "I will always come running, no matter where you are in the world."

"I know you will, and I'm counting on it," she said as she hugged me tight. "I'm going to miss you so much."

"I will too honey," I said, giving her a kiss. "One thing, warn me before you guys decide to take on another guy. I don't think I could handle seeing that in a magazine."

"Well, you'll see a lot of photos of us with guys, but we'll warn you if anyone is actually true," she said with a laugh.

"Fair enough, though they will hurt just as much," I said. "Do you want me to let you know the same?"

"I don't think we will ever want to know that you've got a boyfriend Michael!" she said with a grin. "I want you warn me first if you get serious about a girl. I don't mean a one-night stand, but a relationship. I'll break it to Vicky softly."

"Ok, last thing, I want you to try and keep in touch with me, either by email or phone as often as you can, just to let me know you're both doing ok," I asked.

"It won't be often, but I'll try," she agreed. "Vicky will probably be our communicator to both the rents and with you."

"Just let me know how she's doing once and a while then, and yourself," I requested.

"Ok, I will Michael," Becky said. "Now I better go and see what's up and give her some time alone with you. I'll always have you as my first love Michael, and we'll always care for you."

She hugged and kissed me and then ran out the apartment, crying. I sat there with tears in my eyes for a bit and then went to the washroom to splash water on my face and dry it off. Vicky was sitting at the table when I came back in.

"Here is all the information about the wireless network and the internet connection Michael," she said, sliding over the paper and the router.

"Thanks darling," I said with a small smile. "So, all set for the next chapter?"

"This is happening way too quick Michael, I never wanted it to go like this," she told me.

"We all didn't, but the only constant in our lives is change," I responded. "You have to go and make sure Becky doesn't get too wild. This is a great opportunity for both of you."

"Who is going to take care of you Michael?" she asked.

"I've been taking care of myself for a while now, I'll survive," I stated. "I'll miss you both so much but I'll get through it. You two just take care of yourselves and call me if you need anything. I'll be there as fast as I can."

"We might just take you up on that Michael," she said as she stood up and came over to hug and kiss me.

"You better, and I'll be watching you to make sure you behave," I said with a grin.

"And my spies will be giving me reports about you, so no moping all alone for months on end or we'll come and kick your ass," she threatened. "Just wait until Steph and Jessica find out you're on the market again, or that Lisa tramp, you'll be swamped with girls."

"They both have official boyfriends now and Lisa reminds me too much of another pushy broad I know," I said, looking down at her with a raised eyebrow.

"I am not a broad, I'm thin and a lady," she miffed. "Ok, we have to go Michael. I'll always love our time together. Take care of yourself and keep in touch after you get over being mad at us."

"I will always love the two of you," I told her. "You take care of both of you and email or call when you can."

I gave her a hug and a big kiss and then followed her up the stairs, where the rest of the family was waiting. Mrs. Waters and Becky guided a crying Vicky to the back seat of the family SUV and then got in the front.

Mr. Waters turned to me and said "I know this is really rough on you and you probably won't want to talk to a Waters for a while, but if you need anything, please don't hesitate to call. We'll let you know via email how they are doing if you want to know."

"Thanks Mr. Waters, I would appreciate that and thanks for the offer," I replied. "Have a safe trip back to Dearborn."

I shook his hand and then watched as he got in the truck and pulled out, with the ladies following. The twins were both looking out at me and I lifted my hand in a small wave as they drove out of my life.

I went back inside, and entered her apartment. It was bare as the day it was built. There was nothing there for me now. I closed the door behind me and went back into my apartment and lay down on the bed. I was numb from how fast it all went down, two hours ago I had twin models as lovers and now I was alone again in the world. Sleep didn't come until late into the night.

Wednesday came much too soon as I remembered what had happened the night before. I banged the alarm until it stopped and debated whether I cared enough to go to practice. Duty prevailed, much to my disgust, and I got up and took a shower after taking off the clothes I slept in. I didn't feel like eating so I hopped in the car and drove to the arena.

It was quiet as we got dressed, which suited my mood to a T. I went through the motions during warm-up but got my head into the game when a scout team forward tagged me good in the corner. I got up ready to retaliate by putting him through the wall, but he had already taken the puck and put it behind Mark for a goal.

Fred came over and gave me a ration of shit.

"Mr. Stewart, I'm surprised Mr. Branch put you down on your ass as if you were a bantam lightweight," he started.

"Don't worry, it won't happen again," I growled, looking around, daring anyone to laugh.

"It better not, I trust your head is now out of the clouds?" he asked.

"A momentary lapse, it's over now," I stated emphatically, looking at him in the eyes.

He looked at me for a second and then dropped it.

"Ok, let's start it up again," he said, moving out of the way.

I kept my head in the scrimmage and it was Jim Branch who bailed when he knew I was coming to hit him. Fred let it go and play continued. We finished up and they finally let us go. I quickly got dressed and left for the main campus. I walked slowly so I didn't have to talk to Stephanie before class. I wasn't ready to talk about the twins just yet.

I walked in just as the professor did and found Steph in our usual spot. I said hi just as he started the lecture. She smiled and started taking notes. I paid attention to the prof as he was heading into chapters that I just briefly read. The hour and a half went by quickly as the boards filled up.

Steph packed up her stuff fast as the lecture had gone past the allotted time.

"I'll see you at lunch Mikey," she said, before taking off for the door.

I followed her out and turned the other way, getting to writing class just as the professor was set to shut the door. I squeezed in and sat down as she started the lecture. I barely paid attention to her as she droned on about story structure. The class finally came to an end and we filed out quickly. I headed to the cafeteria and decided not to let Steph know anything other than they had gone back to New York when she asked. I really didn't want her pity or any extra attention right now.

I waited in line to get some hot food for lunch and then joined Steph sitting alone at the usual table.

"Hey Steph, how was your morning," I asked.

"The usual, got lost in Logic, fell asleep in sociology," she answered. "You?"

"Oh, boring as usual," I replied, then dug into my food.

"So, where's Vicky?" she asked. "Didn't they come back last night?"

"Yes they did, but they are already flying back to New York for more shows and stuff," I said.

"Sorry to hear that for you, but they must be excited," she replied.

"Yeah, they are," I answered and put another mouthful in.

I pulled out my algebra and worked on the assignment to further discourage her from asking too many questions. It seemed to work as she pulled out some work as well. I shovelled in the rest of my food and then finished the assignment. I packed up and got ready to go to algebra class.

"Meet back here for programming assignment?" she asked.

"Sure, see you at two thirty," I replied, following her out.

I turned the other way and walked away, not looking at her butt for the first time in ages. I was on autopilot as I weaved through the people, not even looking at the girls. The professor walked in with us and started immediately as we all sat down. He flew through a couple of chapters and then before we knew it, the lecture was over and he was gone.

Steph was already set up with her laptop powered up when I got there. We both continued with the programming assignment, each of us working alone but there in case the other had a question. It was good to see that she could do it on her own. I got most of the programming done before I had to leave for practice.

"Ok, I'll see you tomorrow for programming but, remember I have a game that night and I'm gone Friday morning for Boston, so come with any questions on the logic or programming assignment," I told her as I packed up.

"Ok, but I think I'm good on this assignment, I'll run it tonight and try and work out the bugs," she replied. "I'll finish the logic assignment tonight too and I'll bring any questions with me in the morning. Have a good practice."

"Thanks, I'll see you later," I replied.

I left her there as she continued to work on her laptop while I walked to the arena and got ready quietly. I kept my focus during practice as we went over all facets of our game and then spent time going over specific plays to use against Niagara tomorrow night. The coaches finally called it a night, half an hour later than usual.

I got dressed quickly and quietly and then had a quick bite to eat at the cafeteria before driving home. At home I got busy on homework, finishing up the programming assignment and printing it out along with the solution. I tackled the writing assignment next and got that done as well. As I was packing up I saw the rough draft of my short story and realized I didn't get Vicky to proof-read it before she left. I threw it in my bag and made a note to ask for tutoring help tomorrow from Frank or Fred. I turned on the TV and watched a late hockey game until I fell asleep with it still on.

I woke up with the TV on and the alarm blaring away, still in my clothes from yesterday. I took a quick shower and drove to the arena for practice. This morning was about fundamentals, with the coaches giving us plenty of skating and drills to do. The last half hour was a spirited scrimmage where I got a chance to hit a couple of guys, taking some of my frustrations out.

Programming class was new stuff again, but not too difficult. Steph seemed to get it to so no mention of passing over of offspring was needed. She didn't need any help with either assignment so I told her to have a good weekend and I would see her on Monday. She wished me luck for both games and we split up, with me heading to the arena to get a workout in.

I followed Chris's advice and bumped up the reps by five per set and kept the weights the same. I also did them a bit faster to get my heart pumping. I was pleasantly tired when I was done and spent a few more minutes in the shower to relax under the hot water.

After a quick lunch I found Frank in his office and asked about some tutoring help for my creative writing class. He gave me Pam's cell number to call as she was the head of the tutoring program for the hockey team. She asked me where I was and gave me directions on how to get to her office. I found the small room upstairs at the end of the hallway down from the cafeteria.

"Hey Mike, this is a first for you isn't it?" she said as she opened the door to her office.

"Yep, first time here and first time asking for some help," I agreed. "My proof reader has left for New York and I could use a new one. Do you have someone who might want to earn a few bucks doing it for me?"

"I'm sure we can find someone who can proof read it for you, but you don't have to pay them," she said. "It's a free service to all athletes due to all the extra time you have to spend practicing and travelling. How about you leave it with me and I'll have it done for you and either find you after practice or give you a call when it's ready?"

"That sounds good, about how long do you think it will take?" I asked after handing it to her. "I need to hand it in on Wednesday next week and I have to make any changes on the weekend when we're in Boston or on the plane."

"I'll get someone on it today and have it for you on the flight," she said. "If there are a lot of changes recommended, I'll see if the proof reader can accompany us to Boston."

"Oh, don't screw someone's weekend up just for that, I'm sure I can handle the revisions myself," I told her.

She laughed and said, "I keep forgetting you're new to this. Any tutor would love an all expenses paid trip to Boston on top of getting paid to be there. I'll book one for this right now and make sure he or she sits beside you on both flights. We need to keep our star defenceman on the ice."

"I'm definitely not the star defenceman Pam," I said with a laugh. "But if you have that kind of pull, make mine an aisle seat so I can stretch my legs will you?"

"I can certainly handle that, I work with the travel coordinator all the time and I'll make that a priority for your in-flight working conditions," she stated, jotting down a couple notes.

"Well thanks for everything Pam, I greatly appreciate all of your help with this," I said with a smile.

"No problem Mike, that's what I'm here for," she said, returning the smile. "Give me a call anytime you need any help with any of your courses. If you're going to be late on an assignment, let me know and I can usually smooth things over to get you an extra day or two."

"Ok, good to know," I replied. "I'll see you on the plane tomorrow."

"Good luck tonight," she said as I left the office.

"Thanks," I replied and headed back down to suit up for rookie practice.

I took it easy in practice, not hitting anyone too hard or overdoing the skating. Frank didn't say anything as he watched us scrimmage, so I knew he was on the same page. He let us go early and I showered and left the arena to drive home.

After packing for tomorrow morning's early flight, including my laptop and textbooks again, I set the alarm and had a nap for a couple of hours. After I got up I packed my suit and left for supper with the team. I joined the back of the line and eventually landed some food. I sat by myself and ate quickly, finishing in a few minutes. Unfortunately, that gave me too much time to think as I wasn't interested in another plateful. My cheering section was gone for good and it made me sad and a bit angry. I knew I would have plenty of angst to vent come game time.

Fred said a few words to everyone and then led us to the locker room to change and get out to our warm-up skate. After that it was more waiting before finally getting on the ice for the game.

"Hey, everything all right Mike?" John asked. "You're quieter than normal."

"Yeah I'm ok, just a bit tired," I replied. "I'll be alright when we get on the ice."

He nodded and asked, "How is it with Vicky?"

"She's back in New York for a bit longer," I replied.

"That sucks," he said.

I agreed and then didn't have to talk anymore as the game started.

As advertised, the Purple Eagles from Niagara University were a fast team, and their game was all about quick breaks and quick back checking. It took a shift for each line to adapt to their speed and to counter their fast break offence. They didn't odd man rushes but their passing and skating made it seem like it. We didn't get a chance to be physical as the passes were long gone before we could hit them.

On our second shift, John got the puck behind the net and slowed things down while the Eagles changed up. He brought the puck up ice until he had to pass to me avoid a double team near centre ice. I shot it into the far corner and let the forwards go hit their defence. John and I manned the points and hoped for a pass.

Daniel and Gary were battling the defence and forward on John's side of the ice, pinning them to the boards or hitting them when they tried to skate away from the boards with the puck. Finally, Daniel got the puck back to John who didn't have time to shoot with everyone so close. He passed it over to me and I one timed a slap pass wide of the net to Daniel, who was charging for the net. The goalie, expecting a shot, went down to stop the supposed low shot but was out of position to stop the easy redirection by Daniel, overtop of the goalie. We congratulated Daniel as we made our way back to the bench.

The rest of the period went our way as we didn't allow them to use their fast break and speed. Each line got in some good hits and kept the puck away from them. Shawn's line scored another goal when a pass was intercepted out in centre ice, with their team breaking for our zone. Just like that we had a three on two breakaway and Shawn had the wide open net to shoot at and he didn't miss.

John looked at me on the bench and looked shocked when he said, "That can't be a goal, neither one us were on the ice for it!"

"We can't be that selfish and hog all the points John," I said, shaking my head. "The others will pout if they don't get a few."

The period ended with the score two to nothing and the crowd cheered their approval as we went in to rest. Fred congratulated us on the good play and warned that they would start taking more chances, so the defence was to watch for cherry pickers and forwards sneaking out behind us to receive a long pass. I sat quietly as the others were talking amongst themselves, just sipping on a sports drink and thinking about the twins. I was deep in thought and John had to nudge me when it was time to go out for the second period.

Frank put us out with the speedy fourth line to start to see if we could catch them off guard. Alex won the draw and I passed it to Sergio skating hard for the blueline. The Purple Eagles must have studied the video from our last game because they closed up on him and the puck slid into the far corner. Their defence lobbed a pass out to centre but, like a safety sitting back to put a hit on an unsuspecting receiver, I was locked in on their centre as he took the pass on his stick. Before he had a chance to look up, I hit him with a clean hit using my shoulder. He flew back and laid still as John took the puck back up the ice. One of his teammates rushed at me to try and pay me back for the hit but I ignored him and followed John. We had a brief five on three advantage and, except for a fantastic save by their goalie, almost had another goal. When the ref blew the whistle, their trainer came out to work on the forward, who seemed to be just regaining consciousness.

Fred changed lines and warned everyone to watch out for some rough stuff, and not to retaliate. They finally got the forward up and had two teammates skate him off to polite applause from our crowd.

The Purple Eagles did come out and, for awhile, abandoned their run and gun attack in order to try and hit everybody on the ice. We were used to this kind of play and dodged most of them, passing off at the last minute to draw them in. We got a couple of good scoring chances because of it.

John and I went on the ice for a face-off in their end, and the coach put on their fourth line to counter. A bigger forward, still smaller than me, skated by me on the way to his position and told me he was coming for me.

"You better bring a couple of friends," was all I said.

Henry Black, our second line centre won the puck back to me and I stepped into it with all the power and anger I had in me. Everyone was diving out of the way of the shot as it blew by the goalie into the top corner of the net. The loud mouth forward hit me well after the shot, when the puck was already in the net. I moved a bit but didn't fall down, even when he continued to push me into the boards.

"Asshole, why don't you try that shit with someone your own size," he said. "Come on lets go, you pansy."

I pushed him away easily and skated away, ignoring him as the team came over to congratulate me on the goal. We lined back up for the face-off at centre ice and this time they won the draw. Their defence lobbed it behind me and I knew the asshole would be coming for me. I beat him to the puck and moved it along to John, before stopping suddenly. The guy, who thought he had me lined up for a monster hit on the boards, flew past me and hit the boards himself with a loud bang before falling down to the ice.

I took off up the ice and was at full speed when John saw me come up. He hit me with a pass and I blew by the centre taking an outside lane to go around the defenceman on my side. I wound up to shoot and then passed it to the other side of the net where a wide open Ron Zonk tapped it in for an easy goal. The place erupted in cheers as we had two goals in less than a minute. I skated to the bench and saw the ass who tried to hit me. He was skating slowly back from our zone and swore at me as we passed by. One of the refs heard him and blew the whistle, giving him a ten minute penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct. He was lucky he didn't put his team down a player for that long; it was more of a time-out for the player.

I sat down on the bench and relaxed for a bit, we had a four nothing lead at the start of the second period. One goal and two assists was a good game already. The score remained the same for the rest of the period, as the Purple Eagles never recovered from the disastrous first shift. Their coach talked to the forward that came out of the penalty box ten minutes later and he never saw the ice the rest of the game.

The third period was a bit livelier, but the Purple Eagles could only muster one goal to break up Mark's shutout bid, late in the game. The final score was four to one and we left the ice to loud applause from the fans. I looked up by force of habit at the players reserved section and of course didn't see the twins. That of course reminded me of the situation and brought me down again.

I was quickly undressed and showered while the other teammates were still celebrating, and had my suit nearly on when Fred came in.

"Good game out there tonight gentlemen, we played our game and forced them to change to something they were not good at," Fred started off. "We kept our cool and let them run around like headless chickens and then turned it back on them.

After a quick look around he continued, "Alright, now one game is over, but we have a harder task to handle on Saturday. BU is one of the best teams in the country, and we're going into their house. We're not going to throw them off their game so easily. So enjoy the win tonight but head home and get into bed quickly, as our flight leaves at nine am and we need to meet here at six forty five so we can get to the airport by eight. Don't be late or you'll be left behind. Seniors and juniors, press conference time, all the rest of you, get to bed; the coaches will be calling in an hour."

I quickly finished getting dressed and, after saying good night to John, left the locker room and the arena. I drove home, got out of my suit and packed it for the trip and headed to bed. I was almost asleep when Frank called to check up on me.

"You in bed Mike?" he asked.

"Yeah, you woke me up damn-it," I said.

"Sorry, I have to check up on everyone," he said. "Go back to sleep."

I hung up on him and was soon back in dreamland.

The alarm blared at a quarter to six and I rushed though my shower and dressed in some good casual clothes. I drove to the arena and parked near the bus and grabbed my suitcase and book bag. After putting my suitcase below, I found a seat in the near empty bus and opened my logic textbook to read ahead. The bus slowly filled up and, after a count of all the players and staff, we headed to the airport.

At the airport we headed to a different building where our chartered flight loading up. We still had to go through security and get boarding passes for the flight so it took awhile for all of us to get on the plane. I found my seat and wondered who the tutor would be. The plane was a mid-sized plane with two seats on either side of the aisle and looked like about forty rows. The coaches and staff got the first class seats up front, and I was in the row with the emergency door, giving me more legroom.

Pam walked up with a sophisticated looking redhead; both were dressed in good pants and blouses and looking very chic. The redhead didn't look too pleased to be there and seemed a bit uppity.

"Mike, this is Cynthia Ashford, she comes highly recommended by the English faculty head and will be your creative writing tutor for this trip," Pam said without much enthusiasm. "Cynthia, this is Mike Stewart, our star rookie defenceman, so make sure that short story is top notch."

I stood up and we exchanged hellos as she sat down by the window, putting her backpack underneath the seat.

"Ok, I'll leave you two alone to get busy," Pam said walking back up front to her seat.

"So you've got the dreaded task of making my short story top notch," I said with a grin. "You have your work cut out for you I'm afraid."

"Yes, it took me a couple of hours just to mark all of the punctuation and spelling mistakes" she said snottily. "If you want to get higher than a seventy, we're going to have to make some big changes to your structure and content."

"It was that bad eh? I put a lot of work into it too damn-it; but what can you expect from a computer science major, we're not known for our writing skills are we?" I remarked. "Well, as soon as we get up in the air I can turn on my laptop and start with the easy changes."

She ignored me by looking out the window as the doors all closed and we taxied out to the runway. This was my first time in an airplane so I watched out the window as well.

"You look like you're a seasoned traveller," I said. "Have you flown a lot?"

"At least twice a year since I was three," she responded haughtily. "You have the look of a neophyte."

"Yes, I'm afraid this is my first time," I told her. "I'm a bit nervous."

"Just don't throw up on me if you get sick," she said in distain.

"Your concern is most touching," I replied dryly.

"I don't fly in coach and I don't associate with athletes," she stated arrogantly.

"Then why the hell are you here?" I asked her, barely keeping my cool.

"I need the money; my father has cut off my credit cards and stopped putting money in my account," she stated. "Tutoring is the only thing I can do."

We had reached the runway finally and after a brief pause, sped down the runway with roaring engines until the plane lifted in the air. I heard a couple of clumps from underneath and surmised the landing gear was being raised into the fuselage.

"Wow, that was a rush," I said to her with a grin. "I bet that doesn't get old."

"You are such a peasant," she said, rolling her eyes.

I got a bit angry and said, "Listen, you seem to think that because your daddy has money then you're better than everyone else on this plane. Right now, you are the only one here working, you're an employee and you're poorer than everyone. It's debatable that you are smarter than anyone on the plane either. Now pull out that story of mine and we'll see what corrections you've made."

I pulled out my laptop and turned it on while she turned red with anger. I just looked at her with an inquiring expression and saw that she almost lost her temper but swallowed her pride and reached down to grab her bag. She pulled out the rough draft and put the bag back down.

"Ok, let's go through it page by page and correct the simple stuff first," I suggested, after pulling up the file and making a copy.

She glared at me for a minute and then turned the cover page over. We got down to it and had the simple corrections done in about a half hour. A hostess came by and asked if we wanted a drink and I got a diet coke and she got a bottle of Perrier sparkling water. Luckily she wasn't paying for it.

"Ok, tell me why it's now only worth a seventy, and then what we need to do to make it at least an eighty five," I said. "Better yet, tell me what your credentials are to be making that determination first."

She glared at me and then said "I'm in my senior year with a 3.85 GPA in English Literature and Creative writing. I've had your professor twice and received no less than a 90% for any writing assignment from her. I was recommended by the Faculty head because I've been on the Dean's list three years in a row. Is that good enough for you?"

"Ok, you know your stuff, so let's make this a good story," I conceded.

She took out a pen and started explaining what was wrong, marking up sections and either moving them around or writing in an alternative, explaining why it was better that way. I saved the second draft with the spelling corrections and copied it into a third draft file and started manipulating the first chapter. I didn't use her exact words every time but tried to change it into how I would say it. We had the first of six chapters done when it was time to shut down the laptop. I quickly saved the file and then packed it away in my bag, along with the story.

"Cynthia, thank you for your help so far, you definitely know your stuff," I said.

"You're not my favourite person right now, so don't bother trying to butter me up," she replied sullenly.

"Ok, I won't, but we need to keep working on this every chance we can this weekend so I can hand it in on Wednesday," I told her.

"That's why I'm here doofus, it's not as if I have any money to do anything in Boston by myself," she snapped.

I took a deep breath and then had an idea and said, "Ok I have a proposition for you. If you one, drop the bitchy and snotty attitude, and two, really work with me the rest of the day today, I'll pay you two hundred bucks, over and above what you're getting from the department. You can explore Boston on Saturday while I'm busy with the team. We probably need to work a bit on Saturday and then on the trip back on Sunday, and maybe a bit more Monday and Tuesday. What do you think?"

She looked at me for a minute and then nodded.

"Good, stick by me and we'll find out the schedule for the rest of the day and then we'll work on this hard every chance we can," I said. "I'm sure we'll have lunch and head to the hotel first. Then sometime today we'll probably get on the ice and have supper. Tomorrow, besides three meals, we'll have at least one time on the ice before the game tomorrow night."

"Ok, I don't have any plans other than getting your story straightened up," she replied. "It might be nice to do some sightseeing tomorrow."

We sat looking out the window as the plane descended and we touched down fairly gently a couple minutes later. After the usual ten minutes of slow crawl taxiing to the terminal we finally stopped and the accordion walkway was connected to the plane. Fred got up and said a few words.

"Ok everyone, we have a bus waiting for us outside of the terminal- I hope, and it will take us to the hotel near the University, he stated. "We'll get our room assignments and then have some lunch. We have the arena booked for an hour at two this afternoon so we'll leave right after lunch is done. After practice we head back to the hotel and have supper around six or so. The evening is yours but be back at the hotel by eleven and lights out by midnight.

Tomorrow we get the ice for an hour at nine in the morning and then for thirty minutes at six pm before the game. Breakfast at seven and we head to arena at eight fifteen. Lunch is at eleven thirty at the hotel and supper is at four thirty. We leave for the rink tomorrow night at five fifteen.

Sunday we fly out at nine thirty so breakfast is at six thirty and we leave for the airport at eight so pack your stuff before breakfast.

Are there any questions?"

There were none so he led the way off the plane and through the airport to the waiting bus. Cynthia stuck by my side all the way.

John came up beside me and said loudly "Ok, Mike, how to you get all the beautiful ladies to hang out with you?"

"Would you believe it's my boyish charm and good looks?" I responded.

Several guys nearby laughed when Cynthia burst out laughing and shook her head.

"Ok, I have to pay them lots of money to be seen in public with me," I said with a sigh.

"Now that I believe," John said with a laugh. "And with the class of women you're associating with, you're going to be bankrupt pretty quick."

"Tell me about it," I played along.

She sat beside me and asked who they were talking about.

"My girlfriend of the past couple months, Vicky, just left for New York with her twin sister," I said. "They are a hot commodity as models at all the fall fashion shows."

"You have a fashion model for a girlfriend?" she said in surprise.

"I had a fashion model for a girlfriend, the move to New York was a permanent one," I said quietly.

"Oh, sorry," she said, looking at me.

I shrugged and kept quiet as we drove off to the hotel. The University was only about fifteen minutes away and the hotel was close to it, so we arrived quickly. Cynthia was going to share a room with Sandi and I had John as my roommate. John and I unpacked our stuff and then went down to eat lunch. Cynthia ate with the other tutors and I sat with John.

After we had finished eating I found a debit machine in one of the alcoves in the lobby and withdrew three hundred dollars from one of my accounts. I put a hundred in my wallet and folded the other two in half and went looking for Cynthia. I found her hanging out with the other girls, keeping quiet as the others were chatting. I caught her eye and motioned to come over. She excused herself politely and met me outside of the room.

"Ok, here's the two hundred in case you want to do something this afternoon while we practice. We should be back by four at the latest, so we could get in a couple of hours on the story before supper and another couple afterwards if you're up to it," I told her.

She took the money and replied "Thanks Mike, I do appreciate this. I'll be in the lobby at four and we can work at one of the tables or find a room to work in. I don't have any plans for tonight so we can get lots done tonight and after practice tomorrow."

"I like your attitude Cynthia and I'll meet you as soon as we get back," I said, before heading out to the bus for the trip to the arena.

The home of the BU Terriers was Agganis Arena, a new state of the art arena with very nice locker rooms and seating for about sixty three hundred people. We got changed and had a spirited practice after warm-ups, doing drills and then practicing special teams play. The last fifteen minutes we had a quick scrimmage before heading off when our time was over.

I met Cynthia in the lobby when we arrived back, noticing she had changed into what looked like a comfortable pair of jeans and a sweatshirt. We found an alcove just off the central lobby that had a table that we would suit us just fine. I got the laptop up and running while she marked up the next couple of chapters. We worked much better with her friendlier attitude, and we had the two chapters done by supper time. We packed up and brought our stuff with us, agreeing to continue after dinner, hopefully in the same place.

We joined the line for the standard buffet and then sat together to eat.

Fred got up and said "I'm just going to state this once and let everyone get back to this excellent meal. You're on your own this evening, but you are all supposed to be adults so have fun but only legal fun. Anyone under 21 cannot drink so don't, you've all been told the consequences. Be back by eleven and lights out by midnight; there will be a room check. Remember, this is a top five team in the country, so we all need to be at our peak condition for tomorrow night's game. Have a good evening."

"Well, we've got a fun packed evening planned, don't we Cynthia," I said.

"Oh yeah, fixing a short story is going to be so fantastic," she said. "I'm surprised your teammates aren't all begging to join us."

"Well, a couple of them did ask, but I told them it would cost them way too much to have you be seen with them in public," I replied with a grin.

"Well they could have gotten a group rate, I'm much more apt to be seen in public with a group of people, one of them might actually be handsome enough to stand near me," she said with a smirk.

"I'll let them know that," I told her, before going back to my food.

We finished supper, and after a washroom break, headed back to the grind. I couldn't say it was a fun evening, but it was productive. We edited two more chapters and just had the last two to finish up tomorrow or on the flight back Sunday. Cynthia certainly knew her stuff, the story was definitely much better with the changes she suggested, even put in my more male terminology. It was just after ten when we finished up.

"Well, thank you very much Cynthia, the story is so much better with your editing skills," I said. "I'd offer to buy you a drink, but I won't even get in the bar."

"Yes, to top it off, I've spent the evening with a freshman," she said overdramatically. "Are you even eighteen yet?"

"Yes I am, and you, are you an old decrepit senior citizen of twenty one?" I asked with a smirk.

"Yes, I am," she said haughtily. "I should have charged you even more to allow you to associate with a real adult."

"Yeah, it's funny how I can rent an apartment, pay all the bills, feed and clothe myself at eighteen, when you at twenty one seem to have trouble with keeping any money in your purse," I said a bit angrily.

She blushed and then said quietly, "I was just playing along Mike, and I think you are very responsible. What other eighteen year old would spend Friday night working on a creative writing project in a different exciting city. You haven't even tried to hit on me, like any other of your teammates would have."

"Sorry, I took your real adult comment a bit too seriously," I apologized. "I get the age thing way too often around here. It was hard as hell to get different stuff set up by myself because I'm not a legal adult until twenty one here. In Canada, where I'm from, I was a legal adult for almost everything except to drink. You have to be nineteen to drink."

"You must really not think too much of me then," she said with a resigned look. "My dad took care of everything for me until this month. I guess buying five hundred dollar shoes instead of paying for textbooks was the last straw."

"Look at it this way," I responded. "It's better you find out now, while you're in school, how to manage your money and live a normal life, then have it happen when you're on your own. At least here you have a tutoring job to get by on; out in the real world, if you didn't have a job already, you might have had to dance in a strip club or something worse to pay the bills."

"You have a way of making a bad situation sound even worse," she said dryly. "Well with that depressing thought, I'm going to bed; it's been a long day. I'll see you at breakfast or in the lobby around quarter to eleven."

"Ok Cynthia, have a good sleep and thanks for all the help today," I told her.

"You too, and thanks for the cash," she replied before heading to the elevators.

I went to the small store off the lobby and grabbed some snacks and drinks before heading up to my room. I had a quick shower and then watched a bit of TV waiting for John to get back. I must have dozed off because the phone startled me awake. I reached over and picked it up.

"Hello," I said groggily.

"Sorry Mike, I woke you up again, didn't I?" Frank asked. "Is John in there with you?"

"Hey Frank, let me check the bathroom for him, I've been asleep for awhile apparently," I said.

I got up and knocked on the bathroom door and said "John, you in there?"

"Yeah, what's up," he asked.

"Bed check by Frank, I didn't know you came in," I replied before walking back to the phone.

"Yeah, he's in the bathroom Frank," I told him.

"Alright, good, It appears we have some missing players, I'm glad it's not you two," he said. "Goodnight."

"Oh shit," I said into a hung up phone.

I told John about the missing players when he came out.

"It happens every time we hit a big city," he said. "Prepare to see some missing spots in the line-up at tomorrow night."

We talked a bit about what could happen and then shut the light out and went to sleep.

I had set the alarm for six and had to hit it a few times before it shut off. I made my way to the bathroom, hitting only a couple pieces of furniture with my big feet, and had a shower. I woke up John at six thirty and then went downstairs. I grabbed a diet coke on the way out and sat in the lobby waiting for the buffet room to open.

"I'm glad to see you behaved responsibly as I thought you would Mr. Stewart," Fred said, sitting down beside me the lounge chair. "Though with such a beautiful tutor, you would have had to be an idiot of monumental proportions to seek adventure elsewhere."

"Too much to do and not enough time in the week is my excuse, though she is pretty," I agreed. "So how bad is it and what kind of message will you be sending?"

"We have three people late for curfew, another four that came back drunk that were legal and five underage drinkers," he said. "What would you suggest I do with them?"

"That's a tough one, I guess it depends on how bad you want to win the game versus how much you want to send a message," I replied, thinking about it for a bit. "I would have to assume that the five underage drinkers are not going to play and are subject to further disciplinary action. Personally I wouldn't play the four drunks, but possibly being short handed, I would work their tails off in both practices and make that decision after that. The three that were late should probably be allowed to play in this situation due to manpower shortages if they weren't too late and seemed remorseful. I don't think you want to face BU with only 11 guys, it would be a slaughter."

"Interesting analysis Mr. Stewart, you don't seem to have the usual Canadian tolerance for drinking, seeing as your legal age to drink up there is nineteen," Fred commented.

"Listen, if it was alone in their apartment or dorm on an off night, I wouldn't give a crap, and I'm sure you wouldn't as well," I replied. "To drink illegally in a different city the night before a game is just stupid. To get drunk the night before the game is even more moronic."

Fred smiled at my statement and said "You're much too mature for your age Mr. Stewart, it's a shame you circumstances have forced you to be. I have seen hundreds of young men go through this program over the twenty five years I've been here and the first trip away from the University to a big city always has a fair share of immature actions."

"Tell that to those eighteen year olds who have had to go and work right out of high school, they learn the consequences of being late, or getting drunk the night before work and still having to perform at six in the morning, maybe at a dangerous job that their actions could cost their or someone else's life," I said. "Whatever you decide, they all need to know their actions have consequences or they won't learn a thing about life while they are here."

"So, can we win with fourteen players?" he asked.

"Three lines and two pair of defence and a spare?" I asked. "Depends who the players are."

First and second pair of defence, you and John, are ok to go, the first line is intact, but the rest all have one or two that could be missing," he said.

"Nine of the best players, and a couple of mixed lines," I mused. "Anything is possible, but from what you've said and I've read, we were in for a battle with a fully rested team. I would have to say no, we won't win. The other lines will get shredded and the defence will tire out half way through the game."

Gary and Steve, the two captains of the team came up and sat down on the other two chairs across from us.

"Good morning Gentlemen, I was just discussing my options with Mr. Stewart about your wayward teammates from last night," Fred said. "No, we did not discuss your leadership skills, so don't look at him like that. We did briefly discuss what we should do about three late curfews, four drunks and five illegal drinking infractions."

They looked at each other and frowned.

Gary asked, "And what have you decided?"

Fred replied "I don't know yet, I'll talk it over with the other coaches. As Mr. Stewart pointed out, we will lose with only fourteen players, with three patchwork lines. But, do I let them all play just to try and win a game and not have their actions affect the players who were on time, or do they need to learn a valuable life lesson, thereby hurting everyone on the team as well as the program? What do you two suggest?"

Steve spoke up after he thought for a moment, "We don't have all the facts about each incident so it's hard to judge each one with the same ruling Coach. Did the illegal drinking get caught by authorities or by the team?"

"Are you saying that matters?" Fred asked.

"I think so Coach, you know teenagers drink and it's generally harmless, but if they got caught by the police it's public and reflects badly on the team and the school and has to be punished immediately, rather than another way after the game," Steve reasoned.

"That is true if we're looking for a reason to keep them in the line-up I suppose," Fred admitted. "I suppose that goes for the late curfew offenders as well. What about the falling down drunks?"

"They will be useless tonight and shouldn't play," Gary said immediately, with Steve concurring with a nod.

"Well by your own reasoning we will be down a minimum of seven players, the four drunks and three of the underage drinkers who were returned to the hotel in the back of a patrol car," Fred stated. "So can we win with sixteen players on the bench, with only five defencemen, if we let the other five play?"

"I wouldn't put money on it, but its better odds than with fourteen and only four defencemen," Gary said.

"So as captains of this team, do you recommend clemency for the five others, at least to let them play tonight?" he asked officially.

"If you want a small change to win the game, then yes," Gary said. "If that is not important, the other two underage drinkers need to have the same punishment as the three that were caught."

"I agree with Gary," Steve added.

"Mr. Stewart?" Fred turned to me.

"How late were the curfew breakers and why has some bearing on the decision," I stated. "A few minutes to a half hour late is not a big deal, more than that it had better be a good reason."

"Thank you gentlemen for your candour," Fred said, getting up. "I see the room is about to open and we might as well get in line. I will confer with the coaches and we will discuss your opinions prior to making a decision. I will let everyone know by the end of breakfast."

We got into line and grabbed a plateful of food as the other teammates joined the end of the line. I sat by myself and shovelled my food in quickly and rejoined the end of the line for a second helping. I had that finished and was drinking another diet coke when Fred stood up and waited until he got silence.

"Some of you are aware we have had a rash of issues last night, with breaking curfew, drunkenness and underage drinking with three of those returned to us via the back seat of a Boston Police patrol car," he started. "I have had discussions with the other coaches, the athletic director back in Michigan as well as your captains and a couple other more responsible players on what I should do with these people."

He looked around and stayed quiet for a bit, before continuing, "This is not a new situation for me, but the sheer number of offenders, twelve of the twenty three players we brought here no less, makes the decision one of more consequence. As it was pointed out to me, to play against the Boston University Terriers with anything much less than a full team almost certainly concedes defeat. So we have to weigh the good of the program and the responsible players against the various levels of rule breaking and come up with a solution."

He sighed and then said, "Life's lessons come early to some, and rule one is that life is not fair. The eleven players that were responsible will be punished for the mistakes of the other twelve. None of the four drunks or the five underage drinkers will play tonight and will face further disciplinary action when we return to Michigan. The three people that were in late will be allowed to play only because we need them to field a minimum amount of players. They will miss another game as punishment later in the year. My apologies to the rest of the team, the coaches and the school, as these actions will most certainly mean a defeat tonight, but in all good conscience we cannot allow these boys to play in a men's game. All nine of you are confined to your room except for meals and you will not be joining us at the rink at all today. The rest of you, the bus is waiting to take us to practice where we will make up new lines and strategies."

We all got up and left for the bus or their rooms in the case of the imbibers. I sat in an empty row and stretched my legs out, taking advantage of the extra space. Everyone was quiet as we drove to the arena and walked to the locker room. The players got dressed and headed out to the ice while the coaches huddled around a table and determined the best new lines.

After a longer than usual warm-up the coaches gathered us together and told us the new lines. Then we had a slow scrimmage with the two defence pairs split to each end and the new lines practiced passing and breaking out of each of their zones. The special teams had to be adjusted for the second unit for both the power play and penalty kill. Then we practiced both of those as well. Our time was up before we finished. We changed and then took the bus back to the hotel. I met Cynthia and, after discussing the player situation a bit, we continued on the final two chapters.

Lunch was subdued as the nine banished players were segregated.

"So, do you want to take a break from the story and go sightseeing?" I asked Cynthia. "Supper isn't until four thirty so you have four hours to go see historical Boston."

"I think I might just walk around and look at the sights," she said. "I'm going to keep this money to buy some much needed items back at home. Besides, I have a lot of thinking to do, so I can do both at the same time."

"Ok, you have a good one but be careful to stay in public places," I reminded her. "I'll see you at four thirty at supper. We can finish the story up on the flight home."

"Sounds good. What are you going to do?" she asked.

"I'll probably relax in my room and read a bit," I told her.

We split up and I went up and got comfortable on the bed with my logic textbook. I switched to the algebra one after an hour or so and then took a nap. I woke up refreshed and went down for the early supper. Cynthia sat down beside me after we went through the line.

"How was your walk?" I asked.

"Good actually, I saw some old buildings and walked along the river," she said. "It was calming and I had a chance to think about my situation."

"That's good, sometimes it's the best way to think," I responded.

"And you?" she asked.

"I got in some reading on a couple of subjects and then had a nap," I told her.

"You are so the life of the party Mister," she said sarcastically.

"Look at the guys who were the life of the party last night," I said, pointing to the ostracized players. "I'm thinking they would rather be in my shoes then their own right now."

"True enough," she said. "But all work and no play makes Mike a dull boy."

"Between school and hockey there isn't much time left for play," I rebutted. "Until this week I had a girlfriend too so that took up the rest of my time. A little dull in my life is ok with me."

We ate in quiet after that and after a second helping; I went upstairs to get into my suit for the ride over. I got on the bus with the rest of the team and walked into the arena. There was a camera crew filming us as we came as this was supposed to be a marquee matchup between two top ten teams in the country. Little did they know it would probably be a rout.

We got changed and went out for our half hour skate, which Fred used to further acclimatize the new lines by doing three on two drills. We ended with some shooting practice and left when the Zamboni came on to clean the ice. We went in to rest and replenish our fluids and the coaches came around to discuss how to play certain situations. They were trying to be positive and keep up our spirits before the game started. When the time came we marched out to boos and the first line took to the ice.

The first period was slow paced which played into our hands. They scored two goals off of mistakes from the new lines in our own zone. Each defence pair was on for one of them. We were tired at the end and the trainers loaded us up with some fruit and drinks to get our energy up.

"Ok, two to nothing is not that bad," Fred said to us before we went back on. "Let's try some offence this period while we still have the energy. John and Mike, let's try a couple of the special plays off the start to catch them napping."

We nodded and got with the first line and mapped out signals for three plays. John would pick the play and pass it the signal on to the rest. We went back out for the second period.

It would be nice to say that the plays worked but no such luck. We did get some scoring chances at the beginning but their goalie was sharp. They scored about half way through the period as a change was botched leaving John and I alone against four from their team. They had it back of the net after a neat tic-tac-toe passing play.

We finally scored on the power play five minutes before the end of the period. Gary got the puck back to John who moved in to take a shot. He passed it over to me when the forward went down to block the shot. I leaned into it with all the frustration of the night and beat the goalie high on the stick side through the screen in front. We hardly celebrated as we changed up and sat on the bench.

They replied in the last minute with a power play goal as their star defenceman found the back of the net though a screen in front. We left the ice down four to one and collapsed in the locker room.

"Ok, looks like this one is a bust gentlemen, but I applaud your effort out there," Fred said. "Rest up and get some fluids in you and don't worry about the score."

We did just that, almost lounging on the benches as the trainers took care of us. I groaned as I got up for the third period.

The third period was a disaster, as the Terriers scored three more times before we put another one by their goalie. I had just passed the puck to John when he saw a streaking Ron Zonk heading out to centre ice. He lobbed a high pass out over the heads of their defencemen at the points and Ron was away on a breakaway. He put a great deke on their goalie and slid the puck into the net, under a sprawling leg.

We got one more chance in their end after an icing call against them. The first line along with John and me, went out to generate a bit of offence. The puck came back to John who had to get rid of it quickly so he dumped it into the corner. Daniel retrieved the loose puck and passed it to the front of the net where Gary was waiting for a one timer. Unfortunately, it was tipped away at the last minute and it deflected out towards the blueline. I raced in and leaned into a slap shot from the top of the circles. One of their forwards got a stick in the way and deflected the puck just enough to send it over the net to hit the Plexiglas behind the net, cracking it into a spider web pattern like a broken windshield, stopping play.

"Shit, that's not supposed to happen," one of their forwards said as we stood around.

"He's been doing that at every rink we've been at," John said in exasperation.

"Yeah, normal older glass will still do that for a hard shot, but this is the new stuff and isn't supposed to even crack on the hardest shot," he told us.

I got looks from most of their bench and the coaches as I skated back to the bench.

"Too bad you didn't do that in the first period, they would be a bit more nervous over there," Frank said with a chuckle.

The period ended mercifully a few minutes later after they replaced the panel. We quickly left the ice while their fans cheered their team's victory. I showered and got back into my suit quickly as did the rest of the team. Fred decided to do the press conference himself and let us all go to the hotel with the bus. He would get a taxi back later.

I was bushed when we got back to the hotel so I got out of the suit and packed it away. I flopped onto the bed as John decided to go back down and have some food. I fell asleep and didn't wake up when he came back in.

Sunday I was up earlier than normal as breakfast was at six thirty. I showered and woke up John just after six, letting him know that breakfast was in half hour and we were leaving soon after. I dressed and packed up, leaving my suitcase and book bag in the room when I went downstairs.

I sat in a big lounge chair in the lobby, waiting for the room to open. It was a boring wait as there weren't any people coming or going this early on a Sunday morning. Eventually some staff came to set up the buffet and some team staff and players joined me in the lobby. We were a pretty quiet bunch as we lined up for the food. I sat down by myself and ate quickly while thinking about the humiliating loss last night.

After a second trip through the line, I was sipping on my diet coke when Fred stood up.

"Our flight leaves at nine thirty and the bus is leaving at eight, in about thirty minutes," he said. "As soon as you are done, go and finish packing if you haven't already, check for all your possessions and meet the bus out the front door after handing in your room cardkeys."

I got up and headed upstairs, beating the rush. I checked to make sure I had everything and then took the elevators down. After handing in the room card I put my suitcase in the luggage compartment and boarded the empty bus. Pulling out my algebra textbook, I read as the bus slowly filled. Cynthia joined me, squeezing by my knees and sitting in the window seat.

"Morning Mike," she said, looking down at the book. "What ya reading?"

"Morning Cynthia, I'm reading my algebra textbook, trying to read ahead for next week's lectures," I said.

"I won't be helping you with that, like ever," she said, making a sour face. "I barely passed the one math course I had to take for my degree."

"I'll probably have a math minor before it's all said and done," I remarked. "Comp Sci is almost half math."

"I pity you, I really do," she shuddered. "So, we'll finish the short story on the plane right?"

"I hope so, we have a bit left on the second to last chapter and then just the final one to do," I agreed. "We'll have to read through to see if it all flows and then we're done."

"Cool! This tutoring stuff isn't so hard," she said. "I'm going to apply to do this for the English department as well as all the athletic teams. I'll show my parents I can fend for myself!"

"Good for you," I told her, surprised at her enthusiasm. "I'll be needing help with my novella project in November and December, so I'll make sure Pam gets you to help me, if you're available."

"I'll be sure to mention it to her as well," Cynthia promised.

The bus took off for the airport right at eight, and we arrived twenty minutes later. After going through security, we found the gate and waited a bit until the plane was ready. We finally boarded and took off for Michigan.

Cynthia and I got to work on the editing of the story and finished the last chapter while flying over Ohio. She took the laptop and read the story from front to back.

"It flows pretty good and I don't see anything I would change," she said when she finished.

"Ok, that is good to hear," I replied with a sigh of relief.

"Why don't you go through it and see if it still is the story you wanted to tell," she suggested.

I moved the laptop to my pull-out table and read the story all the way through. It was actually quite good now, something to be proud of, even though she was the reason for that.

"Wow, that is a great story now Cynthia, you are a genius," I said to her with a big smile. "I definitely got a great tutor when you showed up. You know you should write your own stuff, if you don't already. You're a great writer."

"Thanks Mike, I might just do that now that I have to make my own way in this world," she said with a laugh.

We packed up our stuff and relaxed for the last bit of the flight. I made sure I got her phone number and email address before we parted ways at the arena parking lot an hour later.

"Thanks again Cynthia, you were a life saver," I told her.

"Mike, I was being a bitch when I said your story was bad," she admitted. "For a first attempt, it was more than adequate and probably would have gotten you a bit closer to an eighty than a seventy. Now you'll get in the nineties for sure. If the professor asks about how much help you received, just say you had minimal editing help. That's what I'll say if anyone asks."

"Ok, that's how I'll play it, I don't have plans to take any more courses in that department anyway, so as long as I keep my overall grades up for my scholarship, I'm not above accepting help in an elective," I told her. "Thanks for all of your help and I'll see you next month, probably in two to three weeks."

"When you get ready to start, give me a call and we can meet for a couple hours and get you started right," she suggested. "Then we can meet once a week to edit what you have done, so we don't have to pull an all weekender to fix it at the last minute."

"That is a great idea Cynthia, I'll make sure Pam books you for once a week; maybe even starting this week, if that is ok with you?" I asked.

"That would be fantastic Mike, I would have a weekly bit of income right away," she said with a big smile. "Who knew a jock would be my lifesaver?"

"Hey, your education and brains are your lifesaver," I told her. "Now that you're counting on them rather than your dad's money, I think you will be surprised how well you will do, and how much more people will like you."

She gave me a hug and surprisingly, a kiss on the lips before walking away with a big smile on her face. I just shook my head as I put my stuff in my car and took off for home.

I started some laundry after unpacking and then picked up my programming textbook to read ahead while eating some lunch. Later in the day I printed out two copies of the new and improved short story and got all my assignments accounted for and packed my book bag for school tomorrow.

I ordered out for some pizza and watched the Sunday night football game and then headed to bed. I tossed and turned, thinking about the twins and how they were doing, so I got up and turned on my laptop. I pulled up my email program and checked for messages, but they had sent none. I sent them a quick one each, letting them know I missed them and hoped they were doing well. I told them a bit about the games and my week and then sent them.

Feeling a bit better, I turned off the laptop and hit the sack, eventually falling asleep, still thinking about them.



-------

Chapter 27


Monday morning came too early again. I knew not to be late to practice this week as the coaches were going to be in a foul mood for sure. I was out of the apartment with my stuff and at the arena a full half an hour earlier than normal and was out on the ice before anyone had come in.

It was peaceful to skate on an empty sheet of ice and I took advantage of the open space to practice my backwards skating, always my Achilles heel. I finally got tired of that and had Patrick out for shooting practice. My teammates slowly trickled out on the ice as I consistently put the puck in the small slots from all across the blue line and then beyond.

"Jesus Mike, how to you do that?" John asked.

"Practice, practice and more practice," I replied with a grin. "It's pretty simple actually."

"Yeah right," he said in disgust. "It would take years to be able to do that."

"Precisely," I replied.

Fred and the coaches stood on the benches and called everyone over to them.

"Gentlemen, the weekend in Boston was a fiasco," Fred started. "To be blown out by the BU Terriers seven to two is a disgrace to this team, the coaches and the University.

The team members that didn't feel the need to be back to the hotel on time will be will be monitored on a daily basis like children until the coaches feel they have learned their lesson. Additional community service will be assigned to them as well.

The four members of this team who felt it necessary to get drunk the night before the game will miss this week's games and will enter an alcohol counselling program if they wish to remain on the team. You will be also placed on the scout team until the coaches and your teammates deem you worthy.

The five team members who drank illegally in a opposing city the night before a game, three of whom were caught by police, are all suspended from the team for a month. We will not tolerate any illegal activities while you are representing the University of Michigan Wolverines. After you serve the suspension, you will have to prove you still deserve a place with this team and will be on the scout team until both the coaches and your teammates deem you worthy.

To the remaining team members I say this, these other players let you down, the coaches let you down by not supervising them as the children they acted like, and your captains and assistant captains let you down by not being more involved with their teammates and warning them of the consequences of their actions. Your captains have been spoken to and wish to address the team."

Gary, Steve and Daniel skated to the front of the group and boy did they not look happy.

"The three of us have not fulfilled all of our duties as leaders on this team so far this season," Gary said. "While being a captain has extracurricular activities like dealing with the media and various school activities, we also have a duty to help new players with their transition onto the team, to guide all teammates in conduct both on and off the ice, and generally let all of you know how to be a good representative of the University of Michigan Wolverine hockey team. It is obvious that we all have neglected this portion of our duties, in all aspects."

Steve continued "The three of us will be taking an active role in each of your lives henceforth. First and foremost we will be monitoring all activities the night before a game, both at home and away. Secondly, we will be pitching in more with coaching assistance at practice for those who either request it or who we see need it. Next we will have two meetings a week with the team, not on the ice. One will be to discuss any issues either we have or you might have about hockey or your personal life. The second meeting will be a fun get together to bond us better as teammates."

"As a final point, anyone caught breaking rules like what happened on the weekend, will find the punishment by the team members to be harsher than from the coaching staff," Daniel stated. "You are screwing with the potential livelihood of every one of us when you decide to put your fun above the best interests of the team."

They nodded to Fred and skated off to the side to let him speak.

"Ok, now to the real business," he said. "Ohio State will be here Friday and Saturday just foaming at the mouth after watching the video of Saturday's game. We have a lot of work ahead of us to establish new lines with a shortened bench. So before we start, the nine players, the four drunks and the five underage drinkers, leave the ice, get changed and wait for me in the dressing room. Frank and Sam will get with the defence and forwards to make the new lines and defence pairings while I deal with these children."

Frank met with all the defencemen. Mat Cook and Ralph Fox, the third pair of starting defencemen, were two of the seniors that got drunk and were out for this week. Ian and Brian, the two rookies, were both caught underage drinking and were out for a month. That meant that the last two defencemen on the rookie/scout team were in as John and my partners. Randy Pierce, a slow moving big rookie paired with John while I got the small but fast Don Farr as mine.

On offence the first line stayed intact, the second line got Brad Eddings up from the third line to replace Kerry Simpson on left wing, the new third line was the entire rookie line of Bobby, Alex and Sergio, newly up from the scout team. The fourth line was centred by Shawn from the third line, along with two new rookies, Tim London and Paul Snider on left and right winger respectively.

It was like starting over from preseason, first game. The coaches had us doing the simplest drills with our new partners or line mates. We did two on two and three on two drills until we were comfortable with each other on the standard stuff. Then we moved on to five on five simple scrimmages to practice moving the puck out of the zone in a coordinated way. The last half hour was for special teams, with John and me pairing back up for the second pairing on the penalty kill and first pair on the power play. The new second line was the second power play unit's forward line and Henry and Ron of the second line were assigned the second penalty kill unit's duties as well.

Fred came back out and had us gather around quickly near the end.

"Ok, we know who is playing with whom now," he said. "We have four days to get comfortable with each other. We will practice Friday morning as usual. Tuesdays and Thursday afternoon at one we usually have a rookie practice. All are encouraged to attend and help everyone out to get used to the new lines and pairings. We will also leave the ice later each night for more practice if necessary. Thank you for your extra effort, it is not going unnoticed."

Daniel shouted out "Our first meeting is tomorrow night after practice in the arena cafeteria while we eat supper. Attendance is mandatory!"

We were finally let go and I rushed through my shower and getting dressed. I hurried to the main campus and entered the classroom from the back way. I slipped into the seat beside Stephanie and pulled out my notebook.

"Hey Princess," I whispered.

"Mikey, you're late Mister," she scolded me with a fake scowl.

"I tell you all about it later," I told her.

I spent the next hour and a half catching up with the professor, who seemed to be trying to break the land speed record for board writing. He finally finished and after giving out the assignment started packing up his stuff. I rushed down to hand in last week's.

"Sorry Sir, practice ran a little late, here's my assignment," I told him.

"Thank you Mr. Stewart, I hope the team will do better this weekend," he said.

"You and me both," I responded. "We certainly can't do any worse!"

He nodded and left the room. Steph brought my stuff down for me and we walked out of the building.

"Long practice this morning Mikey, maybe because you guys stunk up Boston like my little brother's peewee team?" she asked with a grin.

"Yeah, almost half the team went out the night before and got caught drinking," I said. "We played with only fourteen guys total, and only four defencemen."

"Shit no wonder you lost so badly," she replied. "Ok, I'll get the whole story at lunch. I'll see you soon."

I watched her walk away and reluctantly turned to go to Creative Writing class. I handed in both my assignment and my short story to the professor and found a seat. The professor asked for any more short stories and then started the new topic that would go to the end of the semester. It was an interesting lecture and the time flew by.

Steph met me in line and we grabbed some food before finding a seat in the cafeteria.

"So, bad weekend with the team?" she asked.

I gave her the whole story along with all the changes we had to do this morning for next game against Ohio State.

"What a bunch of stupid immature idiots," she commented. "They could end up costing you several games before it's all over."

"Tell me about it, we're back to square one with all the rookies in the line-up," I agreed. "But enough about me; how was your weekend?"

"Pretty good, we went to a movie on Friday and to a party on Saturday," she said. "I had to watch the siblings most of Sunday but got some studying in."

"It sounds like you're getting along with Ryan real well," I remarked.

"Yeah, we're meshing real well," she agreed with a smile. "So, when are the twins coming back?"

I hesitated for a bit and then decided to tell her the truth.

"They're not coming back, they got an offer too good to pass up and moved there full time on Wednesday last week," I told her.

"What about you and them in terms of your relationship?" she asked.

"They broke up with me Tuesday night, they thought it was better for a quick break-up rather than prolong it over months," I told her.

"Why didn't you say something Michael, you must have been hurting so bad," she said, putting a hand on my arm. "You could have talked it over with me, I'm sure you wanted to talk it over with someone."

"No, not really, I tend to keep things like this to myself," I said. "I want you to keep this quiet please; I haven't told anyone else about it here."

"Alright, but if you need to talk at all, I'm here for you," she said.

"Thanks Steph, I appreciate it," I replied, knowing that I wouldn't take advantage of her offer. "OK, shall we work on the logic assignment for a bit?"

We pulled it out and worked on it for half an hour before packing up for our next class. I watched her as she walked away and then left for algebra. I handed in my assignment and then sat through the class, taking notes on his lesson. I met Steph back at the cafeteria and we finished the logic assignment together. I worked on my algebra while she worked on her calculus until I had to go to practice.

At practice I worked with Don, my new partner, making sure we each knew who would carry the puck up, who would stay back, and how we played the different situations we knew would come up. John was doing the same thing at the other end of the ice with his new partner, Randy Pierce.

The coaches then had us work on special teams with the new line-ups again and then we had a faster paced scrimmage for the last hour. We stayed on the ice until seven, an hour later than usual, before walking tiredly to the dressing room. I stayed under the shower a bit longer than usual, but finally had to give it up for another guy. I got dressed and joined some of the others at the cafeteria for supper.

When I finally got home it was close to eight and I was exhausted. I finished my algebra assignment while watching the Monday Night football game and then hit the hay before it was done. I fell asleep as soon as my head hit the pillow.

Tuesday was more of the same, with lots of hockey practice and only one class. The rookie practice at one was attended by a few older teammates which helped out our new rookie starters. Don and I started to click. We worked on the special plays that John and I had and Don really took to the fake dump in play. His speed had him past the forwards and defenceman in a heartbeat and he could either deke the goalie or pass it off to complete the play.

We all had a shower and relaxed in the cafeteria having a snack after the practice was over. I did my creative writing assignment for a bit while the other rookie players joked around and talked about girls they were shagging. I got it half done before we left for the locker room. The locker room attendants had our stuff all dry already so we got dressed and went out to the rink. The coaches pushed us hard again, keeping us late for the second night in a row. We were starting to come together again as a team which was good to see.

We all trooped off to the cafeteria and while we were eating, Gary, Steve and Daniel talked to us about various subjects. Appropriate behaviour, on and off the ice, rules of conduct for away games, curfew on pre-game nights, substance abuse were all touched on. Finally they paired each rookie and sophomore with a junior or senior, who would mentor them on all aspects of playing for the Wolverines. They would also be responsible for their conduct off the ice and would be doing the curfew and substance abuse check on pre-game nights. Someone at least thought the pairings through and assigned John as my mentor.

"Now Michael, we're going to have to sit down and have a long chat about what it means to be a Michigan Wolverine," he said as he sat down beside me. "We'll first talk about how to hold your stick properly and then move on to proper skating techniques."

"Bite me John, if you wake me up to check up on me, I'm going to put you through the boards in the next scrimmage," I threatened.

He laughed and replied "Now Michael, you poor misguided young boy, I am merely here to make sure your experience with us is a pleasant and enjoyable journey from a boy to a man. If your elders don't pass on the benefits of our years of experience, how can you hope to be an effective player or ever get a girl to even hold your hand?"

The guys nearby laughed at his BS as I shook my head at his antics. The captains finally let us go at eight thirty, with the notice that there would be a get together Thursday after practice for everyone on the team, with dates allowed. It would be of course, non-alcoholic and be over by ten o'clock.

I went home and finished my creative writing assignment. I checked my email and found a quick email from the twins. They wrote that they had a good week, busy of course, and hoped that I was doing well. They ended saying they were going to be in LA for a while shooting a couple of commercials and print ads, so they would be out of touch for a week or so.

They certainly have taken off I thought to myself. I knew at that point that they wouldn't be coming back to their much younger college boyfriend anytime soon, if ever. They had moved on quickly it seemed and had told me not to wait around for them. While I had no inclination to find another girlfriend at this time, I knew pining away for them was stupid and unhealthy. I went to bed and fell asleep thinking of them anyway.

Wednesday and Thursday flew by with the long practices. Steph and I worked on the computer assignment when we found the time together and decided to finish it on Friday in the lab, as my time was in demand with the team this week. I did book time with Cynthia through Pam for Saturday morning at eleven and maybe Sunday depending on her availability. Practices were tough and tiring but we were gelling finally.

Thursday after practice we all had supper in the cafeteria and then walked over to one of the student hangouts on the main campus. The team had booked it for the night and a bunch of well dressed ladies met us at the doors. The guys paired up with their better halves and went into the room.

Gary stayed with us, with his girlfriend beside him, and said "These ladies are either friends, roommates or floor mates of our girlfriends who volunteered to spend some time with the single guys. They are to be treated with the utmost respect and are here to have some fun talking and dancing with you guys. Anything that happens afterward has to be mutually agreed upon and is between the two of you."

We were told to dress good casual for the event but these girls were dressed to kill, in short clingy dresses or skirts and blouses and had their hair and makeup looking like they stepped out of a salon.

The more bold and confident of either gender started moving forward to pick a match. I wasn't picky about who I was paired up with so I stayed in the back and watched in amusement as some pairs were both happy, others only one was, and a couple were both disappointed. In the end there was no one left for me.

"Sorry Mike, I thought you would be bringing Vicky," Gary said.

"She's in New York, or maybe LA right now modelling," I said. "No big deal, I'm not starved for female attention."

I followed them into the room. There were booths around the outside of the big room, with a dance floor in the middle. At one end was a raised platform for a band or, in this case, a DJ, pumping out tunes. There was a bar as well, serving various non-alcoholic drinks, and each table had bowls of snacks. The lights were dim and all sorts of flashing lights lit up the dance floor. Amanda found me walking around and pulled me to a booth with John.

"John tells me the twins went back to New York again," she said.

"Yes, they left last Wednesday," I informed her.

"And?" she asked.

"And, they're going to LA to shoot a couple of commercials and some print ads," I told her.

"Wow, they are making it big!" she said. "When are they coming back?"

"They aren't, the move was permanent," I said.

"Oh shit, I'm so sorry Mike," she said and John echoed.

"It was a tough week, but I'm trying to get over it," I told them.

"You should have grabbed one of the girls, I'm sure they would have all liked to spend time with you," Amanda said. "Shit, if I had known, I could have brought a couple of friends to hang out with you."

"I'm not that over them yet Amanda, the solitude is ok for now," I replied. "Ok, enough about me, why don't you two go and have some fun dancing; I'm just going to watch. And don't try to set me up with anyone Amanda."

She had the decency to blush before they left for the dance floor. I leaned back against the back wall and put my legs up on the bench while watching the dancers. I didn't dance and knew I would look like Lurch out there, so I hoped no one would ask me to join them.

After a while I got and walked around to the bar and got each of us a diet coke and brought them back to the table. John and Amanda came back to the table soon after and gulped down theirs, thanking me for the drinks. Amanda tried to get me to join her out on the floor, but I told her I didn't dance. She joined a couple of the other girls out there while John stayed with me.

"Man, that really sucks with Vicky leaving," he said. "Just as you two were getting so close. On top of that she's going to be famous and you won't be able to say she's your girlfriend anymore."

"Yeah, it's not been a good week, and I'll never find anyone like her, with both beauty and brains," I said. "At least I'll be able to say I knew them before they were famous."

"Well if you ever need to talk about it or just shoot the shit, don't hesitate to talk to Gary," he said with a grin. "He has to pretend to give a shit, because he's the captain."

"Some mentor you are, I'll think I'll trade you in for a new stick," I said sarcastically.

"Well, I would just tell you to look up the blonde from the Northern Michigan games or the redhead tutor," he replied. "And I would advise you not to get so close so quick. You have a long time left in college; enjoy some variety before you settle down again."

"Don't look now, here comes the old ball and chain," I said, "and I think she heard you!"

He got a panicked look on his face as he turned to the dance floor, to see her still out there dancing up a storm.

"Shit, don't do that again, if she heard me say that to you, it would be all over for me," he said with a relieved look on his face.

"What, you're not taking your own advice and settling down with one girl are you John?" I teased.

"She would probably hire a hit on me if I left her now," he admitted. "She's put up with a lot and invested a lot of time and effort to get us where we are now. Besides, a new girl wouldn't put up with our schedule."

"She's good for you John, don't fuck up a good thing by looking for greener pastures," I advised.

"I know, I know," he said. "I was looking at the one in purple actually."

"That one is hot, I must admit," I agreed. "She doesn't seem to be too happy with poor Randy."

"Randy is not our most intellectually sophisticated player," John admitted. "She probably thought she was picking you but didn't look up your picture."

"Yeah right," I replied, shaking my head.

"Like it or not, you're one of the stars Mike, you're in the paper every week, scoring goals and assists, leading in hits too," he said. "The girls pick the stars first, whether for a short term hook-up or to try and snag a rich husband to be."

"Damn, that is pretty calculating," I said, shaking my head. "Now I'm going to be paranoid about any girl that comes up to me."

"That's a good way to be Mike," John said. "Don't get attached to any girl until you really know her well. They will all be on their best behaviour at the beginning so it will be hard to tell who is a nice girl and who is just out for the star factor. Always wear a condom, even if she has a clean bill of health certificate and is on the pill. The last thing you need is a paternity suit against you, even if it is false."

"That I will do, for safety's sake," I told him.

Amanda came back and slid in beside him.

"So, did you warn him about the hussies?" she asked John.

"Yes dear, I have mentored him in the wily ways of some of the opposite sex," he assured her.

"Good. Michael, if you don't believe John, then you listen to a woman's perspective," she said to me. "Half of the girls here, even some of the girlfriends of the other players, would take you home tonight in a heartbeat if they knew you were single again. A lot of them would be just a one night affair so they could brag to their friends; the others would be there to get the financial rewards of a future pro hockey player. They will be the sexiest, friendliest girls you will know but they are there for one thing, your earning potential."

"I will keep that in mind," I assured them both. "It won't be easy to tell them apart though."

"There are a few who always hang out trying to get any sports star, we will point them out to you," she told him. "For others, you can introduce them to us and I can let you know if she says or does anything that is suspicious."

"Ok, thanks guys, I guess I'm a bit naive about women, even after Vicky," I replied.

We all watched as purple dressed girl left Randy on the dance floor and stomped off to the washroom.

"Oh, you stay away from that one Michael, she's a known star whore, beautiful but motivated by fame and greed," Amanda cautioned. "She dumped the star receiver on the football team a couple of weeks ago when he got injured for the year. She is here trolling for a new star, probably you."

I nodded and just looked around the room, watching how the couples interacted. Some were really getting along well while several of the single guys and their new partners were still very tentative with each other. Hopefully they were at least having a bit of fun.

Purple dress girl came out of the washroom and looked around for her next target. She went to the bar and got a drink and then flashed a big smile to Paul, standing behind her waiting to get a drink. She asked him something and Paul turned to look around the room, and pointed at me. She smiled at him again and then made her way over to me. I had watched the whole thing from the corner of my eye so she probably didn't suspect I knew she was coming over.

"Don't look now but purple dress star whore is on her way over here," I told them. "Play along with me on this."

I pulled out the picture of the twins on the runway in their bikinis just as she came up.

"I know you wanted to see a picture of my twins on the runway Amanda," I said, a bit loudly. "Here they are at the fall fashion spectacular in New York last week. They're off to LA to shoot some commercials and to do some print ads."

"Wow, they look hot Michael," Amanda said. "You are one lucky guy to have twin supermodels for girlfriends."

"Tell me about it," I said with a smile. "It makes it easy to come to these things alone, knowing they will be back soon."

"Well, no girl could ever measure up against one of them, let alone both," John said as Purple dress girl's smile slipped from her face and she kept walking past the booth.

I watched her as she started looking for her next target.

Thanks guys for your help," I said to them quietly. "I don't need any extra hassles in my life right now."

"No problem rookie, that's what we mentors do, look out for our young naive teammates," John said pompously.

Amanda gave him a shot in the ribs with her elbow and then said "They gave you the easiest assignment of the bunch so don't push it mister. Mike, we'll both help you with the girl thing, which is about the only thing you need mentoring on, and John knows it."

"John did a great deal of mentoring earlier in the year, so he deserves all the credit he wants," I said. "I would be playing intramural hockey if it wasn't for all his help."

"See woman, I'm not just a pretty face," John said with a smug smile.

"Ok pretty boy, take me dancing then," she said, pushing him off the bench as she slid over.

They went back to dancing to the tunes while I watched the ladies moving to the music. It was a pleasant way to pass the time as a high proportion of them were gorgeous. Finally the time rolled around to ten and the get together broke up. I wished John and Amanda a good night and as well as a few of the guys before walking back to the arena to get my car. I drove home and hit the sack soon after getting out of my good clothes.

Friday's morning practice was an all out scrimmage to see how the new lines meshed at game speed. Don and I played well together and, on top of being a good skater and passer, he was becoming a decent defender as well.

John and Randy were not working out as well, as Randy wasn't ready to play and everyone knew it. He was too slow to defend well and his passing was sub-par as well. He had a hard shot but that was all he had going for him at this time. They became the third defensive pair, to be used sparingly. Frank decided to send John out with me once in a while, double shifting me if necessary.

I left the arena and met Steph in the computer lab, where we worked for a couple of hours on our assignment. We took a break for lunch and the then went back to finish it off. We finally completed it and printed out the results.

"Ok Mike, good luck tonight and tomorrow night, make sure you score a goal for me," she said. "I'll see you on Monday."

"Alright Steph, have a good weekend too," I replied as we gathered up our stuff. She headed to her dorm and I went back to the arena to get my car. I stopped for some groceries and headed home to put them away. I did some laundry and then relaxed, watching a movie while lying on the bed.

Luckily I had set the alarm as I dozed off half way through the movie. I awoke in a panic but saw I had lots of time to get back to the arena for the team supper. After packing my suit for the walk out of the arena, I drove there and got in line with my teammates. I sat with Don and we shot the shit while eating. He was pretty loose before his first game, at least so far.

When we were done, we got changed and had our warm-up skate before resting in the locker room while Ohio State took to the ice for their skate. We finally got on the ice to play the game almost an hour later. The arena was packed as Ohio State was our second biggest rival, next to Michigan State.

The game started with the teams' first lines against each other. The Buckeyes came in smelling blood and tried to capitalize on our weakened line-up. We held up for the first run through our lines and defence pairs. Their team was big on defence and on the first couple of lines. They used their size to punish our smaller players, hitting them whenever they could. I winced when John got slammed in the boards after he had passed the puck up the ice. He managed to get off the ice and Steve and Albert replaced them.

"You ok man?" I asked him.

"Yeah, I knew it was coming so I was prepared for it," John replied. "It still hurt but I'll be ok."

Don and I went on with the first line next for our second shift. I had the puck behind the net and slowed things down for a second. When their forward came around to get at me, I went the other way and skated out, with him chasing me. I passed it to Chris on the wing and followed him up the ice. Chris carried it to centre and dumped the puck into the opposite corner, where Daniel chased it down, speeding by their defenceman. He corralled the puck, wheeled and slapped a hard pass towards Gary, streaking for the net. Gary managed to get a stick on the pass and deflect it towards the goal, where the Buckeye's goalie had to make a quick reaction save with his glove to prevent a goal. He held onto the puck for a whistle and a face-off in their zone.

Gary won the puck back to Don who, after faking a shot, passed it to over to me. I stopped the hard pass and then directed a low shot to the near post, hoping Chris would either deflect it or get a rebound. The goalie got a pad on it and it careened off to the corner. Chris chased it and retrieved it, narrowly avoiding a hit by a back checking forward. He banked it off the boards back to me and I stepped into the puck, shooting high for the stick side. A defenceman got in the way, taking it on his arm, which unfortunately everyone in the arena could hear and then see it was broken. His stick flew from his hands as he grabbed his broken arm with his good one. The puck came back out to the line and the whistle blew before I could shoot it again. The trainer came out and helped him to his bench while cradling his arm for him as we changed up lines.

Frank came over and said, "Keep the next couple high and then they will be ducking every time you shoot. Then you can shoot low for a deflection."

The momentum shifted to us as we started using our advantage in speed against their bigger, but slower team. The speedy third line got the first goal for us when they caught their defencemen flat footed at our line. Sergio hit Alex with a quick clearing pass and he streaked past the backpedalling defencemen in on their goal. One deke and it was in the net for a one to nothing lead.

The Buckeyes tied up the score with a couple minutes left in the period after Randy had taken a penalty for tripping one of their forwards. They got a mismatch down low as Steve was left covering two forwards and, with a quick pass across to the open man, the puck was behind Mark.

The period ended in a one all tie and after we had rested for a bit, Fred was up on a bench.

"Ok men, that was not a good period for us, but we got out of it with a tie," he started. "These guys are ripe for the picking; they are slow, they telegraph their dump-ins and passes, and are relying on their physical play to disrupt us. They are going to come out in the second half trying to hit everything in sight, thinking that we will wear out just like last week."

He continued "Well we're not last week's team are we?"

We shouted "No!"

"We're faster and smarter and much better passers than the Buckeyes, so we play like we did against all the others that thought they could be physical against us," he shouted. "Make a quick pass and dodge the check, better yet, get moving so they don't have the opportunity to throw the big check in the first place. They are down a defenceman, so let's make the rest of them skate their butts off trying to keep up with us. Hit them when they get to the puck first, but better yet, get to the puck first and make them chase us around their own end until they make a mistake."

We went out and did just that. They came out trying to hit us; we passed the puck and dodged their hits, counter attacking while their forwards were out of position. We ran them ragged trying to keep up with us and we took the play into their zone for most of the period. With about five minutes left in the period, Don got his first assist of the year as he took a pass from me and shot it at the net, where Bobby Vickers tipped it past a surprised goalie, making it two to one.

The period ended with that score and we went into the locker room to rest.

Fred stood up again and said, "Much better gentlemen, much better indeed. I like your speed and agility out there and the passing game really made their physical play a non-factor. Good work so far."

After a pause, he continued, "Don't expect them to lie down and roll over in the third period though, they will be hoping we'll get tired and take advantage of that. We need keep possession of the puck as much as possible and have them chase us. Look for their speed lines against us at the beginning to counteract our agility. Hit them if they get the puck and keep up the pressure on the defencemen, they will be getting tired by the end of the period."

Frank came over to where we sat and said "Let's take more shots from the point; their defencemen were a bit jumpy every time you shot Mike, maybe we can take advantage of that."

I nodded as Don and John verbally agreed. We discussed the best ways to get the puck through to the net and where the goalie seemed weak. After that we rested for a bit until we had to go back out.

They came out on fire in the third period, determined to even up the score. Our first line calmly took the heat and dodged the checks, passing it back to the defencemen when the way forward was blocked. Steve tried the other side and hit Chris with a pass into the neutral zone. He dumped it in and Daniel raced in to hit their defenceman as he got the puck in the corner. They fought for the puck behind the net and it finally squirted free for the other defenceman to shoot it down the ice to relieve the pressure. Albert retrieved the puck for an icing call.

We got to switch up our players while the Buckeyes had to stay on the ice due to the icing call. The second line along with Don and I went on for the face-off in their zone.

Henry won the face-off to the side boards where Ron battled with their forward to gain control of it. The puck squirted back to me at the point and I quickly passed it to Don along the blueline. He one timed it towards the net and it bounced off a shin back into the corner. Brad, for now our left winger for that line, quickly pounced on the puck and passed it to the front of the net where Henry was battling for position. The puck deflected back out towards the blueline so Don rushed in and, after faking a shot, passed it back to me. I shot it hard towards the net and it was almost comical to see everyone move out of the way as I wound up. Henry was brave enough to stand in front of the goalie to provide a screen and I shot high on the stick side and it was in the net before the goalie even reacted to the shot.

We skated back to the bench to change after my teammates congratulated me on the goal. We were up three to one early in the third period. We continued to keep the puck possession as we avoided the checks until half way through the period. Randy was on the ice and got his elbow up when a Buckeye forward came in to check him. The forward could have won an Oscar with his performance, falling back and laying there until the whistle blew. Randy got a five minute major for elbowing, even though the forward was wearing a full cage on his helmet and didn't get hurt. The difference in this penalty and the normal two minute minor penalty, besides the durations, is that the opposing team can score as many goals as they want; the penalized player has to stay in the penalty box for the whole duration of the five minutes. Making it worse was that we were down one defenceman, and would have to rotate between the first and second pairs for the five minutes.

Gary and Daniel and first pair of defencemen went out to start the penalty kill. They kept the play to the outside of the box for the most part and converged on the net when a shot got through. Finally after about a minute Albert got the puck and rifled it down the ice, luckily icing does not get called when a team has a penalty. All four players raced to the bench and changed with the second unit including John and I as the second defence pairing.

They dumped it back into our zone as we got in position and I raced back to get the puck. A forward crashed into me as I dug out the puck from the boards. I kept the puck trapped to the boards as he tried to dig it out with his stick, while leaning on me with his body. Another forward came to double team me but I got my skate behind my stick and held the puck tight as they pushed and prodded to no avail. Finally the ref blew the whistle for another face-off. I looked at the clock and was surprised only half a minute went by as it felt like at least a minute.

Henry won the face-off and John slammed it around the boards past the lunging defenceman and down the ice to waste another twenty seconds. We moved out towards our blue line to stop them from just skating into the zone. This forced them to dump it in behind us and go in after it. This time I let their forward get to it first and slammed into him, causing the puck to careen out into the centre of the ice. Henry was in the right place and slapped it down the ice. The four of us changed with just over two and a half minutes left on the penalty.

Gary and Chris went out this time along with Steve and Albert on defence. They got in position but let the Buckeyes into our zone as they set up. They started passing the puck around the outside and kept our players moving, tiring themselves out. Gary went down to block a shot from the point, but the defenceman faked the shot and skated around him before shooting. The puck deflected off one of the many sticks in front of Mark and changed direction, going over his shoulder and into the net. The score was now three to two with a minute and a half left on the power play.

The second unit went back on and lined up at centre ice for the ensuing face-off, still tired from our earlier shift. Luckily Henry won the draw and Ron passed it back to me to kill some time. I held on to it as long as I could and then passed it to John. He did the same and the four of us played keep away from them for another half minute until I finally had to fire it down the ice. Their centre came in fast, trying to stick handle past us into the zone. Ron made him go to the outside and then I smashed him into the boards. Ron coolly collected the puck behind me and cleared it down the ice while the centre slid to the ground to a cheer from the crowd. We left the ice with less than twenty seconds to go in the penalty and their centre slowly making his way back to the bench.

The puck was back in our zone as the penalty expired and Randy lumbered back into the zone. The Buckeyes kept the pressure on and had the puck behind the net when Randy finally joined the play, covering a winger. That allowed Steve to go behind the net and force the forward to move. He sent the puck out front of the net and with a lucky bounce off a skate went in behind Mark to tie the game at three. The crowd, the coaches and the players all groaned at the bad luck for them to score after all the hard work killing off the penalty.

Now, with five minutes left, the third line, fresh from sitting on the bench for the last five minutes, along with Don and I on defence, went out to take the face-off. Alex won the face-off and Don passed the puck back to me as we retreated to set up a run up the ice. I circled our net, nodded to Don and slowly made my way up the ice, taking what room the Buckeye's gave us as they set up on their half of the ice. Just over Centre ice I made the usual motion to dump the puck in and then hit a speeding Don with a pass just before he hit the blueline. He was past the forward and the defenceman before they knew what happened and in on the goalie with Sergio on the other side. The remaining defenceman stayed in the middle, trying to block the pass over to Sergio, so Don faked a pass to him. The goalie moved just a bit off the post in anticipation of the pass and Don picked off the top corner to score the go ahead goal. We all congratulated him as the arena erupted in cheers.

The Buckeyes tried desperately to score the tying goal in the last four minutes, even pulling their goalie with more than a minute left for the extra attacker. Fortunately, we held them off the scoreboard and won the game, four to three. The crowd cheered as we all congratulated Mark and headed off the ice to the locker room.

Fred asked for quiet a few minutes later as he stood on a bench.

"Great finish to a great game people!" he said. "We got great play from several new players to the line-up. You might not have noticed, but all four goals were scored by rookies! I think we have an excellent crop of new players to complement our more seasoned veterans. So enjoy your victory for a few minutes and then head home to your beds as we have another game tomorrow night, and they will be out for blood. There will be phone checks so don't do anything stupid tonight."

I finished showering and getting dressed and, after congratulating Don for his great game, left the locker room and walked towards the exit through the lobby.

"Hey Mike," a female voice came from behind me.

I turned around to see Lisa Peterson and her parents coming into the lobby from the stairs leading down from the luxury boxes. She was again dressed very elegantly, in a dress this time that hugged her gorgeous body without looking trashy. She was simply beautiful.

"Hello Mr. and Mrs. Peterson and hey yourself Lisa," I said with a smile. "Enjoy the game?"

"Yes we did," Lisa responded with a big smile. "You had another great game Mike, a goal and two assists, plus all those big hits. I think you put two Buckeyes out of commission all by yourself!"

"It was certainly a close one tonight," I replied, trying to ignore her praise.

"So, where is that girlfriend of yours?" Mrs. Peterson asked.

"Vicky and her twin sister just accepted a big offer to move to New York to model full time," I told them. "They are in LA right now filming a couple of commercials and doing some print ad work, the last time I got an email from them."

"That's good for them I suppose, but bad for you," she said. "With that kind of schedule, you might not see her for a while."

"Yes, I'm afraid it could be months," I agreed. "It's been a lonely couple of weeks so far, I must admit."

"Well we can't have that, can we Russell?" she asked, turning to him. "We were heading to Monty's for a snack, shall we have Michael join us and give him some company?"

"Whatever you ladies want dear," Russell replied, grinning at me. "I know better than to mess with any plan they have for you."

"Thank you for the kind offer, but I only have an hour before my curfew tonight" I replied with regret. "We have to be in by eleven and lights out by midnight on games night, and we have another game tomorrow night."

Lisa's face fell like a stone and Mrs. Peterson's got a frown on it just as fast.

"Surely you could be a bit late getting into your dorm room as long as you are in by midnight?" she asked.

"We just had nine people suspended for drinking and another three in trouble for missing curfew Mrs. Peterson," I told her. "I won't be able to get a hold of the coaches as they are in the press conference right now. Maybe we can do it another time?"

"Alright Michael, we'll take a rain check, but you won't get away so easily from their clutches next time," Mr. Peterson said. "Can we offer you a ride up to the dorms on the main campus?"

"Thanks, but I have my car and I have an apartment a few minutes away," I replied.

"Well, you have to give me your cell number so we can maybe meet on campus Mike," Lisa said, pulling out her phone and looking at me. "I'll give you mine as well."

"Ok, give me a minute here, I'm not too good at this cell stuff," I answered, finding my cell in one of the suit's pockets.

I opened it up and read off my number and she had it in her phone in a couple of seconds. I tried to add a new contact but couldn't find the right screen under pressure.

"Here, give it to me silly," she said, lightly taking it from my bumbling hands as she moved close to me.

She smelt wonderful as she stood in front of me, quickly finding the right screen and making a new contact. Her fingers were flying all over the little keyboard as I watched in fascination.

"Ok, I put in my cell, my dorm phone number and our home number and address in Bloomfield Hills Mike," she said, looking up at me with a smile. "Now you don't have an excuse that you don't have my number."

I took the phone back and said "Ok thanks Lisa, I never bothered reading the manual for this thing."

"Well she's got you now Mike, you'll never have a moment's peace with her knowing your phone number," Mr. Peterson said with a chuckle.

"Dad, don't say things like that, he'll think I'm going to stalk him like a hockey groupie or something," she said with a frown, before turning back to me. "So, you call me to see if we can meet on campus for coffee or maybe lunch sometime this week, ok?"

"My schedule is really busy, but we should be able to find some time during the week to meet," I said.

"Good," she said with a big smile as she laid her hand on my arm that still held the phone.

"Well, we should get going, we do have a bit of a drive," Mr. Peterson said, taking his wife's hand as they moved to the exit.

Lisa took my hand and dragged me behind them, though walking slower.

"So, you promise to call me and set something up for this week Mike?" she asked, looking up at me with a hopeful look.

"I will Lisa, I promise; just have your schedule handy because I really am booked up during the day, and I think we fly out to Alaska Thursday afternoon," I told her.

"You can call me this weekend and we can exchange schedules via email," she suggested.

"Umm, ok, I guess," I said, feeling a bit pressured.

She read my hesitation and said "I'm sorry Mike; I'm coming on a bit too strong, aren't I? I'm not like this with guys, especially with how protective my parents are, but they seem to like you so I think we should see if we can be friends and maybe in time something more, if and when you get over Vicky. I just wanted you to know that before some of the vultures come circling around, offering other incentives."

"You said all of that without taking a breath," I said with a chuckle. "Ok, let's see if we can be friends without annoying each other and we'll see about the something more down the road. I will call you tomorrow, say ten thirty, and we can exchange emails and work out our schedules. Just promise me not to get all dressed up."

She hit me on my arm and said "Doofus, I have to get all dressed up when I'm in the luxury boxes, it's for dad's business. I promise to dress down for our phone call tomorrow."

"Don't worry, you look fantastic all fancied up," I assured her. "I don't know what you see in me, I'm not rich or cultured like you are."

"You are polite, kind and funny, and just good looking enough not to scare the women or children," she replied with a giggle. "I don't need you to be rich and I'm sure you won't embarrass us at any events we might go to."

"Ok Lisa, let's see if we have anything in common besides hockey and we'll go from there," I said, as I helped her with her coat before walking her outside to her parent's car.

Her parents were giving us time to talk, while still waiting by their car.

"Did you get him all straightened out Lisa?" Mr. Peterson asked.

"Daddy, we were just discussing some things, Mike doesn't need straightening out, he's tall enough as he is," she said with a giggle.

"Ok then, let's get in the car before we freeze," he replied as he opened the door for his wife.

I moved quickly and opened the back door for Lisa.

"Thank you kind sir," she said with a smile. "I'll talk to you tomorrow morning Mike, have a good sleep."

"Ok Lisa, you have a good night too," I replied.

She stood there for a second and then kissed me on the cheek before jumping into the car. I looked at her in surprise and then shut the door for her before looking at her dad.

He looked at me with a serious look on his face and then said, "We'll need to talk soon, man to man. Do you have time on Sunday to meet with me?"

"I might have some tutoring lined up on Sunday, I'm not sure until tomorrow afternoon," I replied. "Can I call the house tomorrow and let you know what time is good on Sunday?"

"Sure, let me give you a card and you can call my cell if I'm not there," he replied.

He handed me one from his wallet and then wished me a good night and went around to the driver's side and got in. I waved to Lisa and walked to my car as he let his warm up. I got into my car and did the same thing and then pulled out of the spot. I honked my horn and waved as I passed them and then headed to my apartment.

I entered my empty apartment and grabbed some food after changing out of my suit. I watched a bit of a hockey game before hitting the hay. John called soon after to make sure I was in my apartment and heading to bed. I told him I was in a bar in downtown Detroit and wouldn't be back until the morning before hanging up on him and falling asleep, dreaming of unwrapping Lisa from her dress.

I got up on Saturday at the usual time and went to the arena for my usual weekend skating and shooting practice. I got a good skating workout in and then had Patrick out for target practice. I peppered him with shots for half an hour from all over the zone and then from centre ice. I was just about finished and knew I had the ice for only about fifteen more minutes when I heard a voice calling me.

"Hey, you big lummox, quit fooling around out there and let some real hockey players on the ice," an arrogant man yelled out. "How did you get on the ice anyway, this isn't hockey for hackers!"

I recognized him as one of the assistant coaches from the Ohio Buckeyes hockey team. Some of his players were laughing behind him. I ignored them and continued to shoot, deciding to take the full time. They jeered and taunted me every time I didn't put the puck into one of the slots. I knew most of them couldn't put one in ten in from the blueline so I knew they were just trying to piss me off. I had six pucks left so I shot five of them into the five slots as hard and fast as I could and then deliberately missed high and shattered the Plexiglas behind the net with the last one. I looked at them as I skated by and memorized a few faces for payback tonight. They were no longer jeering or laughing.

Fred and Frank were in the tunnel at the other end of the ice and apparently watched me shooting and heard the comments.

"Way to keep your cool Mike," Frank said. "Let them talk like idiots. No one on that team could do half as well with Patrick and then you broke the glass. That shut them up!"

"I think they provided some motivation for tonight, right?" Fred asked with a look I had never seen on his face before.

"Damn right they did!" I said. "I memorized a few faces and plan to put a hurting on anyone I can. They better not get in front of any of my shots either."

"No one talks to one of my players like he did and gets away with it," Fred said. "Frank, let's go make some plans for tonight's game to teach them a lesson, shall we?"

"That sounds like a good idea to me," Frank agreed. "We'll see you at four thirty Mike."

I nodded to them both and went into the locker room to shower and get changed. I left the arena and headed home. I started cleaning up the apartment as Cynthia was coming over at eleven to help me plan the final project for my creative writing course. I was rather lax with dishwashing and laundry the last couple of weeks as well as dusting and vacuuming. I put in a couple loads of laundry and then tackled the kitchen.

I nearly missed my ten thirty call to Lisa but luckily I was still in the kitchen and happened to look at the clock and it jogged my memory. I quickly booted up my computer and put my cell on speaker mode before dialling her cell.

"Hello," she answered.

"Hi Lisa, it's Mike," I said. "How's your morning going so far?"

"Hi Mike!" she said, sounding happy. "I'm having a good morning, I got to sleep in and I had a nice breakfast with the folks. How about you Mike?"

"I went to the arena and practiced for a couple of hours and I've been cleaning the apartment and doing the laundry for the last hour," I told her.

"What time did you get up?" she asked.

"Six, just like every morning," I said. "We practice five days a week at seven so I just keep the same schedule on the weekends."

"You make me feel positively lazy," she groaned. "Other than homework, I try not to do anything on the weekends."

"So you just stay in the house all weekend?" I said jokingly.

"Well, I don't do any work but I do stuff with my folks and my girlfriends," she corrected herself.

"So, do you want me to email you my schedule, it has all my classes plus all my hockey practices and work-outs?" I asked.

"Sure, then I can email you mine," she agreed. "Go ahead and use 'LisaP100@gmail.com' as my email address and I'll get yours when I receive your email."

"Ok, give me a second," I said, as I opened my outlook and composed a quick email and sent it to her, attaching the schedule.

"Alright, it's sent, you should receive it soon," I told her. "So, what do you have planned for the weekend?"

"I'm going to see some friends this afternoon, we're hooking up at the mall for some much needed shopping," she started. "Not sure what's up tonight, whether I'm with the folks or with the friends. Sunday we go out to brunch, I'll do homework in the afternoon and then have family dinner before heading back to school."

"Sounds like you have it all planned out," I said. "I'll be working on a creative writing project starting at eleven and then head to supper with the team for four thirty and then get ready for the game. Sunday, I'll go practice in the morning and then do a workout. In the afternoon I'll read my textbooks for next week's classes and study for midterms coming up the week after. I might be able to watch a football game."

"Well, I'm glad you have a bit of relaxing in their somewhere," she said sarcastically. "Ok, I've got your email, let me hit reply and attach mine first; there, it's on the way. Alright, let's see what we have to work with here."

I listened as she talked to herself, reading my schedule.

"Ok, you have noon to one open every day and two thirty to four open as well," she said.

"Tuesdays and Thursdays I'm at the arena for those times and it doesn't include getting dressed after rookie practice or before full four o'clock practice," I reminded her. "On Monday's and Wednesday's I meet with a friend, Stephanie, at noon and then again at two thirty to do homework assignments. You can join us if you like at either or both."

"Friday looks open, just practice in the morning and a computer lab," she commented.

"We're only here every other Friday, and, if we're here, it's game night so I have to have supper with the team, usually at four thirty," I told her.

"You weren't kidding about how tight your schedule is Mike," she said, sounding a bit peeved.

"Sorry Lisa, I warned you," I replied. "I'm usually done practice by six thirty, so we could meet for supper or afterwards sometime if you can't meet me for lunch or at the arena."

"Let's try lunch on Monday, as long as this Stephanie doesn't mind," she suggested. "Is she a possible new girlfriend too?"

"Steph is in two of my classes so we work on assignments for both classes and study together," I told her. "She has a new boyfriend back home that she sees every weekend.

"Ok, that's a relief," she said. "Did my return email get to you yet?"

"Yep, it just got here," I told her as I opened her attachment and looked at it.

"Let me guess, business major?" I asked.

"Yep," she replied. "I have to be able to run the companies when dad retires, don't you know."

"I suppose so," I said with a laugh. "Ok, so looking at this, you can meet me for lunch Monday and Wednesday only, and maybe Friday afternoons when I'm in town."

"Don't forget after practices, I seem to remember a dinner invitation in there somewhere," she said with a giggle.

"Ok, but we have to do homework afterwards," I insisted. "I have to get my assignments done before I go to Alaska this week."

"So what's the verdict, Monday at noon, Wednesday at noon, and when are you taking me to dinner, Tuesday evening?" she asked.

"That sounds ok with me, we meet at the cafeteria next to the math building at noon," I told her. "I can meet you just inside the doors."

"Alright; and on Tuesday evening after practice?" she prompted.

"I can pick you up at your dorm and we can go somewhere or we can eat at the arena cafeteria, or we can cook something at my apartment," I listed the options.

"Hmmm, my parents won't like option three, and I'm sick of option two, so we can go out to a nice restaurant in town, nothing fancy, maybe a Chili's or an Applebee's," she suggested.

"That fine with me Lisa," I agreed.

"Ok, good luck tonight at the game Mike, I'm sure you'll do great," she said. "I'll see you at noon on Monday."

Thanks Lisa, you have a good weekend too," I replied. "See you on Monday."

I hung up the phone and saved her schedule onto my hard drive and then got back to cleaning. Cynthia didn't want me to pick her up; she was going to walk over from the college. I finished the kitchen, tidied up the bedroom and then cleaned up the washroom, including the toilet, so she wouldn't be too disgusted using it if she had to. I was changing over my laundry into the dryers when she came down the stairs.

"Hey Cynthia, you found it ok?" I asked.

"Yep, good directions Mike," she replied. "It must be nice to have a washer and dryer right outside your apartment."

"It sure is, I can leave it running while I study and don't have to worry about it watching it," I said. "So come on in, it's not much but it's comfortable and private."

"It is cozy," she said with a laugh. "But, it must be nice not to have a roommate."

Yes, I'm happy about that," I agreed. "Can I get you something to drink or eat?"

"Some water would be nice," she replied.

I grabbed a couple of water bottles out of the fridge and placed them on the table, where I had set up my laptop and the notes from class. We sat down and got started. I explained my idea for the novella, which is basically a story that is longer than a short story but shorter than a novel. She broke down the elements onto a page and then set up chapters with where the elements should go. The empty chapters needed extra plot ideas, maybe a sub-plot so we talked about that for a bit.

"Ok, that's a good start," she said, looking at the clock, seeing it was already one. "Let's take a break and we can work for a little longer after that."

"Ok, would you like some soup and sandwiches for lunch?" I asked, moving to the fridge.

"You don't have to feed me Michael," she said. "I can get something afterwards."

"Nonsense, I'm making you miss lunch, so let me make you something," I insisted.

I pulled out the bread and some lunch meat and cheese, and then found some cans of soup in the cupboard.

"Tomato, chicken noodle, or pea and ham are our options" I told her.

"Tomato is fine with me," she said, getting up to help.

I spooned the soup into a pot, added water and got it onto the stove. Cynthia took out some bread and put it in the toaster.

"So, how is tutoring going, are you making enough to survive on?" I asked.

"I picked up three steady students not including you so I'm making some money," she said. "I'm lucky that I have my dorm and food paid already, so I really only need money for other non-food essentials. I'm not starving or living out on the streets or anything, I'm just not going out every night or going shopping anymore with friends."

"How are you adjusting to that?" I asked.

"It's been hard, I've always done both of those things, now I have to stay in my room or actually work tutoring," she replied. "You learn who your real friends are though. Most of mine have dumped me already and I'm too proud to ask them to pay for my drinks."

"You just have to find new friends that don't cost money to hang out with," I told her. "There are lots you can do besides going out to party or to shop."

"I know, I just have to make some adjustments," she concurred.

We continued talking as we got lunch ready and then we cleared the table to eat. It was a pretty simple lunch but we enjoyed it as we talked about college life. When we were done we cleaned up and went back to work. She wrote points on the chart for each chapter as we discussed the story and the different plots and characters. After another hour we called it a day.

"Ok, you have a pretty good outline, chapter by chapter for your story. Start writing it tomorrow if you have time, flesh out some characters and start on the main plotline. We can meet during the week and then on the weekend to go over your progress. I have Wednesday night open if you like."

"Wednesday night is good for me, after seven," I said. "I'll pick you up at the main campus after I have dinner at the arena cafeteria. I leave Thursday afternoon for Alaska and I won't be back until later Sunday so this weekend is out."

"Ok, here is my cell number and my dorm phone number so you can call me when you're coming to get me on Wednesday," she said, handing me a slip of paper. "I need you to sign for the hours today and I'll let Pam know about Wednesday."

I signed her slip and then helped her pack.

"Ok, let me drive you back to campus," I said, grabbing my coat and keys.

"Thanks, it's getting cold out," she accepted.

I drove her to the main campus and gave her a couple of fifties just before she got out.

"Mike, you don't have to do that, I'm getting paid by the college," she said, trying to give it back to me.

"Nonsense, you came to my place, spent hours helping me out, you're getting me through this course," I said. "I owe you a lot more than that. So find something to enjoy, go to a movie with a real friend or something."

"Ok, but this is the last time mister," she said, giving me a hug. "Good luck tonight at the game."

"Thanks have a good weekend and I'll see you Wednesday," I replied as she got out.

I waved to her as I drove off. I realized that I didn't even check her out while she was in my apartment or think about making a move on her. I guess I didn't think of her along those lines, even though she was very beautiful. She was at least three years older than me so I guess I just didn't think she would be interested. Now that I was single again I should have but with Lisa now in the picture, I had better keep Cynthia just as a tutor until I figured out what Lisa and I would become.

Thinking about Lisa reminded me I had to call her dad for his man to man talk tomorrow. I went back to the apartment and found his card and called him up.

"Hello," he said when he picked up.

"Hello Mr. Peterson, It's Mike Stewart," I said.

"Hi Mike, how are you today?" he asked, sounding cheerful.

"Good, and you sir?" I replied.

"I'm doing fine, thanks for asking," he said. "What's the verdict?"

"I'm done my workout around ten thirty so I can meet with you anytime after that, depending on travel time, which I think is about an hour or so," I said.

"How about we meet at noon for some lunch?" he asked.

"Sounds good to me," I responded. "Do you have a place in mind; I don't know Bloomfield Hills or Michigan for that matter, at all."

"Let's meet at the Fox and Hound, they have good food and we can watch some football in the pub," he suggested.

"I'm only eighteen so we might not get into the pub," I told him.

"I'm sure they will let you in," he chuckled.

He gave me instructions on how to get there and then hung up. I wasn't sure what I was getting myself into with the Petersons but Lisa was too beautiful and friendly not to get to know.

I grabbed my dried laundry out of the dryer and folded it up before putting it away. I relaxed for an hour and then headed to the arena with my suit in its carrying bag. I sat beside John and Don while we ate and talked about our weekend. I kept quiet on the Peterson stuff for now, until I knew what was going on. Fred got up to say a few words when everyone was finished.

"Frank and I were in the arena this morning when a disturbing thing happened to one of our players," he began. "He was verbally abused by a coach and some Buckeye players while on the ice. While he handled it in an appropriate manner, ignoring them, both Frank and I were, and still are, mad about what happened. No player, coach or staff member of this team should be abused like that by another team, especially by a coach. We are going to show them that Michigan Wolverines do not take that lying down. Tonight, we are going to let them know that we deserve our top ten rating, and that it should be in the top five in the country. I expect everyone to put in a full effort just as if it was you on the ice this morning and show them no mercy."

Gary stood up and spoke "I don't care who that player was, I have my suspicions but it doesn't matter. All of us will be playing as if it is was our girlfriend, our sister or mother that was insulted and pay them back tonight. Hit everything in sight, skate harder, shoot harder and score more than you ever have before."

I was impressed on how Fred could use anything to motivate his players. I already had my motivation and I would be paying some players back but he got the whole team involved.

John leaned over and asked, "Ok, what happened?"

"Why do you think it happened to me?" I asked innocently.

"You're the only one who would be there in the morning after a hockey game the night before," he replied dryly.

"One of the assistant coaches yelled some shit at me near the end of our practice time. He called me a lummox and a hacker told me to let real players on the ice," I told him. "They laughed any time I missed a slot on Patrick."

"That must have pissed you off, what did you do?" he asked.

"I hit all five slots with five shots and then broke the glass on my last shot," I told him. "I just looked at them as I skated by and left the rink. I know who I'm hitting tonight."

"Ok, and you take lots of shots tonight, I'm feeding you any chance I can," John insisted. "Either you will hit some of them or score a few times to make them pay."

"Sounds good to me," I said.

We went to the locker room and got changed for our turn on the ice. We did our usual warm-ups and pre-game drills and then went and relaxed back in the locker room.

Fred gave us one more motivational speech and then sent us out there feeling mean and determined. Frank switched the defence pairings around, putting John and I back together on as the first pairing and splitting up Steve with Don and Albert with Randy. We went out first along with the first line and got ready for the face-off.

Gary won the face-off back to John who carried it up to centre ice and dumped the puck in to the corner on my side. Chris creamed the defenseman who went back to get it. Gary scooped up the puck and skated towards the net with it. The centre who was supposed to be covering him finally got back to him along with the forward on that side, so he passed it back to me at the point and took the two forwards to the net. With no one covering me at the point, I could move in and rip one at the net. Three guys were in front of the net, plus Chris and Daniel were converging for a rebound. The goalie couldn't see a thing of course, so he did a butterfly to cover the bottom of the net. The puck had no chance to get through directly but it hit one of their forward's legs and deflected into the net. The forward went down holding his leg and had to be helped off the ice while the team congratulated me on the goal.

Fred left us out there for the next face off and this time they won it. Gary chased the defenceman back into his end and hit him as he passed it off. Chris was on the forward that got the pass and pressured him relentlessly until he passed it back again. We were in extreme forechecking mode, with two forwards deep in against them. We harried them until they had to try a long pass that didn't connect and went for an icing.

We changed up with fresh legs while they had to stay on. The next line did the same thing, pressuring any person that got the puck and finishing a check even if they passed it off. Twice an errant pass was picked off and an odd man rush resulted. Only their goalie saved it from being three to nothing.

The third line speed line went on and continued the high pressure tactics. Their third pair of defencemen was not up to the task and got caught in their end before he could pass the puck. Bobby knocked the puck away and went in on the goalie with both of their defencemen chasing him. The closest one tripped him before he could get close enough for a shot. The ref blew the whistle and called a tripping penalty. The crowd, and our coaches, wanted a penalty shot to be called, but I guess they deemed him not really far enough away from the defenceman to be called on a breakaway.

Fred sent out the first power play unit to take the face-off. Gary won the draw and John fed me a pass that I shot on purpose high at the net. The defencemen and the goalie ducked and it slammed into the glass and then ricocheted back out in front of the net. Daniel was right there to shoot it into the net as the goalie was looking around for the puck. Just like that it was two to nothing with less than five minutes gone in the period.

We didn't let up the entire period. We hit them every chance we could, we hounded them whenever they had the puck, and shelled their goalie with shots. Henry scored another goal just before the end of the period and we went to intermission ahead three to nothing.

Fred and Frank told us to keep up the pressure on them or they could come back on us. No one looked like they were going to let it rest at that score. We relaxed but kept up the intensity while we waited for the next period to start.

The second period was a repeat of the first. We hit them any chance we could and didn't give them time to set up any of their plays. I got to hit at least three of the players that were at the morning practice. One of them I hit right into their bench over the boards. We used his absence to have a nice five on four mini power play, allowing Shawn to score, tipping in a rebound off of a shot of mine.

Tim London, also on the fourth line, scored to make it five to nothing, when he intercepted a pass from a harried defenceman, and went in all alone for a breakaway. The period ended at five to nothing and we went in to the locker room as the crowd cheered.

We took it easy and chatted and Fred and Frank left us alone for most of the intermission. Just before we went back on, Fred reminded us to keep it up the intensity for one more period.

The third period almost turned ugly as they started taking exception to our hitting, retaliating when we still checked them hard. The ref let a lot of it go, but had to call a penalty on them when a forward slashed the back of the leg of Paul Snider after he had hit him hard into the boards. Paul went down from the slash and the ref couldn't turn a blind eye to it. He sent him off for a two minute minor and the first power play unit went onto the ice.

They won the draw and shot the puck down the ice. We went back to regroup and John carried the puck up the ice. He faked a dump in and hit me on our patented play. I dodged past the forward and faked the defenceman that I was going outside of him. I cut inside and wound up for a hard shot, then faked it and pulled it to my backhand and roofed it over the sprawling goalie for our sixth goal.

I was already skating away from the net and back to the bench when the defenceman that I had beat hit me from behind, pushing me to the ice with a cross-check. My teammates went after him as I got up and a pushing and shoving match ensued. More penalties were called as the refs tried to calm things down. We finally got off the ice, except for Daniel, who was in the box for roughing and the defenceman in for cross-checking and a ten minute misconduct.

The rest of the period we really didn't try and score, we just pressured and hit them whenever we could. Unfortunately they scored once to ruin Mark's bid for a shut-out. The final score was six to one and I ended up with two goals and two assists. Not bad for a hack and a lummox.

"Good work tonight men, that is how you answer an insult!" Fred shouted over our cheering. "I'm proud of all of you tonight. Go out and celebrate tonight but remember, no illegal drinking, for those that are legal, don't get drunk and call a cab to get home. Have fun but keep in mind you are Michigan Wolverine's and act accordingly."

We cheered again and quickly got changed into our suits. I wished the guys a good night and a good weekend and headed out. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw Lisa waiting with two other girls in the lobby.

"Hey Lisa, what are you doing here?" I asked as I walked up to the group.

"I convinced a couple of my friends to come see the game instead of going out to a bar," she said. "Mike, this is April and Hanna, girls, this is Mike."

"Hello ladies, it's nice to meet you both, sorry you got dragged here to see a hockey game," I said with a smile.

"We had to come and see what all the fuss was about," April said with a straight face. "It's been Mike scored this many goals, Mike is so tall and big, Mike is so cute; she's been going on and on for days."

"Sorry to put you through that, especially now that you've seen me," I responded to her. "It's a big letdown, I know."

"Well, you did score a couple goals tonight and you are tall and big," Hanna said with a grin to lessen the hurt I'm sure.

"Two out of ten isn't so bad I guess," I said with a grin.

"You three can just stop your feeble attempts at humour at my expense any time you wish," Lisa said with her head held high. "You better all stay in school because you'll never get a comedy gig any time soon."

We all laughed at her until she finally cracked a grin.

"So, can you come out tonight for a snack with us Mike?" Lisa asked. "We won't keep you out too late or get you in trouble."

"You know what, I think I will join you ladies, I haven't had much fun lately," I said. "As long as April and Hanna don't mind the company."

"Well, since we came with her, we really don't have a choice," April deadpanned.

"Well, with that ringing endorsement, let's go and have some fun," I said. "I'll follow you in my car Lisa."

We left the arena and I walked them to her car, a new Lexus of course. I jogged over to my car and followed them to a Chili's a few minutes away. I parked down a few spots and met them in the lobby where Lisa was asking for a booth for four. The hostess guided us to a corner booth and I sat down beside Lisa with Hanna and April across from us. The hostess placed menus in front of us and told us our server would be with us soon.

"So, is this the girlfriend test phase of the sequence of events?" I asked with a smile, looking at them.

"Yes it is," April said, pulling out a pad of paper. "Question one, age?"

"Eighteen"

"Height?"

"Six three"

"Weight?"

"Two thirty"

"Chest size?"

"Forty eight"

"Waist size?"

"Thirty two"

"Size of member?"

"Haven't measured it"

"Small, medium or large?"

"Large"

"How many girlfriends?"

"One"

"Intimate?"

"Yes"

"Current status?"

"Recently single"

"Opinion of Lisa?"

"Beautiful, determined, kind to waifs, funny, probably very smart and giggles a lot."

"Intentions to same?"

"Get to know her, see if we have anything in common"

"Major?"

"Computer Science"

"Grades so far?"

"Very good"

"Future career?"

"Graphic programmer"

Current financial status?"

"Secure"

"Ok, that's enough for now, but we reserve the right to recall this witness," April said. Ladies, shall we adjourn for a conference?"

Lisa nudged me with an elbow so I got up to let her out and they marched to the washroom. They were all wearing nice snug jeans and blouses under expensive looking leather jackets. April and Hanna, while not quite as beautiful as Lisa, were still very good looking. April was nearly as tall as Lisa while Hanna was a couple inches shorter.

I ordered a diet coke and a platter of appetizers to start when the server came by and let her know the ladies would be back soon. I was starting to worry that they had skipped out on me or gotten into trouble when I saw them come out of the bathroom. They had fixed their hair somehow; it was no longer pulled back into a neat ponytail, but loose and flowing. They all had long hair and they looked much sexier with it around their shoulders and down their back.

"Wow, you three look great with your hair down and loose," I complimented them as I got up to let her in.

"Thank you kind sir," Lisa said, stopping to stand close to me and smile up at me for a couple of seconds before slipping in beside me.

I got a whiff of her perfume and it smelled wonderful, distracting me for a few seconds as I looked at Lisa with a smile.

"Ahem, earth to Mike, you're staring" April said.

"Sorry, but in my defence, she is breathtaking," I said.

"Be that as it may, Hanna and I have decided Lisa shouldn't see you anymore," April said.

"Oh and why is that?" I asked calmly.

"She won't have time for us anymore with a guy like you hanging around," Hanna said with a grin.

"Yeah, she'll always want to be with you or worse, drag us to your hockey games every weekend," April said with a frown.

"Well Lisa, I guess it was just not meant to be," I said with a sad face. "It could have been so special, but now we'll never know how close we would have become. I better go now and leave you to your friends."

I went to get up and Lisa grabbed my arm and pulled me back.

"Not a chance mister, I overruled the friendship test on the fact that they will still see me every other weekend when you're out of town," she said. "You're not getting away that easy."

She didn't let go of my arm and we were now sitting right beside each other. It felt good to have someone interested in me, especially someone so beautiful.

"I ordered an appetizer tray to start but didn't know what you ladies liked to drink or eat," I told them. "I'm a bit hungry after the game so I was thinking of ordering some wings and fries."

"We'll probably have salads and mooch some wings off of you," Lisa said with a grin.

"Well I better get a couple orders then," I said dryly.

The server came with the appetizers and we ordered the girls some drinks and put in our food order.

"So how long have you three known each other?" I asked.

"We all went to public and high school together," Hanna said.

"Do you two go to Michigan as well?" I asked.

"No, we go to State, there was no chance Lisa was going anywhere but Michigan though," April replied. "Her daddy would have had a heart attack if she had."

"You guys didn't want to come to Michigan?"

"My father would have had a heart attack if I had," Hanna said with a laugh.

"I just wanted to get as far away as possible from my parents and Lansing is farther away," April said. "We always knew we would separate for college, but it's not too far that we can't see each other on the weekends."

"It's good to see that you are keeping so close to each other" I said with a smile.

"You have to work at it or you get caught up with new friends and we wouldn't see each other until the holidays," Lisa said. "I go to Lansing and stay over and they come here, or we meet back home."

We dug into the appetizers and their drinks came soon after. Lisa stayed close to me and slipped her hand down my arm to hold my hand. I looked at her and she smiled and then kept eating. Luckily her left was holding my right so we still had our dominant hands to eat with.

In time the salads as well as the wings and fries were delivered to the table and the remains of the appetizers taken away. I got a refill on the drinks as well. Conversation was light, with the girls talking about some of the things they got into together through the years.

"So, are either of you two seeing anyone now?" I asked, when the topic of boys came up.

"No, we've met a few guys but most of them are out for a quick roll in the hay and on to the next girl," April said in disgust. "I hope you're not the same way!"

"I don't have any hay at all, so no rolling will happen," I replied with a straight face.

"None?" Hanna said, looking and sounding shocked. "I don't think Lisa likes the sound of that!"

"I'm allergic to hay anyway, so barnyards and haylofts are off limits," Lisa replied.

We laughed and continued to eat, with the girls grabbing French fries and chicken wings off my plate. Lisa fed me a forkful of salad using her fork which the other two girls made fun of.

We finally finished up after midnight and I paid the bill while they were again in the bathroom.

"Alright ladies, it's been a pleasure meeting you and I hope to see you in a couple of weeks if Lisa and I are still talking," I said to April and Hanna.

"She hasn't come with the bill Mike," Lisa said.

"She has and it's taken care of already," I told her.

"Hey, you weren't supposed to pay for everyone," she exclaimed.

"It's not as if you guys ate much, except for some rabbit food," I told her. "I'm afraid I'm a bit of an old time chauvinist who opens the door for women and pays the check when ladies are involved."

"Hmmm, I guess it's ok this time, but don't expect to pay every time," she said. "These two have dad's that can afford to pick up a check or two to keep their princesses happy."

"Yeah, like you live in a shack with an outhouse yourself," April rebutted.

"Really, I thought I was the only one who still didn't have that fancy indoor plumbing," I remarked. "Is it a two seater like ours?"

Lisa swatted me on my arm and told me to quit it. I helped with their coats and we walked out of the restaurant. She held my hand and walked close to me, letting the other two go ahead. She unlocked the doors and told me to hang on while she started the car to warm it up. Hanna and April got in after we exchanged goodbyes, and Lisa got out and shut the driver's door.

"It was nice to see you tonight Lisa, a very good surprise," I said as she came close.

"I'm glad you got along with my friends," she said. "I had a good time tonight and can't wait to see you again."

"I did too, it was nice to have company rather than heading back to an empty apartment," I told her. "I'm looking forward to lunchtime Monday and dinner on Tuesday night."

"Me too, I wish we didn't have so far to go, I could stay longer with you," she said with a pout as she pulled me up against her.

I looked down at her as she looked up with those big blue eyes. Her arms came up and pulled my head down and she planted a kiss on my lips. I kissed her back softly until she broke it off.

"You could put your arms around me," she whispered. "I won't break."

"I didn't want to presume anything," I whispered back as I wrapped her up in my arms.

"Presume all you want," she sighed and then kissed me again.

I kissed her back but tried not to let it get carried away. Her tongue moved along my lips but I kept them shut, even when she tried harder.

April saved the day as she opened her window and said "If you're going to do him right here in the parking lot, at least come inside where it's warm and we can watch without having to wipe off the windows every ten seconds."

Lisa backed away and shot her a dirty look and then a sheepish one at me.

"Sorry Mike, I got a bit carried away there for a minute," she said as she blushed. "I'm really not this forward with anyone else, but I can't seem to help myself with you."

"I didn't mind the kiss at all," I told her with a smile. "But we should get to know each other before we get too carried away."

"Good, then I'll keep it up after we get to know each other," she said with a smile. "Just don't let anyone else get that close to you until we do, understand."

"Yes Ma'am, you're the only one in the picture," I reassured her.

She got in the car and shut the door. She lowered the window and wished me goodnight.

"Goodnight, all of you," I replied with a smile. "Drive safely and I'll see you on Monday at noon, ok?"

"Ok Mike, have a good weekend, and thanks for the food," she replied.

She slowly pulled out of the parking spot and they drove off. I soon followed in my car, but turned off towards my apartment. I was back inside about ten minutes later.

I got out of the suit and hung it up before getting ready for bed. I slipped into bed and thought about Lisa and how she acted. I never thought I was much of a catch for the opposite sex, but the twins and now Lisa seemed to want me. I guess the extra height and muscles didn't hurt. I felt good to be wanted for the first time in my life. I hadn't planned on a new girlfriend so quickly and still pined for the twins, but it didn't seem like she was going to want to take it slow. I fell asleep dreaming of her kiss and how she felt so close to me.

Sunday morning I got up and did my usual morning practice on the rink and then did a full workout in the gym. After a shower, I went back to my apartment, got into some good clothes and then followed Mr. Peterson's direction to the Fox and Hounds Restaurant in Bloomfield Hills. I arrived about quarter to twelve and walked into the front entrance. The hostess let me know he wasn't here yet so I sat on one of the benches in the lobby. Mr. Peterson showed up a few minutes later.

"Hey Mike, been waiting long?" he asked.

I shook his hand and told him only a few minutes. He led me to the pub portion of the restaurant and we sat where we could both see a big screen TV. One of the pregame shows was on so we didn't have to pay much attention yet.

"So, gentlemen, what can I get you to drink?" a pretty waitress asked, coming over from behind the bar.

"I'll have a Bud," Mr. Peterson said.

"I'll have a diet coke please," I ordered.

She left some menus and went to get the drinks.

"What's good here?" I asked.

"Everything is good here, what are you in the mood for?" he asked.

"I just had chicken wings last night, so I think I'll go for a burger," I replied.

"Their steaks and prime rib are fantastic here, this is on me so don't be shy," he told me.

"That's a nice offer Mr. Peterson, but the NCAA rules say I have to pay for my food," I informed him.

"Are you sure, I never meant for you to have to pay for your meal when I'm the one asking for a meeting," he said frowning.

"They are pretty strict about it Mr. Peterson, but don't worry, I'm ok for money and I have to eat anyway," I reassured him.

"Ok, but next time we have it at the house so no one will know if we feed you," he responded

We put in our food order when she came back with our drinks and then he started.

"So, you're probably wondering why I asked to meet with you privately," he started.

"Well, I assume it's to talk about your daughter and me," I said. "I'm sure you're worried about her and what kind of guys she will attract because of your money and the fact that she is a beautiful young lady."

"You would be right in your assumption," he said. "It was hard enough in high school to keep the leeches away; now that's she's out of the house and at Michigan, it's much harder for us to protect her, especially now that her friends went to the other school."

"I just met Hanna and April and they put me through the ringer as well," I told him. "It must be hard to let your child go away to school but still worry every day about her. Hopefully you can trust that she's learned enough to pick the right people to hang out with and the right guy to go out with."

"It's not easy, that's for sure," he agreed, "especially since she's our only child. She's been a great kid, not getting into much trouble, and always acting so mature at all of our business functions. But even there, we have to watch out for young businessmen that work for my companies or for ones we deal with. They try and woo her to get ahead in their career even though she's only eighteen."

"Well, all I can say is that one, I'm not interested in your money or a job with your company," I informed him. "Two, we're not even sure we have anything in common yet; three your daughter is choosing me, not me chasing her. Your daughter will be in full control how serious we get and at what pace. I'm not over my last girlfriend yet so I'm willing to let her dictate the speed."

"We did notice how our daughter seems to be infatuated with you," he said dryly. "She's definitely trying out new things now that she is becoming more independent."

"You're lucky she still comes home most weekends and shares with you," I said. "I think you have a wonderful daughter that you should be proud of. I promise I won't push her into anything bad; I don't drink, do drugs, or hang out at bars with my friends late. I study hard, get good grades, attend all my classes and all the practices and hockey games. I'll protect her as best I can from any guys and try not to hurt her if things don't work out down the road. I won't ever hit her or you up for money and I pay for all of my dates."

"How do I know that you're not just telling me what I want to hear?" he asked.

"For some of it you don't, but I'm sure you have the capabilities to investigate me to find out some of this stuff on your own," I said. "I'd be surprised if you didn't already have a report on me, from bank accounts, family history, course grades and whatever Fred has told you about me."

"None of those tell me what type of man you are," he said. "I needed to hear it direct from you."

"Well, only time will tell you that," I responded. "Look, this is a bit premature, we're not even sure we are compatible yet. We're going to meet for lunch and a dinner this week to see if there is anything besides the obvious physical attraction. Your daughter has chosen me, I'm not sure why really. I wasn't looking for a relationship at this time but she is a very determined lady. I would like to see if we can be friends and then we'll take it further, at her pace."

"And if I don't want you to do that, if I want you to stay away from her?" he asked.

"That's a difficult question to answer," I responded slowly as I thought about it. "I haven't initiated any of our contact so far, but I did promise her to meet for lunch and a dinner next week. I live up to my promises so I would have to say I couldn't miss those. Afterwards, if I felt obligated to do what you wished, I could stay away from her. It would hurt her, especially if I told her that it was by your request, as I wouldn't lie to her. I think she would still come and find me, either at school, the arena or at my apartment, unless I told her I didn't want to see her again."

"What if I made it worth your while to stay away from her?" he asked, reaching for a check book and a pen.

"I told you I didn't need your money, and now I think this conversation is over," I said, getting mad.

"I can make you a very rich man Mike, you just have to send my daughter away the next couple of times she comes to see you," he said.

"Up to now I was being polite Mr. Peterson, but you've stepped way over the line," I said, getting up. I can't believe you would do this to your only daughter, hurt her like this when she finds about it. It amazes me that you would think that little of me, that I would take money to hurt her."

I walked over to the bartender and gave her a twenty for my portion of the bill and then left the restaurant, seething. I sped away from the parking lot and drove back to the apartment. My cell rang about twenty minutes later but I ignored it and kept driving. A couple minutes later it buzzed, letting me know I had a message. I ignored that as well.

I arrived home and got changed out of the good clothes and found two messages on the phone in the apartment. I pressed the button and listened to them.

"Mike, it's Lisa," she said. "I'm sure you're just as angry as I am right now at my father. He just told me you passed his money test at your man to man meeting. I wish you or he would have told me about it so I could have warned you what he would probably do and warned him how you would react. I was going to let you know this week what he would do but he beat me to it. I'm so sorry that he did that, and I know how insulted you are that he would think he had to do that to you. He's either scared away or bribed several boys away from me in the last couple of years and I'm sick of it.

I'm sure you don't want to talk to me right now, but please believe me that I had nothing to do with it. I know you aren't after my money; hell you're not after me at all. I think that we had a nice time last night and there is obviously a physical attraction, so please don't give up on me. I will still meet you tomorrow for lunch and I promise to keep my dad out of our relationship. My mom is furious with him as well, so she will keep him in line.

So, call me if you would like to talk, if not, I will see you tomorrow. I'm really, really sorry about what happened Mike. Bye for now."

The second message came on and it was her dad.

"Mike, I stepped over the line today, trying to protect my only daughter," he started. "I really didn't think you would take the money, but I've gotten so paranoid that I do that with everyone she meets and gets friendly with. Please believe it wasn't a slight against you, it was a father who has had three guys in the last year take the money and run. I apologize for the insult and please don't take it out on Lisa; she had no knowledge that I was going to do that. If it helps, both Lisa and her mother are seriously pissed at me right now, so don't think I'm getting away with anything here."

I got out my cell and played the message from Lisa. It was basically the same as what was on the apartment answering machine, probably left first.

I was still pissed at her father and at her for not warning me, or even getting me involved with her family. I definitely didn't want to talk to her for a while so I got out my textbooks and read for a bit and then worked on my novella, knowing that I had to show Cynthia something Wednesday night. I took a break for supper and then worked until the Sunday night football game came on. I watched that until I fell asleep with the TV still on.



-------

Chapter 28


Last night's sleep was terrible. I had tossed and turned over Mr. Peterson's attempt to bribe me. It really pissed me off yesterday that someone thought so low of me to do that. I had finally fallen asleep but dreamt of Lisa, Vicky and Becky all night, with one of the three catching me with the other one or both. I even had a dream that the three of them got together and I caught them. Maybe that was more of a fantasy, but all in all, it was a pretty restless sleep.

And adding to that crappy sleep was the fact that I didn't know what to do about Lisa this morning. She was pushing herself into my life pretty hard and I still wasn't sure how much I wanted her in it. Sure she was beautiful and seemed to want me, which in any eighteen year old guy's mind should be enough to go along with anything she wanted, but I still held hope out for the twins to come back. If they did and found out I had replaced them in two weeks, they would drop me like a hot potato.

I went to the arena and got dressed for practice. After our normal warm-ups Fred gave his normal start of the week speech.

"We had a good weekend gentlemen, especially Saturday night" he started. "Let's keep it up when we go to Alaska this week. We fly out Thursday and it's an all day flight, so we don't have much time to prepare this week. The University of Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks are not to be taken lightly. They have a very good program and always give a visiting team a fight. We need to work on keeping up our intensity as they always bring a high energy game."

We had an intense practice and I wasn't the only one worn out when they let us go. I slowly dragged myself into the shower and then got a move on to get to class. Plopping down beside Steph, I sighed as I could finally relax.

"Rough weekend Mikey?" she asked with a grin.

"Intense practice this morning, but also a busy weekend as usual," I explained. "How was yours?"

"Pretty good, spent some time with the family and with Ryan as well," she replied.

"Good to hear it," I said. "Hey, do you mind if a girl comes for lunch today?"

"Who's this girl?" she asked with a questioning look.

"Someone I met at the hockey games," I told her. "She seems to like me but I want to get to know her before rushing into things."

I told her a little about the various times we had met and what happened both Saturday and Sunday. We had to stop the conversation to hand in our assignment. The professor did a review of what would be on next Monday's second midterm and then continued on with new stuff. Steph and I walked out of the classroom after he was done and had given out the new assignment.

"Tough week ahead Mike, don't lose focus over a girl now," Steph cautioned.

"Tell me about it," I agreed. "I'm gone from Thursday to Sunday so I have to get all my assignments done before hand if I can, so I can study on the trip. She will be just there for lunch and I'll let her know about how busy we will be."

"Alright, I'll see you at noon," she said before walking away.

I watched her until she turned the corner and then went to creative writing. After handing in my assignment, I sat through more tips on writing. I wrote down the new assignment and headed to the cafeteria, still not sure how I felt about Lisa.

Lisa was waiting for me just inside the doors and she had worried smile on her face as she saw me come in. She had on a snug pair of jeans and a tight blouse that showed off her figure without looking trampy.

"Hi Mike, I hope you don't mind me having lunch with you after what my father pulled," she said. "I swear I didn't know he was going to do that so soon, I would have warned you so you were better prepared for it. I'm so sorry that he insulted you like that."

She looked like she was getting upset as she looked up at me. She was very beautiful, even with a sad look on her face. I caved in a bit as I looked down into her big blue eyes.

"Ok Lisa, you can have lunch with me and Steph, but we're keeping this strictly platonic for a while longer" I told her. "We need to get to know each other better and the next couple of weeks are killers for me, with the Alaska trip, assignments and midterms."

Her face broke out in a big smile and she closed in to hug me. I stepped back and she stopped and gave me a sheepish grin.

"Sorry, I almost got carried away Mike," she said, putting her arms down. "Rule one, no hugs or kisses for at least two weeks."

"Ok, let's get some food and go find Steph," I said, leading her to the cafeteria.

I grabbed two trays and led her around the room, putting drinks and food on as she pointed out things. I paid for us both and led her to the table where Steph sat waiting.

"Hey Steph, this is Lisa Peterson, Lisa this is Stephanie Merks," I said as I sat down across from her.

Hi Lisa, glad you could join us for lunch," Steph said with a smile. "Mikey didn't tell me you were so beautiful. I should have guessed; he's always surrounded by beautiful women."

"Well, I guess you have both beauty and brains then, because he raved about how smart you were, but forgot to mention how gorgeous you were," Lisa replied with a grin.

"Please, next to you and the twins, let alone Jessica and Amanda, I'm the short ugly stepsister," Steph replied with a frown.

"Hey, you know that's not true; you're the short evil stepsister, not the ugly one," I spoke up with a grin. "I'm sure Ryan appreciates your gorgeous body just fine."

Steph blushed and Lisa picked up on it.

"Oh, is Ryan your boyfriend? You're blushing like a new bride," Lisa said. "How long have you been going out and how far have you gone?"

"We've been official now about a week and been seeing each other for a few weeks now," Steph replied.

"And?" Lisa pushed with a grin.

"Things are going along fine," she said with a blush and a quick glance at me.

Lisa saw the look at me and smiled before saying, "We'll have to talk when Mr. Big Ears isn't around."

Lisa turned to me and asked, "So, who are all these other women Stephanie is talking about?"

"I told you about my girlfriend Vicky and her sister Becky already," I said. "Jessica was her chemistry lab partner, so we don't see her anymore, now that Vicky has left school. Amanda is John Reilly's girlfriend; John is my defence partner."

"So have you made any guy friends since you've been here?" Lisa asked.

"I know most of the guys on the team, so you could say some of them are friends," I answered. "But I haven't made any friends other than them, just a few acquaintances so far. It's harder living in an apartment and with my schedule. How about you?"

"I've made a couple in my classes and in the dorm," she said. "My roommate is a real social butterfly, so I meet a lot of girls."

That got Steph and her talking about the dorms and who they knew. They were quickly chatting about who they both knew and some of the parties they had heard about. I finished my lunch quickly and started working on the logic assignment while they chatted. I had it a third finished when they stopped talking and the silence made me look up.

"I thought we were supposed to be getting to know each other better, not Steph and me," Lisa said with bemused look.

"To know Steph is to know me, right princess?" I said with a grin.

"Don't get me in involved in your impoliteness," she rebutted. "You bring a guest to lunch and ignore her that's your fault, not mine."

"Sorry, you two seemed to be getting along, I thought it would be a good thing," I said. "I need to use every waking minute the next couple of weeks to stay ahead of everything. And now it's time to go to our next classes."

"How convenient for you," Lisa said as Steph nodded her agreement.

"Well Ladies, I would love to stay and chat but I must go," I said, standing up. "I will see you in an hour and a half, right back here Steph. Lisa, if you want to come back then we can all study together. If not, we can meet tomorrow at the arena cafeteria for supper after six if you want."

She opened her mouth, probably to protest our dining arrangements, but wisely held her tongue and nodded. I said goodbye and left them there and went to algebra class.

Algebra was also a review class for next Wednesday's second midterm. I handed in the assignment after writing down the new one and left for the cafeteria. Steph was waiting at our usual table when I got there.

"So, that girl has got it bad for you Mikey," she said with a grin. "What did you do to her?"

"Nothing, I swear," I said. "She's the one coming on to me. I don't know what she sees in me."

She shook her head and replied, "Mike, you are a catch for any woman. You were cute enough when you first got here, but now that you have put on some muscles, you're a hunk. Put your smarts on top of that and you're down right irresistible."

"Yah right," I said. "I'm nothing special Steph and never have been."

"You probably were a nice guy all along, but it takes a woman to know how special you are, not a teenage girl who thinks about how others will see it. Now, even those girls would be after you with that body," she insisted.

"Whatever, now what do I do about Lisa?" I asked.

"I don't know, she seems pleasant enough, but she is obsessed with you," she remarked. "I need more time with her to see if it's a crush or a fatal attraction thing."

"Yeah, I want to just get to know her and figure what she's all about before we go any further," I agreed. "Ok, enough about her, let's get busy."

We worked on the logic assignment until I finished mine and I started on my algebra one while she completed her logic one. All too soon it was time for practice. I told her I would see her in the morning and walked to the arena.

Practice was intense again, with Fred trying to get us to maintain what we had accomplished on Saturday night. I drove home exhausted after having some supper at the cafeteria. When I got home I finished off my algebra assignment and worked on my creative writing assignment. After that I pulled out my novella and wrote a couple of chapters while watching the Monday night football game. I lasted until half time and then fell asleep after brushing my teeth.

Tuesday was busy as usual, with three hockey practices, programming class and a work-out. Steph and I met at two thirty and worked on our new programming assignment in the arena cafeteria and got a lot accomplished. After practice, I met Lisa outside of the cafeteria. She was dressed up in a nice skirt and blouse outfit and had her hair fixed as well.

"You look very nice tonight Lisa," I said as I approached her with a smile.

"Well, I thought I would dress nicely for our first dinner together as acquaintances," she said with a grin. "This is kind of new to me, to be the pursuer rather than the pursued. I don't know what you like or how you want me to act or dress."

"Lisa, just be yourself, I want you to be comfortable enough that we can hang out and just talk to each other," I told her. "Let's go get some food and we can sit down and talk about all sorts of stuff."

So that is what we did. We had a nice fried chicken meal, with mashed potatoes and gravy and we sat there for two hours, talking about each of our childhoods. Once she stopped trying so hard, she became natural, telling me stories of her life growing up with rich parents. She had travelled the world, taking educational vacations to various countries in the world each summer, and then working the rest of the summer at one of her dad's many companies. She told me all about what she had learned from each company and how it was starting to make sense when she merged in her work experience with the education she was getting now. Lisa turned out to be very smart when she finally let that part of herself out, and stopped trying to win me over.

"Wow, its eight o'clock already," I said, looking up at the clock. "Time flies when you're having fun. I must say this is the best time I've spent with you yet Lisa. I like the real you, it compliments your beauty and makes you into a wonderful brilliant gorgeous woman that any man would like to get to know better."

She blushed and then smiled before saying, "You're so easy to talk to; guys don't want to listen to a girl going on about her life. I did notice I was doing most of the talking tonight. Next time, you talk while I get to sit and listen buster."

"Ok, but it will have to be later next week," I told her. "I have three midterms Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Maybe we can meet for dinner Thursday night?"

"It's a date," she said, before realizing what she said. "I meant that in a platonic way."

I laughed and said "Relax, I knew what you meant. Now let me drive you back to the dorm; I don't want you out alone in the dark."

"Thank you kind sir," she replied.

I grabbed the trays after slinging my backpack over my shoulder, and then walked to the door with her. We dumped the trays and walked to the lobby where I helped her with her coat before we left the arena. I opened her door and shut it behind her before walking around to mine. We made the quick trip to the main campus and I pulled into a parking lot near her dorm. I got out, ignoring her protests, and walked her to her door.

"Lisa Peterson, I had a wonderful time getting to know you a bit better," I said with a smile.

"I enjoyed our non-date as well Michael Stewart," she giggled. "I will see you for lunch with Steph tomorrow if that's still ok?"

"Sure, but expect me to work," I replied.

"Alright, but you have to talk to us a bit Mikey," she said grinning.

"Hello, how are you is a bit," I said. "Ok, you have a good night; I have a few hours of work and studying to do."

"Sorry to hear that, and sorry to keep you out so late," she said with a frown.

"I wouldn't have missed it for the world," I replied. "See you tomorrow."

I opened the door for her and waited until she was in the elevator before walking away. She waved when she saw me and I waved back and then turned back to the car. I drove home and got to work, finishing my computer assignment and then writing more on my novella. I wanted to make sure I had enough for Cynthia to review tomorrow night. I finished another chapter and then hit the hay around eleven thirty.

Wednesday morning brought a cold front into the region and I was shivering when I got out of bed. I got dressed in the warmest stuff I had, a Michigan sweatshirt and jeans, and made a note to myself to get a warmer winter jacket before the trip tomorrow. I drove to the arena and got dressed for practice.

Fred, Frank and Sam worked us hard again and I could see a few guys looking exhausted as we finally left the ice. A couple of them looked really worn out, even after a shower. I left the arena and walked up to the main campus, feeling tired but not too bad. I sat down beside Steph just as the professor came in.

"Hey Princess," I said. "How's it going?"

"Eh!" she added with a giggle. "It's going ok, how was your dinner with Lisa?"

"Quite pleasant once she loosened up and acted normal," I told her. "She's very smart and it shows when she's not trying to be something else. I like her when she's real."

"So she's someone you would like to be with?" she asked.

"Too soon to tell yet," I replied. "I like her intelligence and her base personality when we were by ourselves. I need to see her a few more times around others to see if she changes. So far, we don't have much in common either."

The professor started his lecture then so we left it at that. We split up as usual after class and I headed to creative writing. The professor had a teaching assistant helping her carry in our short stories.

"Good morning everyone," she started, when the TA left the class. "As you can see, I have your short stories with me to hand back to you. Overall, they were fairly well done, with several excellent stories and some that need extensive help. Those that did not use a third party editor, and probably got a lower mark, should see either the teaching assistants or myself during office hours to go over your story."

She started calling up students alphabetically and had a couple things to say to each student. Finally she called me up.

"Mr. Stewart, this was an excellent short story, on top of a flawless editing job, the topic was a brilliant choice and it was presented in a most excellent manner," she told me. "If you weren't so adept at playing hockey or computer programming, I would try to convince you to continue writing. You have what it takes to be a good one."

"Thank you professor, I certainly put the effort into it, but I had an excellent editor as well," I replied.

"Yes, Cynthia is a very good writer, and she certainly helped to polish your work," she agreed. "The story is one of the best I've read in a few years; very good work Mr. Stewart."

"Thank you very much professor," I responded and took the story from her.

I looked down and saw a ninety five on the front cover, with an 'excellent writing' written below. I sat down and slipped it into my book and waited while she finished up handing out the stories. She then continued with her lecture until the hour was up. I walked back to the cafeteria and met Lisa waiting by the doorway.

"Good morning Lisa, you are looking wonderful this morning," I said.

She had on a pretty blouse and skirt combo that was very chic and made her look older than her years.

Thank you kind sir, you look in a good mood," she replied with a smile.

"I just got my short story back and got a good grade on it, so yes I am in a good mood," I agreed. "Come along and we shall celebrate with an extra helping of dessert."

"You certainly know how to treat a lady," she said with a laugh.

"I do, don't I?" I replied with a smirk.

I let her go first and we went around the cafeteria grabbing food. I put three chocolate desserts onto my tray and paid for both of us. We found Steph and sat down across from her.

"Hey Steph, our wild partier here is celebrating hard today," Lisa said with a grin. "Try not to get too wiped out."

"Oh, and what are we celebrating?" she asked.

"He got a good mark on his short story," Lisa informed her.

"Good for you Mikey, you worked hard for that one," Steph congratulated me. "So, party at your apartment tonight with your favourite lunch mates?"

Lisa laughed and then said, "Oh, it's much better than that!"

"Oh, he's going to do a strip tease for us when we get there?" Steph asked with a wicked grin on her face.

"Ok, that would be better," Lisa admitted. "I better tell you so you're not so disappointed later. We all get chocolate desserts for lunch."

"Nope, not good enough, I want to see some skin Mister!" Steph demanded.

"Skin, we want skin!" Lisa chanted.

I passed out the desserts and said "Sorry ladies, chocolate is all you're getting from me."

We ate our food and chatted over our desserts. Lisa said it was my turn to talk so I told the girls about growing up in Northern Ontario, the snow, the cold and playing on the annual ice rink my dad and I built in the back yard. They asked about girls and I told them about being a shy geeky beanpole who couldn't talk to a girl to save my life.

"So why is it that all of your friends down here are women?" Lisa asked.

"Just lucky I guess," I shrugged. "I didn't have many guy friends up there either."

Thankfully for me, the time ran out quicker than the inquisitors wanted it too, so I escaped without too much bloodshed. I left them still chatting away as I walked to algebra class. The professor there started new material so we were busy writing down everything he was saying. The class finally ended and I met Steph back at the cafeteria. We worked on finishing up our assignments for next week and then started studying for our second midterm in logic.

"It's time for practice Mikey," Steph prompted me. "I'll see you in the morning right?"

"Yep, we don't leave until the afternoon," I told her. "Have a good night ok?"

"You too," she replied.

I packed up and left her there studying while I hoofed it over to the arena. I was surprised not to see a path being worn in the concrete sidewalks between the two buildings with the amount of time I spent walking back and forth. I entered the arena and headed to the locker room to get dressed. A few of the guys were there early as well and we shot the shit as we got our equipment on.

Our goalie Mark came in looking like crap. He didn't bother putting on his equipment on but just sat at his locker looking miserable. John asked what was wrong.

"I've got the flu real bad," he replied. "I'm going back to bed as soon as I talk to the coaches."

John and I looked at each other and frowned. Bob, our back-up goalie, definitely just wasn't up to the task. This could be a real bad weekend if Mark couldn't play. Our emergency back-up goalie, Josh Miller, was a rookie that usually didn't travel with us but it looked like he would be the back-up at least for the Friday night game. Joshua was getting suited up, so he must have been warned beforehand.

Out on the ice, the coaches left us have a longer shooting practice against both goalies at either end of the ice. I shot at both goalies, moving to the other end to shoot against the rookie Josh after taking a bunch of shots against Bob. I was impressed with how Josh stopped a few of my harder shots where Bob had some trouble with a couple of them.

Fred called us all together and started off saying, "As you might know already, we have a flu issue with Mark. Bob will be our starter on Friday unless Mark is better and Josh will be coming as the back-up. So, we are going to play a more defensive game to give our goalie some extra help. We're going to keep an extra forward back and just play an opportunistic offence, reacting to their mistakes."

They had us practicing the new scheme with the centre coming back deeper to the front of the net to help the defence. He would also go to the corners first, allowing the defence to concentrate on the people in front. We rotated every defence pair with every line and practiced against the scout team offence. It took us over an hour and a half to get it down so that was all we had time to do. I got changed and left for my tutoring session.

Cynthia was waiting for me outside the cafeteria.

"Hey Cynthia, how are you?" I asked.

"Pretty good, and you?" she responded.

"Not bad, a bit tired," I told her. "Let's get something to eat and then you can look over what I've done so far."

I led her into the cafeteria and we grabbed some food on both of our trays before paying and finding a seat in the back row for privacy. After eating, Cynthia read the chapters I had finished while I watched and had a second helping of spaghetti. She was marking them up with a red pen, circling texts and drawing arrows to where they should go or replacing a word with another. It was a bit disheartening to see how much she wanted to change. When she was finally done she looked up at me and saw my expression.

"Mike, it's not that bad," she said laughing at the sight of my hound dog expression. "It's actually quite good. These changes just make it that much better."

"Well, it certainly looks like a disaster," I said, staring at all the corrections. "I'm glad I'm not in this class for a career, I'd be starving for sure."

"You would do just fine, you just need practice at it, that's all," she reassured me. "Every beginning writer goes through this phase. So, make these corrections and then continue on with the next chapters. I figure we could meet in about a week?"

"I think we'll have to make it after next weekend," I told her. "I have three midterms next week plus a couple of games, so I won't be doing much next week. I'll do a fair bit on this week's trip though, so maybe I can email you what I do?"

"Sounds good and we can just meet for a minute for you to sign my tutoring slip for the time I take to edit it," she suggested.

We exchanged email addresses and then I dropped her off at her dorm before heading to the nearest shopping mall. I found a leather store and bought a nice warm leather jacket and then headed home. I made all the corrections Cynthia had advised and then saved the new file on my laptop. I checked my email while I was online and found one from Vicky. In it she let me know they were back in New York as of last night and finally had a day to rest and take care of some things with their condo and other personal things. Tomorrow they had another photo shoot for Vanity Fair and then more fashion shows on Friday and the weekend.

She let me know about their LA trip, shooting a Revlon commercial as well as another magazine spread. They had gone to a couple of parties to get some exposure and met a few celebrities, with more than a few pick-up attempts by both men and women. They had to plead having a boyfriend to get out of making a couple of them angry. Their publicist thought it would have been good for their careers to go out with a Hollywood hunk and even had some pictures snapped when they were with a couple of them. Vicky warned me that I would probably see them popping up in tabloid magazines or on the entertainment shows but I was not to believe them or get upset. They were both too busy to get involved with anyone and more importantly, not over me yet. She attached a couple of pictures from their fashion shows and photo shoots so I could see how they looked.

They looked even more gorgeous than I remembered and was happy to hear they were not over me yet. I was glad that I had cooled it with Lisa and could be honest with them on how I felt about her and them. I wrote them a reply, congratulating them on their success and told them how I still felt about them and suggested we could still be more than just friends, even if they were too busy to see me often. I gave them a run down on school and hockey and also let them know all about Lisa, stressing that I was keeping it platonic, especially after what her dad had pulled. I signed off giving them my love and letting them know I was always here for them.

It felt good to think about them again and hoped they would take me up on my offer to stay together. I relaxed for the rest of the evening by watching a hockey game before falling asleep with the TV on, dreaming of the twins.

I woke up in a great mood Thursday morning, thinking about the twins. I got ready to go and packed my suitcase and my book bag with my all my study material and my laptop. I left them in my car while I went in and got changed for our practice and got out on the ice early. I did my usual skating warm-up after stretching and then got Patrick out to shoot on. After shooting from the blueline for a bit, I did some breakaways on him, skating in hard and wristing shots at the slots when I got close. Finally my teammates got on the ice and John helped me get Patrick off the net and put away.

"Have you heard the news?" John asked.

"Nope," I answered.

"Steve and Daniel both have the flu and probably won't be available for Friday's game," he told me.

"Shit, that's bad, real bad," I responded to the bad news. "We're in deep trouble without those guys and Mark too."

"Tell me about it," he agreed. "It's going to be a disaster."

Fred broke the news to the rest of the team and the coaches juggled the lines again. We practiced our modified defence with the new lines and John and I moved to first defence pair. The practice didn't go well as the new lines didn't mesh well. I left for class after learning we were heading out at one o'clock from the arena.

I sat beside Steph as the professor started a new chapter. When the lecture was done I wished her a good weekend and left for the arena. I did a full work-out with even more reps at the same high weight and then had a shower and dressed in my good casual clothes I had brought along. I went to the cafeteria and had a big meal and then studied for a while before heading out to the parking lot to get my suitcase and the rest of my books. I slid the suitcase into the luggage compartment below the bus and then found a seat in the bus.

Slowly the bus filled up with players, coaches, the training staff and tutors. We were short four players so most of the rest of the rookies came along for this trip, except the ones still on suspension. Our original second pair of defence, Mat and Ralph, was back on from their suspension, and due to players missing from the flu, was going to be the second pair of defence, while Albert would team up with the rookie speedster Don Farr to make up the third pair.

We finally got on the road to the airport and arrived about an hour later, pulling into the charter area. We went through security and got on board, where I scooped out an emergency door aisle seat again. We had a bigger plane as we were going across the country to Seattle, stopping for fuel and then flying north to Fairbanks Alaska. Once we were in the air I pulled out my Logic's notes and textbook and started studying for the test on Monday. Pam, the head of the tutoring brigade, came around and asked if I needed any help with anything.

"No thanks Pam, I just need to study for three midterms and then I'll continue on my novella that Cynthia is helping me with," I replied. "I have all my assignments for next week done already."

"That's good, you should have plenty of time to study the next four days," Pam replied with a smile, before heading to the next rookie on her list.

I continued with my studying, switching to algebra an hour or so later. I took a break after an hour of math and looked out the window for a bit. That got boring so I studied computer programming until the in flight meal arrived. It was surprisingly good; some fried chicken and mashed potatoes. We landed in Seattle at six thirty eastern, a bit over four hours after we took off from Detroit. We had gained three hours, so it was only three thirty on the west coast and we would gain another hour in Fairbanks. I didn't bother to set my watch for the four days we would be out there.

The plane refuelled and, with a new crew, took off for Fairbanks Alaska about half an hour later. I pulled out my laptop and continued with my novella. I took a break to stretch my legs and to hit the washrooms in the back and then continued with my writing. I got three more chapters done before the pilots came on asking us to get ready to land. I packed up my stuff and put my seatbelt on and we landed about ten minutes later, just over three hours from take-off in Seattle. It was six o'clock in Fairbanks or ten at night back in Michigan.

It was shockingly cold when we stepped out of the airport and onto the bus. I was happy I was wearing my new leather coat as it was well below freezing. I don't think we'll be doing much in the way of sightseeing while we're here!

The bus dropped us off at the hotel and we checked into our rooms. John and I unpacked and hung up our suits before heading back down for another meal. After eating, we hung around for a bit but were getting tired as our bodies were on Michigan time. I went back up to the room and quickly fell asleep by nine pm Alaska time while John stayed up a bit longer.

Friday morning I woke up an hour later than my usual time of six AM Eastern but looking at the alarm clock it showed it was only two AM here in Alaska. I had set my alarm for six am local time so I laid my head back down and tried to sleep for a bit longer. I managed a three more hours but I woke up groggy and sluggish. John was happily snoring away so I got up and had a quick shower and dressed in some sweats before heading down to find the work-out room. My card opened it up when I found it down a hallway. It was well equipped, with bikes, ellipticals, several Universal weight machines as well as some rowers and Stairmasters. I got on an elliptical and worked on cardio for half an hour before doing a cycle around the Universal machine. I ended with another cardio workout, this time on a Stairmaster and then headed up back up to the room. It was just after six when I got in and I shut off my alarm that was playing some music.

After having a shower and getting dressed, I grabbed my laptop and took the elevator back down and sat in the lobby with a diet coke and continued with my writing. It was easier going now that I had over half the chapters done and a good orderly layout of what each chapter should be about. I wasn't going to win a Pulitzer Prize or anything, but at least it would be done early so I could concentrate on the other three courses.

Fred sat down into the chair opposite me about an hour later, seven forty five local time, as I finished another chapter.

"Morning Mike, did you sleep well?" he asked.

"Morning Coach, and no, I didn't sleep that well to be honest," I replied. "I woke up at two am and slept a couple hours more but still got up by five. At least I got in a good work-out and a good hour of writing. So how about you; did you have a good sleep?"

"No, I was up about four AM even after staying up late," Fred answered in disgust. "This four hour time difference is a pain in the ass."

I laughed and then asked, "So, you had plenty of time to juggle the lines around and come up with a winning combination right?"

"We'll be playing with a few more rookies than I would like to see, that's for sure," Fred responded. "We will definitely be underdogs tonight."

"Nothing new there, the last few weeks haven't been exactly cakewalks," I said dryly.

"I guess not, with the issues we've had," Fred agreed with a chuckle. "So, how are things going?"

"Ok, I have three midterms next week, so I've got a lot of studying to do this weekend," I replied. "Luckily, I don't think I'll be doing much in the way of exploration here, it's much too cold for long walks!"

Fred laughed and said, "I have to agree with you there, it's too bad we don't have a couple games in Hawaii instead!"

"Now that would be nice!" I agreed.

We chatted a bit longer and then, after closing up my laptop, went in and got in line for breakfast in a separate room. After we ate, Fred let us know we would be leaving for the arena in a half an hour. I put my stuff back up in the room and got my new coat and returned to the lobby. When the bus arrived we boarded and it took us to the Carlson Center, less than fifteen minutes away.

Our practice was used to get the new lines familiar with themselves and then get the first and second units some time on the power play and penalty kill. We had a short scrimmage at the end before the buzzer rang and we were forced off the ice. After showering and getting dressed, we loaded back on to the bus and drove back to the hotel.

Fred spoke up on the way back, "We'll have lunch when we get back to the hotel and then the afternoon is all yours. I suggest you use it to get caught up on your homework and studying if you need to. Meet back at the banquet hall in the hotel at four thirty for supper and then we leave for the arena at five fifteen. We skate at six and the game starts just after seven."

So we had a buffet lunch and then John and I both went up to the room and studied for a while. After a couple of hours I packed up my stuff and had a nap, setting the alarm for four fifteen. John nudged me awake when I didn't wake up from the soft music playing as an alarm. I washed my face and combed my hair and then we headed down for supper. Afterwards we quickly got into our suits and then boarded the bus to the arena.

We had our quick warm-up skate and then waited in the locker room until it was time to play. I could see a few yawns from the guys as it was now eleven back in Michigan. Finally we headed out to the ice, with John and me on the ice as the first defensive pair, along with the first line.

The game started with both teams tentative, feeling each other out. John got off a good shot from the point when I was double covered. The goalie stopped it and they brought the puck up the ice into our zone. Their defenceman dumped it behind me and I raced to get the puck ahead of their forward. I passed it around behind the net to John and braced for the hit from the forward. It wasn't much of one and I turned back up the ice as John passed it out of the zone. We got to the points inside their blueline just in time for me to get a pass back from Gary. I took a low hard shot that Chris deflected but their goalie stopped it with his glove and held it for a whistle. We changed up and the second line and defence pair came on.

The game went back and forth for a bit as we went through the lines. John and I got on with the fourth line a few minutes later but nothing much happened. I did notice that we seemed to be sluggish out there, not skating as hard as we were capable of.

It bit us in the ass just before the end of the period, as our fourth line was up against their first line, as they had last change. The second defensive pair was on the ice with them as we lost the draw to their best line. They set up the cycle down low and, with our slower players on the ice, it was too easy for the Nanooks to have our guys chasing them around our zone. Finally, their centre set up their left winger for an easy tap in behind Bob and they were leading one to nothing. The period ended with that score and we all looked tired as we sat in the locker room drinking water and eating orange slices.

"We really were lucky it's only one to nothing after that lacklustre performance," Fred started. "We need to get skating out there or they will walk all over us. Take it to them more and keep it in their zone as much as possible."

Frank came over and got the defence together before saying "We need to keep up with their forwards on the cycle, or take them out with a check if you can. You need to try harder to get shots on their goalie from the point as well."

Sam was talking to the forwards at the same time; I'm sure with some harsher words for their effort. We rested a few more minutes and went back onto the ice for the second period.

We started with the first line again and Gary won the opening face-off back to John. He went back into our zone to set up the rush. He circled our net to pick up speed and started up ice. One forward missed a check on him as he hit centre ice and then he stopped just inside the blueline as the Nanooks backed off the line. He wound up and drove a shot at the net as both Gary and Chris drove to the net to provide a screen and possibly tip the puck by the goalie. The puck hit a leg and bounced harmlessly to the corner where their defenceman calmly passed it up to a forward and easily got it out of their zone as John and I backed up to centre ice.

They dumped it in and gave chase as John went back to retrieve it. He passed it over to me as he took a hit and went down a bit awkwardly. I passed it up to Chris on the wing and made sure he was carrying it out of the zone before looking back at John. He was up and hobbling to the bench, which in this period was the farther one, close to their zone. Chris dumped it in deep and peeled off to make the change, along with his line mates. I stayed on as their defencemen passed the puck up to centre ice to catch us unprepared during our change. John kept on going to the bench as I found myself trying to defend against two guys, with our new line trying to catch up. One guy carried it in while the other one kept himself open for the one timer if the pass got through me. I kept backing in closer to Bob, with my stick and body in the passing lane, trying to stop the pass. Finally, the puck carrier decided to pass the puck to his partner, but luckily it hit my stick and popped out back to the blue line. Henry picked it up and wheeled back towards their zone and I hustled to the bench to complete the change.

John had a twisted ankle that was pretty sore so Frank had Albert move up with me as the first pair and Don, now the fifth defenceman, would fill in as needed when someone got too tired.

"Good work on that two on one Mike," Frank said, patting my shoulder.

"I got lucky," I said before taking another sip of water.

The period went on with the Nanooks pressuring us relentlessly, especially when they saw we were down a defenceman. One of the third line forwards took a penalty when they would have had a three on one breakaway against us. It was a good penalty to take, but now we had to try and kill it off. Albert and I went out as the defence pair and Gary and Chris took the forward positions.

The Nanooks won the face-off and carried the puck into our zone, setting up a perimeter around our box formation. They passed it around for a bit, trying to sucker one of us farther out to create a mismatch down low. When that didn't work, they passed it back to the point and had the defenceman take a shot. Bob could see it clearly and gloved it for a face-off in our zone.

This time Gary won the draw and Albert shot it down the ice, forcing them to go back outside our zone. We moved out to centre ice to slow them down and it did take a couple extra passes for them to get back in. This time they weren't as patient with the puck and their centre tried to skate it in close for a shot. Chris poke-checked the puck from him and I grabbed the loose puck and passed it to Gary who was making a break out of our zone. The Nanooks were caught going into our zone while Gary was heading out. He split the defence and had a breakaway from our blueline all the way in to their zone. Their defence tried to catch up but didn't have a chance to catch him. He made a great deke and put the puck in the net overtop of the sprawling goal to tie the game up while we were shorthanded.

We congratulated him and we all went up to the bench. The second makeshift penalty kill unit went on and killed the rest of the penalty and the momentum shifted to us for a while. We took the play into their end and peppered their goalie with more shots. He was up to the task and steered the shots to the corner or froze the puck for a face-off.

Near the end of the second period, they had the puck in our zone deep in the corner. I had their centre tied up in front of the net when the puck went back out to the point. The defenceman took a low shot that deflected off a leg and went into the net behind Bob, who was screened and didn't see the puck until it was in the net. The period ended with the score two to one as we trooped slowly to the dressing room and sat on the benches along the wall, grabbing drinks along the way.

"That was a pretty good period all and all," Fred said as we settled down. "They got a lucky bounce at the end there or we would be all tied up now. We need to dig deep and keep up the pressure in the third or they will walk all over us. The forwards have to come back further to help the defence like we practiced when they are in our zone."

Frank talked to us defencemen, saying "Just keep everything simple for this period and don't let anyone behind you. They will be trying for some long breakaways and odd man rushes, so watch out for them and back away from the points rather than contest it."

The third period was a disappointment as the missing players and John's injury finally took their toll. One of the rookies took a silly penalty and the Nanooks scored near the end of the resulting penalty to make it three to one. The rest of the period was spent chasing and reacting to the opposition as our team couldn't summon the energy or the willpower to compete.

Fred pulled our goalie Bob for an additional player with about a minute and a half to play, but unfortunately, that just left an open net for the defencemen to play goalie for. We couldn't keep the puck in their zone, so I ended up blocking a shot with my stick, but couldn't stop the rebound from being put in. The game mercifully ended with the final score of four to one for the Nanooks.

I got showered and dressed quickly as Fred came in to say a few words.

"Not our best effort for several reasons," he said. "We are down a few key players and the time zone change seems to have affected our energy level. Let's just put this one behind us, rest up tomorrow and concentrate on getting out of here with a split of the two games. I need a couple of seniors to stay for the press conference and the rest of you can get back to the hotel for a snack before hitting the hay."

Albert and Gary stayed with Fred while the rest of us piled into the bus and headed back to the hotel. I grabbed a plate of food and wolfed it down before heading up to the room. I hung up my suit and then checked my phone for messages before heading to sleep.

When I looked outside Saturday morning, I was greeted with the sight of snow coming down hard, with three to four inches already on the ground. It looked like another inside day for sure. I changed into my work-out sweats and went down to the weight room and did another work-out, this time going light on everything to conserve my energy for tonight's game. I was showered and dressed before John stirred and asked what time it was.

"It's just seven AM local time, we don't eat for an hour and the skate isn't until one, so sleep in if you want," I told him.

"I might just do that, I don't think I'm playing with this ankle anyway," he replied, showing me his swollen ankle.

"Ok, I'll let them know; I'm sure Chris will be up to check that after breakfast," I told him before leaving the room with my books.

I got an hour of studying in before breakfast and I let Frank and Chris know about John as I passed them inside the room. After a couple trips through the buffet line, I found a comfortable chair and ottoman in front of a large window in the lobby. I continued my studying in preparation for the three tests next week. I did an hour of each course and then called it a day for studying. After a quick bite for lunch we piled on the bus and drove through the snow to the arena.

The coaches put us through our paces and really emphasized high energy and team defence. Luckily, no one else came down with the flu and we added Randy back on defence to replace John. Albert got to be his partner while I took Don as mine. The second pair of defencemen, Mat and Ralph, moved up to top line, Don and I took second pair while Albert and Randy were third pair. Fred also decided to go with Josh Miller as the goalie for tonight, replacing Bob. We practiced special teams again with the new pairings and got a shift with each line before practice was over. We took our showers and headed back to the hotel to rest.

I found John lazing around on his bed watching TV when I got into the room.

"How's the ankle?" I asked, putting my books down.

"Very sore and tender, I'm afraid," John replied. "How did practice go?"

I filled him in on the new pairing and how it went as I flopped down on the bed. I fell asleep for a couple of hours until John nudged me awake so we could go have supper. After a light meal, we went back up to get into our suits and then boarded the bus for the ride to the arena. John came down to the locker room but headed up to the visitor's box when we went out on the ice for our pregame skate. Soon it was time for the game to start.

Our first line with our new first pair of defence took the play to the Nanooks right from the start. The second line, along with Don and I, continued the aggressive high energy play. I felt a lot better this evening, especially after the nap and easy day. I crunched one of their forwards into the boards in our end and passed the puck up to Henry. He took it into their zone and passed it off to Ron who took a hard shot, forcing their goalie to make a good save, freezing the puck for a face-off in their zone.

Henry won the face-off back to Don who whipped a hard pass over to me. I had to stop the pass and then wired a shot at the net, low and to the outside post. Ron Zonk had rushed the net right after the face-off and was in a perfect position to screen the goalie. Ron managed to get his stick on the shot and deflected it high over the shoulder of the goalie and into the net for an early lead.

We continued our aggressive play throughout the period, getting several scoring opportunities as we hit them every chance we could. The period ended still one to nothing as we went back into the locker room.

Fred didn't have much to say, just to keep up the intensity and watch for them to try and burn us with long passes, especially against our rookie defencemen. Frank also suggested Don and I try a couple of our special plays so we talked about when and where we should try them.

The second period saw the Nanooks step it up a couple of notches, intensity wise. Their forwards really fore-checked heavily, trying to make the rookie defencemen make a mistake. It worked as Randy coughed up the puck, trying to pass it to Albert. Their forward scooped up the puck and deked our rookie goalie Josh, and put it in the open side to even up the score.

A few minutes later, Sergio, our fourth line right winger, tripped up one of their defencemen in their zone, and was sent to the penalty box for two minutes. The resulting power play netted them another goal when two forwards double teamed me in the corner, allowing the puck to squirt free and be one-timed past Josh. I was steaming as I left the ice for a change as one of the forwards had taken the opportunity to cross-check me in the back during the scrum in the corner. The period ended before I got out on the ice again, the score now two to one in their favour.

I had Chris check my back and it had a red welt across the lower back where the stick hit me hard. It was sore but nothing seemed damaged and I certainly wasn't coming out of the game. I had a score to settle with the player who did it or anyone else I could hit. Frank noticed my mood and told me to make sure not to take a penalty but to channel it into some big hits and shots. I nodded and let Don know to back me up when I took off or I hit someone.

Frank put Don and me out with the first line at the start of the third and Gary won the puck back to Don. He carried it up past centre and dumped it into the zone where Chris went in to hit the defencemen that tried to corral it. The puck squirted free while the two players staggered from the big hit. Gary got the loose puck along the boards, and when their forward on that side came down to cover him, bounce passed it off the boards back to me at the point. I one timed it as hard as I could for the top stick side corner, not caring if anyone got in the way. Brad Eddings, playing the left side winger in place of Daniel, was screening the goalie and barely got out of the way of the shot. The goalie never saw the puck until he scooped it out of the net after the red light went on.

We stayed on and took the face-off at centre ice again. This time they won the draw and moved it into our zone. Their left winger came in to my side with the puck, trying to go around me with some speed. I knew it was the guy who cross-checked me so I forced him around the net and, when he ran out of room, rubbed him out on the boards. I took the puck as he fell down and passed it to Don as I continued up the ice fast. Don passed it to Gary who saw me streaking up the ice with them. He crossed their blueline with Chris and Brad joining him in deep, passing the puck around between them. When they had them backing up, Gary drop passed the puck to me and I leaned into it again, aiming for the top glove corner. Their goalie made a fantastic save with his glove, stopping the play for a face-off. We changed up and I saw the forward I hit, just getting to the bench, bent over in pain.

"Great shift Mike," Frank complimented me. "Keep it up and we'll win this one yet!"

"Thanks, and don't worry, I will!" I replied.

The play went back and forth for a while, with both teams trying to knock each other out of the game. I was the target of a few hits, trying to pay me back for the hit on their guy. I dodged most of them and leaned into the ones I couldn't, giving as much as I was receiving.

With five minutes left in regulation, Don and I were out with the fourth line, having changed on the fly. I was bringing up the puck from our end as they backed up. I faked a dump in and hit Don with a pass as he was flying into their zone. He took it full stride and was past their forward before he could move. The defence had the angle so Don went in deep and then passed it to Bobby Vickers, the left winger, who had cut to the net with his stick on the ice. He one timed it into the top corner, over the blocker of the goalie, making it three to two.

The Nanooks tried desperately to tie the game up, even pulling their goalie with a minute and a half left, but Josh and the rest of us kept the puck out of the net and came away with the win.

"Great game everyone, especially all you rookies filling in for our sick and injured players," Fred shouted. "I'm proud of how well you played tonight, you did our program proud! So let's get dressed and I'll do the press conference with some of the seniors and juniors, while the rest of you head back to the hotel and enjoy some snacks. Remember, breakfast at seven and we're leaving for the airport at eight. It will be a long flight back, stopping in Seattle and we won't be back to Michigan until late."

We got showered and dressed back in our suits for the walk through the arena and out to the bus. The ride back was a bit longer than usual with all the snow but we got there eventually. After a quick change out of the suits, we congregated in the buffet room and pigged out what was basically a full meal. We hung out afterwards, playing cards and watching TV for a while until Fred and Frank reminded us that we had to get up early.

John and I got our teeth brushed and were in bed ten minutes later. After talking about the game for a bit, we turned out the light and were fast asleep soon after.

The trip home on Sunday was as boring as you might imagine. While the trip itself took about eight hours, we added the four hours for the time change from Alaska to Michigan. I arrived home about ten o'clock and, after changing into shorts and a t-shirt, unpacked and put in a load of laundry. While that was washing, I checked my emails and found one from Vicky.

She was replying to my email from Wednesday night, and thought it was a good idea to keep it platonic with that 'hussy Lisa', especially after what her dad had done. She let me know their shows went well and the photo shoot for Vanity Fair was awesome. It wouldn't come out until January, but I was going to be blown away. She mentioned that they were going to be going to the Caribbean on Monday for a week long photo shoot for a famous magazine but she couldn't say anymore at this point. She did say that I was going to love it when I did see it.

On the subject of the three of us, she wrote that they had been discussing what to do about it. It was obvious to them that we all still missed each other and it might have been a mistake to break it off, especially since all of us didn't intend to jump into another relationship — except maybe me with the hussy. They suggested that when they got back from the photo shoot on Saturday, they could fly in and stay over Saturday and Sunday, and fly out back to New York on Monday morning. We could discuss some things that were happening with them and then make some decisions going forward. She ended the email with a Love you from both of them.

I hit the reply button and sent back a quick email agreeing to see them Saturday, hopefully before the game, but for sure after the game.

I let them know that we were playing a home and home two game series with Western Michigan, the first in Ann Arbor, and the next in Kalamazoo, on the Saturday night at seven thirty five in the evening. We would probably be heading there around three in the afternoon and would be back hopefully by midnight. If they got into Detroit early enough, they could come to the game, if not, I would see them either in my apartment when I got back or at their parent's house in the morning.

I told them I wanted to stay together with them, even through the absences that we would have, and hoped they would want to as well. I signed off saying that I loved them and asked them to let me know what time they could make it on Saturday.

I put in another load into the washer after transferring the first to the dryer. It was getting late but after the good news from the twins I knew I wasn't going to fall asleep quickly anyway. I did some studying for the Logic's test tomorrow morning and then called it a night after putting the second load into the dryer, writing myself a note to get it in the morning. I fell asleep thinking about the twins, imagining them in the pages of the fashion magazine, looking fantastic as any supermodel out there.



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Chapter 29


I had set my alarm for five so I could get up and study a bit before practice. I had studied a lot on the weekend so it was just to refresh myself on the material. I read through everything and did a couple of the harder questions from the assignments and textbook before heading out for Monday morning practice. It was still early so I skated a bit before setting up Patrick and shooting a while before everyone else came out. I skated by Frank and mentioned to him that I had to leave a bit early today and Thursday for tests and he was ok with it.

John let me know he was out for at least a week while his sprained ankle healed. Don would be my partner for this week but we were getting Steve Mason back so Don and I would be the third pairing. Fred let us know all about the Western Michigan Broncos and the split location games. He ran down the injuries and sickness substitutions and then told us we would be playing our game against them, and not conforming to what they did. We would be aggressive, physical and fast.

Practice was pretty mellow, all things considered, practicing special teams and then scrimmaging until they let us go early. I raced through my shower and then got to class. It was early when I sat down beside Steph in the hall outside the classroom.

"Hey Princess, all ready for this?" I asked.

"I don't know Mikey, I studied a lot this weekend but this stuff doesn't come easy to me," Steph replied. "I'm sure you're all prepared."

"I had lots of time to study on the trip so I'm as prepared as I can be," I agreed. "It doesn't matter though if he throws in a few tricky questions we haven't seen before."

The class before us let out and we grabbed our seats and got ready. The professor and his teaching assistant followed shortly after and started handing out the exams. The professor said his spiel and then gave the ok to begin the exam. The first few pages were fairly easy questions, almost straight from the assignments and textbook. The final two pages were what separated the men and women from the boys and girls. You had to apply everything you learned and adapt it to solve the questions on those two pages. I got through the first of the two pages quickly and then bogged down on the final question. I caught on to what he wanted with five minutes left and rushed to finish the solution before time was up. I wrote the last line as he came up to our row to collect our papers.

"Wow, that last question was tough," I commented to the professor as I handed it to him.

"You liked that one did you?" the professor said with a grin.

"I wouldn't say I liked it, but it was a challenge," I admitted.

He moved over to get Stephanie's paper and said "Sorry Miss Merks, it's time."

She sighed and closed her booklet, checked that she had her name on it and handed it over.

"That's it, I'm going home to be a grocery clerk," she said in disgust.

The professor and I both laughed at her.

"I'm sure you did fine Miss Merks," he assured her. "You probably did much better than you think."

"I think I failed miserably, so I hope I did better than that!" she said.

"You probably aced it just like last test Steph," I told her. "You probably got all the easy questions and just had problems with the last two pages right?"

"Yeah, those killed me," she admitted.

"Well, you got at least a seventy five then, the last two pages were only worth twenty five percent," I said. "Don't sweat it."

We packed up and left the room. I told her I would see her in an hour and took off for creative writing. The professor droned on about character development for the whole hour, citing examples from obscure literary works I had never heard of. I was happy when she let us out a bit early. I met up with Steph in the cafeteria and Lisa joined us a couple minutes later.

"Hey Lisa, have a good weekend?" I asked.

"Not too bad, I stayed here for the weekend and got some studying done for midterms," she answered. "You had your usual stellar weekend, even though the team didn't do well on Friday night."

"We all played poorly Friday night, even me, but we all made up for it on Saturday," I admitted. "We had a few guys out for the flu and John went down early with a sprained ankle, so we played with only five defencemen."

"Well you did well to win one then," Lisa admitted. "So, how did your first exam go?"

"It was tough, but I think I did ok," I told her. "Steph isn't so confident, but I think she did better than what she thinks she did."

"Ha! I'll be a clerk at Blockbusters before the week is out I'm sure," Steph said in disgust.

Lisa and I both laughed before Lisa said "Steph, I'm sure you did fine, you're too smart to mess up too badly."

Steph just grimaced and continued eating. Lisa and I joined her in finishing our lunches while I wondered how to break the news about the twins coming on the weekend. I wanted to be up front with Lisa so she wasn't expecting too much from me. I just decided to come clean and hope for the best.

"I got some news that you're not going to like, but I don't want to hide anything from you," I started, looking at Lisa.

"Oh, that doesn't sound good, does it Steph?" she said, looking over at Stephanie. "If I'm not going to like it, it probably concerns your ex-girlfriend right?"

"Yes, the twins are back in town this weekend, coming in sometime Saturday and flying back Monday morning," I told her. "We need to talk about some things. I'm not sure what will happen, but I wanted you to know what was going on."

"Well, I guess I appreciate you being up front with me, and I know you've been honest with me from the get go, but I can't help being disappointed," Lisa responded. "I knew you weren't over Vicky yet and were keeping our relationship platonic while you waited for her. At least you didn't take advantage of me like some guys would have and then throw me away when she came back."

"I'm not sure what it is they want to talk about, so it could be nothing," I said. "That being said, I don't think it's fair to you to have to put up with something like this. You deserve someone who can devote one hundred percent of his focus on you and I sure am not that guy. Even if the twins were out of the picture, I'm not good relationship material, what with school and hockey taking up so much of my time all year. Lisa, I like you as a friend, but maybe you should look for someone else for a boyfriend."

Lisa looked at me for a bit and then glanced at Stephanie, who just shrugged.

"You make some good points Mike," she finally responded. "I can see that my chances for a romantic relationship are pretty slim right now even without my dad's fiasco earlier. I would still like to be your friend and see what happens with you and the twins before giving up on something more. I hope I can still have lunch with two sometimes and do other platonic things once and a while."

"I don't have a problem with that, though Vicky might be a tad jealous of you too," I said. "I'll see what happens Sunday and let you know what's up Monday."

"Ok, good enough for me," she replied.

We finished up our lunches and then did some studying before heading out to our next classes. Algebra class consisted of a quick review for the exam and then some new work. I met Steph after class and we studied for Thursday's computer programming exam. I left her when it was time to go to practice and walked to the arena. Practice was more intense than this morning's as we had Daniel, Chris and Mark back from the flu. They weren't one hundred percent so all three goalies were dressed and the extra players from last week's games spelling the others off.

After practice, I had supper in the cafeteria and then headed home to study for algebra. I got in a couple of hours of that in and then did some more writing before hitting the hay.

Tuesday was more hockey practice and studying with Steph and alone. Nothing exciting but I did get a good workout as well.

Wednesday was a repeat of Monday except the exam came in the afternoon in algebra. It was more difficult than the first exam but I felt pretty confident in most of my answers. I relaxed a bit after the exam and then went to afternoon practice.

Cynthia met me in the cafeteria after supper and she went over the chapters I had made changes on and then the new ones. She marked up the obvious grammatical and spelling mistakes while she did the first read which allowed me to get started on those corrections while she did the second read for the more structural and technical deficiencies. I saved those corrections to do later in the week and headed home after I dropped her off at her dorm. I studied for tomorrow's computer programming exam for a couple of hours and then called it a day, falling asleep dreaming of Vicky and Becky with me.

Thursday morning I got up early again to study before driving over to the arena. Mark was there early to get in some extra shooting practice so I obliged him for about twenty minutes, peppering him with shots from all over the zone. We both took a break when the rest of the guys came out, with Bob taking over in net.

"So, are you going to play tomorrow night?" I asked Mark.

"I'm going to dress and either be the starter or back-up depending on how I feel," he replied. "I'm still not one hundred percent but I'm feeling better every day."

"That's great news," I replied. "We sure need you out there."

The coaches came out and started the practice, working on a high tempo offence with fast break-outs from our zone. It demanded sharp accurate passing from the defence, so I was kept busy for a while. We scrimmaged afterwards and I left a bit early for the showers so I could get to my exam. I quickly showered and got dressed before heading to the main campus, arriving just as the class before us let out.

"Hey Steph, are you feeling better about this one?" I asked.

"I little bit, programming is easier than set theory in Logics, that's for sure," she answered as we walked up to get to our seats.

"You would think so," I agreed. "I'll be glad when this is over; it's been a rough couple of weeks."

"Tell me about it! At least we don't have a programming assignment this week," she responded with relief. "I'm going home this afternoon and going out with Ryan tonight to a party."

"Good for you, have fun but be careful," I said as the professor came in the room.

"Thanks, we will have fun but we're very careful about the drinking and driving thing, especially since we're not twenty one yet!" she replied with a grin.

"That's a relief! I don't have to worry about you getting in an accident Princess," I said as we got ready for the test.

"Aw, that's sweet that you worry about me Mikey," she said with a smile.

"Of course I do Princess," I replied, pausing for a second before continuing with a straight face. "Who else can I get notes from if I'm away?"

"Oh you, you big goofball," she said, giving me a shove. "Wait till I tell Vicky about that comment!"

"Are you going to talk to her this weekend when she's here?" I asked.

"She won't be here too long, I'll just email her and maybe text or call her on Sunday," she said. "She'll be busy with some goofball most of Sunday so I'll have to see her next time."

The professor handed us the test booklets and we got ready to write the exam. After he told us to start, we opened up the booklets and began the exam. Like most exams, the first few questions were pretty easy and the next couple were right from the assignments or from class. One was almost identical to a question from the textbook and then the rest were the tough ones, meant to see if you really understood the work.

I raced through the first few pages and then spent the rest of the time on the harder questions, finishing up with ten minutes to spare. I used that time to review the test and then handed it in when the professor came to collect them. Steph was finished as well, so we walked out together.

"That wasn't as difficult as it could have been," she remarked as we left the classroom.

"I agree, it seemed a bit easier than it should have been," I agreed. "Either we really know this stuff or he's getting soft on us."

"Well, I'm glad it's over anyway," she said. "You have a good weekend Mikey; play well and good luck with the twins. I hope you three can work something out to stay together, you are good for each other."

"Thanks Steph, I hope so too," I replied. "You have a good weekend too."

"I will," she said with a smile. "See ya on Monday, if you can walk after they get through with you!"

She walked away giggling as I stared at her. She turned around and saw me looking and grinned as she gave me a little ass wiggle. I laughed and waved before turning away and headed back to the arena.

I went and had a good work-out where I upped my reps again. I would need to talk to Chris next week about increasing the weight again as it was getting too easy to do three sets of twenty reps. I had a shower and then had lunch in the cafeteria, for once not studying or doing an assignment. I had a creative writing assignment that I would do between practices and then just had to work on the novella. The classes with exams this week did not have an assignment due on Monday or Tuesday.

I joined the other rookies for practice at one and Frank and Sam had us doing drills for a while and then practicing some of our plays. We even did special teams practicing before a long scrimmage. When we were done, I showered again and then got a snack at the cafeteria and then worked on the writing assignment. When it was done, I just leaned back against the wall and snoozed until afternoon practice.

I was jolted awake when someone sat down across from me. I opened my eyes to see John grinning at me, with Amanda by his side with a smile on her face.

"Hey guys, nice to see you two," I said. "Sorry, you're still stuck with this old geezer Amanda, you deserve better."

"I know, Gramps here has been a royal pain in the ass this week with his ankle," she responded. "I should probably get out before he starts getting more decrepit."

"Hey, I'm only a month older than you!" John exclaimed to Amanda as I laughed.

"Older is older, let's not quibble on how much," Amanda replied haughtily. "I think I need a new young stud, like Mike here. What are you, eighteen?"

"That's correct Amanda, and normally I wouldn't dream of going out with an older woman, but the twins have taught me the value of experience," I said with a grin.

"Well, I hope they've taught you well Michael, I'm not in the mood to teach someone how to treat a woman correctly," she said with a grin. "Speaking of the twins, I hear you have visitors coming this weekend. They mentioned something about a hussy?"

"Yes, the twins are flying in sometime Saturday," I agreed.

"What's this about a hussy?" John asked.

"I think they don't like the fact that Lisa Peterson is interested in me," I told them, "Even though they did in fact break up with me."

"Lisa Peterson? Wow, you certainly get all the beautiful girls don't you?" Amanda asked, looking impressed. "Beautiful and very rich, I might add."

"I'm keeping things strictly platonic, we have to get to know one another first before anything can go further," I responded. "Now with the twins maybe back in the picture, who knows what's going to happen."

"Poor Mikey, being chased by beautiful women is such a hardship," Amanda fake pouted.

"It can be, let me tell you!" I retorted. "Anyway, how did you know they're coming into town?"

"Vicky and I keep in touch via email and other means," Amanda replied. "Obviously we don't talk nearly enough as she knew about this hussy and I didn't. John didn't tell me about her either."

"Hey, I didn't know anything about her," John protested. "Mike isn't exactly a social butterfly you know."

"On that note, it's time for practice," I said, getting up and gathering up my books. "It was nice to see you again Amanda."

"Likewise Michael, remember to look me up if the twins and the hussy don't work out," she said with a grin. "Gramps here is getting cranky in his old age."

I laughed and walked away, while John started tickling her for her verbal pranks. The locker room was filling up when I got in and I said hi to some of the guys as I walked over to my spot. I quickly got changed and headed out to the ice and warmed up. Practice was geared to defence and special teams this afternoon and they kept us a little later than usual. I grabbed some supper in the cafeteria and then drove home. I did a good cleaning on the apartment and got caught up on laundry as well, just in case Vicky and Becky came over. I fell asleep after midnight, exhausted from all of the hockey, the cleaning and the stress of all the exams the past week.

Friday's practice was spent just tweaking all facets of the game, offensive, defensive and special teams, before having a scrimmage. After cleaning up I had the day off until team supper at four thirty. I went to the mall to get some clothes as I had out grown a lot of them. After stopping for some groceries, I went back to the apartment and put them away before cutting the tags off the clothes and washing them.

After lunch, I sat down and checked my email for a message from Vicky. Evidently, she didn't get my email before heading to the Caribbean, so I would have to play it by ear on when they were coming into town. I wrote a couple more chapters of the novella before lying down for a nap, setting the alarm for four.

Waking up with the alarm blaring, I got up feeling worse than when I fell asleep. I cleaned up, grabbed my suit in its bag, and headed out to the arena for supper. The supper was chicken with pasta and was pretty tasty, good enough for a second helping if I wasn't playing in a couple of hours. I resisted the temptation and headed to the locker room to get changed. We had our turn at a warm-up skate, doing the usual drills and then trooped back to the locker room to wait for the start of the game.

Fred had a few things to say so he stood up and we quieted down to listen.

"Ok men, we've practiced our game plan enough this week that we should very familiar with how we plan to play this game," he started. "I want to see some energy and physical play out there to disrupt their zone trap and defensive style. On defence, I want the centre and opposite winger to look to break out any time we get the puck in our zone, while the other winger stays in as an outlet pass on the boards in case the stretch pass is blocked. Are there any questions?"

There were none so we sat for a bit longer and then headed out to the ice. Don and I were third pair so we sat on the bench for the start of the period. The first line and first defensive pair went out and won the draw. Steve moved it up past centre ice and dumped it into the corner, where Daniel and Gary gave chase. Daniel hit their defenceman as he picked up the puck, while Gary went after the puck itself, wheeling and passing it to Chris in front of the net. Chris one timed it towards the net but the goalie saw the play develop and was square to Chris as he shot and stopped the puck with his chest and smothered it for a face-off.

The next few shifts were similar; we would get the puck in their zone and get a good scoring chance, but their goalie would stop everything. Finally, one of our rookie fourth line players, Alex Trammel, got too aggressive with a check and was sent to the penalty box for two minutes. The Broncos set up on the perimeter of our penalty killing passive box and moved the puck around. They were methodical in their play, making our penalty killers move around while they hardly expended any energy. They kept the puck for over a minute, passing it around or stick handling with it to set up a play. As the penalty killers got tired, they passed it down low, setting up a mismatch. Albert went down to cover the puck holder, leaving two forwards for Steve to cover. The Bronco centre passed it to the open one who one timed it past Mark to open the scoring. A big groan erupted from the crowd.

The first period continued with the Broncos playing their reactive offence, patiently waiting for us to make a mistake. We carried the play to them and had a few more scoring opportunities, including me hitting the post and the crossbar on two separate shots. Their goalie stopped everything and the period ended with the score zero to one, with the shot total fourteen to four in our favour.

Fred got up on a bench as soon as we all got settled and started to speak "Ok, we're playing great, getting lots of chances, but they have the only goal. It's not time to panic yet; we'll stay with our game plan. The only alteration is to get some more traffic in front of their goalie so we don't make it too easy for him. If he sees the shot he'll probably save it. So, let's try more low point shots with one or two people in front of him and see how he does."

So that's what we did in the second period, with Fred moving Don and I to first pair to get more shooting from me apparently. On my second shift with the fourth line, Sergio passed the puck back to me to one-time it low for the far corner. Bobby Vickers was screening the goalie, along with two of their defencemen, so the goalie never saw the puck. It hit someone's stick and deflected past the goalie, tying the score. The PA came on and gave the goal to Bobby with an assist to me and Sergio.

The period ended with another lopsided amount in shots for us, now thirty three to ten, but the score remained tied after two periods. Fred just told us in the intermission to just keep doing what we were doing; hopefully another one would get by their goalie.

The third period was similar to the previous two, with the play mostly in their zone. Don and I tried our fake dump in play, with Don getting the pass. He got past the forward and had a two on one with Gary against a defenceman. He drew the defenceman over and then passed it to Gary, who re-directed to the open side of the net. The goalie did the splits and stopped the puck, which slid to the corner harmlessly.

We were peppering him with shots from all sides, but he kept the puck out of the net. With about five minutes to go, one of their forwards tipped a pass intended for Albert at the point and the puck got out into the centre ice. Their forward skated past Albert and was on a breakaway, with Steve Mason chasing him from the other point. Steve was unable to catch up with him and the Bronco deked out Mark and put it high in the net for the go ahead goal.

Fred put out the first line along with Don and me for the face-off and we were quickly in their zone. Don wired a pass over to me and I shot high this time. The players in front dodged out of the way but the goalie couldn't react in time, just catching sight of the puck at the last minute. He was in a butterfly position, meaning he was on his knees with his legs spread out to cover most of the bottom of the net. Unfortunately it put his head on the level of where the shot was and the puck hit him right in the face mask before deflecting to the corner. The goalie fell back and hit his head on the ice and lay still. The whistle blew and the trainers from both teams rushed out to attend to him. I skated close to see how he was and both sets of players already on the ice gathered around.

They eventually brought out a gurney and he was loaded on it and taken off the ice. Their back-up came on and replaced him. Frank motioned me over while he was getting ready.

"Mike, keep the shots high, let's see how the new guy, and his defence, react," he said.

"Alright, but I'm telling everyone it's your idea if someone else gets hurt," I said, only half kidding.

"Everyone has face masks on, as well as good equipment, so don't worry," he responded.

"It didn't help the first goalie," I replied as I skated away.

We lined up for a face-off in their zone and Gary won the puck back to Don. He faked a shot and passed it to me. I moved along the blueline until I was in the centre of the ice and shot it high at the stick corner. The players in front were ducking and moving to the side like a matador dodging a bull. The goalie got his blocker on it at the last second and deflected up into the mesh, stopping play again. The Broncos called time and we moved back to the bench to see what the coaches had for us.

"Mike, they're going to double team you or have someone well out to cover you," Fred said. "Pass it to Don for a shot if you're double teamed or bank it past the one defender to Chris or yourself. Everyone, keep up the pressure and the screens in front. You can also try something down low against the new goalie."

The horn sounded for the end of the time-out and I looked up to see four minutes left in regulation. Fred was right, as he usually was; the Broncos had two guys rushing out to me when Gary won the face-off. I had no time for a shot so I passed it to Don, who got the puck deep to Daniel. He worked it behind the net and passed it out front, as the two guys were still out at the blueline with me. Gary had his stick tied up by their defenceman and the puck dribbled out past him and the defence. I raced in to get a shot, as did both my defenders. We all collided and I took both of them down with me, while Don got to the puck. He shot it at the net but it was too high as he had to clear the bodies in front. I untangled from the two of them and got back on defence as they cleared the puck from their zone. Don and I changed up with Albert and Steve and sat on the bench with only three minutes to play.

The second line tried to put one past the new goalie but could not, so with only two minutes to play, Fred sent out the first line with Don and me to try again. We carried the puck back into their zone and before they could double team me I wired a high shot right at the goalie. He, like any sensible person, ducked and the puck just missed the crossbar and slammed into the Plexiglas, causing a large crack to form, stopping play when the ref spotted it. The crowd was buzzing and the Broncos looked at me like I had a third head.

We went back to the bench to rest with a minute and forty seconds left to go in the game when the Plexiglas was done being replaced.

"Ok, Mike, put it on net, high corners or low to be deflected," Frank told me. "Hopefully it will get through now."

"Alright, I'll do my best, but they will be covering me I'm sure," I replied.

"Pass it down low then, and we'll have numbers," Frank said. "We're going to pull Mark now, so we'll put the extra attacker on your side to run interference."

I nodded as I took a drink. The glass took another few minutes to fix and then we were back on, the first line, Don and I on defence with Henry from the second line as the extra attacker. Gary for once, didn't win the face-off but did tie up their centre so he couldn't get it back to his defence. There was a mad scramble for the puck in the face-off circle and it finally came free for Henry to scoop it up. He passed it back to Don who saw that I was blanketed and passed it down deep to Daniel. He passed it in front to Gary who shot the puck at their net. It bounced off his pads and he dove to cover it up as Chris crashed the net to get the rebound. The ref called the play dead and we got set for another face-off.

This time Gary won it back cleanly to me and I drove the puck on net as Henry and Daniel crashed the net. The puck made it through to be deflected by Henry, but the goalie made another fantastic save, pushing the puck to the corner. One of their defencemen lifted the puck high out of their zone towards our net. Don raced back and, when the puck missed the net and crossed the back line, iced the puck, and stopping play. Since it was icing the face-off moved back into the Broncos end again. I looked at the bench to see if they wanted us to change but Frank waved me to stay out. The clock showed thirty seconds left as we lined up for the face-off.

Gary lost the face-off and they shot the puck out of the zone high off the glass. I went back for the puck and passed it back up to Daniel waiting at their blueline. He brought it into the zone and passed it to Chris who one timed it on net. The goalie saved the shot and directed the rebound to the corner where their defenceman shot it down the ice and the time ran out before I could get back for it. The Broncos won the game two to one even though we had outshot them fifty to eighteen. We left the ice dejected as the crowd gave us an ovation for the effort. I slumped down in my chair, tired from the extra time spent on the ice as well as taking more shots in a game than ever before. The mood was subdued when Fred came in and looked around.

"Gentlemen, we came against some hot goaltending tonight and despite our best efforts we came up short on the scoreboard," he said. "However, both teams know that this is by far the better team and with just one or two lucky bounces, it would be us that would be cheering in here. So, if we keep the same effort and intensity for tomorrow's game, I guarantee that we will win that game — especially now that Stewart has knocked out their first goalie for us!"

That got a laugh and a couple of slaps on my shoulders from the guys beside me. I didn't feel proud of that accomplishment but kept that to myself as I gave myself a mental note to see if the coaches knew his status. I got out of my hockey equipment, had a shower and then got dressed in my suit. I joined a couple of guys as they headed out and managed to get out of the building without any problems. I drove home and hung up my suit before grabbing a plate of leftovers in the fridge and nuking it. I ate it while watching a movie and when finished hit the hay.

I woke up on Saturday morning groggy for a minute until I remembered I might be seeing the twins today. I got out of bed quickly and got in the shower in a great mood. After grabbing a granola bar, I drove over to the arena, got changed and had Patrick set up in quick order. I stretched, did some warm-up skating and then commenced my shooting practice for the next hour. I left the ice when I saw the Broncos waiting to get on for their practice session. After a quick shower I got dressed and went back home.

After checking for messages on the answering machine and finding none, I turned on my laptop and check for emails from the twins. Still nothing and I was a bit concerned on whether they were still coming. I made some breakfast and then hunkered down with my laptop and continued my writing. A couple of hours later I had another two chapters done with only a couple left to do. I really wanted to finish this thing early so I had lots of time to study in late November and early December for my three final exams.

I made some lunch and then cleaned the apartment again, including washing the sheets and towels. I even washed the bathroom and cleaned the damn toilet. That should last a few more months at least.

I checked my email and then gave Vicky a call but was transferred to voice mail. I told her I was in the apartment for another hour and then would be heading to the arena to take the bus to Kalamazoo. I asked her to call me when she got in. I had a quick nap before getting dressed in my good clothes and driving to the arena. I was a bit early so I grabbed my laptop and continued my writing.

"Hey Mike, can I slip into that seat?" Don asked.

"Sure Don, go ahead," I responded, picking up my laptop and sliding my legs out to the aisle to let him by.

"So, you ready for the game tonight?" he asked as he sat down.

"Yep, I think we'll get more than one goal this time," I told him.

"Yeah, I think so too," he agreed. "I hear they gave that goal to you after looking at the replay."

"Oh, that's too bad, Bobby was so jazzed to get that one," I said as I opened up the laptop again.

"You're a piece of work, you know that?" he said.

I looked over at him and said with a puzzled look "What do you mean?"

"Any other player would be happy to learn they scored a goal, but you look more disappointed that it was taken away from Bobby," Don explained.

"Like I've told the coaches, I don't pay attention to that kind of stuff, stats or stories in the press," I replied. "It's not important to me and it really takes away from the fun of just playing the game."

"You're different than the rest of us, that's for sure," he responded to my comments. "Most of us check our stats daily against the rest of the College teams and see if we made any headway on our rankings. I bet you don't know where you're at on the NHL's Central Scouting list for the NCAA do you?"

"Nope, didn't even know it existed, tell you the truth," I said.

"You do know you're eligible to be drafted by the NHL teams this year right?" he asked.

"Um, no I didn't," I replied. "They can just draft me even if I don't plan to play professional hockey?"

"Anyone over eighteen by Sept. 15th is eligible for next June's NHL draft," he told me. "You will definitely be drafted, probably high in the first round."

"Are you shitting me?" I asked.

"Nope, the way you're playing right now, with your size, speed and shot, you could be one of the first defencemen picked," he responded.

"And they can do that even if I don't plan to play hockey professionally?" I asked.

"If you say that, then you might get drafted lower, but any team can draft you," he answered. "They would own your rights until after you graduated or if you quit college there's a shorter timeframe."

"And if I didn't want to play for that team?" I asked.

"I think you can go back into the draft if you don't sign a contract within the timeframe, or you become a free agent or something," he replied. "I'm not sure about all the rules so you better look it up."

"Ok, thanks for the info," I said as the bus started moving.

I went back to work on the novella but thoughts about what Don had said kept interrupting me. I finally shook my head and concentrated on the writing until they handed out some box suppers with sandwiches and chips in them. I packed up my laptop and then ate with the rest of the team. We got to the Lawson Ice Arena in Kalamazoo just before five and we got inside and quickly got changed for our five forty five warm-up time.

After we did our usual warm-up drills and shooting, we rested in the locker room until it was time to start. I checked my messages on my cell but Vicky didn't call. I called her but got voice mail again, so I left a message again letting her know I was about to go on and that I had left a key in the usual spot if they wanted to wait for me at the apartment.

Fred got up and said "Ok, let's keep up the intensity and hard physical play like last night and I guarantee that we will put some pucks behind their back-up goalie. Continue to feed the points until they take that away from us and by then we should have some mismatches down low. We just have to be aware of their break-out potential and our defence has to keep that in mind when they are on the points."

We headed out and got situated on the bench. The game started with the Broncos winning the face-off and bringing the puck into our zone. They got a shot off that Mark easily stopped and passed off to Steve. He brought it up the ice as the Broncos backed off and, when he got to centre ice, he dumped it into their zone for the first line to chase. They kept it in their zone for the next forty five seconds, getting two shots on net and forcing the goalie to freeze the puck for a face-off. The second line along with Ralph and Mat as second pair defence went on. They continued the physical play, hitting the opposing players as soon as they touched the puck. Finally the Broncos got the puck out of their zone and forced Mark to freeze the puck after a weak dump-in on net.

The third line went out with Don and me to take the face-off. Shawn won it back to Don, who wrapped the puck around the boards behind the net to me on the other side of the ice. I spotted Brad racing out of the zone and hit him with a pass at full stride and then followed him up the ice. Brad was just fast enough that their defencemen could not fully catch up and one of them used his stick to hook Brad's arm as he was shooting. The ref called a hooking penalty and a face-off in their zone. The first forward line came on, while Don and I stayed on the ice.

The face-off was a tie, with the puck in the feet of the two centres. Gary managed to kick it back to Don, who held it until two forwards came out to cover us. He banked it down to Daniel on the wing, and he brought it low into the corner, trying to get the defenceman to come out farther from the net. Both the defenceman and the forward on that side went after Daniel, and he quickly passed it back out to Don at the point. He was wide open and stepped into a shot that Gary tried to deflect in front of the net. The goalie saw the shot the whole way and gloved it for another face-off.

This time the Broncos won the face-off and shot it down the ice. I went back and retrieved the puck where Mark had stopped it for me and curled around the net, gaining speed for the rush up the ice. I started on the right hand side of the ice and as I got past centre ice I deked their forechecking forward and then faked a pass over to Daniel. I broke for the centre of the ice and crossed over the blue line, still with the puck. I skated between the two defencemen as they weren't expecting me to carry it in past the blueline. They rushed to try and stop me from going in alone on their goalie but I had a full head of steam and they ended up trying to hook me with their sticks. I kept the puck away from them by shielding my stick with one arm until I was past them both. There was a big tug from one of their sticks on my free arm but I shook it off, faked a shot and then pulled the puck to my backhand to flip it over the sprawling goalie. I was slammed into the back boards by one of the defenceman trailing me on the play as the red light came on to signal a goal. I kept my feet and pushed the guy away before skating to the bench, receiving congratulations from my teammates.

"Now you're trying to be Bobby Orr!" Don said with a laugh. "Nice goal Mike."

"I thought I would try it once, just to see what the forwards are always complaining about," I replied with a grin.

The defenceman got a penalty for roughing when he hit me into the boards after the play. Our second power play unit went on and they scored on a tip in by Henry off Steve Mason's shot from the point. Just like that we were up two to nothing.

We kept the pressure on but couldn't score another goal before the end of the period. The crowd booed us as we left the ice and entered the locker room. We were in a much better mood as we sucked on oranges and drank sports drinks or water.

"That's the way it's done gentlemen," Fred said as he came into the room. "That was a very good period even without Mr. Stewart's Bobby Orr impression!"

The room laughed as I felt my face go bright red.

Fred continued after the laughter died down, saying "So, let us keep that intensity up, keep hitting them any chance you can and keep shooting the puck. We still need to get an even strength goal against these guys."

Frank came over and said, "Mike, go ahead and try carrying it in again, but be prepared to pass it off after crossing the blueline. Don, you cover him in case the puck gets striped."

"Don should do the next one, he's faster than I am," I suggested. "I'll cover him instead."

"Ok, but I want you to do some more puck-carrying Mike," Fred insisted.

"Ok, I can do that," I agreed.

Frank moved away and Don, sitting beside me said, "Thanks Mike."

"No problem," I replied.

We rested a few minutes more and then went out for the second period. Don and I got on the ice on the third shift and got set for the face-off in our end. Shawn lost the face-off but blocked the shot from the point. The puck bounced off his shin pads out to centre ice where their defence corralled it and then shot it back in. Don went back for it and went behind the net with a fore-checker hot on his heels. He picked up speed, weaved past another forward at our blueline, and kept the puck as he crossed the centreline. He faked a pass to a waiting forward and then carried over their blueline. A quick fake to go between the two defencemen and then he went wide to the left, pulling both of the defencemen to that side. Don slipped a pass back to a wide open Brad, who made no mistake with the hard shot, beating the goalie on the glove side for a three to nothing lead. We went off the ice after congratulating Brad and Don for the great play.

The score stayed three to nothing for the rest of the period though we had a few more great scoring opportunities. I made a couple of rushes up the ice with the puck and passed the puck when the Broncos all converged on me after passing the blueline. I also made sure to hit a couple forwards when they did get the puck in our zone.

The coaches left us alone with only a quick comment to keep up the intensity as we drank liquids and relaxed for a while. I retied my skates and soon after it was time for the third period.

We continued our physical play, hitting their defence in their end, their forwards in the neutral zone and in our end. About half way through the period I hit one of their players with his head down in the neutral zone and sent him flying backwards to the disapproval of the crowd and his teammates. A couple of them came at me to pay me back but I had the puck on my mind and skated towards the rolling puck. I tipped it forward to Sergio while the two Broncos chased me into their zone. I made myself available for a return pass as we were two on two with their retreating defencemen. Sergio faked a shot and dropped passed the puck to me right in the middle of the ice twenty five feet from the net. I one timed a wicked shot into the top corner passed the helpless goalie who just tried to cover as much of the net as he could with me shooting so close to him.

The two forwards came in late to hit me and try to get me to fight, but I was bigger than either of them and they were easy to push away, especially when the rest of my teammates came around to congratulate me. We went back to the bench and rested while the first line went on.

We added one more goal off a deflection from a point shot and the game ended with a shutout for Mark with a score five to zero. We congratulated Mark by his net and then skated slowly for the bench. We heard some cheering for us and looked up at one of the boxes to see several people in Michigan jerseys shouting and waving. We waved to them as we exited the ice and went down the hallway to the locker room.

We were in a great mood as we entered the locker room, shouting and whistling for our first shutout of the year. The coaches came in and had big smiles on as well and waited for a couple of minutes before asking for quiet.

"That was a great sixty minutes of hockey gentlemen, and a great shut-out for Mark and the rest of the team!" Fred shouted. "Everyone played exactly as we wanted, good intensity, excellent physical play while keeping out of the penalty box. You should all be proud of yourselves."

We all cheered loudly for a bit until he asked for quiet again.

"Ok, I need a couple of seniors for the press conference in ten minutes while the rest of you enjoy the snacks in the bus," Fred said, before stepping down from the bench.

I got out of my equipment and had a quick shower before dressing in my suit. I helped pack up my equipment and loaded it on the cart and then headed out of the locker room. Frank caught me before I hit the door.

"Mike, there are a few people out there waiting for you. Fred and I are ok with you driving home with them if you want, it was arranged during the week," Frank said with a smile. "Great game tonight Mike, go and have some fun, but no drinking ok?"

"Ok Frank, you know I don't drink," I said. "Have a good weekend."

I was worried that it was Lisa and her parents, which was a situation I didn't need tonight. I pulled the door open and went out into the hallway to see who was there.

Mr. and Mrs. Waters were standing outside along with Amanda and John, Jessica and Brent, Stephanie and Ryan, and as the guys stepped aside, Vicky and Becky came into view. The two of them were dressed in jeans and number five Michigan jerseys with Michigan caps covering up their hair, but they still looked gorgeous. Everyone had big smiles on their faces as I looked at everyone in surprise.

"Hello everyone!" I said with a big grin on my face. "This is a nice surprise. Was that you guys cheering at the end up there in the box?"

"Sure was," Mr. Waters said. "You played a great game Mike!"

The rest of them echoed his sentiments as I walked up to them.

"Thanks Mr. Waters, it was definitely one of our better games tonight," I replied as I shook his hand.

I hugged Mrs. Waters, shook hands with John, as well as Brent and Ryan after they were introduced by their better halves, and then stood in front of the twins.

"You two are a sight for sore eyes," I said with a big smile on my face.

One stepped up and rose up on her toes and wrapped her arms around my neck and pulled my head down so she could give me a scorcher of a kiss.

"Hi Michael," she said softly before stepping back.

The other twin came up and mirrored her sister's actions.

"Hi Michael," she also said.

"Hi there ladies, it's good to see you two again," I said. "I tried to get in touch with you all this week, but you never answered or responded."

"We were definitely out of contact for a few days and then we wanted to surprise you, so we didn't respond, sorry," one of them said.

We heard a cough and I turned to see Mr. Waters smiling while the other three couples were looking at us a bit surprised.

"How about we continue this reunion in the limo, we do have a two hour ride home," he suggested.

"Sounds good to me, but are we all going to fit?" I asked.

They all laughed and told me to wait and see.

We walked out through a convenient side entrance and there waited a Hummer stretch limo. The driver hopped out and opened the back door for us and we all piled in. The couples all sat together on the side benches and there was plenty of room for all of us. The twins bracketed me on one bench, scooting close to both sides.

"Wow, this is some ride," I exclaimed as looked around. "And this is some surprise getting all of you together. John, Amanda and Stephanie sure kept it secret from me."

"I swore them to secrecy on penalty of death," one of the twins said with a smile. "Becky and I really wanted to surprise you. As for the limo, Becky and I can't travel by normal car anymore because it's in our contract; so we just got a bigger than usual limo for the trip here."

"Really, you can't get in your parent's car or mine for us to drive you somewhere?" I asked her.

"Nope, usually we just get a chauffeured full size car if it's around New York, but to and from jobs it's a limo," she said. "They don't want us to get in an accident so it's to just protect their investment."

"That's cool I guess, except when you're back here and we want to get around," I said.

"Don't worry, we just give the local limo service some notice and we'll get driven wherever we want," Becky said. "The agency pays for it so why not enjoy it I say. Does anyone want something to eat or snack on?"

Becky played host, passing out pops, water bottles or alcoholic drinks to those old enough to imbibe. I gulped down a water bottle and then sipped another one while eating a bag of chips.

"Is anyone really hungry?" I asked. "I only had a sandwich for supper back at four. Do you think this limo can go through a drive thru?"

Everyone was a bit hungry so one of the twins hit a button on the intercom and asked the driver to hit a Taco Bell drive thru. She found a piece of paper and wrote down everyone's order and then passed it to the driver, along with a hundred dollar bill, through the sliding partition when we pulled in to the nearest Taco Bell. Ten minutes later we were all chowing down on tacos and nachos while we headed out of town back to Ann Arbor.

After we finished eating we got to talking and I found out that the twins had kept in touch with the girls via texting and emails and then arranged this surprise early this week. We talked a bit about school and the twins a little bit about modelling but we made sure to get Brent and Ryan into the conversation. Brent was at Michigan in the architectural program while Ryan worked at his Dad's automotive factory in the engineering department. Ryan and Mr. Waters got into a conversation about the work Ryan did that seemed to keep most everyone interested so I had a semi-private conversation with the twins as we took the far bench for some privacy.

"So, how have you two been?" I asked quietly.

"We've been good, but very busy," Vicky responded.

"Yes, this is just the second day we haven't had some sort of shoot, or commercial to film since we left," Becky added. "We finally had to put our foot down and demand a couple days off to come and see everyone, especially you."

"Well good for you, and better for me," I said with a smile.

"Michael, we need to talk about some things privately and then, depending on how that goes, we should talk with our parents," Vicky said seriously.

"Ok, can we do it now or do you want to come back to the apartment or do you want me to come to your parent's house in the morning?" I asked.

"Yes to all three," Becky said. "We can talk a bit here, more at your apartment, and then we can all go to our home tomorrow."

"I like that scenario," I said with a grin. "Ok, so let's start. I miss the both of you and think it was wrong to break up when you moved to New York. I know we won't see each other as much, but I would rather that then not see you at all. We all have some money now, so we can spend a bit to fly to see one another when our schedules allow it."

They looked at each other and then Vicky said, "I guess that answered our first question on whether he still wants us."

"Yes it does, but what about the hussy?" Becky asked, and they turned back to me. "How far have you gone with this Lisa slut?"

"She's not a slut or a hussy, and she's only kissed me once," I told them. "I stopped anything further once her dad tried to bribe me to leave her alone. She knows all about Vicky and me and that you are here for the weekend. If we decide to get back together, I will tell her that I'm back with you and she will probably just leave me alone."

"Well, she's still a fast worker, so we'll have to keep an eye on her," Vicky said to Becky.

"So what about you two, you said you've been having offers?" I asked.

"Well, we've had a lot actually, but that's why we need to talk to you," Becky answered. "We have had some nice offers for a date, some not so nice offers for one night stands and some real sleazy offers to 'further our career'."

"Like we said in our emails, we've tried to deflect all of them by saying we have a boyfriend, but some of them aren't the type to stop until they see the evidence with their own eyes," Vicky said. It's starting to ruffle some feathers. Some pretty influential men and women have asked us and they aren't used to being turned down."

"So, we could use our boyfriend to be our public boyfriend," Becky added.

"That is, if you still wanted to be our boyfriend in the first place?" Vicky asked.

"Of course I want to be your boyfriend ladies," I replied, "but what does being your public boyfriend entail?"

The girls smiled and gave me a hug before saying we would talk later. Just then we noticed that the conversation around us had gone quiet and looked up to see everyone looking at us, the girls with smiles and the guys with grins.

"Ok, what's wrong?" I asked, looking around.

"Nothing is wrong Mikey," Steph said with a grin. "I think everything is back the way it should be now."

"I agree, you three look so much happier together," Amanda added. "Mike has been looking so lost without you and the two of you didn't look much better when we met you this afternoon."

I blushed while the girls grinned and gave me another hug.

"Well, we have some things to discuss and some pretty major hurdles to overcome, but we think this lug is worth it and we hope he agrees too," Becky said.

"Well, I think I'm worth it too!" I said with a grin, before getting jabs in the ribs while everyone else groaned.

"I see that his attempts at humour haven't improved," Vicky responded dryly.

"No, he's still trying, despite all of our pleas for mercy," Steph said, shaking her head in sorrow. "Luckily, he has some potential for other careers instead of being a comedian."

They all laughed as I tried to protest. The laughter continued as we went around the limo poking fun at everyone and their supposed idiosyncrasies. It was good to have everyone together again and the trip back passed quickly. We were surprised when we pulled into the arena parking lot back in Ann Arbor, close to one o'clock in the morning.

"Is everyone ok to drive home?" I asked, looking around.

"Ryan and I are staying here tonight," Steph said with a blush.

"So are Brent and I," Jessica said with a grin.

"As are we," Amanda added.

We let Mr. and Mrs. Waters out by their car after we gave them hugs, promising we would see them tomorrow, but probably not until the afternoon. I got out there as well so I could drive my car home while the twins had the limo driver take the other three couples to their dorms before coming to the apartment for the night. I wished everyone a good night and thanked them for coming to the game and keeping the girls company. The limo took off and I got in my car and warmed it up before heading back to the apartment. I had just parked when the limo pulled up at the curb. I walked down the driveway where the girls were thanking the driver as he handed them each an overnight bag. I took the bags from them, allowing one of them to give the driver a small envelope and then we walked up the driveway and around to the back door. We got into the apartment where both of the girls rushed to the bathroom after the long ride. I went in afterwards and relieved the pressure and then got changed into some comfortable sweats before joining them out in the kitchen.

They were both sitting at the kitchen table, looking around at my meagre furnishings.

"I see you really cleaned up for us Michael, that was sweet of you," one of the twins said.

"I hoped you would want to spend some time with me here," I said, sitting down. "So, I gather we still need to talk?"

"We should get some things out in the open before you agree to still being our boyfriend," one said, taking a breath before starting. "We're getting to be known by the public in New York, with all the fashion shows and how they are covered in the press. If we are out walking out on the street, we're sometimes recognized and we're even being covered a bit on some of the entertainment shows if we're out at a party or an industry get-together."

"Ok, so you need me to be your public boyfriend to keep the creeps away right?" I said. "I'm not so much for public attention, but if it means I'm still your private boyfriend, I can put up with it. That's correct right; you're not just going to use me as a public pretend boyfriend are you?"

"Of course not silly, we could have picked someone in New York for that!" one said with a giggle. "We want you as our boyfriend, public, private, clothed and unclothed."

"I love the sound of that!" I said with relief. "So, what's the problem?"

"You would have to be seen with us at a few events that could be filmed and photographed. You would be in the public eye so to speak," one of them said.

"A couple events in New York would be ok I guess, but how are we going to fit these them into our schedules, you know I hardly have any weekends free?" I asked.

"We would fly you in for a weekday thing and get you back here the same day if necessary," Vicky said. "We could schedule some of them over the holidays around your exams and any hockey games. I think you have two or three weeks off after the first weekend in December from hockey for your exams. Maybe we could do a couple then, as long as you still have time to study."

"That sounds ok with me," I agreed. "I'll get my schedule out tomorrow and we can get you a copy to take with you."

"That's about it, we just wanted to warn you about the media attention," the other one said.

"Ok, but I'm telling you right now, I'm not going to be put up with guys still hitting on you, especially if I'm right there," I said with a frown.

"You can look as mad as you like at those asses, just don't get violent, the media will just eat that up," she replied. "We want you to scare them off, but just your size and demeanour will go a long way to doing that, especially once we tell them that you're a hockey player."

"Ok, so far we have been talking about some of the bad things that you have to put up with to be involved with us," the other twin said.

The girls pulled me up out of the chair and pushed me towards the bed.

"Let us show you some of the positives now," the other said.

They started undressing me as they kissed and caressed my body from head to toe while commenting on my body.

"Jesus Michael, you are looking seriously buff," Becky said in awe.

"Damn, you've been hitting the weights pretty hard I see," Vicky said as she traced my chest muscles.

"I had some things to work out," I said.

"Working out has been very, very good to you," Becky said with a giggle. "You look marvellous!"

They looked at each other, pushed me onto the bed and then started undressing in unison. First the jerseys came off, then the bra. They both caressed their breasts for a bit before slowly working their hands down their fantastic abdomens to the button at the top of their jeans. They slowly undid the top button and then lowered the zipper down to the bottom. They both reached into their pants and rubbed themselves for a bit, with a passionate, almost wanton look appearing on their faces. They took their wet fingers out of their pants and placed it in each other's mouth, licking them off slowly while they stared at me. I was hard as a rock, with my cock sticking straight up in the cool air.

They sensuously lowered their hands down their body, stopping to caress their hard nipples for a bit, and then grasped their jeans and wiggled out of them, letting them go when they could drop to the floor. They did the same thing with their very sexy thongs, slowly lowering them past their knees and then stepping out of them. They crawled back onto the bed and lay on either side of me, with their legs over mine and one hand from each grasping my pole as they kissed me gently on the lips. I felt their wet pussies rubbing onto my legs as I caressed their backs before heading lower to squeeze and caress their delectable asses.

They both moaned and arched their bodies to let my fingers have access to them. I reached further and slipped my fingers though their soaking wet pussies, causing them to gasp and then grind themselves on me.

"God, you have magic fingers Michael," one of them said as I rubbed their clits.

"I want you so bad Michael," said the other, rubbing my cock up and down faster as her hips moved to generate more contact with my fingers.

"You keep that up and we're going to have a mess," I said with a moan. "It's been a few weeks remember?"

"That's it, I'm have to have you right now, Vicky get a condom from the drawer," Becky said, sitting up.

Vicky scrambled for the drawer and pulled out a couple of them. She opened up one with her teeth and quickly rolled it down my cock before holding it steady. Becky straddled me and got in position and Vicky moved my cock back and forth to rub her pussy and clit with the head.

After a minute of that Becky said "Quit teasing us and put it in bitch!"

Vicky giggled and then put it in the right place for Becky to lower herself down onto me.

"Ohhhh, he's so big," she said as she slowly took me up inside her. "Damn you feel good Michael!"

"You feel fantastic yourself Bec!" I replied, caressing her breasts.

"That looks so hot!" Vicky added, as she let go and started caressing herself.

I reached over and took over rubbing her pussy for her with one hand, while caressing Bec with the other. Bec starting raising and lowering herself, taking more of me inside her every time, until she finally had me all in and could rub her clit onto my groin at the bottom of her stroke. From then on she sped up while still making sure she bottomed out to hit her clit on me. She lowered her hands to my chest and kept up a fast pace, watching her sister get off on my hand, as Vicky watched her making love to me. I got to alternate my viewing pleasure between both of them as they got even more turned on.

I was starting to get ready to cum but I had to hold on until Becky came first so I closed my eyes and started to think about anything other than the twins. The hockey game, the novella I was writing, the old car I was stuck driving, anything to stave off the inevitable. Luckily Becky was reaching her peak as she moaning every time she lowered herself down on me.

"Oh, you feel so good Michael," she said. "I'm going to come real soon Sweetie."

"So am I Darling," I replied as I started raising my hips as she came down.

"Oh yeah, Oh yeah, fuck me Sweetie, fuck me so good," she chanted.

I sped up my thrusts as she did and that did the trick as she screamed and then bucked her hips a few times, her pussy squeezing around my cock. That tipped me over and I shouted as I thrust up into her and emptied into the condom, continuing a few more times until I collapsed back down on the bed with Becky sprawling out on top of me.

"Wow, that was so hot guys," Vicky said as she moved her hips on my hand.

We looked over to see her rubbing her clit as she rode my fingers.

"You better get her off Michael, she looks like she really needs it too," Becky said as she eased herself off of my cock, making sure the condom stayed on.

I quickly took it off and wrapped it in some Kleenex before lying Vicky down on her back. I moved in between her legs and lowered my mouth to her pussy and started licking her. She quickly ramped back up and was moaning as I fingered her while sucking and nibbling on her swollen clit.

"Yeah eat me Sweetie, I need to cum so bad," she said.

I just continued my ministrations and she came with a shriek a few minutes later. I slowed down and then stopped when she pulled me up by my hair.

"You are so good at that Sweetie," she remarked as she hugged me close.

I rolled in between them and said, "You two inspire me to do my best for you."

They moved in close to my sides and kissed me deeply.

"Oh, you taste good sister," Becky said with a giggle as she tasted her sister's juice. "It's been too long since I've tasted a woman."

"She sure does, and so do you," I agreed.

"You'll have to get it from the source later to make sure," Vicky told me and then looked at her sister. "You know you could have had any number of women in the last few weeks."

"I know, but I wanted to wait for Sweetie here first before exploring anyone new," she said. "It was well worth the wait, though I think I'll have to find a girl soon if you don't want to try again."

"I don't know, we haven't even tried it in years," Vicky said.

"You get pretty close when all three of us are together," I said. "Maybe you could try it while I watch and maybe participate?"

"Every man's dream right there," Vicky said dryly.

"I'm living every man's dream right now, whether you two get it on or not," I said. "I love everything we do already, but if we can provide all of Becky's needs without bringing in another person, then that would reduce the risk of someone spilling the beans about our relationship."

"He's got a point there Vicky, it would keep it under wraps, so to speak," Becky said. "I'm not too bad at it you know, I do know what we like."

"I know that silly, it's me doing it to you that may be the problem," Vicky said. "We'll try it in a bit after we rest for a while."

"I'm afraid it's going to have to be in the morning ladies," I said. "It's been a long day and I can't keep my eyes open. I had a great time with both of you and I love you both very much."

I kissed them both good night and received good night kisses and a I love you back from both of them as they snuggled up to me. I was asleep soon after.

Sunday morning I woke up with them still draped over me as I needed to get to the bathroom urgently. I slid out the end of the bed as they moved back into the middle and cuddled each other. I went to the washroom and pissed like a racehorse as they say, and then had a quick shower. I left them a note and headed off for the arena.

I walked into the empty building and got changed. Rolf had Patrick already on the goal for me so, after stretching and a skating warm-up, I commenced my shooting practice. I spent a larger amount skating in from centre ice in on the goal and either wristing a shot for one of the slots or backhanding after a deke. I also practiced it coming from the other side of the net, faking a backhand and then pulling the puck to the forehand and shooting close in. I got in some normal shooting from the point and then finished up as the women's team came onto the ice.

I said hi to a few of them as we crossed paths and then headed to the locker room. I got changed into my work-out sweats and went and did a full workout in the weight room. I bumped up the weights a bit and did the same amount of reps as last time and didn't struggle at all. I noted all the new weights and reps on a sheet and slid it under Chris's door for him to put in my file. After a quick shower, I headed back to the apartment and found each of the twins in one of my t-shirts, just coming down low enough to cover their gorgeous asses. They were cooking some breakfast in the kitchen, still with damp hair and bunny slippers on their feet.

"There is a sight that I want to see for the rest of my life, you two look both gorgeous and yet so domestic like that," I said as I came up behind them.

"Humph, I don't know how much you really appreciate us Michael Stewart, leaving a perfectly warm bed with two gorgeous twins to go play hockey and work out on a Sunday morning," one of them said.

"Yeah, we can't mean all that much to you if you abandon us to play with a rubber disk and a stick," the other agreed.

"You mean the world to me, but I have my routine and you both know it," I said. "You probably slept in until nine anyway."

"That might be so, but a woman likes to wake up to her man, rather than her sister staring into her face from a few inches away," one giggled.

I moved up close and hugged them from behind, kissing one and then the other on their neck and then their mouths.

"I'm sorry for abandoning you to each other, it must have been a horrible experience for the both of you," I said. "I, on the other hand, love waking up with both of you beside me and wish we could do it every morning."

"You sweet talker you," one said as she turned and moulded herself to my front and gave me a passionate kiss.

The other hip checked the first one out of the way and did the same thing. I was quickly getting aroused with all the tongue action and full body contact I was receiving. My hands explored the shortness of the t-shirts and the naked body below it.

The first twin had to put a stop to it before I got carried away, saying "Ok, enough of that, the breakfast is going to burn if you keep that up."

I helped finish cooking breakfast and we sat down to eat.

"So are you both still enjoying the modelling?" I asked.

They looked at each other and then the one on the left said, "So far it's been a lot of fun and really interesting. It's hard work with long hours to get sometimes just a couple of pictures, but that seems like the normal state of affairs. The money is really great and the perks are good too."

"The TV stuff is really intriguing for me," the other one said. "I think it is all so new that it will be a while before we get tired of it. We're being treated really well, living in a great condo in New York and getting driven or flown around everywhere is real cool."

"Well, I'm glad you both are still enjoying it," I said. "Do you get along with Amy and Claudia and the people at the head office?"

"Amy is terrific; we would be lost without her," one twin said. Claudia, just lines up stuff with the agency and we don't see her much. We correspond mostly by emails or text with her."

"We get along with the other models ok, but some of the head office guys try to hit on us," the other twin said. "The other models warned us about it real quick, and Amy warned us as well."

"I guess we better have me drop in to see you there as soon as we can," I said with a growl. "I don't like the sound of that at all."

"We can handle them Michael, and they aren't going to let our rejections to their egos affect what we bring into the agency," one said. "We need you to deflect the more important men that can ruin our careers if they feel we are embarrassing them."

"Ok, I'll make a copy of next month's schedule and you can get with Amy and Claudia to set some public appearances," I said. "Shall we get dressed and head over to your parent's place?"

"It's still a bit early to head over there," one twin said as she got up to put some dishes into the sink.

"Yes, our parents like their Sundays for their quiet alone time," the other said, grabbing some more of the dishes.

I got up and helped clean up the mess, scrubbing the frying pans while they wiped up the table and countertops. We finished the clean-up and hung up the dish towels to dry.

"So what do we do now for a couple of hours," one of them asked.

I looked at the clock and saw it was only a little past eleven as the girls looked at me.

"Well, we could play a game or something," I suggested.

Over the next two hours the twins filled me in on the games they liked to play with me, until I had to beg for a break, pleading for mercy from their eager attentions. Becky turned her attention to her unsuspecting sister and quickly had her screaming through another orgasm from her tongue and fingers. When she came down from her climax, she kissed her sister on the mouth and they shared a passionate kiss. Vicky moved down Becky's body with her mouth and soon had Becky moaning from her efforts. She licked and fingered Becky to multiple orgasms until Becky had to pull her head away from her, begging her stop. Becky pulled her up and they shared her fluids from Vicky's face as they kissed and hugged each other.

I had in a chair by the bed and watched them take care of each other and was again hard as a rock when they finally came up for air.

"That was the most erotic thing I have ever witnessed," I told them. "I am so glad I was here to see you two enjoy each other so much."

"It made me hot knowing you were watching us Michael," Vicky said. "It gave me a good reason to go through with it."

"Thanks Vic for trying it again," Becky said. "I hope you enjoyed it enough to do it again sometime."

"I think we can safely say we can take care of ourselves when our man isn't available," Vicky said, giving her another kiss.

"Oh goody, this weekend is just getting better and better!" Bec said with a big smile. "But we better take care of Sweetie before we go to see our parents or mom will wonder why he's walking with a steel rod in his pocket."

So they brought me back over to the bed and sat me down while they kneeled on either side of me. They quickly had me cumming as they double-teamed me with their luscious mouths and tongues. After I came in Becky's mouth, she gave Vicky an open mouthed kiss and transferring some of it with her tongue. They licked me clean and then kissed again before getting up and sitting beside me as I panted from my release.

"Damn women, you about killed me there," I said between breaths. "I need to work out more to take you both on like that again. That was fantastic."

"You were fantastic as well Mister," Vicky said, giving me a kiss.

"Magnificent, my stud," Becky added. "I think we make a great team."

"That we do, that we do," I said as I kissed her.

We had a quick shower and got dressed before heading out to their parents, the twins in a limo they called before the shower, while I followed in my car. We made the trip in just under an hour. Their parents were at the door when we walked up their sidewalk.

"Hey kids, did you have a good night?" the twin's mom asked.

"Yes mom, it was really great," one twin said as she gave her a hug.

"Oh yeah, we definitely got our Michael fix," the other agreed, getting her mother hug right after her sister.

I must have turned beat red because their dad Phil looked at me and burst out laughing.

"It's ok Mike, you're all adults now and we've always been pretty open about that kind of stuff, especially Sandy and the girls," Phil said with a grin. "You're going to have to find the switch for that beacon you keep lighting up every time though."

"That's good for the girls to be close with their mom, but I really don't need to hear them or you to hear them talk about it," I said dryly.

"Well, let's go down to the den while they have their talk up here," Phil suggested.

"You should go with dad Michael, we'll talk some stuff over with mom that we didn't have time to yesterday," one twin agreed.

"Ok, that sounds good, you three have a nice chat," I told them.

Phil led me downstairs and went to the fridge and grabbed a couple diet cokes for us as we sat down in a couple of chairs aligned around a TV.

"Shall we see how bad the Lions are playing?" he asked. "Or see if the Red Wings are playing this afternoon?"

"Whichever one you would like Mr. Waters," I replied.

"Maybe we can do both; we'll check out the Lions first to see how bad the score is and then see if the Red Wings are playing," he suggested.

He found the football game and the Lions were losing twenty one to sixteen at the half against the Carolina Panthers but couldn't find the Red Wings on any of the channels. He left the football game on but muted it as he wanted to talk.

"So, the girls came to their senses and stopped trying to fool themselves that any of you could live without each other," he stated.

"I guess so, they tell me I'm their boyfriend again," I replied. "I've definitely happy about that."

"I thought you would be," he remarked dryly. "Sandy and I are quite happy that you are back in their lives. You are good for them and will not only make them happy but will also look after them."

"I'll try as best I can to look after them, but can't do much when they are in New York or elsewhere," I told him. "I'll always try to keep them happy, they mean a lot to me."

"I know you'll do your best at each," Mr. Waters said. "So, what do you think about having to be in the public eye as their boyfriend?"

"I'm not very comfortable about that aspect, but if it keeps the jerks away from them, I'll do it," I said. "I'm hoping it's only a couple of events and then I can come back and hide. How do you like all their success and popularity?"

"I'm proud of them of course," he replied. "I worry about them but the agency is taking their security seriously, what with chauffeuring them around, putting them in a secure condo and having Amy around all the time."

I nodded my approval of their safety and then asked another question.

"What about the two girls with one guy issue?" I asked. "Won't the media make that into a big issue?"

"Yes they could," he agreed. "I'm not sure how they plan to tackle that issue but it could put you all more in the spotlight than you want to be."

"We need to talk about that before they leave today, I think," I said.

We watched the Lions lose the game as usual, on their way to a possible winless season. We weren't too talkative while we watched the game and the girls joined us soon after it was over.

"So, how are you our two favourite men getting along down here?" Mrs. Waters asked as she put down some chips and the girls put down some dip as well as a veggie and fruit tray.

"We are getting along just fine my dear," Mr. Waters replied. "Thanks for the snacks ladies."

"Yes thank you," I added.

"Can we join you?" one of the twins asked.

"Sure, the game's over," their dad said, shutting the TV off. "Mike brought up a good point on the two girls with one guy issue. It could create a very big issue with the media, the moral police and with potential clients for your services, let alone your own agency."

"We've talked about it between ourselves and we plan to play it like a game, never really answering the question directly, and never saying which twin we are if we do answer it," one of them said. "If we do it right, it would create more publicity without coming out and ever admitting that we both have our way with him."

I blushed again when she said that, which triggered laughter from the Waters family.

"And Michael can add to it by just saying he just shows up to pick up us up, and since he can't tell us apart, he never really knows who he is dating that night," the other one said with a smug grin. "When we're all out at an event, he can just say he is escorting both of us. We will need to work out a few details with some publicity people, but we hope to use guile to deflect questions."

And if any of you are asked a direct question, that a serious reporter will undoubtedly ask you eventually, how will you answer it?" their mother asked. "Michael, are you sleeping with both of the Waters twins?"

"I could say that one of them is my girlfriend, but to be frank since I can't tell them apart, I'm never really sure who it is," I answered. "Or I could just say it's none of their damn business if we don't want to admit we're sleeping together at all. I know to never admit to being with both of them at the same time but I don't know even what to say to our friends who saw both of them kiss me last night."

"We'll have to come up with answers to all sorts of questions and practise them before we go live," one twin said. "We'll sit down with Amy and Claudia first and then we'll have a conference with Michael before going to the agency. Claudia knows the score and we've hinted at things with Amy. We'll come up with a specific game plan for all of us to follow. I know I don't want one of us to be left in the cold, even if it is just for public consumption, because then that twin will be still hassled for dates or worse. I agree that we probably will just have to avoid answering the question using humour and guile."

"Well, then we have a problem, because Michael, doesn't have a proper sense of humour," said the other one, causing the Waters to all laugh again.

"Hmmm, I could always answer that I can tell who is who by how loud they snore," I suggested.

"We do not snore Michael Stewart!" they both said in unison.

"I beg to differ and I have the recordings to prove it" I replied. "I'm surprised your parents haven't told you."

"Michael Stewart, you should know not to get your girlfriends' parents in the middle of your domestic squabble," Mrs. Waters said. "Even if my daughters do snore like a hibernating bears, doesn't mean I would admit to it."

"Mother, we do not snore!" the twins said, looking at her in dismay.

Their parents and I nodded and they looked at each other in horror.

"Just because you're beautiful and brilliant, doesn't mean you don't have some faults," I said with a grin. "I fully accept that my humour is somewhat off kilter, but I'm ok with it; just like you two will have to accept that small children and animals will cower in the darkness when they hear the noises you two put out."

"Rebecca, remind me why we wanted this Neanderthal as our boyfriend please?" Vicky asked.

Becky walked over to her and whispered in her ear. She counted off a few things on her hand as she whispered.

"Ok, you do have some good points there Rebecca," Vicky said. "I guess they do outweigh his many faults. Shall we keep him?"

"I think we shall, and we'll ignore his pitiful attempts at humour Victoria," Becky replied.

"I'm so grateful for your acceptance of me, my ladies," I said, bowing low.

"Now that we know you're keeping him, what shall we feed him girls?" Mrs. Waters asked. "And don't say table scraps!"

"Well, if that's the case, we could make him some broth or something, I suppose," Vicky said haughtily.

"I suggest just bread and water," Becky said, with the same haughty tone.

"Wow, these two sure can hold a grudge," I said to Mr. Waters.

"You have no idea," he muttered.

"Daddy, how could you?" Becky said in mock shock.

"I seem to remember when we didn't get you a pony for your seventh birthday," he replied. "You two didn't talk to us for a week. It was blessedly quiet I must say."

The twins had the decency to blush after that as I chuckled at their sheepish expressions.

"So, how about we order some pizza, my treat?" I said, trying to get back in their good graces.

"Hmmm, he doesn't seem to like the broth or bread and water suggestions, does he Becky?" Vicky asked. "Should we let him off the hook and let him buy us dinner?"

"Just this once Vicky," Becky agreed.

The girls and their mother went upstairs to order the food and returned a few minutes later with a scrapbook. They pulled me to the couch and sat on either side of me and plopped the book on my lap.

"This is for you Michael; we put together a scrapbook of some pictures from the fashion shows, print ads and magazine photo shoots we've done so far," Vicky said.

"It's just something you can look at when you get lonely," Becky said.

"Thanks ladies, that was so thoughtful of you," I said as I opened it up.

"You are very welcome Sweetie," they replied.

I slowly went through the pictures with the twins explaining in more detail what each shot was, even though they had written a brief description underneath each photo. They were dressed in all sorts of fashions, from swimwear to evening gowns, cruise wear to winter coats.

"You two are just the most gorgeous women I have ever seen," I said as I finished looking through the book. "I'm not surprised you're making it big. Mark my words; you're going to be labelled super-models within a year."

"Why thank you Sweetie, we owe it all to you," Vicky said.

"Um, I think you owe it all to your parent's very fine genes, and no offence Mr. Waters, mostly your mother's genes," I refuted their statement.

"None taken, I thank God every day that the mix leaned heavily in my wife's direction," Mr. Waters said with a chuckle.

"Oh you charmers," Mrs. Waters said. "They get their height and hair type from you Phil."

"Yes, but the rest is all from you darling," he replied.

"We know where we got our looks from silly," Becky said, jabbing me in the ribs. "She's talking about being at our boyfriend's hockey game to be discovered, and having a very supportive man to give us the courage to do this."

"Well, thank-you for coming back and letting me be a part of your lives again," I said. "You've made me a very happy and lucky guy."

"Well, we did need someone to carry the real heavy bags," Vicky said with a straight face. "Daddy is getting old and decrepit so we're glad you've been working out."

"You are so lucky we don't have a pool handy or I would dump you in it you minx," I said with a growl as I tickled her in the ribs.

"Ok, Ok, I'll be good, I promise," she said as she couldn't stop giggling and squirming.

We heard the doorbell and us younger folks got up and ran upstairs to get the food. The girls opened the door to the delight of the delivery boy as I got tripped by a mysterious slim leg in the stairway.

"Hello ladies, damn you are looking quite fine this evening," I heard him say.

"Thanks, you're looking pretty good yourself there," one of the girls said.

"I work out to get this body, ladies," he boasted. "We should hook up, maybe after my shift is done."

I approached the doorway and moved into view behind the twins as they giggled. The guy was their height and couldn't have been more than one seventy soaking wet. I let him down gently as I reached for my wallet.

"Hey man, how much do I owe you?" I asked, without trying to make him look bad.

"Thirty three seventy five dude," he said.

"Here is forty, keep the change," I said, handing him the money.

"Thanks dude," he replied, grabbing the money and shoving it into a coat pocket.

He removed a couple of pizzas and handed them over; the girls each grabbed one.

"So ladies, are we on for later tonight?" he had the nerve to ask.

"I'm afraid not, our boyfriend here might get a bit angry if we abandoned him," Becky said.

"He's pretty damn possessive and would probably spank us if we tried to leave the house to see you," Vicky added. "The last time we snuck off, we couldn't sit down for a week and the guy we were supposed to meet disappeared."

"Oh, sorry dude, I thought maybe they were your sisters," he said, backing up.

"Did you lead the poor boy on girls?" I asked with a growl.

"We're sorry Butch; we were just kidding around, right dude?" Vicky asked, looking worried.

"Yeah, we were all just joking, right?" Becky said, trying to get the guy to play along.

"Oh, yeah, we was just joking dude, I knew these two ladies had to be taken already!" he said. "Ok, I gotta go now, thanks for the tip."

He turned and jogged back to his beat up sunbird and tore out of the driveway as we watched.

I turned to the twins and said "You two are bad, leading the poor boy on like that."

"The boy is a playa, don't you know Michael," Vicky said with a grin as we shut the door.

"And, he's actually older than you so you can't call him a boy," Becky said. "He does have a very high opinion of himself."

"Oh well, I'm sorry to spoil you rendezvous with him then," I said. "Maybe we can call him back?"

"Oh, stop, you big lummox," Becky said, unsuccessfully trying to check me into the wall.

"Don't drop the pizza Bec," I said as she bounced off of me and almost fell down.

"Jesus, you big Brutus, try not to knock her down," Vicky said, slapping me on the arm with her free hand.

"What did I do?" I asked. "She tried to check me and bounced off."

"Well, quit being so, so solid!" she replied in a huff.

"Women, can't live with them, can't hip check them," I said to myself.

"Did you say something?" Becky asked.

"Nope, just minding my own business here," I said as I headed downstairs.

I heard giggling coming from upstairs as I entered the family room shaking my head.

"The girls giving you a hard time are they?" Sandy asked with a grin.

"Oh yeah, after teasing the poor delivery guy," I answered.

"It's better than the silent treatment," Phil remarked wryly.

"I guess so, but sometimes," I said, leaving it hanging.

"Michael!" Sandy said with a fake look of shock. "Is that anyway to talk about the women you love?"

I just grinned and sat down to wait for the girls. They came down a couple minutes later looking all tired and weary.

"Boy, it sure would have been nice to have some help carrying these heavy boxes down," Vicky said.

"Our strong boyfriend would have been a huge asset with that Vicky, but he seems to have disappeared," Becky said. "Oh, here he is, expecting to be waited on hand and foot."

"Hmm, did you need any help ladies?" I asked, getting up to take a plate and a couple of napkins from the top of one the boxes before sitting down again.

Mr. and Mrs. Waters laughed at what I did while Becky looked at me in shock.

"He got you good Bec," Phil said as he made room on the table for the pizza box.

"Ok, you three, enough playing around, let's eat and enjoy the limited time we have left with each other, shall we?" Sandy requested.

"Sorry Mrs. Waters, I'll be a good boy," I said with a grin.

"Yes Mom, we'll be good," the twins replied in unison.

Soon we were all chowing down on pizza and chatting about the next few weeks. It looked like the girls would be busy the next three weekends, but were coming back for Thanksgiving a week from Wednesday and until Friday night.

I had a pair of games in Ohio next weekend and then on the Friday after Thanksgiving Thursday, we played in Minnesota with another game in Wisconsin on Saturday. I wasn't sure if we would even be in town on Thursday, maybe we would fly out in the evening or in the morning after. After that we played a home and away series against Michigan State on the fifth and sixth of December and then were off until after Christmas. Exams were scheduled in between then but I only had three so I would have some time off.

We tentatively scheduled a visit for me to New York the week of December eighth, or the week of December fifteenth, dependant on my exam schedule. They would pick a couple of events when the timing was nailed down. They suggested that I get a couple of high end suits from a tailor that their dad recommended so I wouldn't feel out of place. I didn't know when I could fit that in but said I would try.

Their parents excused themselves to go upstairs and give us some time alone before I had to leave to go back to my apartment. We sat together and talked for a while and then just relaxed while they watched their favourite show. After it was done we got up, cleaned up the room and then headed upstairs. They gave me a couple of enthusiastic kisses and then watched as I walked to my car. I waved to them as I pulled out and then drove back to Ann Arbor to my empty apartment. After a quick shower, I hit the hay and was fast asleep in no time flat.



-------

Chapter 30


Monday morning I was still in a good mood from the wonderful weekend with Vicky and Becky. I got up with a renewed purpose and was soon on the way to the arena, early for practice but wanting to get some additional shooting and skating in.

I was out on the ice quickly and did a full skating warm-up including some rushes from our blueline to the far net with the puck. I skated full out going in and full out going backwards on the way out. I finally got tired so I just did some practice shooting on Patrick until the rest of the team started trickling out from the dressing room.

John skated up to where I was shooting with a big smile.

"So, did you have a good weekend?" he asked.

"Yes I did, and you?" I replied.

"Why yes I did Mike, thanks for asking," he said with a grin. "You certainly looked cozy with both of the twins Saturday night."

"It was great to see them again," I said, deliberately missing his point. "That was some limo wasn't it?"

"Yeah it was, that was the first time for me in one of those big ones," he replied. "So tell me, are both of the twins your girlfriends?"

"John, Vicky is my girlfriend, don't even speculate about that or the media would have a field day," I told him. "I have enough enemies on this team that someone will shoot off his mouth if he heard that as a rumour."

"Sorry Mike, I wasn't thinking," he replied. "I envy you if it is true, but no one will ever hear it from me."

"There's going to be enough speculation in the media as it is, so please make sure Amanda doesn't talk to anyone about it either please," I said. "I'm sure she talks to Vicky more than I do, so she knows the crap that would rain down if the media finds someone to talk about it."

"I'll remind her and won't speak of it again Mike," John assured me.

"Thanks man, I'm nervous about having to be in the public eye as it is," I told him.

Fred gathered us around soon after and talked about our next opponents, the Miami University Redhawks of Oxford Ohio. He explained that they were a nationally ranked hockey team that will contend for the National Championship along with Boston University, Notre Dame and a few others, hopefully with us as one of them. They played a similar game as ours so it would be an offensively minded physical game against them.

Practice was primarily special teams and a scrimmage for the most part, with a bit of extra practice for the defence to carry up the puck from our end. All of the suspended players were back for practice this week, but were put on the scout team. Don and John spelled each other off as my partner as John's ankle was still tender. Frank let me know that I would be handling more of the puck carrying duties, partly because of John's ankle and partly because they thought I was good at it.

They finally let us go and I quickly got showered and changed before rushing up to the main campus for logic class. I sat down beside Steph a few minutes early so we could talk.

"Hey Steph, have a good weekend?" I asked.

"Yeah, I did, we had fun Saturday night and it was nice to wake up to Ryan beside me, rather than to my screaming siblings!" she said with a smile.

"Look, no blush!" I said with a grin.

"Stop it, you big lummox," she said, hitting me on the arm. "What about you, did you have a good time with your ladies?"

"Vicky and I had a very nice evening," I said.

Steph looked at me as if I was an idiot and then said "Amanda, Jessica and I know about you and the twins silly boy. Who do you think is supposed to watch over you while they are away?"

"What are you talking about?" I played dumb.

She sighed impatiently, pulled out her phone and scrolled through some emails until she found the one she wanted. She opened it up and showed it to me.

'We had a great time last night making up with our Sweetie' it said, and it was from Vicky and Becky, copied to Jessica and Amanda.

"Oh, I'm surprised they let it out, what with all the potential media problems that could happen," I said.

"Oh, the three of us all swore never to tell a soul, even our boyfriends don't know," Steph assured me.

"Well John suspects and I'm sure Brent and Ryan must as well, they're no dummies," I told her.

"Don't worry, we'll keep them under control, if they want to be spending the night with us ever again!" she said with an oddly fierce look on her face.

"Wow, remind me never to cross you, you tiger," I said.

"Sorry, I had to remind him yesterday to keep his mouth shut when he came out and said something about it," she told me. "He got the point pretty quickly when I kicked him out of my bed, and then, when I reminded him of the size difference between you and him, he dropped the subject post haste."

I laughed and then thanked her for her fierce protection of our privacy.

"Hey, you saved me from failing this class and helped with the other one, I owe you just for that," she said. "But then you brought me into your group and the girls became my good friends as well; how could I ever let anything happen to you guys?"

"Well, we like you too and will be there for you anytime you need us ok?" I said with a smile.

"I know you will, you're here for me already, ya big lummox," she said with a grin. "Enough of the fricking hallmark after school special moment, tell me if you sent them off with their Michael fix."

"They seemed to be well satisfied and in a good mood when I left them last night," I said with a grin.

"Good, they deserve it after the month they had, and so did you," she replied. "I certainly didn't want Lisa to be your next option. She's nice enough but we didn't need her in the loop before they could get back here to take care of you."

"Oh, you five were talking the entire time, weren't you?" I asked.

"Of course, just a couple days after they left, the twins knew they made a mistake, and the three of us knew you wouldn't be getting over them any time soon, or so we thought until Lisa wormed her way in," she said. "We let them know about her as soon as we knew."

"The three of you don't have to tell them everything I do Missy!" I said with a growl.

"You don't scare me Mikey, and we girls have to stick together," she said haughtily.

The professor came in with a stack of marked midterms under his arm that he plopped on the table.

"Morning everyone, I hope you had a good weekend, because unfortunately, I'm going to ruin the start of your week for most of you," he said. "Please come up when I call your name and then when you all have your test, we will go over it question by question to show you where you went wrong. The first five people I call can leave right away as they have shown that they know the material quite well."

"Mr. Stewart, Miss Merks, Mr. Tsin, Miss A. Wong and Mr. Meadows, grab your books and come on down, you're the next contestants on get out of class free day," he said.

Steph and I looked at each other and smiled as we quickly packed up our stuff, grabbed our coats and walked down to the professor.

"Mr. Stewart, another fine paper, you continue to surprise us with your fine academic work on top of your fine athletic prowess on the ice," he said. "Congratulations and have a fine morning."

"Thank you sir, it's nice to see the hard work pay off," I said, accepting the paper from him.

"Miss Merks, your lack of confidence after the exam was not warranted," he told her. "I have the feeling that studying with Mr. Stewart has helped you do so well in this class, but that's a good a way of learning as any other. Congratulations as well, and enjoy the free period. By the way, all five of you won't have an assignment this week as the rest of the class will be doing a review assignment on the previous material."

We thanked him and left the class quickly under the stares of our less fortunate brethren. We stopped outside and compared scores.

"So what did you get Steph?" I asked.

She looked down and said in shock "I got a ninety two, holy shit! What did you get?"

I looked at it and then told her "I got a ninety eight Steph, sorry."

"Don't be sorry silly, that's fantastic!" she said with a grin. "So what did you really get on the first one?"

"Ninety seven or ninety eight, I can't remember," I told her with a sheepish grin.

"You're a silly boy, you know that?" she asked. "I could never be jealous of you Mikey! You're the reason I'm still in this class. Now I owe you my first two kids; poor Ryan might never get to be a daddy if you keep this up!"

"You don't owe me a thing Steph, you did this one on your own," I told her. "Ok, let's go and celebrate with some breakfast."

We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast in the cafeteria and then chatted a bit about school and how things were going. It was a nice relaxing time to spend with a friend, without having to worry about schoolwork. Our free period came to an end so we packed up and left for our next classes. I told her I would see her in an hour and watched as she waltzed out of the cafeteria, looking over her shoulder with a grin to see me looking at her. I headed out to creative writing class, shaking my head. The professor asked us how we doing with our novellas and if there was any issues. No one seemed to have any so she continued with her lecture.

After class, I met up with Steph, Jessica and Lisa in the cafeteria, going through the line for some food beforehand.

"Hello ladies, how was your weekend?"

"I had a good time with Brent, especially Saturday night after the twins dropped us off in the limo," Jessica said.

"Ryan and I also had a great time after they dropped us too," Steph said.

"How was your weekend Lisa?" I asked her.

"Doesn't sound like it was anywhere as good as you and your friends had," she said sadly. "I gather you got back together with Vicky?"

"Yes I did. I'm sorry Lisa, I know that's not what you wanted to hear," I said.

"I expected it, she and her sister are very beautiful and they had first dibs," she said. "Well, I'm sure they don't want me hanging around so I'll leave you be."

"Ok Lisa, I hope you find another guy who deserves you better than I do," I said, standing up and giving her a hug. "Take care of yourself ok?"

"Ok Michael, and thanks for being honest with me from the start," she said before she walked away.

"Well, that's the end of that mess," Jessica said. "Now don't you invite any other girls to lunch or anywhere else Mister or you'll be in big trouble."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied with a salute. "Thanks for the back-up you two."

"The girls wanted to make sure you took care of the situation today," she replied. "We'll let them know it's done."

We finished our lunch and chatted a bit before splitting up for our last class of the day. I got my algebra midterm back and was relieved to see a ninety five on the front page. I was glad that I was keeping up my marks despite playing a lot of hockey. I made my way back to the cafeteria after algebra but Steph must have gone home as we didn't have an assignment yet. I worked on my new algebra assignment and left the creative writing weekly one until I got home. Soon it was time to walk back to the arena for afternoon practice.

Practice went by quickly as we were worked hard. Luckily with the extra guys back we could rotate in and out for a break more often. John and I partnered more as his ankle held up, but Don did get a lot of reps as well.

After practice I had supper at the cafeteria and then went home and finished the algebra and the creative writing weekly assignments. I then edited the entire novella, finding all the spelling mistakes and then changing some things around in the chapters that Cynthia hadn't edited yet. I turned on the Monday night football game while I was doing that and, when I was done, sent the girls an email telling them how much I enjoyed the weekend. I fell asleep watching the game and woke up an hour later when the TV got loud at the end of the game. I shut it off and hit the sack for the night.

Tuesday was notable only because Steph and I received our Computer programming midterms back. Morning practice was more of the same and I was able get to class on time afterwards. The professor came in as I was sitting down so I could only say hi to Steph before he started handing out the exams. We went alphabetically so Steph got hers before me. She went down to get it and he had a few words for her. She smiled back, thanked him and ran back up to her seat.

She grinned at me and said "Ninety three," to my raised eyebrow.

"Fantastic Miss Smarty pants!" I responded. "I think we will be calling you Miss Genius from now on."

"I guess it's better than Miss Average," she replied with a giggle.

I was called a couple minutes later and went down to collect it.

"Mr. Stewart, I'm disappointed in your mark on this one," the professor said with a frown.

"Oh? I thought I did pretty well," I responded. "I'll have to see what I did wrong."

"Yes, I wrote this exam to make sure you didn't get a second perfect mark, and you still got one," he said in disgust. "I'm obviously not making these things hard enough. Well, I guess congratulations are in order, so good work."

He handed me my exam and broke out in a grin and said, "You should have seen your face when I said that!"

"You got me good there Professor," I smiled as I shook his hand and went up.

"So, how did you do?" Steph asked.

"As good as last time," I replied, showing her the test.

"Damn it Mikey! I was hoping to beat you at something!" she swore as she punched me. "Are you telling me you are perfect so far in this class?"

"Yep, I figure I should be as it's my major, and they gave me a scholarship specifically to do well in it," I replied. "To tell you the truth, not much has been new to me yet so it's pretty easy to do well."

"I hate you," she said as she crossed her arms under her breasts and pouted in her seat.

Her breasts were pushed up a bit and she was showing some nice cleavage that I admired for a bit.

"I see what you're staring at Mr. Genius and you can just stop ogling my assets," she said, not looking at me.

"Well, if you're going to show them to me so blatantly, of course I'm going to look," I replied. "You do have wonderful assets by the way."

"Hmmm, thanks I guess, but my new status as Miss Genius, precludes you from treating me like a bimbo so keep your eyes forward," she stated haughtily.

"Does that mean I can't stare at your glorious butt anymore either?" I said in despair.

"Yes, I'm off the market," she answered.

"But, I'm Mr. Genius; I should get a free pass!" I objected. "I think it should be sans clothes as well, tell you the truth."

She burst out laughing and hit me in the arm before saying, "You would like that wouldn't you? Just wait until the twins hear about this!"

"Be sure to mention how much you've been flaunting yourself around me," I said dryly. "They might like to know about that too!"

"Who do you think told me to do it silly!" she admitted. "I'm to keep your eyes from wandering to other girls."

"Well then, you better wear some more revealing clothes then," I said with a deadpan look.

"To school?" she asked in shock. "You're dreaming Mikey."

"Ok then, you can wear them to the apartment then," I said with a grin.

"You wouldn't be able to keep your hands off me buster!" she replied

"Ok, just send me the pictures then," I said, just as the professor started his lecture.

The class was on a new topic so we paid attention and at the end wrote down the assignment for the week.

"Ok, you have workouts and practices until two thirty right?" she asked.

"That is correct Miss Genius," I replied.

"Ok, let's get together at two thirty in the arena cafeteria and work on this assignment, alright?" she asked.

"Sounds good, I'll see you then," I responded.

We split up and I watched her cute butt as she walked away. She turned and gave me the evil eye for a second before grinning and walking away. I laughed and then turned away to head to the arena.

After a good work-out and then lunch, I joined my fellow rookies on the ice. Frank and Sam ran us ragged with skating and stick handling drills for the first half hour and then concentrated on passing drills for the next half hour. A scrimmage finished it up and, after showering, I got dressed and met Steph in the cafeteria.

"Hey there Miss G, how's it going," I asked.

"Eh? Could you at least finish it once and a while, you Canuck?" she said in disgust.

"You know we don't say that much anymore?" I informed her. "It was big before I was born."

"Too bad, it's expected from all of you so just go along with it will you?" she said. "Ok, let's get busy; you don't have too much time."

"Yes Mother," I replied as I turned on my laptop.

We made significant progress on the program before I had to pack up.

"Ok, you better head back to campus before it gets dark and it begins to snow," I suggested.

She shivered and packed up without an argument.

"Ok, I'll see you in the morning Miss G," I said.

"Alright Mikey, have a good practice," she replied as we split apart at the doors.

I of course watched her until she was out of sight until I heard John laughing behind me.

"You've got the hottest babe in the country flying back and forth from New York with her twin sister in tow, and you're still staring at Steph's ass," he said, shaking his head.

"Have you looked at her ass lately, it is most excellent," I responded.

"Oh I agree, I just keep my staring a little less obvious," he said dryly.

"She likes me looking at her, she would be upset if I didn't," I replied. "The twins know all about it, I did it to them too when they were around. What can I say, I enjoy looking at women."

"Don't we all," John agreed.

We got changed and headed out to the ice to stretch and warm up. The coaches had us practicing break-outs out of our zone, both passing and just the defence carrying the puck up the ice. Then we practiced our offensive zone plays, practicing passing the puck around in close corners. The scout team was very aggressive, trying to prove they belonged in the starting line-up. For the last half hour we split into two teams and played a full period scrimmage. John's ankle was doing well so we were kept as partners for the entire practice.

After showering, I had supper at the cafeteria again and then headed home. I made sure my algebra and creative writing assignments were done and then worked on the programming assignment. I finished it up and got it tested before printing it out. I ended the day reading ahead in my textbooks and doing some end of chapter problems. I checked my email and found one from the twins.

They went to a photo shoot on Monday for Cosmopolitan and would be on the cover in the January or February. Today they filmed a commercial for a shampoo company that, if approved, would air during the Super Bowl. They were certainly taking off I thought.

They wanted to have a web conference with me on Thursday at two thirty and said I could do it with my laptop from school if I downloaded the proper software from the link they provided. It should be only for an hour so I wouldn't miss any practice. Amy, Claudia and two people from the agency would be online with us so I was to behave myself.

I replied back to them, letting them know I was ok with the time and hoped they were well. I told them I loved them and then sent it off. I downloaded the web conferencing software and made sure it worked before shutting the laptop down and heading to bed.

Wednesday was a repeat of Monday as usual, without the midterm results. I worked with Steph in the afternoon to make sure her program was working and then went to practice. I met Cynthia for supper at the arena cafeteria and she went over the entire novella again. We corrected the simple mistakes and then she took it home to do a final edit before emailing it back to me. I drove her home and went back to the apartment. I had everything done for the week, homework wise, so I did some laundry and cleaned up the apartment, doing the dishes and actually dusting and vacuuming the place. I then played some games on the computer before falling asleep before eleven.

Thursday I was hyped up, knowing I would be seeing and talking to the twins this afternoon. I was at the arena practicing my shooting a half hour before anyone else arrived. During practice I skated at bit faster, shot a bit harder and hit everything in sight.

"If I didn't know better, I'd say you were expecting the twins back tonight!" John joked with a laugh.

"Actually, I'm having a web conference this afternoon with them, to talk about going public as their boyfriend," I admitted.

"You always play better when you are going to see them," he stated.

"They certainly motivate me," I agreed.

I headed off to class and met up with Steph.

"You're not wearing that for the web conference are you?" she asked, looking at my jeans and tee shirt.

"I was planning on it," I said. "Why, should I have dressed up a bit?"

"Yes, you're dealing with fashion people Michael," she said in exasperation. "They are always dressed up in case someone is going to take their picture. Vicky told me to get you dressed, so we will head back to your apartment at lunch time. Meet me outside the arena after your workout and we will rush back there. You're going to have to start wearing better clothes once you go public, you will have people taking your picture any time of day."

I sighed and agreed to meet her. The professor continued with his new topic from last class and we were kept busy writing notes. After class, we split up after promising to meet in an hour. I put in a hard work-out, increasing the weight again while keeping the high number of reps. I had a quick shower and headed outside.

Steph was waiting so we got into my car for the ride back. We entered my apartment and I led her to my bedroom and opened my closet, glad that I had cleaned up last night. She looked through my clothes and picked out a shirt Vicky had bought for me a while ago. Then she picked out some dress slacks and shoes and then went to my dresser and found a pair of dress socks and handed them to me.

"Ok, put those on and we'll see how you look," she commanded, before heading out to the kitchen.

I quickly got into the clothes she picked out, put my old clothes and my shoes in a bag and then went out to have her inspect me. She got up from the chair in the kitchen and came over. She picked off a couple pieces of lint, straightened out my collar and kept a hand on my arm as she looked up at me.

"Wow, you look great Michael, if I do say so myself," she said with a wistful smile.

"Thanks Stephanie," I said. "So I pass muster?"

"Yep, you are going to impress the ladies for sure," she said.

"Good, now it's time to get back to school," I replied. "I'll drop you off at the main campus, though I'd like it if you were with me for the conference at two thirty."

"I'm glad you want me there, so do the twins," she informed me with a grin.

"Really? That's good," I said.

"Ok, let's get going," she directed me, grabbing my hand and leading the way to the door.

I locked the door after exiting my apartment and we headed upstairs. I unlocked the doors with the remote and opened the passenger side door for her. After shutting it after her, I got in the driver's side and we quickly drove to the main campus.

"I'm going to see if I can get a private room for the conference, but I'll meet you outside the cafeteria at twenty after ok?" I asked her.

"Sounds good, Mikey," she replied.

I pulled into the parking lot near her next class and let her out before heading to the arena. I got changed and headed out to the ice and found Frank.

"Hey Frank, how's it going?" I asked.

"Good Mike, and you?" he replied.

"Pretty good thanks," I said. "Is there a room I can use somewhere to do a web conference with the twins at two thirty? I can use the cafeteria but I would like something a bit more private if you have it."

"Sure, I'll get you the key after practice," he said. "Head out a bit early if you need to. Everything all right with you guys?"

"Sure is now," I replied. "Thanks Frank."

I skated away and joined the guys shooting on Bob and Josh before they called us together and started our drills. We practiced special teams play and then some defensive coverage before having a scrimmage. I left early to have a shower and get dressed in my good clothes before hunting up Frank.

"Looking sharp Mike, it must be important," he said. "Here is the key to the upstairs conference room. You should be able to hook up to the big screen with your laptop if you want to."

"Thanks Frank," I told him. "I'll make sure to lock it up and return the key next practice."

"Alright, good luck, and say hi to Vicky for me," he said.

"I will," I replied and rushed to the cafeteria to find Steph.

She was there waiting and she had changed into a dark skirt and jacket combo with a white blouse underneath which looked both professional and sexy.

"Damn, you look very businesslike, yet gorgeous at the same time," I told her, looking her up and down.

"Thank you kind sir," she replied, looking pleased at my compliment and did a little twirl for me.

"Damn woman, that skirt makes you look so hot," I admitted without thinking.

"Michael Stewart, you're not supposed to say that about me," she said blushing while looking around warily, "especially when we're in public Mikey."

"Sorry, but you know how much I like looking at you in just jeans, now you look even sexier," I said with a grin.

"Thanks, Mikey, but we're both taken so let's use our inner voice for those thoughts," she reminded me.

"Fine, but I'm still going to look at you. Alright, I got the key to the conference room upstairs so let's go and set up quickly," I said.

I led the way and we found the room down a hallway. I opened it up with Frank's key and then locked the door behind us. I moved to the table and pulled out my laptop, connecting it to the projector and then powering them both up. The projector showed everything that was on my screen up on the big screen so that was nice. I started up the software after connecting to the wireless network and waited until it was up and running.

"Ok, we're ready at this end once I send the signal to connect to the conference," I told her. "The only camera I have is in the laptop so you will have to sit beside me for them to see you. Anything we need to discuss before we connect? We have a few minutes if you want."

"Come here and let me straighten you up first," she said. "I have my instructions from the twins."

She grabbed a brush out of her bag and fixed my hair and then straightened out my collar and smoothed out the wrinkles. She tucked in my shirt more and made sure it was tight to my body in front. After looking at my pleats in my pants and brushing off some lint, she pronounced me passable. I was getting turned on by her attention and her hands on me as I watched her work and stared down her blouse. She noticed the bulge growing and blushed as she looked at it for a second before looking up at me.

"Sorry, your hands felt good and the view was spectacular again," I said.

"Mikey, I'm going to be helping you with your clothes and appearance from now on," she told me. "Are you going to be able to handle that maturely?"

"Who decided that?" I asked.

"The twins asked me to help out a bit" she replied. "So, can you stand me being close to you in private situations when you may be less than fully dressed?"

"Steph, contrarily to popular opinion, I am just a normal eighteen year old guy, who still gets excited when a beautiful woman is close and especially when she touches me. I guess the question is whether you can handle it?"

"I can be professional about it," she said and took a deep breath. "Ok, here are your instructions from Vicky. Be friendly but professional, keep out the personal stuff from the meeting, it could be recorded. No 'I love you' or any sexy talk, and for God's sake, don't try to make any jokes Michael."

"Is that from them or from you?" I asked.

"Both, you really need help in that department and we don't have that kind of time," she said with a smirk.

"Ok, wiseass, I'm connecting now," I said, clicking on the link.

Half a minute later, having put in the appropriate password, we were let into the conference. Our screen was broken into four, with the twins and Amy in the top left, another woman in the top right, which I assumed was their agent Claudia, a guy and a woman in the bottom left, presumably the agency reps, and Steph and I in the bottom right. Amy was a pretty redhead with glasses, wearing a nice green business suit and she had a friendly smile for us. Claudia was an older woman, probably at least thirty, but still pretty and also dressed in a nice blouse and jacket. The twins were in matching white blouses that made them look so elegant.

The man from the agency was in a fancy suit and looked a bit peeved and snooty, while the woman, also dressed in a fancy woman's business suit, looked more calm and pleasant.

"Hello everyone, can you hear me?" I asked.

"Yes we can Michael, can you hear us?" one of the twins asked.

"Yes we can," I replied with a smile.

They went through the introductions, Vicky, Becky and Amy, Claudia, Steven and Diane from the agency, and Stephanie and myself.

"Ok, why did you call this conference Vicky and Becky?" Steven asked. We are very busy right now."

One of the twins spoke up a bit angrily, probably Vicky.

"We are tired of being hit on by every guy in the agency, at every job we do and at every event," she started. "We have constantly tried to tell everyone we have a boyfriend, but either no one believes us or no one cares. While some are nice in their attempts, asking us out on a date, a fair bit of them are less than pleasant, asking or demanding one night stands or sexual favours in return for better photo shoots, or to better our career."

The other twin continued, saying "As you can see by Michael's reaction, he hasn't been told how bad it's been."

I was mad and my face must have looked pretty pissed off because Steven and Diane sat up and took things more seriously.

Steph put a hand on my arm and said "It's ok Michael, we're here to get it taken care of, and you know they wouldn't do anything like that and jeopardize what they have with you."

I took a deep breath and nodded to her.

Vicky continued, "This conference is being held to do two things; one is get you two, with Claudia's help, to get everyone at the agency to back off hitting on us, and to get the same thing done at every job we do. Two is to introduce Michael to the public as our boyfriend so hopefully we won't get hit on so much in public and at events."

Steven started blustering and tried to defend his colleagues by saying, "No one at the agency has been acting inappropriately that I am aware of. This is pure fallacy."

"We've taken to carry recorders and video cameras around to every meeting, job site and events," Becky said. "Our lawyer thinks we would easily win a sexual harassment lawsuit against the agency and each of the clients we have done work for. Since our potential earnings are in the millions, the awards would put a few of them out of business, especially when the other models made it a class action lawsuit. Would you like to see some of the things that you colleagues, and customer reps have said to us?"

Diane spoke up quickly and said "That won't be necessary ladies; I know exactly what you probably are going through, as I have had the same thing done to me. I gather that, since you have brought Steven and I into this conference, Steven was not one of your tormentors, and that you wish to resolve this without a lawsuit?"

"We knew you were a very smart woman Diane," Vicky said. "Steven has been a perfect gentleman around us and if certain things can be corrected, we will not have resort to a lawsuit."

Steven had calmed down and had also lost his peeved and snooty look. He looked at Diane for a second and then back at the camera and said, "Thank you for the compliment. While I obviously find you two very attractive, I have a beautiful wife of my own and have no need for any extracurricular activities, so to speak. I, as your direct handler in the agency, should have been on the look-out for this and protected you better. I will go to the president of the agency after this meeting and have him deal with the not so gentlemanly personnel in our company. We will also change the contracts to provide better security at all of your job sites, and finally, we will line up personal security for both of you for whenever you go out.

"That's a good start," Vicky said with a smile.

"Yes, thank you Steven," Becky agreed, echoing her smile.

"You are important to us, I'm just protecting our prized models," Steven said with a grin.

"You're all heart Steven," they said in unison.

"Ok, let's move on to your second request, going public with your boyfriend Michael," Diane said. "I'm not sure that is a good idea right now."

"And why is that?" Vicky said, sounding peeved.

"Your careers are just starting to pick up," Diane responded. "We don't want to throw a monkey wrench into the works now."

"Showing Michael at a couple of parties, movie opening and at a restaurant is hardly a monkey wrench Diane," Becky rebutted. "It just puts him out there a little bit now, so he will be established as our boyfriend so guys will get the message."

"Be that as it may, it could backfire if it's found out that he is seeing both of you," she said.

"We can deflect that by just saying he's one of our boyfriends," Becky insisted. "We will do this Diane, with or without your help. We're having this conference so you know what is going on, not to seek your approval on whom we date and have been dating since before your agency even knew about us. The two points were not requests."

Diane looked at Steven and he picked up the discussion.

"We are aware that you can date whom you want and we have no control on how you present him to the public," he started. "However, there is a reason that so many actresses and singers don't announce that they are seeing someone. It really puts off guys who think they have a shot at going out with you, even though they know they never will. It could kill your career."

"We are not actresses or singers trying to sell an album or a film," Vicky said. "We're models and we sell products for others. The other models have public boyfriends and it benefits their career sometimes."

"Yes, but Michael is just a computer science student," Diane said.

"He is also the star defenceman on the University of Michigan's Hockey team, and is touted as a first round pick in the next draft of the NHL," Becky informed them. "He has been in all sorts of newspaper articles, sports magazines and even on tv."

"Well, that is good to hear," Diane said, brightening up considerably. "So he's comfortable with the media?"

"Ah no," Vicky said. "All of that is coverage about him; he's actually not allowed to talk to the media because he's just a freshman."

"A freshman! Are you telling me he's only eighteen, and you're twenty?" Diane asked.

"So? He's over six three, two hundred and thirty five pounds of muscle and can beat the crap out of anyone who even breaths funny at us," Vicky said angrily.

"And he's a fantastic lover already," Becky added. "So his age has no bearing for us."

"He can't even drink for three more years and the older men will eat him alive if he gets in a conversation with anyone," Steven tried.

"He has a scholarship for computer science at the U of M and currently is carrying a 4.0 grade point average and will be an academic all American athlete for sure," Stephanie interjected. "He can hold his own on any topic except maybe fashion or entertainment."

"This is not a good idea," Steven said, with Diane nodding.

"We are going public with Michael, between December eighth and Christmas," Vicky stated emphatically. "If you don't wish to help, we will go to public places to have him seen with us and to events we are invited to on our own. We still expect you to handle the harassment issue or we go the lawsuit angle. Thank you for your time Steven and Diane."

"Wait," they said, but it was too late as Vicky shut down their connection.

"Well, that didn't go as well as we hoped," Becky said.

"They like to control every aspect of your lives if they can," Claudia finally said something. "Don't worry, they can't really do anything about Michael, and they've got too much riding on you two to make too much of a fuss. They will call me within five minutes and back off."

"That's what I like to hear," Vicky said. "Why didn't you help out?"

"I needed to know how you were in a fight and I got my answer," she said. "You two handled yourselves well. I was ready to step in but didn't have to. So, I'll call you if they call me, but just get Michael ready for any event in December just in case they want him to go with you to one of theirs. I hope that you trust your company provided personal assistant not to tattle on you to them?"

"Amy assures us she has very little loyalty to the agency, it seems they expect any woman to put out for them and we gave her an offer she can't refuse," Becky said.

"They won't be happy that I didn't tell them about this beforehand, so I might not be in their employ much longer anyway," Amy informed everyone.

"Well you'll still be our PA, we'll just pay you instead of them," Vicky said with a smile.

"Thanks girls, I'll enjoy it so much more," Amy replied, giving each of them a hug.

"Ok, we'll wait to make specific event plans but we will get Michael to New York sometime between those dates," Vicky said.

"And Steph will help Michael upgrade his wardrobe since we won't have time to help him," Becky added.

"We'll tackle that a bit on Sunday and next week, but he's away both weekends," Steph said.

"I don't need a new wardrobe," I stated. "I could use a couple more good shirts and dress pants for the visits, so Steph can help pick those out I guess."

"You could use more than that but it's a start," Vicky said. "We'll try and upgrade the rest as we go."

"Alright, anything else to talk about?" Becky asked.

No one spoke up for a few seconds.

"I guess not Bec," Vicky said. "Ok, thanks Claudia for participating today, we'll keep you in the loop on how it goes in December."

"You are welcome ladies, and it was nice to meet you Michael and Stephanie," Claudia replied. "I'll sign off now in case you want to have some privacy. I'll talk to you later if they call me back."

"Thanks Claudia, have a good afternoon," Becky responded, before Amy closed the connection.

"So, now that we're alone, we just wanted to say thanks to Amy and Steph for helping us out," Vicky started. "Michael, please let Steph help you with things while we're not there. We trust her fashion sense and we want her to help you out with anything else you might need."

"And she will keep the girls away from you too!" Becky said, causing all four of the girls to laugh.

"Hey, I don't need a babysitter!" I stated a bit angrily.

"We know that, we want you to have help available if you need it, that's all," Becky responded. "She's a friend that we can trust."

"I know that, but we can't ask her to give up her time like that," I said.

"Oh, she will be well paid for any time she spends helping you," Vicky said. "She could use the money and you could use some help so it's an easy match. Even if you two just do your homework together and she helps with supper and the dishes, it helps you, and her, out."

"Alright, but her schoolwork can't suffer doing this or the deal's off," I replied.

"That's why she's going to do her homework with you silly," Becky said. "She will just help out when you need it."

"Fine. So do we still see you this coming up Wednesday?" I said, changing the subject.

"Yes, we'll be flying in Wednesday afternoon and staying overnight with our parents," she replied. "Have you found out when you have to fly out for Friday's game in Minnesota?"

"Not yet, I'll find out this afternoon and will let everyone know," I replied.

Ok, but you two should be able to come to our house on Wednesday at least, right?" Vicky asked. "Amy is coming home with us so we can all meet and have some fun."

"I can make it Wednesday evening for sure," I answered.

"I guess I can come over Wednesday, but I need to get home for Thanksgiving dinner with the family and Ryan on Thursday afternoon," Steph added.

"Great, we'll try and get my parents to have a good meal Wednesday night then, but not the turkey," Becky said.

"Ok, so bring an appetite and we'll all have some much needed fun afterwards," Vicky told us. "We have to sign off now and I know our Sweetie needs to get to practice, so you two try and get some clothes when you can and have a good weekend in Ohio Michael. I love you."

"Yes, good luck Michael, and take care of him for us Steph," Becky added. "We love you both."

"I will, you two take care," Steph replied.

"I love you two and you take good care of them Amy," I added.

"I will, don't worry," Amy said with a smile. "Ok, anything else? No, ok signing off now, see you next week."

She hit a button and the screen went black. I shut down the program and then the laptop before pulling the cables out from the back of it.

"You ok with all of that Mikey?" Steph asked, looking a bit worried at me.

"I guess so, but I really don't need a personal assistant," I said. "I'm only agreeing to it because I know you could use the money, but I don't want to lose you as a friend because of this."

"Mikey, I know you don't really need me for much right now, you're the most self contained guy I've ever met," she replied, putting a hand over mine. "You do need help with your fashion sense and as hockey picks up, maybe I can help you with some other things. Let's just play everything by ear and see how it goes ok?"

"Ok princess, but don't screw up your life to do this," I said, patting her hand and giving her a smile.

"I won't," she promised. "Let's get cracking here."

We quickly packed up the laptop and put the room back in order before locking it up.

"Ok, do you have time tonight to go shopping Mikey?" she asked. "If not, we either go in the morning before you leave for Ohio, or on Sunday when you get back."

"I can spare a couple hours I guess," I replied. "How about you meet me here for supper after practice and then we'll head out to a mall?"

"Sounds good to me," she answered. "I'll head back and get changed into something a bit more casual and I'll see you in the cafeteria at six."

"Ah, I was hoping to keep you in that outfit a bit longer," I told her, admiring her legs openly.

"I'm sure you were, Mikey," she said, giving me a swat on my arm. "You are so bad Mister!"

"Sorry Princess, you leave me no choice in the matter," I said as I led her downstairs. "I'll see you later ok?"

"Alright," she replied as she took off down the hall while I stood there staring.

"Quit staring and get to practice," she said loudly without turning around.

"Ain't going to happen," I replied, staring at her legs and incredible butt as she strolled down the hallway.

She looked over her shoulder in exasperation and shook her head before continuing to the far doors. I leaned on the doorway and watched until she disappeared through the doors. I didn't know why she was so attractive to me, especially with the twins being so gorgeous, but her smaller but perfectly proportioned body was almost as appealing as theirs. I shook my head and turned to the locker room. I found Frank and thanked him for the use of the room as I returned the key to him.

Practice was really intense as we wouldn't be having one in the morning. We worked on all facets, special teams, offence and defence, before having one last practice. I did find out we would be leaving from the arena tomorrow at noon after a team lunch starting at eleven. I also asked about Thanksgiving and they let me know we would be leaving early on Friday morning for Minnesota. That would go over well with my ladies. I got changed and headed up to the cafeteria to meet Steph.

I found her waiting outside the cafeteria, being harassed by a tough looking guy in a leather jacket. He had one of her hands in his and was trying to pull her away. I dropped my jacket and book bag before quickly moving towards them. I grabbed his wrist and twisted it to force him to let her go before pushing him away as I got in between them.

"Hey, back off man, she's taken," I said scowling, as I put her behind me.

"Oh she is, is she?" he asked with a grin. "Well maybe she doesn't want a soft pretty boy, but a real man like me to satisfy her."

"I'm sure she's happy with who she's with, so take a hike," I replied.

The guy reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a switchblade. Stephanie gasped as she saw it while I pushed her farther away from us.

"I think you made a mistake getting in my way pretty boy," he said with a sneer. "Let's see how ugly I can make you look."

Just before he popped open the blade, John and Mark came up to stand beside me and John asked, "Is there a problem here?"

The dude put the knife quickly away into his pocket and then said, "Nope, no problem, I was just leaving."

He gave me a dirty look and then backed away. We watched him until he went out the doors and then we turned around to see Steph shivering and holding her arms tight against herself.

"You're ok princess, he's gone. Did he hurt you?" I asked.

"No, but he scared the crap out of me," she said, looking ready to cry. "He followed in me here from the street as I walked from campus and he wouldn't let go of me."

I rubbed her arms and said "Ok, no more walking alone for you, that's for sure. Let's get into the cafeteria, get some food and settle you down."

"Ok," she said quietly and grabbed my hand.

"You guys coming?" I asked.

"No, we're meeting the girls for dinner," John said.

"Oh, ok," I said. "Thanks for the back-up out there guys, it would have ended badly for one of us if you hadn't shown up."

"No problem Mike, glad to help," John replied. "Steph, are you ok?"

"Not really, but I will be," she said. "Thanks for your help."

They nodded and headed out while I took Steph in to get in line. I grabbed a couple trays and helped her get some food before paying for it. We walked to a table and sat down at an isolated table.

"So, how are you Princess?" I asked, looking at her.

"He really scared me Mike," she said. "I haven't had that happen to me before. I don't want to be alone."

"Don't worry, I'll drive you home and you won't be walking here by yourself ever again Princess," I re-assured her. "I shouldn't have had you walk here by yourself after dark, I'm sorry to put you through that."

"It's not your fault Mikey, you saved me from him, I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't been there," she said, leaning into me.

I put my arm around her and comforted her for a bit. She stopped shivering, put her arms around me and hugged me tightly.

"Hey, you're ok now Princess," I said to the top of her head. "You just stick close to people from now on and I'll come and get you for our classes."

"Ok Mikey, I know you'll protect me from him," she said, sitting up and looking down at her food.

I made sure she started eating and then joined her, using one hand as she was still too close to me to use my other arm. We ate slowly in silence until we were done.

"I think we should report this guy to the campus security so other girls can be more careful," I suggested.

"Ok, if you think so," Steph agreed.

"There is an office here in the arena on the main floor we can do it," I told her.

We cleaned up our trays and headed downstairs. One of the security guys took her statement and the guy's description down and assured us they would look into it as well as post warnings at the arena and the main campus. We thanked him and left their office.

"Are you up for some shopping?" I asked.

"That's a silly question, what girl isn't up to shopping?" Steph said, with a little smile.

"Ok, let's go make me fashionable," I told her, grabbing her hand.

After taking a look outside, I led her through both sets of doors and out into the cold crisp air. I heard her breathing faster as she looked around a bit wildly.

"Hey, calm down Princess, I'm watching out for him so don't worry," I said.

"Well, I'm going to watch out too, so don't tell me to calm down Michael Stewart," she said angrily.

"Sorry," I said, knowing when to shut up.

We hurried to my car and I got her in after unlocking it and then shut it quickly behind her. I walked around the car, looking around to see if the creep was skulking anywhere. He didn't appear to be around so I got in and started up the car. We pulled away after it warmed up and drove to the upscale mall Steph wanted us to go to.

"Sorry Mikey for biting your head off back there, I'm still scared and I took it out on you," she said, looking over at me.

"It's ok, I just thought you were channelling Vicky there for a sec," I said with a smile.

"She probably would have decked him right away," she replied. "I froze up when he grabbed me."

"We'll have to get you some self defence classes nearby," I suggested. "There are lots of ways to protect yourself in those situations if you're willing to learn."

"I might just do that Mikey," she said. "I think they offer them via the student affairs office so I'll check there first.

We pulled into the mall and parked close to an entrance. I held her hand as we entered the upscale men's store and started looking around. She finally had to let go my hand go and started to put shirts up against my front.

"Hold these three Mikey, while I find some pants," she commanded, all business now.

"Yes Ma'am," I said dutifully, grabbing the shirts while watching her move away.

A pretty young woman, dressed in a fancy blouse and short skirt combo, came over to me and asked with a big smile, "Hi there, do you need some help with anything?"

"Hi, I don't think so, my friend is taking care of picking out what is supposedly fashionable on me," I replied with a grin.

"I think just about anything would look good on you," she said with a sexy smile, looking me up and down as she stepped closer. "You did say she was just a friend right?"

"A very good friend," I corrected her, taking a step back.

From beside me came an "Ahem, Can't I leave you alone for one minute before a girl tries to pick you up?"

I looked down at a pissed off Stephanie and said, "She was just asking if I needed any help Princess."

"Sure, and I'm a super model," she spat out. "Just back off sister, his girlfriends are models and believe me, you're no match."

"I was just doing my job," the sales associate tried to stammer out.

"Yeah right," Steph replied. "We can handle this ourselves thank you."

The girl left and Steph looked up at me with a frown on her face.

"I see my task will be harder than I imagined," she said, shaking her head. "Come on, let's get these tried on."

She grabbed my free hand and pulled me to the dressing rooms and told me what shirt to try on with what pants. I dutifully came out to let her inspect me to make sure the clothes fit to her satisfaction. She tucked, adjusted and had me turning around to make sure they looked good.

"Ok, they all look good," she decided. "Let's get a couple pairs of shoes and socks to go with them and we're done here.

Twenty minutes later, and a few hundred dollars lighter in the bank account, I left the store carrying two large bags. Steph led us to another men's store, this time specializing in suits. She marched up to the counter and asked for assistance.

"Yes Miss, how can I help you this evening?" an older man asked.

"We need two top of the line suits fitted for Lurch here," she started. "They have to stand the criticism of any fashion or entertainment show. Armani or Gucci perhaps?"

"We have both of those brands in house of course Miss," the sales associate admitted. "Those are our most fashionable and will make the gentleman fit in at any high society get together. They are also our most expensive suits as well."

Steph looked at me and asked, "What's the limit on your card, ten K?"

"Yes, but I wasn't planning on spending anywhere near that much," I told her.

"Don't worry, the girls will cover it, they will be giving me a credit card when they get back to handle this from now on," she said. "Ok, one suit of each to go to a high class New York fashion show and after party that will be seen in the papers and on TV."

"May I have the gentleman's credit card please to ensure sufficient funds are available please?" he asked.

I reached for my wallet and handed over my MasterCard for him to swipe through. He moved over to the register and swiped it through. He came back a minute later with a more friendly smile on his face.

"You have ninety five hundred available on that card Sir, I assume we need to keep under that amount?" he asked.

"Yes, preferably a lot below that amount thanks," I said dryly.

"Don't worry about it Mikey, they will pay you back," Steph said. "Ok, let's get measuring and picking out the suits."

What followed was an hour that I could have done without; a tailor came and took all sorts of measurements, a couple of which I was most uncomfortable with. After trying on at least a dozen, Steph and Henry, the sales associate, conferred and decided on the best two for me. I handed over my card and Henry put the seventy five hundred onto it with a smile and told me to come back in a week for the final fitting. We left the store and exited the mall.

"I hope you're happy with yourself, bankrupting me for two suits while small children are starving around the world," I said in exasperation, while I drove back to the college.

"I think I did quite well, thank you very much," she said with a satisfied smile on her face. "My employers will be quite happy with my choices I think."

"And what about me, don't I get a say in what I wear?" I asked sourly, a bit peeved.

"You got to pick out the socks, didn't you?" she answered with a grin.

"A regular wise guy you are," I said, shaking my head.

She just laughed and grinned away while we made our way back. I pulled into the closest parking lot to her dorm and shut off the engine. I got out with her and walked her to her front door and then accompanied her to the elevator.

"Thanks for helping out with the clothes Steph, I do appreciate it," I told her.

"You're welcome, and thanks for getting rid of that creep at the arena," she replied.

"No problem, I can't have my Princess pawed by the riffraff, now can I?" I asked.

"Nope, only my Prince and my hero get to do that!" she said.

She reached up and pulled my head done and gave me a whopper of a kiss, even sneaking in a little tongue, as she moulded herself to me. Her hands went around my lower back and pulled me closer as I stood startled for a minute. My arms came up and wrapped around her as the kiss deepened until she finally pulled her head back a bit.

"Damn, you are a great kisser," she said, panting a bit.

"Hey, you're the kisser, I'm the kissed," I responded. "You are a fantastic kisser, and I must say, you do feel great next to me like this."

I caressed her back for a few more seconds as she moved her hips and stomach against my quickly aroused bulge.

"I think Big Mike liked it too," she said with a grin.

"Of course he did, you would wake the dead with that kiss and hug, let alone what you're doing now Princess," I remarked. "However, your bosses and my girlfriends won't like it if they find out about this."

"Oh I don't know, they might think it's your just reward for saving my virtue from my evil assailant," she said with a smile.

"Well, how about we just let them know it was just a kiss, ok?" I suggested.

"Oh alright, but I think they wouldn't mind a bit," she said.

"Ok, up you go, I'm off tomorrow at noon so I won't see you till Monday morning," I told her. "Call Ryan and let him know what happened earlier so he can look after you this weekend. If you're not comfortable Monday morning, I'll meet you at your dorm and walk you to class, ok?"

"Ok, I'll call Ryan and the twins," she agreed. "Thanks again Mikey."

"You're welcome Princess, and you call me if you have any problems sleeping or if you get scared," I told her.

"I will," she agreed and then stepped into the elevator.

I stayed until the doors closed on her smile and then left the building. After getting in my car I drove home and brought my new clothes into the apartment. I left them in the bags for now and just relaxed for a bit. I turned on the TV and found a hockey game on to watch. It must have been an hour later, around nine thirty, when the phone rang.

"Hello?" I asked into the receiver.

"Michael Stewart! How could you kiss your poor defenceless personal assistant like that?" Vicky said with the voice. "Don't you know she can file a sexual harassment suit against you for that?"

"Hello Darling, it's nice to hear from you," I said cheerfully. "I think you know she was the kisser and I was the recipient."

"Humph, I don't think you are striking the right tone there Michael," she retorted.

"Sorry Darling, I most humbly beg your forgiveness for my horrible transgression," I responded, trying to sound timid and sorrowful.

"You would make a horrible actor Michael," she said in exasperation. "But you do make an excellent protector of women."

"And of small children too!" I added with a laugh.

She laughed and then said, "Seriously, you make us so proud of you Sweetie, and we're so glad you're our man."

"Well thanks Vicky, and you know how I feel about you two being back with me," I replied. "I'm just glad I got there in time before things got worse. She was really shaken up for a bit there but then she was a real trooper and took charge getting me some clothes."

"Yes, she let us know how that went," Vicky acknowledged, "and how she thanked you at the end too!"

"Oh, it was just a kiss Vicky, don't get jealous or mad at her," I said.

"We're not mad or jealous, we like Steph as much as you do," Vicky said. "We also know how much she likes you."

"It's a good thing we all have separate people to love in our own lives so this complicated relationship stuff doesn't get any more complicated," I said with a laugh.

"Well, it's just got a bit more convoluted Sweetie," she told me.

"Oh?"

"Steph asked us if she could thank you for saving her," she said.

"She already thanked me and gave me a nice kiss and hug," I told her. "I think that went overboard already."

"She wants to show how much you mean to her a bit more, um, intimately," she said delicately.

"Well I'm glad you told her it was out of the question," I said, hopefully.

"She was really upset and then really persuasive, so we said we would talk things over with you," she responded. "She made an offer we're finding hard to refuse Michael."

"Oh? Let me guess, she agreed to spend some time with the two of you," I reasoned out.

"I guess she knows we find her hot little body just as sexy as you do," she answered with a giggle. "She let it slip how much she likes it when you ogle her all the time and she's caught us looking at her cute tush as well."

"Well, as much as we all admire her 'hot little body', as you call it, we all agreed that her friendship meant more to us then the good possibility of ruining it if things went sour," I reminded her. "Honestly, I have enough trouble keeping you two satisfied, without bringing more women into our relationship."

"We knew you would say that, and we agree up to a point," Vicky responded. "We just thought she could help ease your urges while we were away. We trust her not to run off with you and we could have some fun with Amy here."

"Oh, Amy and you two are hitting it off are you?" I asked with a smile. "She is very cute I must say, but couldn't that cause a problem if she's an employee of yours?"

"We don't think it will; she's really a sweet girl," Vicky replied. "So you wouldn't mind if we hooked up with her?"

"No, I knew you two would have a girlfriend there eventually, and like you say, she seems like a nice girl," I answered.

"Becky will be so happy to hear it," she replied. "So, we're ok with you and Steph if you want to fool around with her. Just be discreet and make sure she is protected so no little Stephie or Mikey gets made."

"Wait a minute, I don't want to fool around with her," I said. "Besides, she's with Ryan now."

"She was warned about the men issue, so she would have to break it off with him if she started anything with you," Vicky informed me.

"That should have put a stop to it right off," I hoped.

"Michael, we've known she's had a crush on you since the first time you helped her in the computer lab," Vicky said quietly. "She would drop Ryan in a heartbeat for a chance at you. She's too nice to try and steal you from us but she's brought it out in the open now."

"I don't know what to say, I didn't ever mean to lead her on or make her crush on me," I said. "I always meant it in a more friendly way."

"We know Michael, it's just that you are a really nice guy on top of being a hottie, so we don't blame her or you for how you feel about each other," Vicky said. "That's why we love you so much."

"Listen, I love you two just as much so I think I'll just tell her thanks but no thanks, I don't want to be more than good friends with her," I told her.

"We just wanted to let you know that we were ok with you and Steph becoming more intimate, and maybe we could be with her too. But we certainly are not going to try and force you to do anything you don't want to. Just know that if something happens on the spur of the moment, we won't be mad or jealous. But, you have to be honest with us and let us know if something does happen; no sneaking around behind our backs. And, if something does happen, we claim our right to be with Steph."

"Alright, let's leave it like that for now," I suggested. "We'll talk more on Wednesday night about it."

"Ok Sweetie, it's late and we both have to be up early, so good luck this weekend and we'll talk on Sunday," she responded.

"Ok Darling, I love you and let Bec know I love her too," I said. "Have a good weekend yourself."

"We love you too," she replied. "Good night Sweetie."

"Good night Darling," I replied before hanging up.

I went back to the hockey game and grabbed a snack between periods. After the game ended I hit the sack and fell asleep quickly. I was startled out of a deep sleep when my phone rang. I batted around until I found it and hit a few buttons before finding the right one.

"Hello?" I asked sleepily.

"Mikey, it's Steph," she said. "I'm sorry to call so late, but I got scared and I had to talk to someone."

"It's ok Princess, I told you to call remember?" I replied. "So, were you sleeping already?"

"I finally did fall asleep but I had a nightmare with him in it and I woke up screaming when my roommate shook me awake," she told me.

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that Princess, but you know he can't hurt you there," I tried to reassure her. "We'll make sure you are not alone when you're out and about."

"I know you will Mikey, I feel so safe with you around," she said. "Just your voice makes me feel calmer."

"That's what friends are for Princess," I told her.

"You're more than a friend Mikey, you're my knight in shining armour, my hero," she said softly.

"Steph, I just did what any other guy would have done for you, don't build me up to be anything more than that, please," I asked her.

"Too late Mikey, today just solidified how I felt about you," she responded. "I know you don't feel the same way towards me as you do the twins, but I know you feel something more than just simple friendship. I like the feeling I get whenever you look at me, it makes me feel special and wanted. I feel the same way whenever I look at you."

"Steph, you're a great friend and I do enjoy looking at your gorgeous body, but I'm not in love with you," I told her. "I'm sorry but I don't want to lead you on that I am, I love Becky and Vicky."

"I know that, but I'm hoping you will feel more for me over time," she replied. "I'll settle for really like right now."

"Listen, I'll always be there to protect you whenever I'm around, and I will always be your good friend, but I can't be more for you than that," I told her. "You have Ryan for that."

"Ok Mikey, I won't push you for more that you're willing to give emotionally, but I know the twins are ok with the four of us being closer," she replied. "I owe you for saving me and I plan on seeing you Sunday afternoon at your apartment to pay you back. You have a good night and a good weekend in Ohio Mikey."

She hung up before I could persuade her to not come over. I hung up the phone and lay back down. It took me a while to get back to sleep as I imagined how she would pay me back. It was a restless sleep to say the least.

I woke up Friday morning with Stephanie on my mind. A part of me didn't want anything to do with her physically because it could open the reciprocal actions from the girls. The other eighteen year old male portion of me really wanted to see what she had in mind. I really wanted to see her without her tight jeans covering her gorgeous ass.

I went through my morning routine with those thoughts utmost in my mind and then drove to the arena. I was still thinking about her when I ended up at my locker and didn't see my equipment hanging there. I shook my head to clear my head and looked around at all the empty lockers. I guess they had packed up already. I dug out my old skates and my older workout clothes and got changed. I went to the stick room and found a couple of my extras and headed out to the rink. After a quick warm-up skate, I got Patrick on one of the nets and did my usual shooting practice.

"Young man, Young man!" came a shout from the one of the doors by the benches.

I turned and saw a woman waving at me to come over. There were a bunch of girls/women in various figure skating outfits lined up on either side of her watching me as I skated up.

"What are you doing on the ice young man, one, this is a restricted rink and two, we have this time booked for practice!" she said, with an irritated tone. "This is the woman's figure skating team for the university and we need the ice to practice for an upcoming meet."

"Oh sorry, this is our usual time for practice, I guess they must have booked it out, thinking we wouldn't be using it," I replied. "Let me put Patrick away and I'll clear out."

"I'm still going to report this to the rink manager, what is your name young man and what club do you belong to?" she asked.

"I'm Mike, I play for the hockey team Ma'am," I replied.

Several of the girls started whispering amongst themselves and I started getting some smiles and giggles.

"Well Mike, you've screwed up the ice for my girls, how are they supposed to skate on this ice?" she asked angrily.

"Let me see if Rolf is around to do a quick cleaning, while I get rid of the nets," I said.

I skated to the Zamboni doors and got them open and then banged on the garage door behind them.

It opened a short time after and Rolf appeared as it rose.

"Hey Rolf, sorry to bother you, but I wasn't aware that the ice was booked for the figure skaters and I was hoping you could save my butt by cleaning it for them?" I asked.

"Sure Mike, but don't worry about her, she's all bark and no bite," he replied.

"I'll get the nets for you, and get Patrick undone," I told him.

"Good, I don't need her bitching at me too," he said with a laugh.

I got the nearest one off while he started up the Zamboni and then skated to the other end and started pushing that net back towards the doors. The girls were all doing their stretches but were trying their best to get my attention. Several of them were in their short figure skating skirts, showing off their legs, while others were in tight workout pants and tops. They were all in terrific shape and I admired them as I skated by. Once I got the net off the ice I skated to the bench and tried to exit without any more interaction with their coach, but she saw me and blocked me from heading down the hallway.

"I need your full name and what intramural team you play for, you've wasted fifteen minutes of our ice time," she said in a snit.

"Mike Stewart and I play for the wolves," I said, as a couple of the girls giggled behind her back.

She wrote it down and then said," I'll be talking with your team manager and the head of the intramural league about this. I expect you'll be kicked off the team for this unauthorized use of our ice time. Now get out of here before I call security to kick you out of here."

"Yes Ma'am, sorry for causing the delay," I replied. "Sorry Ladies."

"See you later Mikey," a bunch of them said and then giggled.

I smiled and then left the bench area as their coach scowled at me. I got changed in the locker room and then found Fred in his office.

"Hey Coach, I just wanted to warn you that I think I made the coach of the women's figure skating team mad because I was practicing. Sorry, but I didn't know someone else had our time booked," I told him. "I got Rolf to clean the ice and I got the nets off but she still wanted my name and intramural team, so she's going to cause some trouble for me. I gave her my right name but said I played for the wolves."

Fred laughed and asked, "She didn't recognize your name did she?"

"Nope, but some of her girls did I think," I told him. "Maybe they will tell her."

"Probably not; she's not a real popular coach, even amongst her own students," he said. "As long as you were polite to her, I'll take care of it."

"I was polite as I could be Coach," I assured him.

"Alright, get out of here and go get your stuff," he said. "We eat lunch in a couple of hours so don't be late."

I left the office and headed back to the lobby. I watched the girls practice for a bit through the glass and some of them waved when they saw me. I grinned at them while I waved and then headed out to my car and drove back to pack.

After relaxing for an hour or so, I packed for the two days away and then drove back to the arena. I went into the arena and got in line for lunch behind a few of the guys. I picked a meal of lasagne and a salad and found a seat in the cafeteria. John sat down across from me soon after I started eating.

"Hey John, how's it going?" I asked.

"Just fine, and you?" he replied.

"Not too bad," I answered.

We ate in silence as real men do and were done quickly. After dessert we hit the washroom and then grabbed our luggage and book bags, put the luggage down below and boarded the bus. It soon filled up and we both got seatmates. After a quick head count we got moving for the four hour bus ride to Oxford Ohio. I read ahead in my textbooks for a couple of hours and then did some problems in the back of the chapters. I had finished my novella and didn't have a logic assignment so I concentrated on new chapters. I had only a couple of weeks of school left so I wanted to make sure I stayed on top of things until the end of the year. After about an hour of that I called it quits and closed my eyes for a nap.

We pulled into the hotel parking lot and quickly got checked in and put our stuff into our rooms. After a quick, light supper, we got changed into our suits and headed to arena near the University. The Redhawks played in the brand new Goggin Ice Arena and it looked like a great place to play. We filed into the arena and quickly got changed before heading out for our time on the ice. After we did our normal drills we practiced special teams for a bit until the buzzer rang. The arena seats were starting to fill up as we left the ice.

Fred got up and started his spiel as we relaxed and replenished our liquids.

"This team is one of the best in the country, so don't take them lightly," he began. "They constantly pressure the puck in all areas of the ice so don't think you can relax while going back for the puck or carrying it up. They are physical, fast and excellent passers so be prepared for a hard fought game. The first line is as good a line as any in the country and both first pair of defencemen can shoot almost as hard as Mr. Stewart. Forwards, keep high up against the points so they don't get time to wind up for a shot, and defencemen, hit the first line any chance you can. Finally, don't take penalties or we'll see the number two power play at work against us."

Soon enough we were out on the ice and game started. They were every bit as good as advertised. I sat on the bench and watched the first lines battle it out. The play flowed quickly from one end back to the other as it tends to do when two good teams play each other.

John and I were back to third defence pair as all of the team was back from suspension. We hopped on the ice when it was our turn and skated into their zone. Rick Franklin, the left winger, saw us approaching their blue line and feathered a pass cross ice back to me. I was skating hard to get into the play and wound up for a hard slap shot. The puck rocketed off my stick and was headed for the top stick side corner when the goalie got his blocker up and directed it up into the netting that protected the spectators. The whistle blew and we lined up for a face-off.

Shawn won the face-off and got the puck back to John. He glance over at me but two Redhawk forwards were rushing out to me so he shot it towards their goal. Brad Eddings deflected it in front of the net, changing its direction. Their goalie made a fantastic reaction save and the puck shot off to the corner. Their defenceman beat Shawn to the puck and we quickly backed out of the zone as they tried a long passing play to spring one of their forwards free.

I was skating neck and neck with their centre when the pass came to him. We crossed our blueline and he put the brakes on suddenly. I stopped a second later, between him and the goal and swung my stick at the puck to knock it off his stick. We both chased it and I hit him into the boards as he touched it. John came over and scooped up the puck before passing it to Brad out of the zone. He crossed centre ice and dumped it into their zone before we all broke away to change up.

The game continued with chances at both ends, but the first period ended in a scoreless tie. The goalies from both teams had made some spectacular saves.

The second period was much the same, with both John and I bouncing pucks off posts from the point. They hit the crossbar once and Mark robbed their first line centre on a two on one. That period also ended in a scoreless tie.

Halfway through the third our fourth line, playing with the second pair of defence, mistakenly iced the puck, forcing them to stay out while the other team could change. It came after they were already out on the ice for a while. The Redhawks sent out their first line and first pair of defence for the face-off in our zone and their centre won the draw and got the puck back to the point. Our forwards chased the puck out to the point but he passed it to the other one who one timed it to net. Mark saved the initial shot, but their fresh forwards beat the defence to the puck and slapped it by Mark before he could get set again. The arena exploded in cheers as the loud siren signalled a goal.

The final ten minutes we poured everything we could at them, but couldn't get the equalizer. Mark was pulled for an extra attacker but it was the Redhawks that scored into our empty net on a clearing shot from behind their net. The final score was two to zero and we left the ice dejected as the crowd cheered for their team's victory.

Fred got up and told us there was no shame in losing to a great team by basically one goal, but we needed to find some offence for tomorrow's game. We hurriedly got showered and back into our suits and boarded the bus. We waited while our captains and Fred attended the press conference and then headed to the hotel for snacks and to bed.

Saturday morning found me in the hotel's weight room riding an exercise bike at six. I did a quick cycle around their Universal work-out machine and then went back up for a shower. I grabbed my algebra books and headed down to wait for the banquet room to open. Finding a comfortable chair in the lobby, I sat down and worked ahead in the final couple of chapters that we probably would cover. I looked up when someone sat near me.

"Hey coach, how's it going?" I asked.

"Not bad, I gather you have been up at your usual early hour?" Fred asked in return.

"Guilty as charged, got in a work-out and some studying," I admitted.

"I must commend you on your work ethic Mike, it's rare in a freshman," he said.

"Thanks, my parents had me doing chores from a young age and I guess it just stuck," I responded.

"I was meaning to ask you more about your parents," Fred stated. "You said your Dad's name was Hugh Stewart?"

"No, his name was Hank Stewart, actually Henry Joseph Stewart was his full name," I told him.

"And your mother's name?" he asked.

"Mary Ellen Stewart," I replied.

"Do you know your mother's maiden name?" he enquired.

"I think it was Barrows, why do you ask?" I replied.

"I had an interesting call the other day, from a Nancy Barrows-Hayden, who said she was your aunt," he told me. "Naturally, I was a bit suspicious as you had told me you didn't have any relatives. She assured me she was your mother's sister and had some pictures to prove it. I told her I would pass on her name and number to you as you were an adult. I hope you are very careful and make sure you are positive she is who she says she is before you get together with her."

I sat there shocked. I had no knowledge of any aunt or really any information about either of my parents' families. They had been very reluctant to answer any questions about them as I grew up and I learned not to ask as I grew older. It upset my mother every time I did ask, and my father got mad when that happened. I slowly reached out and grabbed the slip of paper Fred held out for me.

"Thanks coach, don't worry, I'll be careful," I told him as I took the paper.

"Good. Now, while I have you here, how is it going with Vicky being in New York?" he asked.

"It was rough for a bit, but she came back last weekend and we got back together," I told him. "The twins are doing well, so I'm going to New York in our off weeks for a couple of events so everyone knows they have a boyfriend and back off a bit."

"Good to hear it Mike," he said. "I hope you guys can make a go of it, long distance relationships aren't easy."

"We know but we're only two to three hours away by plane so we can see each other quickly if we needed to," I told him.

"True and I guess they can afford it now," he stated.

I laughed and agreed. We talked a bit more about things and then went in when the banquet hall was open. I quickly grabbed a full plate of eggs, hash browns, bacon and sausage with toast piled on top and headed to the drink counter. I poured a large diet coke and went out to chow down.

Five minutes later, I was cleaning the yolk and ketchup up with the toast when John sat down in front of me.

"Going for the land speed record there Mike?" he asked dryly.

"Nope, actually I'm going slower than usual," I replied with a grin. "I'm not really in a rush for anything today, so I thought, why not appreciate my food this morning?"

"Ah, yah," he replied, looking at me with a funny look on his face.

"Well, time for a second helping I think," I said, as I rose to my feet.

I was back a few minutes later with another full plate and proceeded to mow through it. John just looked on for a minute as I steadily went through the food and then went back to his food as I looked up at him. I finished before him and sat back to let the food settle.

"So, got any plans today, besides practice?" I asked.

"I should study a bit, but nothing else," he let me know. "You?"

"I could read ahead if nothing else comes up, but don't really need to," I admitted. "Is there anything to do in this town?"

"It's mostly the University, so I guess you could walk around that if you wanted," he said.

"That doesn't sound like much fun," I rebutted.

"Nope, it's not," he agreed. "Well, why don't we get some studying done, then we can get a couple guys together and get a poker game going," he suggested.

"Not a bad idea," I responded. "I haven't played in a while so it could be fun."

Fred let everyone know practice was at eleven with the bus leaving at quarter after ten. Lunch would be right after and a light dinner would be at four thirty. We would leave for the arena soon after that for the game. It was only eight forty five, so John and I went up and hit the books until ten and then dressed for the trip to the arena.

The coaches had us working exclusively on the offence for most of the hour, only sparing the last fifteen minutes for special teams. Frank told me to carry the puck in deep a couple of times, and we worked with the lines to get the centre or the right winger to cover the point if I did go deep. It was hoped that I would draw their defence out to cover me and I could pass it out front or go around them to create a mismatch.

It did create some confusion with the lines and defence we were playing against, as I either passed it out front or took the puck to the net to use my size like a power forward, keeping the puck away from the defender while leaning into him to move closer to the net. If all else failed, I could wind up and shoot a hard shot from closer in than usual.

The horn sounded and we left to shower up and head back to the hotel. After a large lunch, John and I found Mark and Shawn were up for a game of poker and we moved back up to our room. John had a set of chips and we played for almost three hours, with the dealer calling the game type. Mark was out after an hour and a half, Shawn after two, and John and I had to call it a tie when it was time for supper.

After a light pasta dinner, we got back into our suits and boarded the bus for the ride over to the arena. Tonight there were cameras filming us as we walked in as Comcast and NHL network were both carrying the game live. We got dressed quietly and got out on the ice for our warm-up. It was a bit disconcerting to see cameras filming everything we did, even in skating and shooting practice. I did my best to ignore them, even when I knew they were focusing on me while I shot at Mark. The horn sounded and we left the ice, walking past the filming cameras.

Fred got up as we relaxed.

"Ok, I saw a few of you getting nervous out there because of all the cameras," he said. "This game is between two top ten teams in the country and we deserve the right to be in the national spotlight. This generates revenue for the program, the sports department and the college, so it's a good thing. For some of you it's another chance to show your skills to the scouts, for others it is a first time on a national stage. But just think of it as another game that gets covered, only with a few more cameras. I will stress the rule that only seniors and juniors can talk to the media, as they will no doubt try to get an interview with anyone who will talk to them. Be polite, but tell them you are not allowed and direct them to talk to the coaches."

He continued, saying, "Now to the game. We need to continue to throw everything at the net, even more than last night. The difference is we need people in front to screen their goalie and to redirect the point shots. We're also going to have to take some chances with some longer break-out passes from our zone to create breakaways or at least some odd man rushes. On defence, we need to keep hitting them as soon as they break out of their zone and keep the pressure on in our zone. Are there any questions?"

Nobody had any so he wished us luck and left us alone for a bit.

John leaned over and said "Tonight is your coming out party Mike, so play as if Vicky was here and you wanted to impress her."

"What do you mean my coming out party?" I asked.

"It's your first nationally televised hockey game Mike, and lots of people are going to tune in to see what the hype is from the newspapers and magazines," he told me. "Don't change the way you play, but put a bit more into your shots, checks and it will pay off."

"I play hard all the time, I don't need cameras for motivation," I told him. "Besides, this will help you too, so I'll be sure to feed you for some extra shots."

"Thanks, I could use the exposure too I guess," he admitted.

"We'll try our patented play with you as the guy I pass to at least once or twice, and you can go in deep as well as I can," I told him.

"Hey, don't tilt it too much to me, you need to shoot and go in too," he told me.

"Don't worry, there will be enough chances to shoot for both of us," I responded.

Frank came over and said "I'm bumping you back up to second pair; we need the extra offence you two generate."

"Sounds good Frank, we're ready," John answered as I nodded.

"Good, play with some extra attitude out there tonight, it's an important game for all of us," he stated.

He left us and moved on to the next pair and soon it was time to get on the ice. The first lines of each team lined up against each other and the game began. Right away I could tell we had a bit more jump in our legs than yesterday after a long bus ride. The first line grabbed the puck and moved it into their zone and had a good scoring opportunity that was turned away by their goalie. The Redhawks brought the puck out and got a shot off before we gained possession again. I jumped onto the ice to replace Steve and went behind our net to take the puck from Albert, who went to the bench to change with John.

I started up the ice with the puck and passed it off to John as we reached centre ice. He shot it in and the forwards chased it down in the corner. Henry grabbed the puck and whipped it at the net. The goalie saved the shot but the rebound came out to John who slapped it back at the net. Their defenceman blocked it and the other one passed it up to a forward to break out of their zone. I backed out and found myself in a one of one against the forward carrying the puck. He tried to fake to one side and go around the other but I didn't bite on the fake. I moved into him and hit him hard enough to dislodge the puck, allowing John to find it and start back up the ice. I joined the rush and manned the point again. A few seconds later Kerry passed the puck back to me and I stepped into it with everything I had, aiming for top corner as one of the forwards went low to block the shot. Everyone else ducked or moved out of the way as the shot went just a bit high and slammed into the Plexiglas behind the goal, causing it to crack like a windshield. The refs blew the whistle to stop play before the rebound could be redirected back at the net. The maintenance staff came out to change the panel as we skated back to the bench.

"Jesus Mike, do you have to break one in every arena you play in?" John asked with a grin.

"Sorry, I had to aim high to avoid the forward and it missed," I replied.

At least it will make for good TV coverage for you," he said.

Eventually they got the pane replaced and play resumed. John and I got on with the first line three shifts later and I carried the puck up slowly. After a fake dump-in I hit John with a pass as he skated at full speed towards their blue line. He caught the forward on that side flat footed and was on the defenceman in a heartbeat. The defenceman forced him to the outside but was too slow to stop him completely. John went to go around the net but passed the puck out front just before he did, fooling the goalie. Gary was in place to shoot it into the net when his stick was lifted by the other defenceman, allowing the puck to slide out to the blueline. Their centre picked up the loose puck and started another odd man rush against Daniel, our left winger who covered the point while John went in, and myself.

I pointed Daniel to cover the puck carrying centre while I covered one of the wingers for a pass while backing up further. The puck was passed to the third forward and Daniel and I skated back even further to keep them all in front of us. As we crossed the blueline they passed from one to another, trying to get us to commit. We stayed in the middle and slowed down to keep from backing right into Mark, our goalie. We both swung our sticks out in front and then to the side along the ice to block the passing lanes and we moved a bit towards the two forwards without the puck, leaving the shooter for Mark. As they got close to the net and I saw the puck holder was winding up for a shot, I took a chance and moved on the shooter, while hopefully blocking the lane to the forward I was covering on the side. I got my stick in front of his shot and deflected it upwards over the goal into the netting, stopping the play. We skated to the bench to change up.

"Good play Mike," Daniel said.

"You played that well too, for a forward," I said with a grin.

"Yeah, we got lucky on that one for sure," he replied.

The game continued along with no score and the period soon ended that way. We trooped off to the dressing room and rehydrated as Fred got up to speak.

"Ok, survived that period despite a couple of great chances on their counterattack," he started off. "We need to keep the centre in the high slot a bit more to be able to help with that if we have two men deep. Make sure someone covers the point when the defence goes in, and that should only be if there is a good chance of a scoring opportunity. Let's try more shots from the point and get some screens set up or some deflections."

We relaxed for a while and then got ready for the second period. John and I were put out with the first line to start the period and had to back pedal as they won the faceoff. Their defence tried to hit the forward on my side with a pass as he skated into our zone but I read the play and hit the forward just after the puck hit his stick. He went flying backwards onto the ice while I grabbed the loose puck and took off for their net. I caught their team skating in so I just had the defenceman that had made the ill-conceived pass to beat.

He was on the other side of the ice so he had to take an angle to catch me. Unfortunately for him, he misjudged my speed and he ended up behind me, and was forced to try and hook me from behind. From the corner of my eye I saw the ref's hand come up, indicating a delayed penalty, but I kept going, brushing his stick off with one arm. We crossed the blueline going full speed, with their defenceman still trying to hook me. I kept the puck in front of me until the last second, then faked a shot and pulled it to my backhand to flip it into the top of the net on the other side over the sprawling goalie. The defenceman followed me and pushed me into the back boards as the goal light came on. I slammed in hard but kept on my feet barely. I pushed him back in anger and the teams quickly gathered and we were separated. I skated back to the bench as my teammates congratulated me.

We kept up the pressure but their goalie was fantastic again. Even when we got a power play against him, he stopped a couple of deflections and two of my shots from the point through screens. The period ended with the score at one to nothing for us.

"Great period men," Fred started his speech. "We need to keep up the intensity next period because you know they will be coming out hard. Let's keep the centre out closer to their blueline to help the defence and send only two deep. No more deep rushes by our defence either. Concentrate on defence first and just take point shots."

We had our usual orange slices and sports drinks while we rested for the rest of the intermission. The team trooped out to the ice and the first line and first pair of defence took the first shift. The Redhawks came out flying and had the puck in our zone quickly. They cycled the puck down deep and then fed the puck to the point for a hard shot on Mark. He saw it all the way and directed the rebound to the corner. Albert passed it up to Gary who quickly banked it off the boards and out of the zone. Daniel picked it up and rushed in on goal with a defenceman in between him and the net. Daniel used him as a screen and shot through his legs. Their goalie made a great save and held the puck for a face-off.

Both teams switched off and John and I set up at the points as the face-off was in their zone. Henry won it back to John, who immediately fired it low at the net hoping for a deflection. Ron Zonk got his stick on it but deflected it wide and the puck hit the corner boards and wrapped around to me at the point. I stopped it and walked the line, trying to get away from their forward as I wound up for a shot. I was in the centre of the ice when I shot it at net, with both Kerry and Ron in front of the goalie, setting up a screen. I shot low for the stick corner but had it deflect away from the net by a leg. The owner of the leg, a Redhawk defenceman, went down in a heap and the ref whistled the play dead as their trainer came out to check on him. A couple minutes later, two of his teammates helped him off the ice with the hurt leg held off the ice.

Play resumed with new lines and both teams had good scoring chances. John rang a shot off the post, so did one of their forwards. The score remained one to nothing with only a couple of minutes left when the Redhawk's coach called a time-out with the play stopped in our end.

After discussing things on either bench, we saw they pulled their goalie for an extra attacker. Fred sent out our first line and first pair of defencemen as our best defenders. Frank made sure John and I were ready to go on with the second line if needed.

They won the face-off and controlled the puck in our zone, passing it around quickly. Our forwards kept the pressure on, making sure they didn't have time to wind up for a big shot. They worked it down deep and got a shot on Mark, who stopped it but couldn't control the rebound. The puck bounced out in front of them and everyone went to the front of the net in a mad scramble. Steve and Albert knocked a couple of their forwards down to create more confusion as Mark was down low to try and see the puck.

The extra attacker paid off for them as he swooped in and hit the puck with his stick just as Gary did, popping the puck into the air towards the net. Mark didn't see the puck through all the bodies and it lazily went over his shoulder into the net for the tying goal, much to our disgust. The crowd went wild as did the Redhawk bench.

Fred sent out the second line along with John and me to finish the last minute of the period. Henry won the draw and got the puck back to me. I backed up as a forward started forechecking me, until I went behind my net. He was in front of our net and waited for me to come out. I looked at the clock and waited until only a half minute was left and then faked a pass to John before heading out the other side.

I carried the puck up a bit until two of their forwards converged on me, forcing me to pass it over to John. He continued up ice as I followed on the other side. He lofted the puck into the far corner and we let the three forwards go after it, while we stopped at the blueline and manned the points. Henry got to it just before one of their defenceman crushed him into the boards. The loose puck bounced to Kerry, who whipped it back to me at the point. I shot it low for a deflection but it got through to the goalie, who gloved it for a face-off with twelve seconds left. Fred called a time-out and we went back to the bench to discuss strategy.

Fred put the first line out but kept both John and I for the defence. He drew up a play to get it back to one of us at the point while the rest crowded the net. The horn sounded and we went back out. Gary did win the face-off and John was able to shoot the puck on net. The goalie saved the first shot but the rebound bounced right in front, causing another mad scramble. Everyone hacked at the puck and it was pushed out towards the blueline where I lined up for a slapshot. I aimed high to clear the bodies on the ice and blew it by the goalie as the horn sounded. Our bench celebrated as the opposing players shouted no goal.

The refs held a conference and the decision went to the video replay judges up in their booth. The crowd started chanting No Goal, No Goal and stomping their feet as we sat on the bench. Finally the ref hung up the phone went to out to the front of the benches and turned on his mike.

"The ruling is no goal, time had expired before the puck crossed the goal line," he said as the crowd cheered. "Regulation time has expired, we will have a five minute overtime period to commence immediately."

Everyone on our bench groaned while Fred called the ref over and talked about the judgement. Frank put John and me out on defence while Sam, the forward's coach, put out the first line again. We lined up for the face-off as the conversation finished between Fred and the ref. The puck was dropped and Gary won the face-off back to John. He carried it up past centre ice and dumped it in the corner, with Gary and Chris chasing it. The defenceman was slow to get there so Chris scooped it up and passed it to Daniel racing to the front of the ice. He one-timed it and beat the goalie but hit the post, with the puck bouncing to the other corner. One of their forwards came back and lofted the puck out of their zone, forcing me to retrieve it.

I went back and made a quick turn around the puck and passed it up Gary just exiting their zone. I raced back towards their blueline and Gary passed it back to me just before I entered the zone. I deked by one forward and as the two defencemen tried to sandwich me between them, shot at the net from the top of the circles. The goalie was ready and could see the shot all the way so he actually got a glove on the shot labelled for the top corner. It dribbled out of the glove but just went past the post. All three of us went down when they hit me while I was going full out. I got up slowly as did both of them while the play went on. Chris and one of their forwards went into the boards behind the net battling for the puck. It squirted free and came out front where I was just up on my feet. I took a wrist shot as another forward checked me off my feet. The check put my shot off a bit, clanging it off other post before heading back to the corner. I got up slowly as Gary battled for the puck with their centre. They eventually got a whistle as neither could move it.

I shook my head at the goalie as I got up on one knee before John came over to help me up.

"Trying for a whole five minute highlight reel?" he asked as we skated over to the bench.

"Just trying to end this thing," I replied. "He's got at least one horseshoe up his ass, that's for sure."

We sat down and watched the second line with the first pair of defence lose the draw and back out of their zone. The Redhawks controlled the play in our zone for the next minute, running the players on the ice ragged trying to contain them. Mark finally got hold of the puck and froze it for a face-off. Fred put the first line back out along with John and me. Gary did what he does best and won the draw. John quickly passed it to me behind the net and I moved it to Chris on the half boards and he passed it out of the zone to Daniel. I followed up a bit slower than usual but still got on the point in time to get a pass from Chris. I shot high for the stick side and their goalie got his blocker on it, deflecting it into the netting.

We lined up for the face-off and this time the two centres tied up the puck with no real winner. Chris and his counterpart on the side of the circle raced in to try and obtain the puck and it was hit into the middle of the ice where Daniel got a weak shot at the goal. Their goalie directed it to the opposite corner where their defence lofted it out to centre ice. John went back to retrieve it and I gave him a target to pass to if he needed it, moving to the other side of the ice back in the neutral zone. He had time without any Redhawk pressure so he carried it up and dumped it back in before peeling off for a change. I followed suit as did the forward line, with just over a minute and half left in the overtime period.

They brought the puck past centre ice and did the same thing so they could change. Steve Mason went back to corral the puck and start it up the ice. He passed it up to Henry who dumped it in their zone and gave chase. Their defenceman got there first and wrapped it around the boards, hoping to just get it out of the zone. It took a crazy bounce off the boards and got past Albert at the point. A forward took off after it around Albert, while Steve Mason at the other point gave chase from the other side of the ice. The Redhawk forward had too much of a head start and he was in on Mark with Steve a few steps behind. Mark tried to poke check the puck but the forward avoided it and put it in the open net behind him to win the game.

The crowd erupted in cheers as the horn blared out and the Redhawks spilled onto the ice to congratulate their forward and their goalie. We sat in disbelief for a minute and then left the bench to go to the locker room. I was stopped by an official and pulled to the side.

"Mike Stewart right?" he asked.

"Yes, what's up?" I answered.

"You're one of the three stars," he said.

"So, I don't do that," I told him and tried to move on.

"Hey, this is on national TV, you have to do it or it will look like bad sportsmanship," he insisted.

"Fine," I said and stood there while the announcer started it off by announcing the third star, the Redhawk player that scored the tying goal.

After that he announced me as the second star and I did a quick circle while the crowd booed. Finally as I walked down the tunnel to the locker room, he announced the first star as the Redhawk who scored the overtime goal and the crowd shouted their approval. I opened the locker room and shut the door behind me to shut the noise out as everyone looked up at me. I had a scowl on my face as walked to my place and started undressing, muttering under my breath.

Fred came in and let us get changed for a couple of minutes while he talked with Frank and Sam. He then stood on a bench and waited for quiet, though only a couple guys were chatting.

"Men, I have to say that the Redhawks must be the luckiest team in the Nation with how many times we should have scored, did score but have it disallowed, while their two goals were just lucky bounces," Fred stated. "I'm extremely proud of how all of you played and you can hold your heads high that you outplayed that team tonight. So, get showered and dressed while the captains and I answer a couple of questions and then we can have some food back at the hotel."

I turned back to my locker and continued to get out of my equipment quickly. I hopped into the shower and then got back into my suit. I waited until the rest of the team was dressed and walked out to the bus with cameras filming us again. I flopped down into a seat and stared out the window as we waited until Fred and the captains joined us.

John came and sat down beside me and looked over at me until I looked at him.

"You played a hell of a game Mike, it just wasn't meant to be," he told me.

"I guess," I answered. "I was just going everything trying to see where I could have done better. All my practice and I kept shooting high or hitting the post, it pisses me off."

"That's just the difference when playing versus just shooting at a stationary object," he told me. "Add a player standing in front, a moving goalie or a sprawling forward and what would have been a sure goal becomes a hit post, crossbar or slightly off the net shot. Sometimes a goalie just gets extra lucky, no matter how good you are."

"He certainly was lucky tonight, and I'd love to see the replay of that end of regulation play," I responded.

"I'm sure we'll see it on some sport's channel tonight or when we get back," he said.

We sat quietly until Fred and the three captains climbed onto the bus and we took off for the hotel. At the hotel we went to our rooms and got changed out of our suits before heading to the banquet room to have something to eat. I grabbed a plate and filled it with chicken wings and riblets before grabbing a diet coke and finding a seat. I ate slowly, for me anyway, and thought about the game. John was pretty quiet as well as we finished eating.

"Shall we head up and watch the late hockey game?" he asked.

"Sounds good," I agreed.

We got up and dumped our trash before heading up to the room. We got into comfortable tee shirts and shorts and turned on the game out west, between the Vancouver Canucks and the Calgary Flames. We watched a couple of periods and then shut it off to get some sleep. I lay there thinking about the game and then the twins. I finally fell asleep thinking about Vicky and Becky who were much more interesting to dream about.

Sunday morning I got up feeling cranky thinking about the two losses, but still headed down to the hotel's exercise room and did some time on the elliptical and then a did a serious work-out using full weights for each exercise. I was sweating up a storm when I finished but felt a bit better as I walked back to our room. John was still snoring up a storm when I walked in so I grabbed a shower and got dressed before waking him up. I packed my clothes and books and then headed downstairs with my logic books. I plopped down into a chair in the lobby and did some questions at the end of the new chapters until Fred showed up.

"Still hard at work Mr. Stewart, even on a Sunday morning?" he asked as he sat down.

"Just keeping ahead of everything while I have the chance Coach," I responded. "Did you have a good sleep?"

"Not really, losing two in a row to a conference rival had me thinking too much when I hit the hay," he replied. "That goalie of theirs was both fantastic and lucky."

"You're telling me?" I asked. "I'm the one who he kept stopping or got lucky with pucks hitting the post!"

"Yes, you had a great game, even though we lost," he stated.

"Thanks, but it doesn't matter if I had a good game if we still lost," I replied.

"For the team no, but for your career, it was positively the best thing that could happen to it," he admitted. "I watched some of the coverage afterwards and the commentators and analysts had some very good things to say about you."

"Well, I can't do anything about that," I told him.

"No you can't," he agreed with a smile. "I'm starting to come to the realization that you will be drafted quite high in June and might not be with us for next year."

"Just because a team drafts me, doesn't mean I have to leave school," I said. "I was always planning to try and finish early by taking courses over the summer, but at most I could cut off would be a year. My plans are to be here for a total of three years."

"The team that drafts you will throw big money at you to quit school and sign a contract with them," he told me. "It will be enough to tempt you for sure."

"Of course I would have to consider all options if that happened," I admitted. "I haven't put much thought into yet but I guess I better do some research about things."

"It wouldn't hurt to be prepared," he agreed. "Just look at both the pros and cons of leaving early. They could stick you on their farm team at a much lower salary and you would lose your education. Competition is very fierce for only a couple of open positions each year on a team."

"Yes, I know the odds are pretty long on making it, so I plan to keep in college until I get me degree," I said. "I'm not in a rush to play hockey for a living, but then again, I would love to give it a try."

"My door is open anytime you want to talk about things Mike," he offered.

"Thanks, I'm sure I'll be taking you up on that Coach," I replied.

"Well, I see the doors are opening, we better get in there before the food's all gone," he said with a laugh.

I packed up and followed Fred to the doors and got into line. I soon had a full plate of breakfast on a tray with the requisite diet coke. I found a seat off by myself and quickly ate my first plate while thinking how things kept getting more complicated.

I didn't feel like a second helping so I put my dishes and trash away and headed up to my room to collect my luggage and book bag. On my way past the front desk I handed in my key at the desk and boarded the bus after putting my luggage in the compartment below. I pulled out my programming textbook and read through the next chapters as the rest of the team boarded. No one asked to sit beside me which I liked so I could spread out my books better as I studied. I got a lot accomplished in all three subjects as we drove north from Ohio back into Michigan. I got tired of studying so I put my books away and pulled out my laptop and played some games to relax a bit.

We pulled into the arena parking lot around two and I grabbed my luggage and quickly headed to my car and drove home. I lugged my luggage and books downstairs into my apartment and dropped it beside the bed. I changed into just a pair of shorts and flopped onto my bed on my back and closed my eyes. I must have fallen asleep because the phone woke me up with a start.

"Hello?" I said while sitting up.

"Good, you're home," Stephanie said cheerfully. "Can you let me in upstairs please?"

"You're here?" I asked stupidly.

"Yes, I told you I would be over on Sunday Mikey," she replied. "Now come on up, it's cold and dark and I have my hands full of Chinese food."

"Alright, I'll be there in a sec," I told her, before hanging up.

I pulled on a tee shirt and some sweats and quickly ran up to let her in.

"Hey Princess, you shouldn't be out on your own this late," I stated as I grabbed the bag of food from her.

"I took a taxi to the Chinese place and to here, so it was ok," she responded as she pulled the door shut and followed me downstairs.

I put the food down on the table and looked at the clock, which showed it was already six o'clock. I turned to look back at her as she shut the apartment door and took off her coat. She had on a nice sweater and a tight pair of jeans and I noticed she had cut her blonde hair into a very chic shorter look.

"Hey, I like the new look Princess, very chic and adult I must say," I told her.

"Thanks Michael, I'm glad you like it," she replied with a smile.

"And thanks for getting dinner, you didn't have to do that," I added.

"Hey, I take my personal assistant duties very seriously Michael," she responded. "I need to get those new clothes washed for you too. Where did you put them?"

"They are over there, still in the bags," I said, pointing to the bedroom area.

"Ok, let me get these in the washer while you get supper dished out," she directed as she walked to get the bags.

"That can wait till after dinner Steph," I told her.

"Hey, you just handle the food Mister, I'll handle this," she retorted as she picked them up and then grabbed my laundry detergent and left the apartment, leaving the door open.

I did what I was told and had the food out on the table with spoons in each container as well as two places set when she came back in.

"This looks good," I said to her. "I fell asleep when I came home and didn't eat lunch so this is a nice treat."

"Oh, did I wake you?" she said, looking worried.

"Yeah, but I'm glad you did or I would have been all turned around," I reassured her. "So, let's dig in shall we?"

"We shall," she agreed as we sat down.

We filled our plates, passing containers of various foods across the table to each other as we finished with them ourselves.

"So, this weekend didn't go so well for the team, did it?" she asked. "I saw the game last night, and you played a great game."

"Thanks, but I couldn't seem to put the puck past that goalie, he was really good," I told her.

"He was really lucky, even the commentators said that more than once," Steph responded. "They were really going on about you though. I was so proud of you."

"Aw shucks Ma'am, it weren't nothing," I said.

She laughed and called me a goof. I smiled and ate for a bit.

"So what are you going to do when you get drafted in June Mikey?" she asked. "Are you going to leave me here to tackle second year computer science on my own?"

"I haven't given it too much thought yet, but since you're the second one to ask today, I guess I had better start thinking about it," I replied.

I told her what the coach and I had discussed in the morning and we went over some pros and cons. It was nice to have someone without a hidden agenda to discuss it with.

"So, do you think you will continue with four courses next semester?" she asked after we had finished our hockey discussion.

"I'm finding it pretty easy to keep up with four courses, given all the time I have to study on trips, so I'm thinking of adding one more," I told her.

"So, the second half of programming and algebra, the first half of calculus and what else?" she asked.

"I'm not sure, one elective and maybe a second year course that we need if it doesn't need a pre-requisite," I answered. "What are you thinking?"

"I have to take the first half of Algebra, the second half of programming and calculus, and then pick two more courses," she replied.

"I'll have to get with the advisors soon and get my courses booked; we should try and get you in the same classes if we can," I suggested.

"I like your thinking Grasshopper," she said with a smirk.

"Wiseass," I retorted. "I'll try and set it up for Tuesday or Wednesday through the coaches and maybe you can be in there as well."

"Sounds good to me Mikey," she agreed.

"Ok, let's clean up this food," I said as I got up.

We had the food all packed up and the table cleaned up in no time. She checked on the laundry while I washed the few dishes we had used. We relaxed on the bed, sitting up against the back wall as I tried to find something on TV to watch.

"I'm going to burst I ate so much," she whined, holding her stomach.

She fumbled at her waist for a second and I heard a zipper being pulled down.

She sighed before saying, "Aw, that's better; we almost had the button flying around the room scene happening there."

I grinned at her and responded, "I thought only overweight guys did that!"

"I love Chinese food and I might have overindulged just a bit," she replied defensively. "Why, do you think I'm overweight?"

"Well," I said, dragging it out a bit.

She looked up at me worriedly and when she saw my expressionless face she got a bit mad.

"I am not overweight!" she said, sitting up and pulling off her sweater. "Do you see any fat on this body?"

She had on a tight red crop top that showed off her bare midriff and her bare shoulders. I could tell she wasn't wearing a bra underneath as her nipples hardened with the cold. With the sweater off I could see where her jeans were undone and her underwear matched the top. I gazed up and down much longer than was required, ogling her until I couldn't keep a straight face as I burst out laughing.

"Michael Stewart, you are so mean to me," she said as she elbowed me in the ribs hard. "I thought you liked how I looked."

"You are just about perfect and you know it," I told her as I looked down at her body, "but you should have seen the worried look on your face. I wish I had a camera to record it for prosperity, or to get a couple pictures of you looking like that!"

"No pictures please, my public's been dying to get some of me," she said loftily, leaning back on the wall again and putting her hands behind her head.

"I know a lot of guys would kill to get some pictures of you like that Princess," I said, still admiring her very sexy torso.

"Well get your fill now, because I'm either going to have to put on my sweater or get under the covers, it's cold in here!" she told me.

"That's a crime, covering up a body like that," I said with a sigh.

"Well, I'll get under the covers if you will," she said hopefully.

"Princess, what are you trying to pull?" I asked warily.

"Nothing Mikey, I thought you might like to look at me a bit longer, you do like looking at me don't you?" she asked innocently.

"You know I do, but I'm starting to suspect some alternative motive," I replied. "Please don't push things Princess, I want you as a good friend, nothing more intimate than that."

"Don't I get a say in that?" she asked as she slowly dragged her hand down from behind her head, slipping between her breasts and then lightly skimming her tight abdomen. I watched it closely as she slipped it into the opening in her pants and itched a point just above her underwear for a couple of seconds before pulling it out to rest beside the opening.

"Damn woman, you're trying to drive me crazy, aren't you?" I asked, looking up at her face.

"No, I'm trying to get you hot and bothered, like I am," she said matter of factly. "Is it working?"

"Of course it's working, you must know that," I replied exasperated. "So why don't you put your sweater back on Princess?"

"How about you take yours off instead Mikey?" she asked with a grin as she rolled over to lie close to me and started rubbing my chest.

She leaned up and gave me a kiss as she got a leg draped over mine. I kissed her back for a bit and then broke it off, moving her to my side.

"Stephanie, I told you that we weren't going to do this," I told her. "I'm sorry but I can't let this happen."

I rolled out of bed and walked into the bathroom and splashed some water on my face. She had really got me going with that kiss and how good she felt close to me. I thought about hockey and did some math problems for a couple of minutes until my erection went down. I took a deep breath and went back out.

Steph was sitting at the end of the bed, her pants done up and her sweater on. She had her head down, looking at her hands clasped in her lap. She looked up and I saw tears in her eyes as I walked to her.

"Hey, don't cry Princess, I'm not that special you have to cry over me," I said, trying to cheer her up as I sat down beside her.

"I guess neither am I, seeing how quickly you ran away from me," she said with a sob.

"Princess, you're very special to me and a lot of other people, I ran so I didn't get any more tempted by you, and so I could cool off," I told her. "Listen, you have a wonderful guy that likes you a lot, why mess that up with a guy who can't satisfy his own girlfriends?"

"Because I've had a crush on you for the last three months and you just saved me from that guy and the girls said it was ok and they say you're a great lover," she said quickly while still crying.

"You deserve to be number one in a guy's heart Princess," I told her. "Ryan thinks the world of you."

"He's a nice guy but he's no Mikey," she said.

"Princess, I'm not the end all, be all guy you think I am," I said, exasperated. "I'm flattered you think I am, but I'm really not even a nice guy. I'm grumpy, a loner, selfish, jealous and I barely have enough time to study and play hockey. I don't even find you attractive."

"You are such a big liar Michael Stewart!" she said, hitting me hard in the arm. "We all know how much you love looking at me, so don't even go there."

"See, you hate me so much you're trying to break my arm," I said, rubbing the wounded appendage.

"You are such a wimp," she said, breaking out into a small smile. "Look at little me hurting the big bad defenceman star."

"Was that a smile I saw?" I teased her.

"No, you big lummox, it was a sneer," she spat out. "You know one of these times I'll take your rejection seriously, and then you're regret not being with me for the rest of your life."

"Princess, I will always regret not knowing the pleasure of having you as anything more than just a great friend," I told her seriously. "You are going to torture me all the days of my life."

"How can you expect me to stop trying when you say a thing like that?" she asked.

"How can keep trying knowing how hard it is on me to say no to you, when I know what it does to you?" I responded.

"Don't you get it?" she asked. "I love you and I can't stop loving you just because we can't be physical."

"I care for you very much Princess, but I love Vicky and Becky," I said softly.

"I know that doofus, you could grow to love me too," she replied. "You're a big enough man to love more than two women."

"You are so stubborn Stephanie Merks!" I growled, before hugging her close. "We will discuss this Wednesday night with the girls but for now, please stop trying to tempt me with your lovely body."

"So, you really got turned on seeing me like that," she said with a smile as she snuggled close to me.

"Of course I did, you're a very sexy woman and you were half undressed," I replied, looking down on her.

"I'm glad I make you excited," she giggled, as she slid her hand down my chest to my lower abdomen. "So it's just a jealousy thing with the twins that stops you, not a gross out thing being with me."

"If I weren't in love with the twins, you would be on the bed naked with me on top of you right now," I stated. "Does that settle that question once and for all?"

"I think it does, thank you Mikey," she said with a satisfied smirk.

"Why are you smirking like that?" I asked, puzzled.

"A girl likes to know she turns on her man," she said.

"I am not your man, so go try it with Ryan," I said. "Ok, let's get you back to the dorm so I can get some peace and quiet for a bit."

She looked sad as she looked at me after I said that but brightened up and said, "I have to wait for the dryer to fold your clothes."

"I can hang them up myself when I get back," I responded as I stood up.

"So you're going to take away my job now too?" she asked in a huff. "It's not enough to reject my overtures and break my heart, but you have to leave me penniless as well?"

"And the Oscar goes to Stephanie Merks, for her portrayal of a heartbroken, homeless waif of a girl, force to beg the evil monster for table scraps," I said with a grin.

"And speaking of table scraps, I'll take my leftover Chinese food please," she said haughtily, standing up and brushing by me to go to the bathroom.

I packed up her leftovers in a bag while she was getting herself ready to go home. She finally came out and went to put on her coat. I put my on as well and then grabbed the bag of leftovers and turned to look at her.

"You got everything Princess?" I asked.

"I guess so," she answered. "I was just kidding on the leftovers silly; I don't even have a fridge in the dorm."

"Oh, I thought you were really mad at me," I said.

"You are too easy," she said, patting me on my chest.

"Oh well," I replied before putting the food back in the fridge.

I moved to the door and opened it, holding it for Steph to walk through. I followed her up the stairs, of course watching her ass as she did. She stopped at the top landing and I moved in front to take the lead, opening the door. I got her in the car and drove her to the college. After walking her into the lobby of her dorm, I waited for the elevator with her.

"Thanks for doing the laundry and bringing the food over Steph," I told her. "It was a nice treat."

"Just doing my job taking care of you," she said with a smile. "Now don't forget to get the clothes out of the dryer and hang them up as soon as you get back."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied.

She stepped close and pulled me down to give me another patented Princess kiss and her hands slipped down my arms to pull them around her. I pulled her tight against me and kissed her back, allowing my hands to rest on her jeans. She rubbed herself on me as her tongue forced its way into my mouth. She was getting me worked up again so I stepped back while holding her still. She looked up at me and grinned.

"You liked that Michael Stewart, and I loved it," she said. "I'm not going to stop doing that until you give in Mister."

"I loved it but that's as far as I'll go Princess," I told her, shaking my head. "You are such a temptress."

"I have to do something, you won't listen to the three people who care for you more than anyone else in this world," she said, her face getting serious. "I'm going to be around you every day for a long time Michael, so get used to it."

The door opened and she backed into the elevator. She blew me a kiss and smiled as the door shut in front of her.

I left the dorm and returned home. I turned on the Sunday night football game and watched the first half before being interrupted by a phone call.

"Hey Sweetie, how was your dinner" one of them asked with a giggle.

"The temptress kicked up the heat, but I survived the onslaught relatively unscathed," I told her. "How was your weekend Darling?"

"Busy with a photo shoot, fashion show and a get together afterwards," she replied. "We got some great news; we're going to be in the Victoria Secret's Christmas Fashion show in a couple of weeks!"

"That is fantastic news; maybe I can watch it live!" I said with a laugh.

"That's a good idea, we'll have our personal assistant talk to your personal assistant and make sure you have a front row seat," she agreed. "We can introduce you as our boyfriend then."

"Sounds great to me," I replied.

"So your Princess didn't get her wish tonight?" she asked.

"No, not even after showing me her matching underwear," I told her. "She's really trying though."

"Well, we'll see if we can settle this Wednesday night," she replied. "I hope you're not upsetting her too much."

"No, she just tries harder," I laughed.

"Good, she cares so much for you," she said. "You don't want to hurt her too much."

"I'm trying not to," I told her.

Ok Sweetie, we have another two commercials to shoot in LA tomorrow, so we're flying out early in the morning," she informed me. "It's for Pepsi and Doritos, we're the hot girls that distract the guys."

"I can't wait to start seeing all your stuff come out soon," I told her. "You have a good sleep and a safe trip tomorrow. I love you both see you both Wednesday night."

"Good night Sweetie, we love you too," she replied. "Have a good week."

We hung up and since it was pretty late I shut off the television and, after brushing my teeth, hit the hay. I lay there for a while thinking about my two lovely ladies and how their career was taking off. Then I added Steph to my thoughts, reliving her lingerie show from earlier in the night. I fell asleep picturing the three of them together in my bed with me an active participant.



-------

Chapter 31


Monday morning I woke up feeling a sense of anticipation as I was going to see the twins in just three days. I jumped out of bed and got ready to go quickly. I was out the door early, even for me. The parking lot was empty when I arrived at the arena and Rolf was just starting to clean the ice with the Zamboni as I walked in. I quickly got changed and was out on the ice as he was putting Patrick on the far goal.

"Hey Rolf, how's it going?" I asked.

"Getting by Mike, and you?" he responded.

"Pretty good actually," I answered with a grin. "I'm looking forward to a day off on Thursday."

"Aren't we all," he agreed with a laugh.

"Rolf, did you catch Saturday's game on TV?" I asked.

"I did and you played a great game, that goalie sure was lucky," he answered.

"Thanks, but my shooting was just a bit off, with all the bodies going down to block the shots," I told him. "I'm wondering if we could find something to simulate that when I shoot against old Patrick here, maybe a bench or something."

"Let me whip something up for you, maybe a couple of small plastic horses with a net strung between them, or a plastic bench," he mused. "You couldn't keep it in one spot for long or you'll damage the ice, but you'll probably hit it a few times with the puck anyway to knock it around."

"Thanks Rolf, I appreciate anything you can come up with," I told him. "I need to figure a way to simulate game conditions better."

"Alright, I'll have something ready for you for this afternoon's practice or tomorrow morning," Rolf said, before leaving the ice and shutting the big Zamboni doors.

"Thanks Rolf," I replied as I skated away to start my stretches.

After stretching, I had a vigorous warm up skate and then started my shooting practice. I worked on accuracy first, starting closer in to the net and moving out as I became more consistent. I added more power as I moved back to the blueline, until I was shooting at full strength.

Next, I started faking a shot and then moving the puck to one side or the other before shooting, simulating avoiding a sliding opponent's shot block. I worked on that from different points along the blueline, while aiming for the two high corners. The extra movement before shooting definitely screwed up the percentage of shots that went in, as was illustrated by the sounds of pucks hitting the crossbar, posts or Patrick much more frequently.

The rest of the team started trickling out to the ice, forcing me to stop shooting so they could skate around the whole ice. I fished out the pucks from behind Patrick, using the new access door Rolf had put in and went to rest for a bit on the bench. Eventually the coaches joined the team on the ice and Fred called us together.

"Morning men," Fred started. "We had a disappointing weekend against Miami but I wouldn't say we played badly. Their goalie just stole the show and they got the lucky breaks with the goals they scored. So, let's shake those losses off and get ready for the College Hockey Showdown in Minnesota and Wisconsin this weekend."

Fred continued, "We all know the Minnesota Gophers are ranked number one in the country right now, so it's not going to be easy. They are loaded with NHL level talent and play a pro style, puck possession type of game. We'll need to work on our forechecking this week to disrupt their passing game."

"On Saturday, we'll fly out early in the morning from Minnesota and head to Wisconsin to play the Badgers, who will have played Michigan State the night before," he added. "We'll be tired but we'll have to play our best to beat them on their home turf. So, we have three days to practice, one day to spend with our families eating turkey, and we fly out early Friday to Minnesota. Be sure you don't miss the bus, we leave here at eight am."

We broke away and started an intense special teams' session before concentrating on a new version of the neutral zone trap to take away the open space against the Gophers. After a spirited full scrimmage, we headed to the locker room and got showered and changed.

I hurried to the main campus and entered the classroom a couple minutes early. Steph was in her usual spot and looked up as I approached.

"Hey Mikey, how was practice?" she asked.

"Good; how did you sleep?" I responded.

"Not too good, I still had bad dreams and woke up in a panic," she admitted.

"I'm sorry to hear that Princess, I wish there was something I could do," I told her.

"You could have let me stay with you last night," she whispered. "I'm sure that would have cured my nightmares real quick."

I just shook my head and got my books out, ignoring her statement. She elbowed me in the side, catching me in the ribs when my arm was raised. I let out a whoosh of air and looked over at her with a frown.

"Princess, that was so not cool," I told her.

"Ignoring me won't make me disappear Michael Stewart, so don't even try," she said, giving me a glare.

"Hitting me or pestering me won't get you anywhere either, so drop it until Wednesday night Stephanie Merks," I growled back at her.

"You are so stubborn," she retorted before crossing her arms below her breasts.

"And you're not?" I blurted out.

"Humph, I have to be or I'd never get anywhere with you," she said. "I can't believe you didn't want me when I took off my sweater."

"Of course I wanted you, I just have a bit more self control than you do," I said with a smirk.

She growled and was going to say something when the professor started his lecture. I just grinned at her and then started taking notes while she muttered under her breath.

The lecture was on new material and the prof went through it quickly. I looked around about half way through the lecture to see puzzled expressions on most of the students' faces. The prof just kept going, filling the boards with equations and information until the bell rang.

"Ok truce," Steph said. "I hope you got all that because I sure didn't."

"I got it and did the questions for the chapter already," I told her. "I'll meet you in the cafeteria if you put a smile on that face and stop being mad at me."

"Fine, but I'm not happy about it," she said, smiling at me for a second before frowning again.

"That looked like a grimace to me," I said.

Steph growled and pushed past me to stomp down the steps and head out the door. I just shook my head and trailed her out of the room. She was half way down the hallway and moving fast. I followed her and exited the building to find her standing with her hands on her hips, waiting for me.

"What took you so long?" she asked.

"I didn't know it was a race Princess," I replied.

"Look, I'm sorry I'm such a bitch right now," she said with a sigh. "I'm not sleeping well and I broke up with Ryan last night."

"Oh Princess, you shouldn't have," I told her as I moved to give her a hug. "You should have waited until we figured everything out."

"I didn't want to have him as a failsafe, we need to make this work," she said, with some determination in her voice and a stronger look on her face. "Don't disappoint me Michael."

"We'll work something out," I said, giving up on my resolution.

She looked at me for a few seconds to see how serious I was and then gave me a smile.

"Ok, Mikey, I believe you," she said. "We better get going to class. I'll see you in an hour."

She strode off, her fast pace making interesting things happen to her tight ass. I watched her until she turned and frowned at me, before pointing the way to my class. I grinned and stood there until she sighed and continued on her way. I quickly headed off to my writing class. I just beat the professor into the classroom and found a seat as she got ready for her lecture.

The lecture was pretty boring, so I just daydreamed a bit, thinking about Wednesday and Thursday with the twins, Steph and Amy. I suspected that the twins had designs upon Steph and probably wanted to include Amy in the mix as well. I just wasn't sure how much I wanted to partake of the other two ladies. It wasn't as if I had gotten tired of the twins that I needed some variety, and I had already done the threesome with them. But on the other hand, a free pass to be with the very attractive women was something I was finding hard to pass up.

I left when the professor was done her lecture and met Steph in the cafeteria after grabbing some food.

"Hey Princess, I said as I sat down across from her.

"Hi Mikey," she said, smiling at me.

"That's what I want to see from my Princess," I responded to her smile.

"You made me so happy when you promised to make it work out," she told me.

"I'm glad you're happy," I said dryly.

"I know you're not convinced this is a good thing, but just wait until after we all sit down and straighten things out in a couple of days," she responded to my lack of enthusiasm. "The twins will never cheat on you with another guy; we just have to convince you of that."

"Fine, I hope you can," I responded as I looked around and lowered my voice. "I wanted to ask you a couple things about Wednesday."

"Ok, what do you want to know?" she asked.

"Are you comfortable doing things with the twins?" I asked, blood rushing to my face.

"You are so cute when you blush Mikey," she said with a grin. "To answer your question, I'm not comfortable with it now but since I've never done it I'm willing to give it a try. I don't think the twins would force me to do something if I hated it."

"Ok, what about Amy?" I asked.

"Amy leans more like Becky than how Vicky and I do," she let me know. "She knows that you are potentially part of the deal with the twins but I can't see you forcing her if she doesn't warm up to you."

"Of course I wouldn't force her. She doesn't have to do a thing with me," I responded. "I just want everyone to get along, be happy with everything and keep things private. As long as all five of us are honest with each other and loyal to the group, then that's all that matters."

"Alright, enough stalling, let's get to our logic assignment," she said, pulling her books up from the seat beside her.

I worked with her until she got the hang of things and she could do the next couple problems by herself. We packed up and went to our own math classes, promising to meet back in the cafeteria afterwards.

After another intense Algebra class, we were back on the Logic assignment while eating snacks. I also worked on my new Algebra assignment and got both done before having to pack up for afternoon practice. Steph got her Logic assignment done and started on her Calculus homework.

"Mikey, don't forget to book a session with the scheduling counsellor for next semester today," Steph reminded me. "I'll see you after practice."

"I'll do that right away," I told her. "I'll pick you up at your dorm lobby after practice so you don't have to walk in the dark. Do you want me to walk you there now?"

She thought about it for a second and then started packing up as she nodded. I helped her gather her stuff and then accompanied her to her dorm building a few minutes away.

"Ok, here you go Princess, I'll see you around six, but wait inside until I come get you," I insisted.

"Alright Mikey, thanks for looking out for me," she said with a smile before heading into the building.

I walked over to the arena and walked to the coach's office. Fred or Frank weren't there so I grabbed a sheet of paper from my book and left a note on Frank's desk. I greeted John in the hallway and we both went into the locker room to get changed.

The coaches worked us hard again, snapping at players when they made mistakes or didn't give enough effort. All three coaches were on the ice and were micro-managing the placement of each position while we were practicing the neutral zone trap. They went over a dozen variations of it depending on how the scout team was coming up. I got chewed out when I wasn't paying attention to the ice while sitting on the bench after a change. I just nodded and kept my mouth shut.

They finally let us go, late by half an hour. I grabbed my phone and called Steph right away.

"Mikey, where are you?" she asked in a huff.

"Sorry Princess, I just got out of practice, I'll be there in about twenty," I told her. "Just stay in the lobby."

"Alright, but you owe me," she said before hanging up.

I got undressed, showered and dressed in record time before heading out to my car. I drove up to the main campus and parked as close as I could to her dorm. I walked quickly to the front door and found her sitting in the lobby talking to a pretty Chinese girl.

"Hey Steph, sorry I'm late," I said, trying to look apologetic.

"Hmm, you're lucky Lin was nice enough to wait with me Mister," she said, crossing her arms under her breasts.

"Well thank you Lin for keeping her company," I said, turning to her. "I know it must have been a trying experience to put up with her impatience."

"It was Michael, one would think that you were her boyfriend or something, the way she was acting," Lin responded with a grin. "A personal assistant should be more respectful to her charge."

"Oh, I couldn't agree more," I replied. "Perhaps you would be a more appropriate candidate for the position."

"Real funny, don't either of you give up your day jobs," Steph said dryly. "You, make yourself useful and carry this bag. And you, keep those comments to yourself, I don't need you putting evil thoughts into the empty cavern on top of his shoulders."

"So Lin, how do you know our pint sized dictator?" I asked while taking the bag from Steph.

"I have the pleasure of being her roommate," she replied with a smirk.

"I'm sure the Nobel Prize committee will be in contact shortly," I told her sympathetically.

She laughed out loud as Steph stomped her foot.

"If you two are done with your feeble attempt at humour, I think it's time to go," Steph said. "I'll deal with you later, you traitor; and you, let's go before you start eating the furniture."

"It was nice to meet you Lin, though I wish it was under more pleasant circumstances," I said, shaking my head.

"I was nice to meet you too Michael, I'm sorry you have to spend more time with her tonight, but I will take advantage of the silence," she responded with a grin.

Steph grabbed my hand and blew a strawberry at Lin before dragging me to the door. I waved to Lin over my shoulder and she waved back with a smile before turning back to the elevator. We left the building and headed to my car.

"So, Lin seems nice," I said. "Is she a good roommate?"

"Yes she is," Steph replied. "She's been very supportive since that guy attacked me. She holds me after the nightmares until I'm calmed down. She's quiet but still friendly and she can be a real sweetheart."

"That's nice of her to comfort you, and you forgot to mention she is real funny," I added.

I opened the back door and put the bag I was carrying in, stepped aside to let Steph put in her book bag and the gym bag in and then shut it. We got in and drove home and I slung my book bag over my shoulder before grabbing her two extra bags and leading her down with just her book bag to carry. I put the two bags on the table and then we both put our book bags over on the desk.

"So, my cute PA, what's on the agenda this evening?" I asked with a smile.

"I will cook us supper while you gather up your laundry so I can get that going," she started. "Then you can do some studying while I do the dishes and clean this apartment."

"Wow, you don't have to do all that tonight Steph, I'm sure you have some studying to do as well," I responded. "I'll get my laundry started while you cook, then we'll both do the dishes and do a quick tidy on the apartment. Then we'll both study. Don't worry, I'll make sure you get paid for doing it all, but I'm going to help."

She marched up close to me and pulled me down so our faces were very close. She looked angry for a couple of seconds and then surprised me by smiling and giving me a nice kiss as she wrapped her arms around my neck. She forced her tongue into my mouth as she moved her body to touch hers. I went along with the kiss as I held her by her shoulders. Steph finally broke away the kiss and took a deep breath.

"Wow, what brought that on Princess?" I asked, taking a big breath as well.

"Some guys would be taking advantage of having a personal assistant and have her do everything, but you are always thinking of others," she said, looking up at me with a beaming smile. "I just wanted to reward you."

"You can reward me like that any time Princess," I told her.

"Ok, I'll be taking you up on that," she warned with a grin. "Ok, let's get busy here. Put my gym bag in the bedroom, we don't need that in here. I'll get started on supper."

"Yes Ma'am," I said with a salute as I carried the bag into the bedroom.

I grabbed my laundry bin and went around the apartment collecting dirty clothes, towels, dishrags and such and then went down the hall to start up a load in the washer. Steph was busy in the kitchen slicing up some beef into my big frying pan, so I started tidying up the place.

She came and found me in the washroom wiping down the countertop after straightening up everything. She was carrying a make-up bag in her hand and, after hip checking me aside for a second, put it into the medicine cabinet behind the mirror and walked out, smiling at my bewildered expression.

I finished quickly and went out to the bedroom to find her squishing the contents of one of my drawers into another. Steph then took some clothes out of the bag and put them in the empty drawer. After about three trips from the bag on the bed, the drawer was full. She closed it and pulled out a couple pair of jeans and blouses out of the bag by the hooks of their hangers before moving to my closet. She moved my stuff to one side and hung her stuff up and then, after patting me on the chest and smiling up at me, went back to the kitchen to continue making supper.

I followed her in a daze and asked, "Um, what just happened back there Steph?"

"I just brought some stuff over in case I need to change clothes and get cleaned up," she said, looking over her shoulder.

"Oh, I guess that's ok, but you could have asked," I replied.

"I didn't think you would mind me getting freshened up after getting dirty here," she said. "It's just easier not to have to carry the gym bag every night."

"Hmmm, I'm thinking you're pulling a fast one on me Princess, but I won't make a big deal about it," I told her. "Do you need some help with supper?"

"Nope, I'm good," she replied, turning back to the stove.

I went and switched the laundry around and came back to find the table set for two and Steph dishing out a stir fry over a bed of rice on each plate.

"That looks real good Steph, thanks for cooking," I said with a smile.

"You're welcome Mikey, I like cooking for you," she replied as she put the frying pan back on the stove.

She took off her apron, hung it on a hook beside the fridge, and sat down at the other place setting. We both dug in with gusto as it was now well past seven o'clock. I did try and pace myself so I didn't look like a slob but still finished before she was half done.

"Let me get you some more Mikey, it looks like you enjoyed it," she said, getting up.

"It was very delicious," I complimented her. "You're a good cook."

"Thanks, my mom taught me and I had to cook a lot for the rest of the kids while the rents worked," she replied as she spooned out rice on my plate.

"Do you miss them?" I asked, moving a bit back to let her ladle out the stir-fry on top of the rice.

"A bit, but I enjoy only having to look out for two people now," she answered.

I thanked her and topped up our glasses of milk as she sat down. I started on the second helping while she continued with hers until we both finished about the same time.

"Well that was a very good meal Princess," I stated. "Thank you very much for cooking."

"You are very welcome Mikey," she said with a big smile on her face.

I got up and started clearing the table while she put the leftovers onto a plate and covered them with plastic wrap. I moved to the sink and started washing while she wiped up the table, countertop and stove. We were done with the clean-up ten minutes later and decided to hit the books right away before relaxing.

After about an hour of studying Steph went into the bedroom and I heard her in the drawers for a minute before the door to the bathroom closed. I continued to pour over the algebra textbook until she came out and sat down again. Looking up, I saw she had changed into a crop top and snug sweat pants. She caught my look and smiled.

"I had to change out of my jeans," she said. "They get a little tight after supper."

"Aren't you going to get cold in that top?" I asked.

The top in question was a spaghetti strapped light blue cotton shirt that showed off her cleavage nicely and extended down a couple inches below her chest, leaving her shoulders, arms and most of her midriff bare. She looked very sexy in it.

"I was a little hot in my other one, so I wanted to cool off for a bit," she said innocently. "I'm sure I'll need to cover up in a bit, but for now I'm just right."

"Well if you're ok with it then who am I to argue?" I asked with a grin. "You do look good in it Princess."

She smiled at my compliment and put her head down to continue studying. I looked at her for a bit longer until she glanced up and saw me staring. I blushed when she caught me and she grinned for a second before pointing to my books and frowning. I grinned and then went back to my work.

We studied for about another hour before I decided to pack it in. She looked up from her work as I started putting away my books.

"Had enough Mikey?" she asked.

"Yep, I'm ahead by about two chapters now, so I can take it easy," I told her. "How about you?"

"I'm just about done my Calculus assignment for next week, so I'm going finish it up before calling it a night," she replied.

"Ok, I'll leave you to it, while I get the laundry out of the dryer," I told her.

I grabbed my basket and got the clothes out of the dryer and put the last load into it from the washer. I turned it on and went back into the apartment, heading to the bedroom to fold and put it away. Steph came in while I was just finishing up and sat down on the bed.

"All done?" I asked.

"Finally," she replied. "I hate homework!"

"Don't we all," I agreed. "So, shall we get you back to the dorm?"

"Nope, I'm going to sleep here tonight," she said with a smile.

"We agreed to wait until Wednesday to figure this all out Steph," I said with a frown.

"Just because I'm sleeping with you, doesn't mean we have to have sex Michael," she replied. "I just want to be close to you; maybe I can sleep through the night for once."

"And I'll probably not get a wink of sleep all night," I responded with a grimace.

"Would sleeping in the same bed with me disgust you so much?" she said, reacting to my face.

"No silly, I'll be fighting with myself all night not to attack you," I said exasperated. "How could you think I would be disgusted with you Princess?"

"Oh. Well, that's nice to hear," she replied with an embarrassed look on her face. "You don't have to fight too hard on my account; I'll be ok with you not being able to control yourself."

"You're like that damn energizer bunny; you're relentless," I said, shaking my head as I went into the bathroom to get ready for bed.

I took my time brushing my teeth and using the toilet. I knew I would weaken if she pushed much farther tonight. The top she was wearing showed off her perfect little body oh so well, and the pants showed off her fantastic ass. I got hard just thinking about having her in the same bed with me and I knew she wouldn't just be lying on the far side of the bed either. The little temptress would be cuddling up right against me for sure.

I laughed to myself thinking how stupid I was acting. A hot young gorgeous woman was going to be sleeping in my bed, and my girlfriends were not only aware of it, they were promoting it. I decided to go with the flow or turn in my man card at the next meeting. I washed up and headed out to face the bunny.

She was sitting on the bed waiting for me to get out. She smiled and went in with some clothes in her hand and shut the door behind her. I quickly got into an old tee shirt and shorts and got into bed after checking that the apartment door was locked. I turned on a hockey game while I waited for Steph to come out.

Fifteen minutes later I heard the door open and glanced over at her as she entered the room. She put her clothes that she was wearing onto the chair and slipped into the opposite side of the bed as I stared. She pulled the covers over her legs as she sat like I did, leaning against the back wall. She looked up at me and smiled before reaching over and pushed my jaw back up to stop the flies from getting in.

"I take it from your look of shock that you like my sleepwear Mikey?" she said with a smirk.

I nodded as I continued to stare. Steph had put on another spaghetti strap short lacy chemise on top that covered even less than her top she had on earlier. The matching boy pant underwear she wore hugged her scrumptious ass and I finally got to see how really beautiful her body was. The blood in my body went south quickly but luckily I was covered by the blankets.

"We thought you would like it," she told me with a wicked grin. "The girls sent it to me from New York, along with a few more nice outfits."

"You're all conspiring against me, aren't you," I said, shaking my head. "I never had a chance did I?"

"Not really Mikey," she said, patting my hand. "We usually get our way; even stubborn men like you can't last too long."

She grabbed the remote from my hand and shut off the television and placed it on the night table on her side. She shut off her light and moved back close to me, laying her head on the middle pillow.

"Are you going to sit there all night?" she asked, looking up at me.

I shut my light off and scooted down to lie on my back. She immediately moved closer, pasting herself to me with her arm across my chest. She gave me a kiss on the side of my mouth as she got comfortable and then sighed.

"I've been fantasizing about this for months, Michael," she said softly. "Thank you for making my dreams come true."

"You're welcome Princess," I replied. "I must admit you've been in my fantasies as well, so this is nice for me as well. You feel and smell wonderful."

I could feel her smile against my shoulder and she hugged me tighter. We lay there for a while, just basking in each other's warmth. It felt good to have someone to sleep with again; I missed sleeping with Vicky every night.

"Aren't you hot in this tee shirt Mikey," she asked, pulling it up from my stomach.

"I guess, but everything else stays on missy," I told her as I helped her get it off me.

We had to sit up so I could take it off. She helped me get it over my head and then lay more on top of me once I was on my back again. Her skin felt so good against mine I had to put my hands on her and moved them to caress her back.

"Princess, you feel fantastic," I said with feeling. "You're soft and silky on the outside but so firm and muscular underneath."

"Thanks Mikey," she said. "I'm glad you like my body so much, I was hoping you would. I love how you look at me all the time, and now you can touch me anytime you want."

"Hmmm, that sounds pretty good right now," I replied. "I need to check something out."

My hands slipped down her back and stopped right on her ass. I caressed it lightly through her underwear and then squeezed her cheeks. She clenched them and showed me how hard and tight they could get before letting them loose for me to massage. She ground her pelvis into my hips and moved her one leg more onto my body.

"Your butt is world class Princess," I told her.

She giggled and clenched it again, capturing my fingers in her cheeks for a few seconds before releasing them. I moved my hands down and caressed the back and sides of her legs. While I was doing that, Steph started caressing my chest and stomach with one hand as she turned my head so she could kiss me. She soon had us in a passionate kiss, twirling tongues as our hands roamed on each other's bodies.

I finally had to break away from her kiss and say, "Ok Princess, let's not get too carried away here."

"How did I know you would do this?" she said, shaking her head.

"You know me too well," I replied with a grin. "Let's save the good stuff for Wednesday, shall we?"

"Fine, but I'm staying right here," she said in a huff.

"How about you lie on your side and I spoon behind you?" I suggested.

"Hmmm, that sounds nice too," Steph replied as she slide off me, turned over and ground her butt into my side.

I got on my side and wrapped an arm around her while closing the gap between us. She reached an arm back to pull my hips tight to her and then sighed as she hugged my arm tight.

"This is nice," she said as my erection slide between her cheeks as she wiggled to get it in a proper location.

"This is very nice," I agreed.

She made sure my hand covered one of her breasts and then said "Michael, thank you for letting me in, I promise you won't ever regret it."

"Stephanie, how could I ever regret being with you?" I responded. "You'll always be my Princess."

"I'm falling in love with you Michael Stewart," she whispered.

"And I could fall for you too Stephanie Merks," I replied. "Now let's get some sleep. Are you getting up with me in the morning at six or should I leave the car so you can meet me at the arena after practice?"

"Six am! Are you nuts?" she asked. "I can walk over later to meet you after practice."

"Not a chance, you take the car or I come get you," I told her firmly.

"Yes Mikey," she said contritely. "I'll take the car and meet you at the arena. Thank you for caring so much."

"You're welcome," I replied. "Be careful when you get out and walk in. Time it so you get there about nine fifteen or so and I can be waiting for you."

"Ok, I will," she agreed.

"Goodnight Princess," I said, settling down behind her.

"Goodnight Mikey," she replied, burrowing tightly to me.

Eventually I fell asleep with her in my arms as her breathing slowed and became regular.

Tuesday morning I woke up with my little blonde Princess still cradled in my arms. She had put my hand inside her top and I was cupping her breast. It felt warm, soft and firm as I squeezed it by instinct. My morning erection was still between her ass cheeks; thankfully both of us were still clothed. I resisted thrusting forward and extricated my hand from her top while backing away from her body. She muttered in her sleep but didn't wake as I covered her sexy body with the blankets.

I had a quick shower and then snuck in to grab my clothes and book bag before making sure my alarm was set for eight thirty for her. I dressed in the kitchen and headed out to walk to the arena. It was definitely getting cold in late November in Michigan, as I did up my coat and walked faster to get there as soon as I could. Gloves and a hat were my next purchases, maybe at the School bookstore.

I finally arrived at the arena and went into the locker room to get dressed. We had a new addition getting dressed; Robert Samuel, the senior defenceman who broke his ankle back in August, was lacing up his skates.

"Hey, you must be Mike Stewart, I'm Bob Samuel, the guy you replaced in the pre-season," he said, offering his hand.

"Hey Bob, nice to see you back and lacing up the skates," I replied, grasping his hand for a handshake. "We could sure use you back on the ice."

"That's nice of you to say, especially since I'd be replacing you in the line-up," he said seriously.

"Well, they told me you were the best defenceman they had, so whatever is best for the team is most important," I told him. "I'm not here at Michigan to play hockey anyway so this will just give me a chance to take a couple extra courses. Are you going to be ready for games soon?"

"I hope for the Michigan State games, a week after Thanksgiving," he responded.

"Ok, that gives me one last weekend, I can live with that," I said, turning back to get dressed.

I got on the ice and warmed up skating and shooting before the coaches came and took over. We continued with our concentration on the Minnesota Gophers and developed a couple of plays to counteract their puck control. We had a longer scrimmage than usual and I got to see Bob in action, paired up with Ian on the scout team. He was a confident player, moved the puck well and had a hard shot. His defence was rusty from months off and was burned a few times by fast moves to the outside.

John and I talked while we were on the bench.

"So, Bob is back early and I heard he talked to you already," he remarked. "Don't let him deceive you that he will just waltz back into the line-up and take your spot. It's more likely he would replace Ralph than you."

"I don't know, Ralph is a senior, the coaches might want him to play instead of a freshman," I replied.

"I wouldn't bet on it," John responded. "You're much better than he is."

We had to go back on the ice and didn't get a chance to continue the conversation. We finished with some special teams practice and then hit the locker room. I got showered and dressed before getting out of there quickly and was waiting when Steph drove in and parked the car. I walked up to her as she got out, looking around warily.

"Hey Princess, how was your morning?" I asked.

"Mikey, why didn't you wake me when you got up?" she asked, looking sad. "I was so disappointed not to wake up with you, the first night we slept together."

"Sorry Princess, you looked so peaceful, I didn't want to disturb you," I told her. "Besides, you're probably real grumpy when you wake up!"

"Next time, just wake me please," she pleaded. "I would have made you breakfast and given you a kiss to send you off."

"We'll see," I said, leading the way to main campus after locked the car.

"So how was practice?" she asked.

"A new development, the guy I took the place of is back from injury," I said. "He said he would be taking my place on the team while John thinks he will take Ralph's. It should be an interesting week after Thanksgiving."

"Uh oh, that sounds bad," she said. "Are you worried?"

"I haven't heard anything from the coaches so I'll wait until then to worry," I said. "If they replace me then it just gives me more time study. I would take another course if I could fit it in next semester."

"Don't you think you should try and convince them you should be the starter?" she asked.

"I try my hardest every time I'm out on the ice," I replied. "I can't do more than that."

"Yes you can," she contradicted me. "You play better when the twins are watching and you also play better when you're mad, like when that coach pissed you off. You just have to get mad at his arrogance thinking he can waltz back in and take your job without a fight. Sometimes you're too mild-mannered for your own good."

"I'm going to on my toes with you around all the time now," I said with a grin.

"I'm going to look after your best interests Mikey and I think you need to play hockey for several reasons," she replied.

"Oh, and what are they?" I asked.

"One, you're in much better shape, and I'm not talking aerobic either!" she said with a giggle. "Two, you're good enough already to be drafted in the NHL which would mean a more lucrative career than any computer job you could find. Three, you need to keep up with the twins or they might start to think their own press and leave you behind. Four, you need an outlet for any stress in your life, and believe me with four women around you're going to have lots of stress to get rid of."

"Well, you have some good points I guess," I mused, thinking about them. "I guess I could step it up a notch for the next while."

"No guessing, just start treating hockey as more than a part time hobby that you could step away any time you wanted to," she told me. "You practice enough but you need to put emotion into it when you play and get an edge on."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied, trying not to smirk at her.

"Hey, this is serious!" she said sharply. "If you're going to play hockey, get serious or go play intramural hockey and have fun. It's not fair to whoever's spot on the team you're taking."

"Ok, Ok, no need to get angry Princess," I told her. "I'll pick it up a notch."

"You better, we'll be watching," she replied.

We walked into the classroom just in time to grab our seats before the prof started the lecture. He started on a new chapter, which both Steph and I had read ahead on and had done the end of chapter questions for.

"You know, this reading ahead thing you do has its benefits," she said as we walked out at the end of the lecture.

"Stick with me grasshopper and you will learn the secrets of the universe," I said sagely.

"Don't expect me to call you master," she retorted with a snort.

"No, but you will have to shave all your hair off," I said with a grin.

"You would know if I had if you were a little less noble last night," she responded with a raised eyebrow.

"Touché," I replied with a laugh.

"Ok, can I leave you alone for a few hours at the arena?" she asked.

"I think I can manage," I said dryly. "I'll pick you up after six at your dorm."

"We could meet at two thirty and start on the programming assignment," she suggested.

"You are not walking to the arena by yourself," I told her flatly. "Work on it in your dorm and we'll compare each other's program tonight."

"Ok Mikey, it will give me time to do some of my laundry while you practice," she agreed. "Have a good day Sweetie."

"You too Princess," I replied with a grin as I dropped her off at her dorm front door.

I walked quickly back to the arena, got dressed in my work out clothes and went into the weight room to work out. Bob Samuels was there working out as well. I nodded to him and started on my chest and arms while he was doing his legs. I put more effort into my workout than usual, in response to Steph's pep talk and that fact that he was watching as well. I ignored him until it was time to do my legs and I had to move to his side of the room.

I used the leg press machine and added a hundred pounds to what he had used and quickly did a set of thirty. After a short rest I added another fifty pounds and did another set. I finally bumped up the weight to the full five hundred it went up to and did my last set.

I moved to the standing calf machine and moved the peg to the bottom of the stack of five hundred and did a set. After a quick rest I did another and then finished a minute later with the last one. I called it a day, nodded to Samuels and headed to the locker room for a quick shower.

I had lunch with Brian, one of my fellow freshman defencemen, in the arena cafeteria. We chatted about the team, hockey, what we were doing for Thanksgiving and of course girls. He told me about his lack of success with the ladies and blamed it on his shyness. I commiserated with him and told him Vicky had to basically club me over the head to get me to talk to her.

We finished our lunch and went to get changed. Bob Samuels was getting suited up in the locker room to join us at rookie practice. This should be interesting I thought to myself. I got dressed quickly and headed out to the ice to stretch and join the warm up skate. We shot against our two back-up goalies, Bob and Josh, and then gathered around Frank to get his instructions.

"Ok, we're going to do some drills to start off and then do some special teams practice. We'll have a scrimmage for the last half hour or so," he stated before getting the drills started quickly.

Samuels was paired with Ian most of the practice and I had Brian as my partner. After our normal three on two and passing drills, we separated into two teams and practiced both penalty killing and power plays on each other. Samuels, though rusty in terms of puck handling and skating, still had a powerful shot, though I thought I had him beat in that department.

We moved on to the scrimmage and we were on opposite teams. Since we both played right defence, we never came close to each other during the game. I played harder than normal and scored a few on Josh, while playing tight defence at our end.

Frank finally called the practice over and we quickly got showered. I grabbed some snack food and sat in the far corner of the cafeteria working on my programming assignment on my laptop. It was pretty straight forward so I had the program finished and tested before I had to go back for the afternoon practice.

Afternoon practice was more practicing the neutral zone trap and then a longer than usual scrimmage. I carried the puck up more than usual, including going in deep against their defencemen. I attracted extra attention my way, usually leaving a forward open for a one timer which resulting in a couple of goals.

I showered and got dressed quickly after practice was done and drove up to get Steph. She was waiting by herself in the lobby of her dorm when I walked up to the front door.

"Hey Steph, all set?" I asked, grabbing her book bag while she carried a gym bag.

"Hi Mikey, I'm ready and starving," she answered as we walked out.

"How about we get some take-out tonight as a treat?" I suggested. "I don't feel like cooking."

"That's supposed to be my job," she chided me. "But I don't feel like cooking either so I won't argue about it. What do you want?"

"I don't know; Italian maybe?" I suggested.

"Sounds good to me, I feel like some lasagne," she agreed.

"I'm thinking a panzarotti and maybe some garlic bread," I told her. "Do you know a good restaurant to order take-out from?"

"We can call Maria's when we get to your apartment," she said. "They deliver so we don't have to wait in the restaurant."

"Ok, we'll head home then," I said, starting the car.

We were inside my apartment and Steph was on the phone inside ten minutes. We booted up our laptops while we waited for the food. She had the assignment done so we compared our programs and their results. She had used a different way to get the same result but it still worked just fine. We shut down the computers and had the table set when we heard the buzzer ring. I went up and got the food, giving the driver a good tip.

We shared our meals and enjoyed some nice conversation over the good food. There was so much food that we had to put the leftovers in the fridge for another day. After cleaning up we laid on the bed and read ahead in the logic textbook and did the problems at the end of the chapters.

Around nine my cell rang and I picked up to see that it was Vicky calling.

"Hey Darling, how are you?" I asked in a cheerful voice.

"Hi Sweetie, I'm doing fine and so is Becky," Vicky replied. "How are you doing?"

"We're doing pretty good; we just had some Italian take-out and did a couple hours of homework," I told her. "Steph has been taking very good care of me."

"I'm happy to hear it, but are you taking care of her too?" she asked.

"She slept over last night but we kept some clothes on and didn't get too carried away," I told her. "She wanted more but we agreed to wait until all of us talked things over tomorrow night. She did show me her matching underwear set and she was very sexy."

"I'm surprised you didn't give in to the little minx, especially when you saw her delectable body," Vicky said with a laugh. "You certainly stick to your principles, even in the face of certain defeat."

"She makes it very difficult to, that's for sure," I replied. "So, when do you get in town?"

"We should land around three and be home by four," she told me. "You and Steph should be there by seven correct?"

"Yep, but we'll be hungry," I told her.

"We'll have supper ready for seven then," she said with a laugh. "We need to keep your strength up."

"Battling all of your schemes certainly will take a lot of determination," I agreed. "Do you need us to bring anything?"

"Nope, just yourselves and some clothes," she replied. "Ok Sweetie, sorry to keep this short, but we need to be up early for a morning photo shoot. Becky says that she loves you and can't wait to be in your arms again and I feel the same. Tell Steph we're looking forward to see her in her underwear too!"

"Ok Vicky, I love you both and I'm looking forward to seeing you two as well," I told her. "Steph can't wait either. Have a safe flight and we'll see you tomorrow night."

"Goodnight Michael," she said.

"Goodnight Vicky," I replied before we hung up.

"They say they're looking forward to see you in your underwear!" I told her with a grin.

"They would," she said dryly. "I look like the poor stepsister compared to the two of them."

"I wouldn't say that Princess, you're just as sexy as they are, just shorter," I told her with a smile.

"I'm not sure if that was a compliment or a dig on my height," she responded.

"A bit of both," I replied with a grin. "You're just as beautiful in a smaller package Princess, don't ever sell yourself short."

"Ha Ha," she said, hitting me in the stomach. "Ok, I've had enough of Logic for the week."

She packed up her books and then helped me with mine. I turned on the TV and we watched a movie for a while. I drifted off to sleep and she had to shake me awake to get ready for bed. I brushed my teeth and got into my shorts and a t-shirt before heading back to the bedroom.

Steph was underneath the covers and I saw she had water for both of us already on our night stands.

"Thanks Steph for the water," I said. "All set for lights out?"

"You should look at my pyjamas first before you turn off the lights," she suggested with a sexy look on her face.

She pulled the covers down and showed off a see-through white babydoll and g-string set for my viewing pleasure. I woke up quickly as I stared at her wonderful body as she posed for me.

"Wow, you are so hot in that outfit Steph," I said, feeling my erection rise.

She turned and showed me her bare ass, with the just a strip of cloth running between her cheeks.

"Damn woman, I thought we agreed to wait until tomorrow night!" I said, staring at her ass.

"You decided to wait until tomorrow night, not me," she said. "Now get in here and warm me up, this outfit isn't insulated."

"Yes Ma'am," I responded as I climbed in and pulled the covers over both of us.

She scooted over and burrowed close to me as I lay on my side looking at her. I wrapped her in my arms as she sighed into my chest. I rubbed her back briskly as she shivered and her teeth chattered. Her feet were cold against my calves as she held them against me to warm them up too.

"Princess, while I love the outfit, you should wear something to keep you warm until we'll all toasty in bed," I told her.

"I'm trying to seduce you doofus, I can't wear my snuggle bunny pyjamas until after I've got you wrapped around my pinkie finger," she said as she shivered.

"You've already got me Princess, so dress warmly until we're all hot and bothered," I replied.

Steph finally stopped shivering and sighed into my chest. I whispered to her to turn over and she rolled to put her back and legs against me and then pulled my arm over top of her. She put my hand onto her breast as she ground her butt into my groin.

She looked over her shoulder and said, "Feel free to let your hands wander and explore Mikey, I wore this special for tonight before we get together with the girls."

I leaned over and gave her a kiss as my hand caressed her breast through the thin material of the top. Her nipple quickly hardened and I rolled it between my thumb and index finger to make her gasp. I moved my hand to her other breast and repeated the action for a bit. She moaned and ground her butt against my hardening erection. I thrust forward a bit to meet her as she opened her legs to try and capture my cock between her cheeks. She finally had to reach behind her, grasp it for a second and aim it in the right place.

"Oh yeah, that's the spot," she moaned as I thrust my clothed cock forward to rub against her panty covered pussy.

I slid my hand down her flat stomach to caress her with my fingertips just above the top of her g-string. She moaned and moved her hips back and forth to rub herself on my cock as her hand covered mine and pushed it downward.

"Please Michael, I'm begging you; I need it so bad," she said, looking over her shoulder in despair.

I rubbed her pussy through the thin material and was rewarded as it opened up like a flower. I could feel her moisture through the lace as she got excited. I pushed my cock into her pussy with my hand so it hit her clit as I thrust it from behind.

"Oh God, that feels so good Michael, don't stop, please don't stop," she begged as she arched her back to get more contact.

"Don't worry Stephanie, you're going to cum for me tonight," I replied into her ear.

She moaned as I started thrusting back and forth while directing the head to hit her clit every time. She reached down and moved my hand out of the way and replaced it with hers. She continued to aim it towards her clit but every once and a while would point it directly at her pussy opening and let it go in a bit through two layers of cloth. I pushed harder at those thrusts and she would gasp or moan when that happened.

We continued our semi-dry humping for a bit until she finally built up to a climax. Her hips were undulating as I sped up my thrusts. She was moaning and breathing heavy as she worked herself up the ladder.

"Aw yeah, that feels so good, Michael, I'm going to cum soon, please make me cum, I do anything you want, anytime, just make me cum!" she begged.

"Oh really?" I whispered into her ear as I pinched her nipple a bit harder than before. "Are you saying you'll be my little slave girl Princess?"

"Oh God, yes, I'll do anything you want, I promise, now make me cum please," she begged.

I sucked on her neck as I put my hand down inside her small panties and rubbed her clit after getting my fingers wet with her juices.

"Yes Michael, oh yeah that's it, that's going to do it Mikey, oh yeah, make me cum, I want it so bad, I need it Sweetie, please, please, I'm so close now," she babbled on as I ramped up the pressure on her.

I suddenly thrust a finger into her pussy and rubbed her clit hard with my thumb and she screamed loudly as she came with a convulsion of her hips as her pussy clamped down on my finger.

"Awww yeahhhhh!" she screamed again as her hand reached to push my finger deeper inside her.

She kept on humping my hand for over a minute until she finally relaxed and took a deep breath.

"That was the best ever Mikey," she said with a big sigh. "Thank you so much, you don't know how long it's been!"

"What, you and Ryan never?" I asked.

"No, I kind of lied to you about how close we were," she admitted. "I was trying to make you jealous."

"I was jealous at first but I wanted you to be happy," I told her as I removed my finger from her pussy and then my hand from her g-string.

"Oh, you didn't have to do that," she said reacting to my hand leaving. "I liked it there."

"It definitely sounded like you did, my little Princess slave girl," I said.

"Mikey, you wouldn't hold me to what I said then would you?" she asked in a timid voice, looking over her shoulder worriedly.

"Of course I would Princess," I said with an evil grin. "I've always wanted a little slave girl."

She shivered and her hips ground her pussy on my still very hard cock.

"Oh, you're still so hard Mickey, would you like your slave girl to take care of that for you?" she asked.

Before I could answer, her hand shot down and grasped my cock in a tight grip and started stroking me through my shorts. I was now the one to moan as she worked on me for a couple of minutes. All of a sudden she let go pulled away from me and turned back to face me sitting up, before pushing me down on my back. Her hands travelled down my chest and my abdomen before reaching my shorts. She started pulling them down and looked up at me when she couldn't get them any farther to release me.

"Master, your slave girl wishes to take care of you, please raise your hips for me," she said in a little girl's voice as she rose to her knees.

My hips shot up quickly as I looked at her in hovering over me. She pulled my shorts down to my knees as my cock popped up to stand at attention. Steph grasped it quickly in one hand while the other caressed my sac. She spread the pre-cum around the head and then started jacking me as she sat on her calves and feet. I was already aroused by seeing her orgasm so I was quickly getting close as well.

"Princess, I'm not going to last long, so you better get some Kleenex or something," I gasped out.

She smiled at me and, instead of grabbing something, lowered her head towards me. I moaned as I realized what she had planned. Her mouth opened and her tongue licked around the head of my cock, nearly sending me over right then.

"Oh God, that feels fantastic Princess," I said as I moved my hands to caress any part of her I could reach.

"My master likes that does he?" she said with an evil grin as she took her mouth off.

"Don't stop now Steph!" I gasped out, pleading with her.

"Am I still your slave girl?" she asked.

"Only if you want to be," I told her quickly.

"Maybe I'll turn you into my slave," she said with an evil grin as she licked the head again and then stopped to look up at me.

I growled at her and she laughed before starting her hand again as she lowered her head to take the whole head into her mouth. She twirled her tongue around it for a bit and then lowered her head to get more of me in her. I raised my hips to help and she had to use her other hand to push back at me so I wouldn't go too deep. I stopped my movement and allowed her to take over. She started bobbing her head up and down and I was soon at the edge of my control, her outfits and teasing had taken its toll.

"Princess, I'm getting so close, you feel fantastic," I told her.

She looked up at me and gave me this very sultry sexy look as she swirled her tongue around me again before sucking on the head as she sped up her hand. I quickly lost all control and pumped upwards a couple of times before letting go, releasing my seed into her mouth as I yelled.

Steph's eyes got big as I swelled before shooting into her mouth. I saw her swallow quickly and then again as some of it escaped from her mouth to dribble down onto her hand.

I finally stopped shooting and laid my head back on my pillow, letting her lick me clean as I panted for air. When I caught my breath I looked down to see her licking her hands after she cleaned her face. She smiled at me like the cat that got the canary before moving back up to lie close to me.

"Did you enjoy that Mikey?" she asked.

"Princess, that was absolutely fantastic," I said with a big smile.

"I hope you don't think I was slutty for doing that to you," she asked, looking worried.

"Of course not Steph, you're my lover now as well as my best friend," I told her, giving her a kiss and a hug. "Did you enjoy doing it?"

"I did, even though I thought I was going to drown there for a second," she said with a smirk.

"You've been teasing me for too long girl," I told her.

"I know, I've been just horrible to you haven't I," she said with another grin. "Big Mike is all taken care of though, so you should be fine until tomorrow night."

"How about I return the favour Princess?" I asked with a grin.

"Oh, you don't have to do that Mikey, I already had a nice one," she said, patting my chest. "Let's save that for next time. It's getting late."

"Well I can't wait until you let me taste you," I said, kissing her as I pulled her close.

"And I can't wait until you make me a quivering wreck again, my handsome stud of a man," she replied, hugging me close. "You know how much I love you?"

"Much more than I deserve Princess," I said. "I love you too,"

"I'm going to go to the washroom for a minute Sweetie ok?" she asked.

"Of course Princess," I said, letting her loose.

"You might want to cover up Big Mike before he gets a cold," she said with a giggle as she got up. "He looks tired and sleepy."

I quickly pulled up my shorts and pulled the covers up in embarrassment while she giggled and then leaned over me.

"Don't be embarrassed Mikey, he's magnificent, hard or soft," she said with a kind smile, before kissing me. "I'm in love with him too!"

She bounced off the bed and walked quickly to the bathroom as I watched her all the way there. She turned the light and I saw her body through the sheer babydoll.

"Damn woman, you are one beautiful lady," I said as she turned to look at me.

"Thank you Mikey, you're not so bad yourself," she grinned before closing the door behind her.

I laid my head back on my pillow and smiled at how her campaign to capture me had worked so well. I couldn't wait to have her totally as I could tell she would be a tiger in all aspects of our lovemaking. I must have dozed off because she jolted me awake when she came back into the bed shivering again. She snuggled up close to me and quickly pulled up the covers.

"You need to turn the heat up in here Sweetie," she said, her teeth chattering.

"I will now that I have a nymph running around with scraps for clothing," I told her.

"Would you rather I wear my flannel pyjamas and a robe to bed?" she asked sweetly.

I quickly got out of bed and went over to the thermostat and cranked it up closer to the eighty line than the seventy line. I raced back and got under the covers again.

"Thank you Sweetie, you take so good care of us," she said with a smile.

"You all have me wrapped around your little pinkies, don't you," I said with a sigh.

"Yes, but no one gets to touch us but you Sweetie, so isn't it a fair deal?" she asked as she moved my hand to her breast.

"Of course it is, but a guy likes to have the illusion that he has some say in his life," I responded dryly.

"Master, I'll be your slave girl any time you want to boss me around," she said in a tiny girl's voice.

Big Mike got hard real quick when she said that and she noticed it right away. She grasped it with a hand and lightly squeezed it.

"Oh, someone like's it when I play slave girl," she said as she stared into my eyes. "Well maybe we can do some role playing sometimes when we're alone. Would you like that Sweetie?"

I nodded as she squeezed my erection and then let me go.

"As long as it's our secret, I have to share you with the twins but I don't have to share that with them," she said. "They might want me to do it with them and I'm already at a disadvantage with them. Deal?"

"Sounds good to me Princess," I agreed. "I'll let you decide when you want to play that role."

"I'm not into anything kinky Michael Stewart, so no spanking or forcing me into anything," she told me sternly.

"Like I could ever do that to you Princess," I said exasperated.

"I didn't think so, but I didn't want you to even think about it," she replied. "Ok, let's get to sleep; we have a long day tomorrow and a longer evening and night."

"Ok, have a good sleep and I had a wonderful time with you tonight," I told her before hugging her tight.

"I had a fantastic time with you as well," she agreed. "Have a good sleep and I'll see you at the arena at nine fifteen."

"Sounds good," I said and gave her one last kiss before she closed her eyes.

I watched her until she started breathing regularly and then I fell asleep soon after.

Wednesday morning I woke up to the alarm buzzing and quickly shut it off before it woke up Steph. She had turned around during the night and had her back to my front, and I had to let her breast go to reach for the alarm. I was reluctant to get up but I knew I would fall back asleep or start caressing her lovely body and wind up missing practice. Getting up slowly so as not to wake her up, I quickly covered her up and went into the bathroom for a shower.

I didn't take long in the shower, not bothering to wash my hair as I was going to get dirty at practice anyway. I dried off and quickly and quietly got dressed before heading out to the arena with my book bag. I was in a good mood, not surprisingly as I had spent a night with a nymph dressed in see through gauze and would be spending two more nights with three more gorgeous women.

I got dressed and out on the ice before anyone else was there and did my stretches and warm-up skate quickly. I spent the next twenty minutes practicing deking and shooting from close in before moving back out to the blueline to continue from my normal position. The rest of the team finally started trickling out from the locker room as I finished up my shooting practice.

Fred was standing at the bench when I skated over for a drink and a rest.

"Hey Coach, how are you?" I asked.

"I'm good Mike, and you?" he replied.

"Pretty good, Vicky is coming into town today so I get to see her tonight and tomorrow," I told him.

"Good for you, tell her I said hi," he responded.

"I will," I said.

"Did you call you Aunt yet?" he asked.

"Not yet, I'm going to talk it over with Vicky and her family and see what they think and then maybe call tomorrow," I answered.

"Sounds like a good plan," he stated.

We watched the others get warmed up and then he spoke again, "Mike, with Robert Samuels coming back, we'll have an extra defenceman that we will have to do something about."

I nodded and kept quiet.

"Smart man, don't say anything until you have to," he added when the silence went on for a bit. "I was watching you practice earlier and I also remember you were comfortable playing forward against your dad at home. I'm playing around with the idea of carrying seven defencemen and using you both as the point on the power play unit and on the fourth line as a right winger. What do you think about that idea?"

I thought about it for a bit and then replied, "I would be willing to try it after Christmas if I can get some practice with the fourth line from now on. If it doesn't work out I would want the right to compete for one of the six defenceman slots, I think I've earned the right to at least that."

"That sounds reasonable," he agreed. "I'll talk it over with Frank and Sam and let you know this afternoon. I'll make sure that you don't take any blame with your teammates on this if we do go forward with it."

"Thanks, that's all I need is more people mad at me," I replied with a laugh.

I got up and went back out to keep warmed up and practice started soon after. I took opportunities to carry the puck more during the final scrimmage and went in deep a few times. I tried a few of my moves on the defencemen and a couple worked while others were read easily and stopped.

After practice I quickly got showered and dressed and was waiting for Steph outside for a few minutes when she pulled in and parked. I walked to the car and opened the door for her before she even reached for it.

"Hey Princess, how are you this fine morning," I asked with a smile.

"I'm ok, and I can see you're in a good mood," she replied.

"I had an excellent night with a beautiful lady," I told her with a grin. "She was such a minx and she had such a hot body."

"Oh, and does your girlfriend know about this new lady in your life?" she asked, playing along.

"Well, she doesn't know how far we've taken the relationship, but I'm sure she'll know by tonight," I admitted.

I locked the car door behind her and we started walking to the main campus. I wanted to hold her hand but knew we had to play it that we were just friends out in public.

"So, any regrets this morning Princess?" I asked, looking down at her.

"Never Mickey," she said emphatically. "That was one of the best nights of my life and I want a lot more of them. Why, are you regretting what we did?"

"No Princess, I loved it too, I'm just sorry you don't have someone just for you," I said. "I'm happy you want to be with me, I don't deserve any of you Ladies."

"That's the proper attitude to take Mikey, but don't worry, we love you anyway," she said with a grin.

We walked quietly for the next few minutes and arrived in plenty of time for the beginning of logics class. We both found it easy to comprehend just from reading ahead and doing the practice questions. We split to go to our separate classes and I watched her walk away until she turned back to shoo me on my way.

Creative writing was getting boring as I had finished my novella. After class I handed it in to her and the prof was surprised I had it done so early. She thanked me and I left for the cafeteria to meet Steph for lunch. I found her already sitting down talking on her cell with food on the tray in front of her.

"I know mom, but I have to go to this meeting tonight, I'll be home early in the afternoon tomorrow and I'll stay until Sunday night," she said into the phone.

"No, Ryan won't be joining us, I broke up with him," she told her mom. "We weren't getting along well."

"I told you I have a job now, and my bosses are coming into town tonight and we have to go over things," she replied to a question.

"It pays very well and I only have to look after one guy," Steph answered another question.

"Mother, it's an easy job and I get to study with him while getting paid for it," she responded.

"His girlfriends are on their way to becoming super-models mom, I'll bring you some magazine covers they have done," she told her. "He doesn't have to hit on me or pressure me into anything."

"Wouldn't you like to be able to send the rest of your kids to college?" Steph asked. "The twins are paying me enough that you won't have to pay for any tuition, books, housing, food or anything else from now on. I think that is worth me coming home half a day later don't you think?"

"I thought you would see it my way mom," she said with a wry smile to me.

"Yes, he's very cute and muscular, I told you he's a star defenceman on the hockey team right?" she replied, looking me over. "I'm taking care of him for his hot girlfriends who are paying me remember, so I keep other girls away from him."

"Mother! I can't believe you just told me to sleep with a boy to get ahead," she said in a shocked voice.

"That's none of your business but I'm not that kind of girl," she replied. "Look, I have to finish lunch and get ready for class. I'll see you tomorrow afternoon mom."

"By two o'clock mom," she said. "Ok bye."

She hung up the phone and looked over at me with a sly grin while saying, "My mom thinks I should sleep with you to steal you from the twins. What do you think?"

"Well, you've slept with me the last two days you little hussy, but I'm afraid you won't be pilfering me from the girls," I said with a grin. "You can keep trying though."

"I can't believe my own mother was trying to prostitute me out," she said, shaking her head.

"No, she was trying to set you up with a potentially rich husband," I responded. "You know that lots of women marry for wealth rather than love. Some get both, some get neither. She's just thinking practically."

"Well, she shouldn't be telling me to sleep with you like a common slut," Steph said, still irritated.

I just laughed at her and ate a bite of my burger. She stuck her tongue out at me and started eating her salad. We ate in silence for the most part until we were both almost done. She grabbed a couple of fries from my plate and then spoke up.

"You don't think I'm a slut or a gold digger do you?" she asked in a quiet voice.

"Of course not Stephanie, you're a wonderful lady who has the misfortune of falling for a guy who already has girlfriends," I told her. "You're not after me for my money and you're not going out with any other guys right?"

"Of course you're the only guy; I'm not a slut; oh, I see your point Michael," she grinned.

"On the other hand, what do you think of me having three lovers now?" I asked.

"You're definitely a male slut," she said with a laugh.

"Ouch," I said, looking sad. "I never intended to be with anyone but Vicky but they wore me down just like you did. Maybe we should just stop what we're doing."

"I was just kidding, no one thinks you're anything but a loving hunk of a guy," she said, reaching over to pat my hand. "You're our friend, our protector, our lover and the love of our lives."

"You three mean the world to me; everything else is trivial," I told her.

"If you don't stop talking like that, I'm going to have to drag to my dorm room and show you how much I love you right now," she replied with a very steamy look in her eyes.

"Damn woman, you look so hot right now," I said.

"I am hot right now, damn-it," she said. "And you look extremely studly right now."

"Thank you, thank you very much," I replied, in a deep voice.

She cracked up laughing as I arched my eyebrow at her suggestively.

"Ok, no more worries about all of this, ok?" I asked. "We're going to have a talk and then maybe a bit of fun tonight and I'll drive you to Pontiac tomorrow so you can have Thanksgiving with your family."

"Ok Sweetie, and thanks for everything," she agreed.

"You're welcome Princess," I responded.

We cleaned up out trash and, after agreeing to meet back in the cafeteria after our classes, left to walk to them. I watched her until she turned the corner and then carried on to the math building and my algebra class. The professor started as soon as he got in the classroom and went through a chapter and a half by the end of the lecture. He gave out the assignment and then wished us a Happy Thanksgiving before rushing out of the room.

Steph was walking up to the cafeteria just as I got to the doors, so I held the door open for her before following her in. We grabbed a snack and sat down at a table.

"Sweetie, should I go pack and come with you to the rink?" she asked. "I could watch your practice and we could leave from there."

"That's not a bad idea, but I want you to sit with the other girls if you can," I said. "And we still need to go to the apartment to get my stuff."

"Nope, I packed for you and put your suitcase in the trunk," she responded with a smile.

"Hey thanks Princess," I replied. "Ok, let's get you packed now and we'll head over to the rink."

We grabbed our snacks to eat in her room and left the cafeteria. She led me into the elevator of the dorm building and we rode up with a tall pretty black girl. Steph knew her a bit and they had a quick talk before she got off on the floor below, telling us to have fun as she left with a smile.

"You could have told her I was just a friend," I admonished her.

"What's the fun in that?" she giggled.

She led me to her room, passing open doors with girls in various levels of dress lying on their beds or at their desks. A few looked up as I passed and when I waited at her door for Steph to unlock it, I saw some of them out in the hallway looking at us. I tapped her on the shoulder and when she looked up, I tilted my head down the hallway. She smirked at me and then spoke up so they could all hear her.

"He's just my ride home ladies, and he's already taken, so don't bother," she said.

"Awww Steph, we thought you brought us this stud for some afternoon fun," one of the more scantily clad ones spoke up, licking her lips and leaning provocatively on the doorframe.

"Sorry to disappoint you Mindy, but he's way out of your league," Steph said cattily.

"No one is out of my league, Steph, and if his girlfriend can't satisfy him then he should come over here and let me take care of him," she offered.

"The Waters twins satisfy him just fine, so I don't think he needs to scrape the bottom of the barrel to get down to your level Mindy," she spat out.

"Are you shitting me? This guy is their boyfriend, both of them?" she asked amazed. "Who the hell is he?"

"Ladies, meet Mike Stewart, star defenceman for the Wolverine Hockey team," she proudly announced. "So I think you're more than a bit outclassed Mindy."

She pulled me into her room and slammed the door shut. She locked it and then reached up and pulled me down before planting a passionate kiss on my lips as she moved her hands to pull me tight against her.

"God I want you so bad, but I don't want everyone on the floor to know it," she said.

"Patience Grasshopper, your wishes will come true soon enough," I replied with a wise voice.

She hit me hard in the stomach and then backed away, holding her wrist.

"Ouch, you big bully, what do you have inside your shirt, a metal plate?" she asked. "I think I broke my wrist."

"Let me see," I told her as I lightly grabbed her elbow.

I moved her hand up and down slowly and she didn't scream in pain. I checked out her fingers and the rest of the bones in her hand but she didn't seem in too much pain. I pressed on her wrist lightly and she winced but didn't try and pull her hand away.

"I don't think you broke anything but you might have sprained it," I said. "If it's still real sore tomorrow, you might want to go to the doctor's or I could have Chris look at it at the arena to check it out for you."

"Ok, that would be good, now let me see what you got under there," she demanded, putting her hand on my stomach.

"Sorry Princess, it's just me," I told her. "I don't have much padding anymore, not that I had much to begin with."

"You're a hard as a damn rock Mickey," she said in wonder as she checked out my abs. "I've never felt anyone so muscular."

"I am an athlete silly, and you know I work out on top of that," I told her in exasperation.

"Humph, well since you hurt me, you get to pack for me," she said haughtily.

"Fine, where is your suitcase?" I asked.

"Under the bed," she said, pointing at the left one.

I got down and pulled out a large black suitcase and opened it on the bed. I went to the drawers and opened them up and started putting socks and underwear into it. The next drawer down held her lingerie and I scooped up a few of those and put them in as well. Tee shirts and sweaters came next and then pants and a couple of skirts from the closet and I was done.

She sat on the bed and watched and then commented when I was done.

"So, I need eight bras and panties, six lingerie sets, but only four sets of outer clothes?" she asked with a smirk.

"Well, you can never have enough underwear or lingerie in my expert opinion," I replied with a grin.

"I noticed they were my skimpiest ones," she noted.

"You are very petite," I replied.

"The skirts you picked were my shortest as well," she added.

"I didn't notice, but you do have lovely legs," I replied.

"You do realize I'm only going to be with you for sixteen hours?" she asked.

"Oh, right. I guess I got carried away with some things," I replied, sadly.

"Sweetie, I promise to model all of them for you when we get back," she said, patting my cheek.

"That sounds good," I said with a silly grin.

She shook her head and proceeded to pull out items and put them back. I did notice she kept two sets of lingerie in the suitcase. Finally she was done and I closed it up and put it by the door. She sorted it out her textbooks and put a couple in her bag to take with her. I grabbed it and slung it over my shoulder, picked up the full laundry bag and the suitcase and followed her out the door.

We surprised a couple of girls standing close to her door, obviously trying to listen in on what we might be doing.

"Christina, I'm shocked you would be listening at my door!" Steph said. "I'd expect it of Mindy here but not you!"

"Sorry Steph, Mindy dragged me over just a minute ago," the red faced cute blonde said.

"Humph, I'll talk to you when I get back," Steph told her. "And for you Mindy, I've half a mind to let Mikey put you over his knee and give you a few swats on your bare ass!"

"You wouldn't dare!" Mindy stammered out, backing away from my leer.

"Then you better back off bitch," Steph warned her.

Mindy ran to her room and slammed the door as we walked towards the elevator. Christina walked beside Steph and professed how sorry she was and Steph let her down easy, telling her she knew it was Mindy's fault.

We entered the elevator moving to the side as there were a couple of striking older girls/women already in it. They were tall, at least five eight and were well dressed and made up. They openly eyed me and then looked at Steph with an inquiring look.

"Yes he's taken," she said in exasperation.

"Well lucky you," the blonde said.

"Too bad, he's a hunk," the raven haired one added. "I'm surprised you brought him here, he's like the chum they use to attract all the sharks."

I wisely kept my mouth shut. I let all three women leave the elevator first and kept my eyes away from their exquisite rears as I felt Steph's eyes on me. Luckily they turned to go somewhere in the building as we exited the front lobby.

"Smart man," she said wryly.

I looked over at her and smiled before saying, "Why look at others when I have the three most beautiful women in the world to look at any time I want?"

"Good answer," she admitted.

"I must say you're getting very jealous today," I noted. "You know you have nothing to worry about, right?"

"I know but since we're finally together I've been feeling inadequate, like I don't deserve you," she responded. "That turns into jealousy every time another good looking girl looks at you."

"Now you know how I feel about the twins every day," I told her. "They were already out of my league right from the start, let alone now that they're becoming famous models. Every guy in the country will want to go out with them, how can I compete against that?"

"So what do we do about it?" she asked.

"I'm taking your advice and working as hard as I can on the ice and off to show them that I'm worthy of them," I told her. "You, on the other hand, have it easy. You just have to listen to me and believe me when I say that you are more than adequate; you deserve to be with me because you are beautiful, smart, loving and very sexy. You just come in a smaller package that I love very much."

She looked up at me with a huge smile and said, "You certainly know how to make a girl feel good about herself Sweetie. I wish we were alone right now so I could show you how special you are to me."

"I can tell Princess, your smile could warm the most frozen heart," I said. "So, don't worry so much, but I don't mind you keeping the sharks away."

"Don't worry, this barracuda will be watching, always watching," she replied.

I laughed at her impression as we walked down the street to the arena. I saw her tense as we passed a variety store and noticed she was more watchful of her surroundings.

"I gather this is where that guy started following you?" I asked.

"Yeah, he came out of the store just as I passed it," she said.

"Never walk here by yourself, Princess," I instructed her, as I kept an eye out.

"You don't have to tell me," she replied, edging closer to me.

Luckily nothing happened and we entered the arena after putting her suitcase and laundry in the car. We found Amanda and John in the cafeteria and sat down across from them.

"Hey guys, do you mind if Steph sits with Amanda while we practice?" I asked.

"Of course not Mike, I'm glad she's here to keep me company," Amanda replied. "How are you Steph?"

"I'm good, great actually now that school is done for a few days," she said.

"You're not heading home to go see the family and Ryan?" Amanda asked.

"I'm meeting with the twins and Mikey tonight but going home tomorrow," Steph replied. "Ryan and I broke up."

Both John and Amanda expressed their condolences and asked how she was handling it.

"Well, taking care of this lug is almost a fulltime job, so I haven't had much time to get depressed," Steph responded.

"And why are you taking care of Mike?" asked John. "I know he's hopeless, but isn't that the twins' job?"

"They hired me to be his personal assistant, because their career is really taking off," she replied. "Things will get real busy after the holidays for them and consequently for him as well, so they're just getting prepared now."

"Wow, your very own girl Friday," John said in wonder, looking at me. "And hired by your girlfriends, no less. You are the man Mike!"

Amanda and Stephanie both shot him dirty looks and he had the sense to apologise. I laughed and said it just meant I had another boss looking after me. That got me looks from the two girls but they knew I was correct in my thinking so they didn't press it. John and I left them together in the cafeteria and walked to the locker room.

"Are you and Steph together now Mike?" he asked with a grin.

"Of course not John, she just comes over and cooks and does my laundry while we study," I said, looking peeved. "I don't need a personal assistant but the twins insisted, so she helps out a bit."

"Oh, ok. It just looked like she was looking at you differently than before," he stated.

I just shrugged and got changed. John dropped it and got changed beside me. We went out and got through our warm-ups and gathered around the coaches.

"Ok, a couple of housecleaning items before we get started," Fred spoke up. "Next week you will all be scheduled with the guidance counsellors to get signed into next semester's classes. Please do the necessary research to know what you want to take, if at all possible.

Next, we leave from the parking lot at eight am on Friday morning to go to the airport to fly to Minneapolis Minnesota. Don't be late or you miss the bus, the plane and both games.

Next weekend we play our final games of the semester in a home and home series against Michigan State. After that weekend you have exams and then holidays. We have the Great Lakes invitational at the Joe Louis Arena right after Christmas, starting on the Saturday, Dec. 27th so we need to keep sharp. The arena will be open all the way through and we will have practices in the morning and afternoon for anyone who can make it all through the three weeks from the last game. Obviously, we will be closed Dec. 24th and the 25th but every other day the rink will be open. Your exams and good grades come first, so practices are optional during the two weeks of exams, Dec. 8th and Dec. 15th.

Finally, you are all aware of Mr. Samuel's return from injury. Our defence core is now heavy by one starter and it necessitates some decisions to be made. On one hand we don't punish a starter for being injured, but on the other hand, our current six defencemen have performed admirably and have jelled into cohesive pairings. Nevertheless, someone will be disappointed, one way or the other.

So, after much discussion with Frank and Sam, we are going to try something new as an experiment to solve the issue. It too will disappoint people but that's life, no one wins in most situations.

We are proposing to carry seven defenceman, with Mr. Stewart as the seventh. He will also fill in as the right winger on the fourth line, while manning the point on the power play. At this time we do not know if he can become a forward, but we have until the Dec. 27th to get the new fourth line gelling together. Mr. Samuels will be paired with Mr. Reilly as the third pairing for now. Mr. Steel is the odd man out for now as the fourth line right winger but we'll be rotating people in and out of the starting line-up so that everyone gets some game time.

Let me be clear that this is a coaching decision and that neither Mr. Stewart or Mr. Samuels initiated any of this. This is merely being done to try and keep valuable members of the team on the ice as much as possible. Does anyone have an issue on the proposal? Captains?"

Gary, Steve and Daniel shook their heads.

"Mr. Samuels?" Fred asked next.

"No coach," he replied.

"Mr. Stewart?" he asked.

"No coach," I replied.

"Mr. Steel?" Fred asked.

"No coach," he replied.

"Anyone else have an issue or comment?" Fred asked the rest of the group.

There was silence for a bit and then Fred continued.

"Ok, thank you gentlemen, that was unselfish of everyone," he said. "So, Mr. Stewart will play this weekend on defence, Mr. Samuel will play in one of the Michigan State games, while Mr. Stewart will play in the other. In the meantime he will start practicing with the fourth line on Monday to see if we can make him into a forward. Ok, let's get busy practicing for this weekend."

After the speech we practiced our version of the Neutral zone trap and then our offence and defence against each other. After a spirited scrimmage we were done for the night. I quickly got out of my equipment, showered and dressed, wished Mark and a few of the other guys a Happy Thanksgiving and then went to find Steph and Amanda with John. Amanda and Steph were waiting in the lobby and after a quick Happy Thanksgiving we each hopped in our separate cars and took off.

"So, with Samuels back, the coach wants to try me a combination seventh defenceman and fourth line right winger, starting after Christmas," I told her.

"Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" Steph asked.

"Not sure yet, but it would give me more versatility in the long run," I said. "It would be only for the rest of this year. A lot of the starting defencemen are seniors so they would probably put me back on defence afterwards."

"Well, I hope you do well," she said.

"Me too," I agreed. "So, anything interesting happening with Amanda?"

"Not really, she wanted to know more about me and you and the twins," Steph replied. "John and her are doing ok; she's really counting on him to get an offer this summer from a NHL team."

"I know, she's put a lot of time and energy into John, if he doesn't make it I think she will leave him," I told her.

"I don't know if she will, she really loves him despite all his flaws," she stated.

We drove for a bit in silence, the traffic fairly heavy as everyone rushed off to home or to a family gathering.

"So, what's on the agenda tonight and tomorrow?" I asked. "You girls must have talked amongst yourselves right?"

"A bit," she admitted. "The plan is to have supper with their folks and then have a private chat before we tie you down and have our way with you."

"Well, I'm not much into the whole bondage thing so we'll have to skip that portion of your plan at least," I said.

"Oh, you're such a party pooper," she responded, giggling.

"Have you hooked up with Amy about the trip to New York yet?" I asked.

She pulled out her new Blackberry and brought up her calendar and said, "Your exam schedule is not too bad, you have Logics on Tuesday afternoon, the ninth, you have Algebra on the morning of Thursday the eleventh and programming on the next Tuesday afternoon, the sixteenth.

I have Logics on the ninth, Calculus on the tenth, philosophy on the Monday the fifteenth, programming on the sixteenth and my last one, art history, on the afternoon of Wednesday the seventeenth."

"Ok, that doesn't sound bad at all for me, but you have a busy schedule," I said.

"That's why I won't be joining you on your first trip to New York for the middle weekend," she said. "We have you booked on Thursday the eleventh in the afternoon to fly into New York and you will do various things with the twins and Amy, on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and then fly back Sunday night.

Friday morning they have a commercial to shoot for Old Navy that you can watch. Friday night they have you booked at a trendy restaurant to show you off and then you go to a night club that's all the rage for celebrities and Entertainment shows. Then they have the Victoria Secrets fashion show on Saturday and you already have a front row seat booked for that. Sunday they want to spend just with you, maybe do some touristy things."

"That sounds like fun and I really won't need too much time to study for programming on Tuesday," I responded.

"I thought so too," she agreed. "The next weekend we both will fly in Friday morning and come back with the girls on Sunday night again. Friday afternoon, they have a photo shoot for Calvin Klein that they want you there to discourage the male model from getting too hands on. Saturday morning they have a quick appearance on one of the weekend TV morning shows that we can all go to. Saturday night there is a big Christmas party at the agency they want you to attend with them. Sunday we all go to an awards brunch for the fashion industry before we take the evening flight home."

"Sounds like a full schedule already," I remarked. "I just miss Friday's practices both weeks so that's not bad."

"You probably will miss Thursday the eleventh for your Algebra exam in the morning, but you might make the afternoon ones after your other two exams," she reminded me.

"Those can't be helped, but I should have enough practising in between there and after that weekend to get ready to be a forward," I told her.

"What are your plans for Christmas?" she asked.

"Probably spend it with the twins if they are around and if their parents don't mind," I told her. "We play in Detroit on the twenty seventh at Joe Louis Arena, so I need to practice every day that week that the rink is open. How about you?"

"I'll spend some time with the family and with you guys if my family allows it, and you want me too," she said.

"Of course you can silly, we'll need more assistance than ever with the twins and me together," I said, keeping a straight face.

She turned her head quickly to glare at me and I couldn't keep the laughter in when I saw her face.

"Oh you, you big meany," she spat out, raising her arm to hit me but wisely stopped when she remembered her wrist.

We finally reached Dearborn and pulled into their driveway just after seven. I grabbed our bags and walked to the front door. It opened before we even got close and the twins came rushing out, dressed in matching tee-shirts and sweat pants, and ran to us. One of them hugged me tight while the other hugged Stephanie just as tight. We both received kisses on the mouth before they let us go.

"You're finally here Sweetie!" she said with a smile on her face. "We've missed you so much!"

"Welcome to the group Steph," the other one said to her. "We're going to have so much fun!"

They both pulled us into the house where Mr. and Mrs. Waters waited in the foyer.

Hey Mike, how ya been," Mr. Waters asked as he held out his hand.

"Pretty good Mr. Waters and yourself?" I responded, shaking his hand.

"Not too bad, considering the economy," he replied.

"Hello Michael, I'm glad to see you back with the girls," Mrs. Waters spoke up before giving me a hug.

"Hi Mrs. Waters, it's great to be back with them," I replied. "Thanks for having me; or us I guess, over for Thanksgiving."

"You're always welcome Michael," she said with a smile. "This must be Stephanie; my, you are a cutie just as Becky says."

"Hello Mr. and Mrs. Waters," Steph said blushing. "Thanks for having me over."

"You're very welcome in our house Stephanie, my dear," Mrs. Waters told her.

I saw Amy standing in the doorway and said, "Hi Amy, it's nice to finally see you, you're even prettier in person than on the screen."

"Hi Michael, the screen didn't show how big you are either," she replied with a grin.

"Yes, he seems to be getting bigger every time we see him," Becky said, coming up to me for her hug and kiss.

She rose on her tippy toes and gave me a nice kiss as she hugged me tight.

"I've missed you Sweetie," she whispered into my ear as she clung to me.

"Me too," I replied back into her ear.

We heard a cough and Becky let me go and looked at her dad and said, "Dad, I haven't seen him in almost two weeks, can't I give him a hug and kiss?"

"Not when I'm hungry, little lady, so let the poor boy go and put away the bags," he said, looking stern.

"And don't keep him up there for more than a couple of minutes girls, you can all talk after supper," Mrs. Waters added. "Our roast will dry up if we keep it in the oven much longer."

"Yes mom," the twins answered dryly in unison.

"Wow, they can even be sarcastic in unison," I said with a grin.

"You have no idea," Mr. Waters said under his breath.

"We heard that Daddy," they said as they guided us upstairs.

I was following the twins up the stairs and got to watch their perfect asses in their clingy sweats.

"Ok, if we can get Michael to stop staring at our butts for a second, we'll discuss sleeping arrangements" Vicky said. "Does anyone have a preference?"

"I'll sleep with Michael," Becky said.

"Me too," said Stephanie.

"I'll sleep with any of the girls," Amy said.

"So we have three with Michael and one with the three of us?" Vicky said dryly. "We can't all sleep in one bed people. How about Michael gets the guest bedroom and Amy and Steph split up in to our bedrooms."

"Fine with me," I said, moving quickly to put my stuff in it after putting Steph's by her feet.

When I came back, Steph was coming out of Vicky's room while Amy's stuff was already in Becky's room. We all trooped downstairs and the girls went into the kitchen to help their mom while I headed to the dining room to join their dad. Before we could begin to talk the girls were bringing out the food, the roast, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables and buns. Mr. Waters poured the glasses full with wine and proposed a toast.

"I would like to welcome Michael, Stephanie and Amy into our home and give thanks that they are in my daughters' lives to love and watch over them. I would also like to take this opportunity to tell my lovely daughters how proud we are of them, not just for being beautiful, but for being the smart, caring women they've grown up into becoming. Finally, I would like to tell my gorgeous, very intelligent wife how lucky I am that she is in my life. I am truly blessed to have all of you here with us tonight. Cheers!"

We all echoed his cheers, took a drink and then started passing the food around. Soon we were too busy; ok I was too busy, to talk much as I started eating the great food.

"Stephanie Merks, you are obviously failing at your job," Vicky said with the voice.

"Honestly, I try and keep him fed often enough that he doesn't become the Human Vacuum, but it's late and he hasn't eaten for four hours," she said sadly. "I'll go pack my things and go home."

I stopped eating for a second and said, "We need to get this girl in film; seriously, she would win the Oscar in no time."

"Be that as it may Michael, you really must learn to slow down and try and taste the food," Becky spoke up. "It's insulting to the cook and it's really not very civilized."

"I apologise everyone," I said, properly chastened. "It is very good, I hope you take my eating fast as a compliment on how wonderful it tastes. I'll make a better effort to slow down from now on."

Mr. Waters spoke up, "The meal is fantastic ladies; you did an excellent job. In Michael's defence, remember that he is eighteen and his body is still growing. Also, he burns thousands of calories by practicing at least twice a day. He also does his extreme work-outs and you can tell how much muscle mass he's put on while losing what little fat his body ever had.

So, while you are all thinking he eats way too much and looks piggish, he is really just making sure his body is getting enough to sustain himself. He just needs to try and slow down a bit, even if he is starving, so he doesn't gross out the other diners."

"See, it wasn't my fault," Stephanie said, sticking her tongue out at Vicky, which made us all burst out laughing.

"No, it's still my fault ladies, I've been eating this way for too long and I hope you will take me to task and remind me to take time to savour my food from now on."

I sat back and watched as everyone went back to eating.

"I do have an issue that I could use everyone's advice on, if you don't mind listening while you eat?" I asked.

"Of course Michael, you part of the family now," Mrs. Waters said.

"Thank you Mrs. Waters, that's very nice to hear," I told her with a smile as the twins each reached to hold my hands. "So, as you know my parents died recently and I thought I had no relatives left alive. That is until last weekend, when Fred let me know that a woman called him and told him she was my Aunt. She claims to be my mother's sister, a Nancy Barrows-Hayden, had some pictures to prove it. My mother's maiden name was Barrows. Fred gave me her number to call."

"Wow, that's great news isn't it?" Becky said, looking around.

"My mother would always get upset when I asked her about relatives, and that would then make my dad mad," I told them. "I just stopped asking a long time ago and they never brought it up, even when she got sick. Even if I had an aunt, I'm not sure if I would be opening a can of worms now by calling her."

"Well, she obviously knows where you are so she would have found you personally if there were any issues," Amy spoke up. "The fact that she is letting you decide to make the next move is a good thing. I don't see what you have to lose. At the least you can find out more about the problems your parents had with their families before you proceed any further."

"Amy is right, you can decide what to do after you at least have a conversation with her," Vicky agreed. "Who knows, you probably have cousins and an uncle at least, let alone possibly grandparents."

"Does anyone think it's a bad thing?" I asked.

"You might not like what you find out about your parents and their family," Stephanie commented. "Something happened for them to leave everything behind and start new somewhere else. Your dad didn't have anything to do with his family either."

"That shouldn't be enough to stop him from at least talking to her," Becky said. "He's old enough that he can handle anything he would hear."

I thought about it a bit and then said, "I think I will call her, maybe tomorrow. Like you say, what do I have to lose?"

"Good decision Michael," Mrs. Waters said. "You can always decide not to get involved if you don't like what you hear. Either way, we're all here to support you."

"Thanks everyone, it's nice to know I have people who care about me," I said, looking around. "Alright, enough with the Hallmark moment, let's get eating!"

Everyone laughed as I started reaching for more food. We continued with the fine meal and then everyone pitched in to clear the table and put the food away. We all gathered in their big family room with some coffee and soft drinks.

Vicky started off the conversation by saying, "While we're all here, we should go over a couple of things that everyone should know about, if you don't mind?"

Mr. Waters spoke up, "Go ahead Vicky; you know we always want to hear what's going on with you two."

"Ok, first of all, things are going great with the modelling for both of us, and Amy is such a big help every day," Vicky said, getting a nod of agreement from Becky.

"You two are so easy to work for, not like most of the stuck up models I've had to deal with," Amy said.

Vicky continued, "Things are starting to pick up in terms of industry and public awareness of the two of us; in other words our popularity is rising. That is a good thing for our careers, not so much for our private life, which includes all of you."

Becky took over, "As most of you know, we've been hit on by a lot of guys and some women, and we're going to counteract that with bringing Michael into the public eye. That will happen in a couple of weeks when we bring him to New York and flaunt him at some events where media are present."

"The only issue, other than Michael's privacy, will be the fact that we're both going to be dating him," Vicky said. "We'll play around with it to minimize it, but there will be at least some speculation. We don't care ourselves, but we wanted to warn everyone so they are aware of it."

"We obviously don't have a problem with it privately or publicly," Mrs. Waters said. "We could never be embarrassed about anything you do, right Phil?"

"Right, so do what you feel is right for you," he agreed.

"Good to hear that," Vicky said with a smile. "Now, the next item is directed at the men in the family. We're going to be in Victoria Secrets fashion show in a couple of weeks and we are also shooting a Calvin Klein underwear photo ad the same weekend. We're going to be filmed and photographed wearing some skimpy lingerie and underwear that will be seen by a lot of people. Michael will actually be at the photo shoot and the fashion show. The point is your daughters and girlfriends will be seen by your male friends, colleagues, teammates and opponents and you are going to be hearing comments from them about us."

"You are very beautiful women now and I'm very proud of both of you," Mr. Waters told them. "I knew that you would be showing off more than your faces when you got involved in modeling. No father likes to see his daughter showing too much of her body but I know it's part of the job. I have no problem dealing with people's comments. You're respectable, very well paid models doing something you enjoy with your parents' full support."

"Thanks daddy for saying that," Becky responded to her dad's words.

I spoke up, "I knew the first day I saw Vicky that she was beautiful enough to be a model. Becky, on the other hand, was a shock with that big nose of hers, but what do I know about fashion?"

I got a laugh from everyone.

"I see he's still trying to be a comedian," Becky looked at Stephanie.

"I warned him, but you know how stubborn he is," She said with a shrug.

"Anyway, I too knew they would be showing off their gorgeous bodies, probably more than I would be comfortable with," I continued. "I'm proud of the both of you and still surprised every day that you still want to be with me when you have so many options. I will be jealous of every man that will see you in anything less than a parka, but I know that I'm the only guy that gets to do more than look at you. Anything that someone says about you is meaningless because of that."

They both gave me a hug and a kiss before continuing.

"Ok, moving on, we wanted to warn everyone that in the new year, the publicity campaigns all come together to go national and international," Vicky told us. "We have several magazine covers, fashion spreads in top magazines, hair and make-up TV ads, Pepsi and Doritos commercials and the Calvin Klein ads coming out in January and February, including during the football play-offs and the Super Bowl. Right after, could be the biggest thing yet, but we can't leak that, even to you guys."

"That sounds great for your career girls, why do you have to warn us though?" Mrs. Waters asked.

"We're going to be popular, celebrity popular, with all the problems that come with celebrities," Becky answered. "Paparazzi, TV cameras, reporters, gossip columns, stalkers, you name it, it could happen. It will probably happen to us and to Michael at least; and maybe a bit to the rest of you as well."

"We are all pretty private people, so we have to take steps to keep things private as much as we can," Vicky said. "In New York, the two of us will be ok, as the agency will provide security and the condo at the Plaza will be pretty secure. We're worried about Michael the most; he's going to be wide open for photos, cameras and reporters. He walks outside a lot; they can film at the arena or on campus or even at his apartment."

"Steph and him are together all the time, the gossip hounds will make that into an affair and have pictures of them sitting close or him staring at her butt," Becky added dryly.

"So what do we do about it?" I asked.

"We've gotten a couple of extra deals as spokeswoman for some companies, like Revlon and the Shampoo company," Vicky stated. "Those are over and above the one year deal we have with the agency. So with some of that extra money, we want to get you and Steph into a condo in a secure building in Ann Arbor as soon as possible, with a secure underground parking lot. That will stop any access to you at home."

"You will have to also talk to the Athletic department about things so they aren't hit with this by surprise in the arena and on campus," Becky stated.

"I have no problem with either of those things, but I want to put some money into the condo as well," I told them.

"It might be better that our corporation bought the condo so your name isn't on any of the paperwork Michael," Vicky said. "Stephanie, are you ok with moving into a three bedroom condo close to the college?"

"I suppose I could stand it for a while," she sighed dramatically.

"Well, we would also provide you two with a better vehicle to make your sacrifice bearable," Becky added dryly.

"Well, now you're talking sister," Steph said with a grin. "Count me in!"

"You don't have to do all that girls," I said. "I'm starting to feel like a kept man. I can pay my way in this relationship you know. I'm just being prudent with my money."

"Our career will cause you some unwanted attention Michael, we're just trying to minimize it as it's our fault," Vicky said. "We can afford it and the condo is an investment that can be sold for a profit later. The car will be a lease that can be written off as well."

"Ok, let's get on it so we can maybe move over the holidays if possible," I said, caving in.

"Good, Steph and Amy will get on it as soon as they can, right girls?" Becky asked.

"Sure thing boss," Steph said as Amy nodded.

"Alright, mom and dad, we're not sure if you will be affected too much, but we're willing to put up a nice fence and gate to keep people from getting too close to the house," Vicky suggested. "We can do anything else you think you need to protect your privacy out of our pockets."

"We'll talk it over but we agree it will be mostly you younger folk with the problems," Mr. Waters said. "You don't see too much said about parents and we wouldn't be that interesting to people. We'll see how bad it gets and then, if necessary, put up a fence at the front of the property."

"It's your decision, but let us know if/when you need us to help," Vicky said. "Ok, anything else?"

Nobody had anything to say so Vicky stood up and looked over at her parents before saying," Alright then, family meeting adjourned. Now, us girls have some private issues to deal with concerning Michael, so we're going head upstairs, if that's ok with you two?"

"That's fine with us tonight but we would like to spend some time with you tomorrow ok?" Mrs. Waters replied.

"Other than Michael driving Stephanie home to Pontiac after lunch, we'll be available all day," she replied. "I forgot Michael's call to his aunt, but that shouldn't take too long."

Everyone got up and we all got hugs and goodnights before we headed upstairs. We congregated in Vicky's room, with the twins leaning on the headboard while Amy and Steph sitting cross-legged further down the bed. I took the only chair, an upholstered rocker in the corner.

"Ok, let's talk about our relationship," Vicky said. "We've brought Amy and Stephanie into the mix, and for some reason they seem to want to be involved with some of us. Amy is mostly into the girls while Steph is mostly into Michael. As part of our agreement, we all insist on full disclosure, so Amy has slept with both of us, and had oral sex with us. Stephanie?"

"I've slept with Michael for the past two nights, kissed and caressed him, performed oral sex on him last night while he fingered me to an orgasm, she replied. "We have not been totally nude together yet or had sex with each other. I have broken up with Ryan, and I've never had sex with a girl."

"Michael?" Vicky asked.

"Obviously I've slept with and had sex with both of you and slept with Steph as she described," I told everyone.

"And finally Amy," Vicky stated.

"I've slept with either Becky or Vicky, or both of them the last couple of weeks," she replied. "I've given and received oral and manual sex from both of them. I'm not seeing anyone else, male or female."

"Ok, first on the agenda is to convince Michael that we won't insist on quid pro quo with what he does with Stephanie," Vicky stated. "He has the notion that we would use it as justification to sleep with a guy, since he is sleeping with a girl."

"I would address his issue by offering up our relationship with Amy as the quid pro quo for his relationship with Stephanie," Becky stated.

"Good point Becky," Vicky stated. "I would offer the requests for him to come public with us as his girlfriends to prove we don't want any male attention but his."

"I would offer up the fact that they have never shown the slightest bit of interest in any of the men that have approached them, even the most wealthy and eligible bachelors in New York," Amy said.

"Finally, I would offer up that the twins insisted and approved of me seducing Michael, rather than him trying to go to them to get them to agree on it," Steph stated.

"So, all four of us know you are worried about nothing, we have no interest in using your relationship with Stephanie against you, especially to sleep around with another guy," Vicky concluded. "We think you're missing the most important point Michael; if we slept with another guy, it wouldn't matter what the reason was, we would all know the relationship would be over. You couldn't forgive us for that, just like we couldn't forgive you for going outside the four of us and having sex with another woman."

I was ready to concede their points even before Vicky's last statement, and it just nailed it on the head for me even more.

"Ok, I've been kind of stupid about it, but it delayed things between us long enough that I could see your reactions personally to me being with Stephanie," I admitted. "Your points are all valid and the last statement by Vicky brings it home. I guess I have to admit I've been worrying about you girls finding someone better with all of the attention you're getting and will get soon. This has happened so fast and I've got very little experience with girlfriends."

"We'll all help build up your confidence in yourself as a boyfriend and a very good catch for any woman," Becky stated. "We know you don't see yourself as being worthy of us, but sooner or later you have to start believing what we say about you. You have two soon to be super-models as your lovers, a third beautiful woman begging for you to make love to her, and a fourth one at least willing to be in the same bed with you. What more could you possibly need to show you how desirable you are to women?"

"I don't know, maybe a survey of about a million woman would do the trick I guess," I said with a grin.

"Ok, so are you ok with everything?" Vicky asked.

"Yes, I'm ok with everything," I said officially.

"Oh goody!" Stephanie exclaimed with a big smile.

"See, you've made someone very happy," Becky said.

"Alright, next up is the cross-over with Amy and Stephanie," Vicky said. "Amy with Michael, and Stephanie with the two of us."

Both Amy and Stephanie got quiet and looked nervous. Nobody said anything for a good minute while the two of them looked at each other and then down at the bedspread.

"Boy, one would think the two of them don't like the idea," Becky said with a straight face.

"It was part of the deal that they both made with us to be part of this relationship," Vicky stated. "But if you're having second thoughts about it, we should probably stop things now before you get too involved with us that way."

I wanted to hear how this played out before I put my opinion into the ring, so I kept my mouth shut and just watched from the corner with a non-committal look on my face.

Stephanie took a deep breath and then let it out before saying, "You're correct, I did agree to that and I'm not backing down from that. I'm willing to be with you two in order to be with Michael, but I've never done anything like that before. I'm open to try it out if you'll be patient with me."

Amy went next, "I'm a little different, I've been with boys and men before, but I've had some bad experiences with them, and swore off them for over a couple of years now. I'm open to trying it out with Michael to be with you two."

"Well, don't do us any favours girls, we're not into forcing anyone and I'm sure Michael isn't as well," Vicky said, looking at them with a frown. "Amy, Michael hasn't expressed an interest in being with you so you don't have much to worry about. Steph, Becky would love to be with you I'm sure, but she's not about to make you do something you're uncomfortable with, let alone disgusted with."

"That's right," Becky agreed. "The real issue is if, when we're all together, neither of you get freaked out if things get carried away and you get involved with one of us. When the lights are off and passions get high; things can happen that people wouldn't normally do. We need to know that, while you might be uncomfortable during or after, you won't run screaming to the authorities or the press."

"Oh," Stephanie said, looking relieved. "I would be ok if something happened like that, as long it wasn't forced or any bondage. But if one of the girls got amorous while I was with Michael and everyone else, I wouldn't freak out. I definitely wouldn't tell anyone or go to the authorities. If I became too uncomfortable, I would stop it, but I wouldn't freak out. I promise."

"That's good to hear," Vicky said, and then turned to Amy. "And you Amy? How would you react if Michael started kissing you, caressing your body, maybe even make love to you while you were in bed with us. What would you do?"

"If it happened tonight, I would probably freak," she admitted. "But once I get to know Michael and see him with the rest of you, I should be able to trust that he would be gentle and caring and I should be ok. It's not as if I haven't done things with men, I just haven't had many good experiences with them."

Vicky and Becky looked at each other for a bit and then shrugged before looking over at me.

"Well, I'm certainly not going to force myself on anyone, and while you're quite pretty Amy, I have two, soon to be three lovely ladies to be with," I stated, looking over at her. "I think between the four of us, plus with some care on your part, the interaction between us can be minimized, so nothing should occur. You're going to have to put up with me being around the twins when you're there, but we should be able to keep you safe from any evil intentions from me."

"So, no freaking from you two, if something happens down the road?" Vicky asked. "Ladies, we need your word on this, or we don't move forward with either of you."

"I promise no freaking as long as no force or kinky stuff happens," Steph said.

"I also promise no freaking as long as no force or kinky stuff happens," Amy said, with a little grin.

"I promise no force or kinky stuff will happen," I stated.

"I promise no force or kinky stuff will happen, though having four women and one guy together is already a bit kinky," Becky said with a grin.

"I promise no force of kinky stuff will happen," Vicky finished. "Ok, that settles that issue. What's left? We dealt with Michael's issue, the cross-over issue and the paparazzi issue. Health and pregnancy is pretty simple, we've all been checked out health wise, so there should be no diseases to worry about and you two are on the pill. As long as everyone obeys the rule about no other partners, male or female, then we should be ok."

"Obviously, you two can't talk about being with us to anyone, relatives, friends, your best friends anyone," Becky cautioned. "Even if something goes wrong and we split up, you can't ever say anything."

Amy and Stephanie promised they wouldn't. I knew a promise was worthless but we had confidentiality agreements with both of them as well, so lawyers would get involved if they broke their silence.

"In public, you have to be careful not to interact improperly with us," Vicky added. "It won't be easy, but you have to be professional, even in class or in a limo. There will always be someone watching and waiting for a photo-op."

We all agreed to that one. That would be the hardest thing to do, especially with Stephanie and me always being together.

"Finally, I guess we need to talk a bit about when we're all together like this," Vicky stated, looking around at all of us. "Here we have three bedrooms so it's easy to break apart and keep things separate. But at Michael's apartment we would all be together, and in New York there are only two bedrooms so things get a bit crowded there too. The point of all of this is: how do we decide who sleeps where and who gets to be with whom?"

We all looked at each other for a bit and I shook my head realizing how complicated it all was. I put my hands up to scrub my face and then looked up and started to say something.

"No you don't Michael Stewart; we will make this work and we'll handle it so there is no bickering or problems," Becky said, speaking quickly to stop me from talking.

"You're won't even have to get involved in any of the decisions unless you want one of us in particular," Vicky said. "The four of us will make sure you're happy and this doesn't get complicated, right ladies?"

"For sure," Steph agreed, smiling at me and nodding.

"Yes, of course," Amy said, giving me a nod as well.

"Absolutely, Sweetie," Becky responded. "Leave everything to us and you'll be taken care of."

"Ok, we've done enough talking for tonight girls, let's get Michael to his room and get him comfortable," Vicky instructed.

I was quickly pulled up by Amy and Stephanie and dragged out the door. Becky and Vicky were pushing from behind and I found myself quickly in the spare room. They pushed me back until I sat down on the bed and then stood in front of me.

"Ok, you relax in here for a minute while we get ready for bed," Vicky instructed me. "You might want to get ready for bed as well."

They all trooped out of the room and I quickly got changed into some shorts and a tee shirt before heading to the bathroom. There I washed up a bit, brushed my teeth and used the toilet. I was lying back on the bed with my eyes closed in no time. I heard the door open and the girls whispering as they entered the room.

"Michael," one the twins said.

I opened my eyes to find the four of them all dressed in matching lacy semi-see through teddies, all in white. I looked slowly down the line, the twins being the bookends to Steph and Amy. They were all smiling down at me, though Amy looked a bit uncomfortable with her hands held together in front of her body.

"Wow, a finer sight there will never be," I said in awe of their beauty. "You ladies are simply breathtaking in your beauty. I can't believe I'm so fortunate to see the four of you like that, let alone be with you."

"Thank you Michael, we bought these special for this occasion," the left bookend said. "We thought you would like the view."

"I like the view," I agreed, nodding my head several times.

They turned in unison and showed me the rear view. The teddies were very high cut, showing me a lot of their delicious rears and most of their bare backs.

"Damn..." I gasped.

"I take it that you like?" the other twin asked, as the girls looked over their shoulders for my reaction.

"Oh, I like!" I replied as I sat up and moved to sit at the end of the bed.

They all giggled as they bent a bit at the waist to show off their superb asses. They were all in fantastic shape and I wanted to feel them all right then, even Amy, with her luscious red hair and long legs leading up to a nice tight butt. I didn't know who to look at or who to grab for as I got to the edge of the bed.

"You are all so beautiful; I don't know where to start!" I said, frowning at my dilemma.

I didn't know if choosing one first would make any of the others jealous or upset.

"Sweetie, we talked about this while we were getting ready; we don't want you to ever feel that picking one of us to be with will make the rest of us jealous," the left hand twin stated.

"You can go ahead and pick one of us to caress and hug or just go down the line and give us all hugs and kisses," the other twin added.

"We've decided that Steph should be with you tonight for her first time with you as she has to go home in the morning," Amy spoke up.

"And one of the twins will join us, while the other one will be with Amy," Steph finished. "Tomorrow, you four can work it out for yourself."

"Ok, I'm fine with you ladies deciding amongst yourselves how to handle it as long as everyone is happy," I replied, sitting there with what was probably a silly grin on my face.

I didn't move towards them and finally one of the twins spoke up as she moved towards me, "Well, if you're not going to pick one of us, I'll go first!"

She straddled my legs and sat down on my lap as she draped her arms around my neck and swooped in for a kiss. I put my hands on her waist as we kissed. She quickly had her tongue in my mouth and her body tight up against mine as I hugged her tight. Her hands travelled down my shoulders and then around to my back as our kiss deepened.

"Ahem," came from behind her.

"What?" my seated twin said in exasperation.

"Let's save something for the rest of us, shall we?" her sister said dryly.

"I barely got started!" was the reply as she ground herself onto my stiff erection.

"You get him all night so let the rest of us have a shot at him," the twin said.

"Fine," she replied as she unwrapped herself from me and stood up. "Ok, who's next?"

Steph moved quickly and sat down on my lap and quickly had me in a lip-lock.

"Damn, she's fast," remarked Amy.

I heard the twins laugh as Steph's hands were quickly all over me, lifting up my shirt and caressing my chest after throwing it to the ground. I ran my hands down her back and pulled her close to me using her hips. She groaned as our bodies came together and she ground her pussy onto my erection. After a minute or so, the twins stepped up to either side and pulled her away.

"Noooo," Steph whined as she was forced to stand up.

"Hush silly, you'll have him soon enough," said the one on the left before taking her spot on my lap.

"I'll be joining you tomorrow night Sweetie so try and leave a little something for me ok?" she said with a smile.

"Sure Darling," I replied with a grin. "Have fun with Amy tonight."

"Oh I will!" she replied before putting a serious lip-lock on me.

She quickly moved up close and wrapped her arms around me as I did the same. I pulled her hips close and thrust my erection up to rub against her pussy, causing her to moan into my mouth. Her hips started undulating; making sure my erection hit her clit through the thin material of her teddy. I groaned as she was pulled away from me by her sister and Steph.

"Why did you do that!" she spat out, as she panted for air. "I was getting so close!"

"Your time was up," her sister said with a grin. "It's Amy's turn."

I looked over at her and saw that she was still staring at the twin who just got off of me. She looked ready to pounce on her to finish her off.

"Amy. Amy!" repeated the other twin.

Amy broke out of her trance and looked at the other twin before saying, "Sorry, I was distracted by this beauty here."

"We could see that," Vicky replied dryly. "How about giving Michael his hug and kiss before you take Becky to her room?"

"Oh, ok," she said, still distracted by Becky.

She moved to stand in front of me but hesitated to come close to me.

"Hi there Amy," I said lightly. "How about just a quick hug and kiss and then you can go ravish that beauty over there?"

"Sounds like a good plan to me!" she said with a grin as the other girls laughed.

She moved close and I leaned forward to give her a quick peck on her lips as I held her shoulders.

"Ok, go have fun Red," I told her as I let her go.

"You have fun with Vic and Steph too," she replied as she stepped back.

"Ok, we'll see you two in the morning," Vicky said as Amy moved close to Bec.

"See ya," Amy said as she grasped Bec's hand and pulled her out the door. "You three have fun!"

They were out the door quickly and pulled it shut behind them. I looked back at Vicky and Stephanie and saw the looks on their faces. Now I knew what an antelope feels like when a couple of lionesses have it cornered. They quickly moved to either side of me and pushed me back onto the bed, with both of them following me down to lay beside me.

After both of them kissed me on the lips, they travelled down my body, lightly kissing my neck, shoulders, chest and stomach until they reached my shorts.

They looked back up at me and Vicky said, "I think someone is happy to see us."

"Very happy to see us," Steph agreed as she put her hand on my erection.

The rest of the night passed in a blur of sensations and tangled limbs.



-------

Chapter 32


Thanksgiving morning I woke up with a lovely lady snuggled up on either side of me and thought how good life was. Unfortunately, I really had to go, so I snuck out the bottom of the bed and put on a pair of track pants and a tee-shirt before heading to the bathroom down the hall.

After I took care of the usual things, I grabbed a towel, went downstairs and poured a glass of orange juice in the still dark kitchen. It was just before six and I knew everyone would sleep in for at least a couple of hours. I took the stairs down to the basement and hit the switch at the bottom of the steps, turning on the lights in the main family room. I walked through the room to the door at the other end and opened it and fumbled for the light switch before flipping it to illuminate the small exercise room.

I slid the glass of OJ into the cup holder on the elliptical and tuned in ESPN on the television before stretching for a bit. I got on and set a medium pace for the first five minutes as I watched clips from yesterday's hockey and basketball games. I sped up after the first five minutes and kept that pace for the next twenty minutes while the broadcasters went through every game's highlights.

After a five minute cool down at a slower pace, I moved to the weight machine and started a full work-out. The machine was not a heavy duty one like at school, so I used the full weights on each exercise and increased the reps. It took longer to get in all the exercises that way, but I still felt like I got a decent work-out by the end.

While I was working out I thought about last night with Steph and Vicky. My Princess was insatiable when she finally got me where she wanted me. We started in the missionary position but she quickly wanted to be on top of me, so she had me turn on my back and she eased herself down on me. All too soon she became the energizer bunny. She must have cum three or four times before I had to let go with mine. I wanted to rest but she coaxed my erection back up and wanted me to take her from behind. After she drained me again, Vicky was quite put out as I was unable to get it up for her for a good while. I did coax a couple orgasms from her with my tongue so she didn't kill Steph for abusing me. These girls were going to be the death of me, even in as good of shape as I was.

After finishing my workout, I wiped down the machines with the towel and shut down the lights and the door before heading back to the main floor. I moved to the kitchen quietly and surprised Amy when I entered to find her trying to work the coffee machine.

"Holy shit Michael, you scared the crap out of me!" she said in an angry whisper. "Are you practicing to be a bloody ninja or something?"

"Sorry, I was just being quiet so I wouldn't wake up anyone," I apologized with a grin. "Do you need any help with that?"

"No, I can handle it," she sniped at me.

"Ok, I see someone isn't a morning person," I remarked. "I'll leave you alone for a bit and go have a shower."

She just waved dismissively at me while she worked on the machine and I left after filling up my glass with more orange juice. I went upstairs and quietly grabbed some new sweats and another tee shirt from my room. Vicky and Stephanie were now snuggled close to each other in the bed, with Steph's head lying on Vicky's shoulder and their arms around each other. I wished I had a camera to capture the moment.

I left the room and had a quick shower before heading back down to sit in the sun room in the back of the house, avoiding a repeat run in with Amy by using the entrance off the dining room. I sat down on a comfortable lounger and looked out over their back yard. A few birds were pecking away at a bird feeder and squirrels were scrounging around below for the same seeds.

My thoughts drifted to my upcoming phone call with my Aunt. I no longer felt like she was someone else trying to trick me, as I really didn't have anything that someone would have any entitlement to. What I didn't know, was what to say to her. I was a bit curious about what happened between my parents and their families, but it really didn't matter anymore now that they were gone. I'm sure she would fill me in on it anyway as well as the status of any other relatives I had, at least on her side.

My thoughts wandered for a bit; school, hockey, the twins, Steph and Amy, all got some time while I sipped on my OJ and watched the birds dive-bomb the squirrels when they got too close to the feeder.

"There you are, we've been looking all over for you!" one of the twins said, startling me from my musings. "We thought you took off for a work-out or something."

"I used your equipment downstairs instead," I responded with a smile. "How did you sleep darling?"

"Not too bad, but Amy got up too early," she replied with a pout. "I couldn't get back to sleep."

"Red must have woken up on the wrong side of the bed, because she was pretty grouchy," I told her. "Is she always like that in the morning?"

"Yeah, we all are until after at least one cup of coffee," Becky replied, showing me her cup.

"Now there are four women in my life that need caffeine in the morning," I stated, shaking my head. "I'm doomed."

She laughed and then said, "Just wait until we're all having our periods at the same time."

"Oh God, I'm so dead!" I replied in horror. "I'll have to move into a hotel for that week!"

"Well, hopefully we won't all be in the same place that week," she said with a grin. "Hey, it's the price you pay for having us in your life."

"Great," I replied dryly.

"So how was your night with Steph and Vicky?" she asked, changing the topic wisely.

"It was good," I responded. "I'm sure you will get all the details from them later."

"Oh I'm sure I will," she agreed with a grin. "I hope you made it special for Steph."

"I tried my best to," I told her. "She was certainly very energetic so I don't know if I fully satisfied her, let alone Vicky for that matter."

"That little minx; I thought she would be a tiger. I hope I can join the two of you sometime," Becky said with a grin.

"I could use the help with her," I responded. "Maybe she wouldn't mind your participation once and a while."

"I looking forward to it, there's just something about her that really turns me on," Becky admitted. "Well, I'm going to get started on some breakfast, so I'll see you in a bit."

"I'll come and help," I responded, getting up quickly before she could say anything.

"You don't have to do that Sweetie, there are more than enough people to help already," Becky said, looking up at me.

I gave her a kiss and a hug before replying, "I want to help out; I don't like being waited on all the time."

"Alright, we'll find something you can do," she relented as she led the way to the kitchen.

The rest of the girls were in the kitchen, all of them sipping on cups of coffee while sitting around the table with Mrs. Waters. They had been talking and suddenly stopped when I came in.

"Good morning Ladies, I'm glad to see everyone has some caffeine to drink," I said with a grin.

"We're all not morning people like you Michael," Vicky said, sticking out her tongue at me.

"Well, I can help start breakfast then, while you ladies get in a better mood," I replied, moving to the middle island where the frying pans were hanging from hooks.

"Thank you for the offer Michael, but we can handle it, right girls?" Mrs. Waters asked.

"Yes we can," Becky answered. "Besides, we need to have some girl talk, so you go back and sit out on the patio and we'll call you and Dad when it's ready. You like your eggs sunny side up right?"

"Yes, that's correct, but I could help you know," I responded.

"That's ok Sweetie, just relax and let us have some time alone ok?" Vicky asked.

"Ok, but I get to help clean up," I stated before moving to the door. "Try not to tell your mother all of my bad habits."

The girls giggled as I went through the door and went upstairs to get my Aunt's number. It was too early to call, but I could do it after breakfast. After retrieving the note, my cell and my laptop, I went back down and sat in the sunroom again. I turned on the laptop and fooled around for a bit until Mr. Waters came in with a cup of coffee and sat down on a nearby lounger.

"Morning Mr. Waters, did you have a good sleep?" I asked, looking up.

"Not too bad actually, it was nice to sleep in for a change," he replied. "How about you?"

"Not too bad, but I haven't been able to sleep in for months now," I told him. "I did get a good workout in your exercise room. Thanks for letting me use it."

"At least someone got some use out of it; with the girls gone, it just sits there," he responded. "I should sell that stuff and use the room for storage."

"Well, it sounds like we're going to be buying a condo together, so we might be able to take it off your hands," I informed him. "Let me know how much you want and I'll write you a check."

"Michael, we'll give you the stuff, we bought it mostly for the girls anyway," he said. "So you're really going to move into a condo?"

"That's what they tell me," I said, shaking my head. "I don't think we really need to but I get outvoted before I even speak nowadays. So far it hasn't been too bad but those girls are very strong willed."

"Tell me about it!" he said dryly. "Welcome to my nightmare. I'm glad I have my workshop to retreat to."

"Yeah, I can imagine it would be tough with all three of the Waters ladies ganging up on you," I commiserated. "Steph can be just as stubborn and I think Amy will be as well, from what I saw this morning. None of them are morning people either."

"God help us all," Mr. Waters said with a groan. "I thought it was bad with three of them in the house at once. So that's why you are out here rather in there with them."

"Well I offered to help with breakfast but they wanted to have some girl talk so I retreated as quickly as I could," I said with a laugh. "I'm sure I'm the main source of their amusement in there."

We could hear the girls all laughing about something through the closed doors.

"It's when it becomes quiet that you have to worry," Mr. Waters told me. "Laughter is always good with women, trust me."

"I guess so," I replied. "I'm a rookie at this women stuff so I'll take your word for it."

"You're not doing too badly for a rookie," Mr. Waters said dryly. "Four women at once is an impressive feat."

"Hey, I only wanted one of them at the start and not all four are enamoured with me," I corrected him. "Amy won't be having anything to do with me and believe me, I'm trying my hardest not to screw things up every day. You can't imagine how hard it is to make sure you're not making one of them mad for something."

Mr. Waters chuckled and replied, "I think I have a little idea on how it is with that. My advice is to be honest and let them worry about things. They are all very intelligent, resourceful women who know what they want, from life and from you. They seem to want you and are willing to share, so as long as you're not a jerk, you should be fine."

"I think I'll still worry a bit if you don't mind," I responded. "I've been in control of my life for a while now and it's hard to let anyone, even your brilliant daughters, take it all over."

"Then just put your foot down for the big stuff Michael, the things you feel strongly about," he suggested. "Don't sweat the small stuff or you'll go crazy real quick."

"I'll try," I told him.

One of the twins came in and said, "There you are. Come on in, breakfast is ready."

She came over and helped me up out of the lounger, giving me a hug and a kiss.

"Hi there Sweetie," she said with a smile.

"Hi there Darling," I replied.

"Ahem, can we go now or will I starve to death while you two block the door" her father said dryly.

"Daddy, I don't think you'll starve for a few days at least," the twin said with a giggle. "That stomach could use a bit of shrinking anyway."

"What are you talking about? I'm flat as a pancake young lady," he replied, patting his stomach.

"If you say so Daddy, but Mom says you've stopped using the exercise equipment, so I'm sure you have a few extra pounds," she replied as she pulled me behind her out the door.

I shook my head as I let her drag me out of the room and back into the dining room. She led me to my seat and told me to sit down, while her dad came in and sat at the head of the table. I was sitting in the middle of three chairs on the one side. The girls all started bringing in platters of bacon and sausage, toast and our plates with the eggs the way we liked already on them. Stephanie brought mine to me and gave me a big smile and a kiss on my cheek as she leaned into my side.

"Here you go Sweetie, sunny side up like you ordered," she said.

"Thanks Princess, they look delicious," I replied, smiling back.

The rest of the plates came out and the girls all sat down, with the twins bracketing me while Steph and Amy sat across the table.

"This looks delicious ladies, thank for cooking such a wonderful breakfast," Mr. Waters said.

"You're welcome Honey," Mrs. Waters replied with a grin. "A couple of the girls seemed highly motivated this morning, as did I."

I started blushing but Mr. Waters just grinned back at his wife. The girls all giggled.

"Well, I'm glad everyone had a good evening and woke up in good moods," he stated, looking around. "Shall we get started?"

Everyone started reaching for something and I got offered toast and bacon at the same time. I smiled at the twins and quickly grabbed some of each before passing them on. I waited on everyone else as they filled their plates. Finally everyone had what they wanted and we looked around at each other.

"Well dig in everyone, before it gets cold," Mrs. Waters instructed us.

I dug in, breaking some of my eggs and putting ketchup onto them before dipping my toast into the mix.

"That is disgusting Michael," Amy said, staring at my plate.

"But it tastes so good," I replied with a grin.

I scooped up an unbroken egg onto a piece of toast and placed a couple of strips of bacon on top. Leaving it open-faced, I broke the egg, put some ketchup on it and then lifted it up and took a bite while Red and a couple others watched.

"Now that's a good egg sandwich," I said with a smile.

"Please don't do that when we're out in public Michael," Vicky said, looking grossed out.

"Well of course you put a second piece of toast on it in public," I said in a haughty voice. "Both pinkies must be held up as well."

Mr. Waters laughed out loud and Mrs. Waters and Stephanie were smiling, but the twins and Amy didn't look amused.

"Michael, it's ok here among family, but seriously, you're going to be in some fancy restaurants in the next couple of weeks and you need to really take care to show some more sophistication," Becky stated. "There will be photo and video cameras on you that will capture your every slip-up."

"I know that," I said, a bit peeved. "I wouldn't do this out in public. I'm not that uncouth."

"I hope not, because it will be on the next day's paper if you are," Amy stated.

I put down the open face sandwich and covered it with a second piece of toast before cutting it in half. I picked up one half and took a bite. I chewed until my mouth was empty and then said, "Was that better?"

"Yes Sweetie," Vicky said.

"Good, I wouldn't want to embarrass you out in public," I replied angrily. "Maybe we should rethink the whole public unveiling if you think that little of me."

"Oh Sweetie, don't be angry, we're not embarrassed with you," Becky said, putting her hand on my arm. "We just don't want you to get upset if you saw yourself in a picture or on a television show. Believe me; I was upset when I saw a picture of me in my sweats after a workout, looking all scraggily. Some guy took a picture at the gym before I got cleaned up and it was in the damn paper the next day. We were just trying to warn you that you have to think about things a bit more. You have to admit your eating habits are a bit, um, what's a good way to describe it girls?"

"Gross."

"Piggish."

"Slovenly."

"Fast and furious."

"Well, I'll try and modify my eating habits then," I said, feeling perturbed.

I ate as slow as I could and made sure to take small bites and chew my food well. The atmosphere was shot at the table so I excused myself as quick as I could and brought my plate to the kitchen and washed it before moving back out to the sunroom.

I pulled out my cell and the paper with my aunt's number on it. I sat down and thought about what to say to her before calling the number. Finally I had my thoughts straight and punched in the Toronto, Ontario number, recognizing the 419 area code as most Ontarians did.

"Hello?" asked a woman.

"Hi, may I speak to Nancy Hayden please?" I asked.

"This is Nancy Hayden," she replied.

"Hello, this is Michael Stewart, you left your number with Fred Benson, the hockey coach at Michigan," I said.

"Hi Michael, thanks for returning my call," she responded with a cheerful voice.

"No problem," I said. "Fred told me you think that you might be my Aunt. I have to tell you that my parents never mentioned you."

"The way things happened, I'm not surprised," she replied. "First of all, my maiden name was Nancy Barrows. Was your mother's name Mary Ellen Barrows?"

"Yes it was," I answered her.

"And was your father's name Henry Joseph?" she asked.

Yes," I said, my feelings becoming more certain that she was my aunt.

"Well Michael, after seeing your picture in the Hockey Digest, I suspected that you were Hank's son; you look just like him when he was your age," she informed me. "Now that we've confirmed your parent's names, I pretty positive that I am your aunt. The only thing that stops me from being positive is that it seems your parents changed their last name when they disappeared."

"Really? That seems a pretty drastic thing to do," I said, a bit amazed. "What happened back then to make them leave and basically go incognito?"

"Before I tell that story, I think we both want to make sure we are in fact related," she said. "Do you have an email that I can send a couple of pictures to?"

I gave her my email address and my cell number and I promised to call her back when I got the pictures. I pulled up my email program on my laptop and then waited for her to send the pictures. After about five minutes, I heard a beep and double clicked on the new message and then opened up the two pictures.

The first one was of two girls, one an older teen about seventeen or so, and the other a skinny girl about ten or eleven. They looked similar and the older one definitely looked like my mother. The next picture was a picture of my dad and mom together, with the younger girl in between them, probably taken at an amusement park. They all looked so happy, young and full of life.

So, Nancy was my aunt, and by the looks of it, only about ten or eleven years older than me if I did the math right. I picked up the phone and hit redial. She picked up after the first ring.

"Hello?" she said.

"Hi Aunt Nancy, it's Michael," I said.

"You got the pictures then?" she asked. "They are your parents?"

"Yes and yes," I replied. "I can't believe how young and happy they look though."

"They were so happy together back then," she agreed. "So they never told you about what happened or anything about their families?"

"No, mom would get sad and then dad would get mad, so I stopped asking a long time ago," I told her. "So what happened?"

"They were so much in love and as young people in love tend to do, they had unprotected sex and your mother got pregnant with you when she was barely seventeen," she began. "Both sets of parents were furious at them but were both in agreement that your mother should have an abortion. Your dad's family wanted it to protect his hockey career as he was just drafted in the first round, third overall, by the Toronto Maple Leafs just a month before she got pregnant. Our parents wanted it to protect the Barrows name in the community."

"Both your parents didn't want an abortion and things got ugly real quick. Both fathers threw your parents out of their houses and forbad us and them to have any contact with each other. I was so devastated because I looked up to my sister so much. She was always so kind to me, even when I was a pest. And I had such a crush on your father too."

"Anyway, that was the last we heard of them until I saw your picture in the magazine. I see you inherited his hockey skills and his good looks."

"Well, we certainly played almost every day on the rink in the back yard up in Dryden," I told her. "He was such a great player; I'm not surprised he was a high draft pick. I don't know why he had to give it up though, he would have made real good money playing hockey if he was a first round pick. He worked at the saw mill for years instead."

"I don't know why he never tried that route; maybe it was to spite his father who had such high hopes for him," she speculated. "Anyway, I was wondering if you could give me your parent's number and I could call them and we could get together."

'Oh shit, she didn't know, ' I thought to myself. I didn't know what to do and my hesitation dragged on too long.

"If you don't want me to have their number Michael, could you at least pass on my number and have them call me?" she spoke up.

"Aunt Nancy, I'm sorry to have to tell you this, especially this way," I said. "Both my parents died recently, my mom of cancer about nine months ago, and my dad back in August in an accident at the mill."

She cried out, "Oh no, not both of them!"

She must have put down the phone because I heard her crying and then someone picked up the phone.

"Hello?" a man's voice came on.

"Hello, this is Michael Stewart, Nancy's nephew, I've just had to tell her that my parents both passed away this year," I told him. "I'm sorry I upset her, but she wanted to talk to them so I had to tell her."

"This is Aaron Hayden, your aunt's husband and I guess your uncle," he responded. "I'm going to see what I can do for her and have her call you back later. Does she have your number?"

"Yes she has my cell number and my email," I told him. "I'm in Dearborn, Michigan right now with my girlfriend's family for American Thanksgiving. I'll keep my cell with me so she can call anytime."

"Ok Michael, she'll call you back later," he said. "I'm sure we'll meet soon and we'll get a chance to talk more. Good-bye for now."

"Sounds good Aaron; I guess I should say Uncle Aaron," I said. "Good-bye for now."

We both hung up and I noticed the twins were sitting in the room.

"Sorry guys, I didn't notice you come in," I said. "I just had to tell my aunt that her sister and brother-in-law passed away. She didn't take it well."

"That must have been hard to do Sweetie," one of them said. "Are you ok?"

"Yeah, I've had time to deal with it, while I think she was looking so forward to getting back in touch with her big sister," I replied.

"Listen Michael, we're so sorry to upset you at breakfast," one of them said.

"We are not embarrassed with you, we just don't want you to get embarrassed and upset if something happens," added the other. "We love you and want you to protect you from that."

"I know, and I'm sorry I got angry; but all of this is happening so fast," I replied. "I'm not used to having to answer to four women, who all want to control every portion of my life. I was always a pretty solitary guy and it's been hard to adjust to the changes."

"We're not trying to control your life, just help you out," one replied.

"We'll try and be a little less bossy and listen to you more ok?" added the other.

"Ok, and I'll try and tone down the eating," I replied.

"Good. Are we ok?" they asked in unison.

"Yeah, we're good," I answered.

They smiled and came over to give me a kiss and a hug.

"Oh, are those pictures of your parents?" one asked, looking at the laptop.

I showed them the pictures and explained what I had learned so far.

"Wow, that is some story," one of them said, with the other nodding in agreement. "You should look up your dad on the internet and see what the media had to say. You could find out what your dad's real last name was too."

I typed in a search query for Toronto Maple Leaf draft picks for 1989 and 1990, after we had done some figuring out the years from my age, and picked one of the many websites that came up. I quickly found the right lists and found a Hank Thompson as the first round pick in 1989. I clicked on his name and found that he had played his junior hockey for the Belleville Bulls of the OHL (Ontario Hockey league) and was drafted third overall that year. A picture came up and it was my dad in his Belleville jersey.

I typed in his name into the search engine and picked a link that had the heading 'Maple Leaf's Top pick disappears' and it opened to an article about my dad. His disappearance looked like a pretty big deal back then in Toronto according to the article and it talked about the fact that the family wouldn't file a missing person's report on him. I read it all the way through and then turned to the twins.

"It looks like his real name was Hank Thompson and he disappeared soon after he was drafted," I told them. "So it looks like I was the cause of all the problems, as usual."

"Yep, you usually are Sweetie," one agreed with a grin.

"What about your mother's family?" asked the other twin. "We should look for anything about them."

"Let me look," I responded, as I typed in Barrows and Toronto into the search engine.

The results came back quickly and I clicked on a site that looked promising. It detailed the biography of one Frank Barrows, who had two female children, Mary Ellen and Nancy, and was the chairman and the majority stock holder of the Barrows Manufacturing Company, with several plants in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico. It listed Mary Ellen as disappearing in 1989 and Nancy as married with two daughters. Frank was married to a Tammy Barrows and they still lived in Toronto.

My cell phone rang, so I gave the laptop to the twins before answering the phone.

"Hello?" I said.

"Michael, it's your Aunt Nancy," she said. "Sorry about that, it came as such a shock to hear they had both passed away."

"That's ok Aunt Nancy, I'm sorry I had to break it to you that way," I told her.

"There wouldn't have been any good way to do it," she stated. "It must have been so hard for you to lose both of them in such a short time."

"Yes it was, but I got through it," I replied.

"So, how are you doing?" she asked. "Did you handle all the estate things? Do you have enough money to take care of yourself and to pay for school? We can certainly help you out if things are tight."

"That's very nice of you to offer Aunt Nancy, but I sold the house and, with the life insurance and the settlement from the Saw mill, I'm set for a good while," I told her. "I got a scholarship to the University of Michigan for computer science so I just pay for rent and some food."

"That's good to hear," she responded. "A scholarship for computer science eh? It sounds like you inherited your mother's smarts; she was a straight A student who loved science and math. Your dad was smart too, but we all knew he would be playing hockey and not going on to University."

"They both insisted on good grades or no hockey after school," I said with a laugh. "So, I just looked up both of them and found out his name was Hank Thompson and that your dad owns a big manufacturing company, if I got the right Barrows."

"You can find anything out using the internet, can't you," she said, obviously amazed. "And so quickly too! You're right on both; my dad owns the Barrows Manufacturing Company and your name should have been Thompson."

"It also said that you have two daughters?" I asked.

"Yes, you have two cousins, Mary who is six and Ellen who is four," she answered. "They are both dying to meet their big cousin."

"That was nice of you to name them after my mom," I said. "I'm looking forward to meeting all of you as well."

"Yes, you have to come up to Toronto as soon as you can, or we can come down if you don't want to travel," she offered.

"I'm sure I can get up there soon, maybe a couple of days before Christmas," I told her. "My schedule is really tight with exams, hockey and a couple of trips to New York the Dec. 13th and Dec. 20th weekends, but other than practice I'm free Dec. 21st until Dec. 27th. I have games that weekend. I'll have to see what my girlfriend has planned for Christmas as well."

"You could bring her along if you like, maybe you could come here right after you finish your New York trip," she suggested.

"That might be doable, but both her and her twin sister are models and might have something going on that week in New York," I told her. "I'll get back to you on that as soon as I can."

"Twin Models Michael?" she teased. "Would I know them?"

"I not sure, their names are Victoria and Rebecca Waters," I responded. "If you don't know them yet, you will in a couple of months."

"I'll have to look them up and check them out to make sure they're good enough for my only nephew!" she said with a laugh. "I'm sure they are just gorgeous, aren't they?"

"Of course they are Aunt Nancy, and very smart too," I confirmed. "They do try and boss me around a bit too much, but we're working on that."

The twins stuck out their tongues out at me and I just grinned.

"I'm sure they know exactly what's best for you," Aunt Nancy laughed. "Ok, you send me some pictures of the three of you and a schedule of when you are coming. You can stay with us; we have plenty of room for all of you here."

"You don't have to do that Aunt Nancy, we'll just get a room at a nearby hotel," I responded. "I might look up my dad's family and see if they are around."

"I'm sorry to say that your grandparents both died a few years ago Michael, and your dad didn't have any siblings," she informed me. "He might have had some cousins because your grandfather had at least one brother who might have had kids. On the topic of you staying in a hotel, we have several guest rooms and you just have to make sure the door is locked so your cousins don't walk in on any hanky-panky."

"Well, then twins have personal assistants that travel with them, so if we come in from New York they will be with us," I informed her. "It would just be easier at a hotel. Don't worry; we'll stay at a close one so we can be over quickly and often."

"Ok, suit yourself Michael," she responded. "Do you want to meet your grandparents?"

"That's a tough one," I answered. "I'm not happy to hear how they treated my parents so I think for now that I'll just stick with your family, if you don' mind."

"I understand," she said. "Maybe down the road."

"Maybe," I said.

"Ok, so if you need anything, you just call or email and we'll do everything we can to help you out" she stated.

"I will, but I think I'll be ok," I responded. "It's just nice to know that I do have relatives."

"I'll let you go then and don't forget to send some pictures and I'll do the same," she said. "Thanks for calling me back Michael, I'm happy to know I have a nephew and your cousins are pretty happy too!"

"I'm glad I have some family too," I said. "We'll send you some pictures later today and we'll let you know soon about a visit. Bye for now Aunt Nancy."

"Ok, have a good weekend Michael and we'll talk soon," she replied before hanging up.

"Well, that went better," one of the twins said.

"Yeah, I guess it did," I replied, feeling good about things.

"So, I guess we need to set up a visit to Toronto, maybe right after New York," the other one said.

"If we can all fit it in our schedules," I replied. "I don't know how much practice I can miss that week before Christmas, so it might have to be after the weekend of the Great Lakes Invitational on the twenty seventh of December. I don't have school or a game that whole week or weekend. Maybe a mini vacation for New Year's eve?"

"That might be doable, let's get the other two in here and see what the schedule is like," suggested one of them.

One of them ran off to gather them up while the other one put down the laptop and lay on top of me on the lounger.

"I can't wait to be with you tonight Sweetie, I've missed you so much," she said as she planted a wet kiss on me, while grinding herself on me.

"I've missed you too Bec," I replied as I massaged her back and her ass.

"Mmmm, your hands feel so good Sweetie, you're making me all hot and bothered already," she moaned.

"Ahem, I leave for ten seconds and you're all over him?" Vicky asked.

"Hey, you got him last night, I need him too you know," Becky retorted.

"Well, wait for tonight slut," Vicky said, pulling her up.

"Hey, I'm not a slut, I only sleep with one man, and not often enough to be called a slut," Becky responded, reluctantly getting off of me.

"Ok ladies, why don't we try and be nice to each other, we don't have much time together as it is," I said.

"Sorry Michael," they said in unison, looking apologetic.

"Ok, what's the big emergency?" asked Amy.

"Can we schedule a trip to Toronto for after the weekend of December twenty seventh?" asked Vicky.

"Let me see," Amy replied, pulling out her Blackberry. "I don't remember much that week; we haven't even planned New Year's Eve yet."

"Michael should be free that week other than practices," Steph spoke up, also pulling out her cell.

"What are we talking, a couple of days Michael?" Becky asked.

"I think so, I probably have practices at the first of the week and have the Wednesday through the weekend off, with just optional practices," I stated. "I will find out tomorrow and call Steph and she can let you know. For now, let's make it for the weekend after New Year's day, maybe the Friday and Saturday, coming home on the Sunday."

"Hmmm, looks ok so far, the Vogue shoot starts on the Monday afterwards, and if you decide to do New Year's Eve in New York, you can still fly to Toronto from there," Amy said. "You know that the agency will want you to be highly visible at one of the parties that night."

"Well, whatever we do, we're all going to be together right?" Becky said, looking around.

"Of course we will," Vicky agreed, "unless Amy or Steph want to be with their families that night."

"No, I'll take a couple of days around Christmas to see them if that's ok?" Amy said.

"Of course it is Darling," Becky said. "You could have that whole week after Steph and Michael join us in New York."

"Thanks," Amy said.

"I will do the same thing, take a few days around Christmas with the family," Steph added. "I can be with you on New Year's Eve though."

"Good, so we do something together New Year 's Eve and New Year's Day and then travel to Toronto for a couple of days afterward," Vicky concluded.

Amy and Steph updated their schedules and then put the phones away.

"So, I gather you kissed and made up?" Steph asked, looking at the twins and me.

"Yes, we're good," Becky responded. "Michael knows we were trying to protect him and we know we have to stop trying to run everything for him and give him some alone time once and a while."

"Good to hear it," Steph said with a smile. "I need to kiss and make up with him too then."

She moved over to me and quickly sat on top of me and bent over to kiss me.

"I'm sorry if I made you upset," she said while looking into my eyes.

"I'm sorry for getting angry," I replied.

She got up and stood beside the other girls. They all looked at Amy.

"What?" she asked. "I didn't do anything!"

"Ahem, you were a part of it," Vicky said.

"Fine, I'm sorry I made you angry," Amy said. "But I'm not kissing you."

"I'm sorry I grossed you out so much," I replied. "I'll try harder to improve my eating habits. And you know you never have to do anything with me you are uncomfortable with."

"Good," Amy said.

"Ok, I should get ready to take Steph home to Pontiac soon," I said.

"We'll help mom with the dinner while you're gone," Vicky said as I got up.

I gave Vicky and Becky each a quick kiss and went upstairs to get changed into some good casual clothes, leaving the four of them together.

I put on a shirt and slacks and met Steph coming up the stairs.

"Looking good Mikey," she said, looking me up and down.

"Thanks Princess," I replied. "You need help packing and getting dressed?"

"Normally I would take you up on that, but we need to be going soon," she responded. "I'll be out in a couple of minutes and you can help me with my stuff."

She went in shut the door behind her. I hit the washroom and found her waiting for me at her door when I got out.

"Jeeves, my bags," she said imperiously.

I laughed and picked up her suitcase and book bag as she marched down the stairs, her head held up high. I sighed, and followed her down to the front foyer, where I put them by the door.

"Ok, I'm going to say my goodbyes while you put my bags in the trunk and warm up the car," she said haughtily as she walked to the kitchen.

I shook my head at her antics and got on my shoes and coat before carrying her bags out to the car. I popped them into the trunk and then started up the car before heading back in. I found everyone in the foyer giving Steph hugs and wishing her a Happy Thanksgiving.

"Miss Merks, your car is being warmed," I said in an English accent.

"I'll be there presently Jeeves, please don't interrupt our farewells like that again," Stephanie said in a haughty voice. "I trust you place my luggage in gently so as not to damage my fine garments. They're worth more than what you earn in a year."

"Of course, Miss Merks," I said, bowing to her before addressing the rest of the crowd. "Please forgive my intrusion. I shall return after dropping off the Missus at her mansion."

I bowed to them and left as they laughed at our antics. Stephanie came out shortly after I got in the car and got in the back.

"Jeeves, we can leave now," she said, still in character.

"Um, Princess, wouldn't you rather spend the next forty five minutes sitting beside me?" I asked, looking at her in the mirror. "I won't be seeing you for the next four days remember."

"Oh yeah, I guess I should spend a little time with you," she said with a sigh. I was so looking forward to be chauffeured for a bit."

She got out of the back seat and got in beside me. After making sure she was buckled in, I pulled out of the driveway and started off for Pontiac. We drove in silence for a couple of minutes which I knew she wouldn't let last.

"Well, that was an awkward visit, if I do say," she said, looking up at me. "What do you think?"

"Yeah, I agree with you," I responded. "I think it was Amy actually, she wasn't a happy camper at all today. Do you think she's still worried that she has to do something with me or is it she's jealous of me?"

"Probably a bit of both," Steph answered. "She's usually very friendly and sweet, so it must be about you."

"I'll have to sit down and get it straightened out when I get back," I said.

"Take it slow and try not to get angry when she tries to provoke you," Steph suggested. "You have to win her over or she'll drive a wedge between you and the twins."

"I know, she could make things difficult if she wanted to," I agreed. "Enough about her, let's talk about us. I haven't had a chance to talk you alone since last night. I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed being with you and that I love you Princess."

"Oh Michael, that's so sweet, I love you too," she replied with a big smile as she reached over to pat my leg. "I really enjoyed finally being able to make love with you. You were fantastic! It was the best ever!"

"I'm glad you enjoyed it Princess," I said, returning her smile as I put my hand over hers. "You were very passionate and enthusiastic. I loved it as well."

"I'm sorry if I was a bit too much; I just couldn't get enough of you," she said with a blush.

"I liked your energy Princess, just be yourself and tell me what you would like," I told her. "Sometimes high energy is good and sometimes soft and slow is good too. Don't worry; we have lots of alone time to get to know each other that way."

"Goodie, I can't wait," she said with a grin. "I would like to have you to myself to be a bit more intimate. I felt I couldn't show how much I loved you with Vicky there."

"Oh, next time please don't be so hesitant," I told her. "They need to know how much we care for each other too, so it's more of a group then just a threesome and a twosome. And I'm not talking about the physical stuff."

"It's going to take some time I think," Steph said. "I feel like an intruder in your relationship and last night it was kind of weird having Vicky in the same bed, but not participating with us. I felt awkward when it was just you two as well."

"It will take time, I know," I agreed. "I'm sure she didn't want to spook you by coming on too strong, and she's not the one who's really into girls. You two did cuddle up nicely when I left the bed. How was it when you woke up?"

"I was embarrassed but Vicky gave me a nice kiss and hug and then asked me how I felt," Steph told me. "We talked a bit and I got comfortable with her being so close. We didn't do anything but talk for a bit until the other two girls came in. They of course wanted all the intimate details, but we saved that for the kitchen with the twins' mother."

"Oh great, you guys talked about our sex life with her?" I groaned.

"She was like a teenage girl," Steph said. "She wanted to know just as bad as Becky did. I got teased but in a good way. Don't worry; we all have only good things to say about your performances Mikey."

"Thanks, but I'm just embarrassed that she knows anything about what we do," I said, shaking my head.

"It's ok Mikey, she's cool about it," Steph assured me.

We drove on the fairly quiet freeways until we got close to her house. She guided me into her neighbourhood but had me pull into an empty mall and park in a private area.

"What's up Princess?" I asked as I put the car in park.

"Just this," she said as she came across and passionately kissed me as her arms wrapped around my neck.

We kissed for a bit as our tongues duelled in our mouths. I grabbed her jean encased butt as she sat on my lap and pulled her tight.

She broke away and said, "I'm going to miss you Mikey, I'm getting too used to being near you. I want you again, right now."

She ground herself on my growing erection and l thrust up a bit as she moaned.

"Sorry Princess, but you can't go home all messed up," I said, lifting her off and putting her back on her seat.

"Damn, it turns me on even more when you do stuff like that Mikey," she said, still breathing heavily. "I like it that my man is so strong."

"I'm glad to oblige Princess," I replied with a grin. "So, straighten yourself up and we'll get going so you're not late."

"Humph, you're not supposed to be that resistant to my charms Michael Stewart," she said in a huff.

"Hey, I just had all your lucky charms last night Stephanie Merks," I replied with a grin. "I just don't want you to look all messed up when you walk into your house. Even if your siblings are younger, your parents aren't clueless."

"Well, my sister is sixteen so she's not clueless either," she said. "I guess I better stop now or she'll be all over you if she sees Big Mike poking out front like that. She's getting interested in boys this year."

"I'll stay away from her then, I have enough women interested in me," I said.

"Wait till you see her, she's a real beauty, and she's got my dad's height," she grinned. "She's going to try and tempt you and you'll probably stare, so just try and be discreet."

"I won't stare at a sixteen year old girl!" I retorted.

"She's got a better butt than I do," she informed me. "And remember, you're only eighteen so it's not perverted or anything."

I just groaned and shook my head.

"It's ok, I'll protect you and give you a nudge when you stare too long," she said with a giggle. "She's off limits though so just look and no touching."

"Don't worry, I have enough women for a lifetime," I said. "Do you get along with her?"

"Actually, not too bad, she didn't have a bitchy teenage phase and now that I'm out of the house she's had to grow up and help with the younger boys," she replied. "We talk about things now and even go shopping and stuff. It's nice to have someone to talk to. Ok, am I presentable?"

"You're beautiful as ever, probably too beautiful right now," I said. "You definitely look too happy."

"Ah, I'll have to tone it down a bit or my mom will suspect something," she giggled. "I am very happy with you, Sweetie."

"And I'm ecstatic with you Princess," I told her, as I started up the car.

She directed me to their house and we pulled up to a nice double storey house in a subdivision close by.

"Now remember, you're a friend only, no holding hands or kissing," she cautioned. "And try not to stare at Samantha too long, I might get jealous."

"Just kick me if I'm that enthralled with her," I said as I got out.

I got her suitcase and book bag out of the trunk and followed her up to the front door. She opened it up and walked in.

"Watch this," she said to me before shouting, "Hey, where is everyone, I'm home!"

"Stephanie!" I heard her brothers shout back.

There was the sound of running feet from upstairs and then two youngsters ran down the steps and leaped into her arms.

"Hey guys, it looks like you missed me!" Steph said with a grin.

"Yeah, you make the best PB&J sandwiches ever!" said the youngest one.

"And you don't make us go to bed so early, like Sammi does!" said the older one. "She's so bossy!"

"Hey, I heard that you little munchkins!" came a voice from upstairs.

The boys both laughed and blew strawberries at the girl that was walking down the stairs. Her face was similar to her older sister's but she had kept her blonde hair long. She had to be about almost five nine and her body was as shapely as her sister's, only stretched out.

"You two get spoiled whenever Steph comes home and you know it," Sammi said, looking at them with a mean face. "I have to be the bad guy when she leaves, don't I?"

"Yeah, she's a big Meany now Steph," said the older boy.

"Now Albert, she takes real good care of you, doesn't she?" Steph asked. "Makes you breakfast and afternoon snacks, and helps you with your homework, right?"

"I guess, but she's still too bossy," Albert informed her.

"And she makes us take a bath every night!" the younger one shouted.

"Alex, you don't want to get you bed all dirty do you?" Steph asked.

"I guess not," Alex relented. "So who's this guy?"

"This is a friend of mine from school, Michael Stewart," Steph said, standing up.

Mikey, this is Alex, he's six; Albert is eight, and Samantha, or Sammi, is sixteen," Steph introduced her siblings.

"Hi everyone, I'm Mike, a friend of your sister from school," I said. "It's nice to meet you all."

"Geez, you're big Mikey!" Alex said in wonder, looking up at me. "You must play basketball."

"I actually play hockey Alex," I replied.

"We do too!" Albert said. "We're on a team and everything! I play centre and Alex plays right forward. What position do you play?"

"I mostly play defence, but I have to learn to play right forward soon too," I told them. "Maybe Alex and you can give me some pointers the next time we see each other."

"Sure, but it's pretty hard to play forward, you might want to stay on defence," Alex said wisely.

"I know it's not easy, but I have to try," I said with a smile.

"Ok, we gotta go back and finish our game now," Albert said. "Are you staying for Thanksgiving dinner?"

"No, I'm afraid not, but it was nice to meet you two," I replied.

"Stephanie, are you staying for dinner?" Alex asked.

"Of course silly, I'll be here for four whole days!" she said.

"Yea!" Alex shouted as he ran after his brother up the stairs.

"They seem like good kids," I said to Steph and Sammi.

"Oh, they can be a handful, but they aren't too bad, eh Sammi?" Steph answered.

"You have to know their moods and get them to bed before they get tired," Sammi said. "They get grumpy when they're tired or hungry."

"Well, you two seem to be able to handle them well," I complimented them.

"Steph taught me some tricks to help out, she's been taking care of us for a few years now," Sammi said. "Our parents both work so we look after the boys. So Michael, Steph tells me you are a big time hockey player with a beautiful model for a girlfriend. Why are you hanging around with little Miss short stuff here?"

She said the last with a grin at her sister who stuck her tongue at her.

"Well, besides being beautiful herself, your sister is one smart cookie," I answered. "She helps me keep on track."

"Well she didn't lie when she said you were a hunk, that's for sure," Sammi grinned. "I think she has a crush on you and now I see why. Too bad she's too short for you. I, however, I'm more your size aren't I?"

"Why you little hussy, coming down here all dressed up in your little skirt and blouse," Steph said. "You better watch it; Mike is not some boy you can tease like at you do at your high school Missy!"

"He seems to like what he sees," Sammi said with a grin.

"Ladies, you are both very beautiful and can get someone better than me by just batting your eyelashes at them," I spoke up. "Please don't fight, especially over me."

Just then another beautiful small woman came down the hall, with a big smile on her face.

"Steph, you're home!" she said as she came up to give her a hug.

"Hey Mom, it smells good in here," Steph said as she hugged her back. "This is Michael Stewart, my friend from school. Mike, this is my mom, Sandi."

"Nice to meet you Mrs. Merks, I can see where your girls get their beauty from," I said with a smile.

"What a charmer you are Michael, and so big too," she replied. "I can see why you do so well at hockey."

"I've had a growth spurt this fall," I responded.

"So, can you stay for dinner Michael?" she asked. "I'm sure the girls would both like you to stay to keep them company. Samantha spent an hour getting dressed for you."

"Mom, I did not!" Sammi said blushing.

"As much as I would love to stay, especially with the company of such beauty as the three of you, I have to get back to my girlfriend's house for dinner," I said. "I hope you have a wonderful dinner and a good weekend together."

"Aw," Mrs. Merks and Sammi said at the same time.

"Would you two calm down before I have to get dad in here?" Steph said exasperated.

"Yes, they both seem to be enamoured with your friend, don't they Stephanie?" a tall blonde man said as he walked in from another doorway down the hall.

"Hey dad, this is Michael Stewart, a friend from school," Steph said.

"Hi there Michael, I guess you're the guy all my ladies are going crazy over," he said, looking at his youngest daughter's outfit and then his wife.

"I'm afraid I must be Mr. Merks, It's good to meet you," I replied with a grin as I held out my hand. "I must admit that you have a lovely set of three daughters here."

"Oh, you're good young man," he chuckled as he shook my hand. "So, why are you so inept that you need a personal assistant, paid by your girlfriend?"

"I don't really know, but when a beautiful lady and her beautiful identical twin want to pay to have a third beautiful woman help out, I would be a fool to say no, wouldn't I?" I asked.

"Yes you would Michael, yes you would," he agreed with a laugh. "Well, young lady, you picked a smart man to work for."

"I work for two smart women actually," Steph said. "I just look after a smart man. I get paid to let him help me with my homework and studying. I think that makes me a smart woman."

"I guess we did ok with this one Sandi," Mr. Merks said. "I wish some of it would rub off on Miss Model here."

"Daddy! I'm just as smart as she is, only taller!" Sammi said with a grin, which earned her a raspberry blown at her from her vertically challenged sister.

"Your math grade was only a B young lady, and Steph had A's all the way through, so you better buckle up," Mr. Merks retorted. "Your mother and your sister don't rely on their looks, so you better not either. And you can go back up and put on a longer skirt, especially when Michael isn't going to be staying to stare at you."

"Daddy, how could you say that?" Sammi said angrily before running up the stairs.

"Adam, you didn't have to embarrass her in front of Michael," Sandi scolded. "Remember she's still young."

"Did you think that skirt was appropriate to be seen in?" he asked her. "Especially with an older guy in the house?"

"Daddy, it's better here with Michael, than at a party where it could cause problems," Steph advised. "She's just trying out some stuff on a safe guy. We'll talk to her later ok?"

"Alright, but you better caution her on her teasing, not all guys are as nice as Mike here," he said.

"Well, I'm sorry to cause any problems, I just wanted to introduce myself as the guy who stealing some of your daughter's time," I said. "I hope you can still have a good dinner and a good weekend. I'll see you on Monday Steph."

"It was nice to meet you Michael," Mr. Merks said.

"Yes, it was finally good to put a face to all those sighs and smiles when she talks about you," Mrs. Merks added. "You have a good weekend Michael."

"I'll walk you to your car Mikey," Steph said, after looking exasperated at her mother.

We walked out the front door and I got into the car, lowering the window after I started the engine.

"Sorry about that Mikey, I'll find out what's going on with Sammi and let you know on Monday," Steph said. "My dad doesn't know how to handle her."

"It's ok Steph, I think you have a wonderful family," I said with a smile. "You are very lucky. Enjoy them this weekend. Maybe we can take the boys, and Sammi if you and she want, skating sometime."

"You are so going to get lucky Sunday night Mikey," she said with a smile. "I love you, you big galoot."

"And I love you Princess," I replied. "I wish I could kiss you right now, but know I'll be thinking about you all weekend."

"As will I," she said. "Now, no fantasizing about Sammi in her short skirt. I saw you looking at her butt as she went up the stairs."

"I will be thinking about your lovely butt all weekend, not hers," I assured her. "But if it helps, tell her I did like her in her skirt. She's almost as pretty as you."

"I don't know if that will help or hurt," she said with a giggle. "I'll get to the bottom of things and let you know what's up. You better get going; your other girlfriends are waiting."

"Alright girlfriend, take care," I said as I pulled out of the driveway.

I honked the horn as I pulled away and I returned her wave and smile. I envied her large family and thought about my parents as I drove home. I didn't feel too alone now, with the girls and their families in my life as well as Aunt Nancy and her family. I missed my parents but I hoped they were happy together again.

It was nice to have some time alone so I took it easy getting back to Dearborn. I pulled in their driveway just after one and rang the doorbell. One of the twins opened the door.

"Yes, can I help you?" she asked, with a straight face.

"Hi, looking for my girlfriends, I think I left them here by mistake," I said.

"What do they look like?" she asked.

"Well, they're tall, slim, long black hair, beautiful faces, you know, model beautiful," I said.

"Hmmm, doesn't sound familiar, are you sure you have the right house?" she asked.

"Pretty sure," I replied.

"Vicky, who is it?" Becky called from inside the house.

"A boy who's looking for his girlfriends," Vicky shouted back. "Can you believe he says he has two girlfriends?"

"Wow, he' gotta be a hunk then," came the reply.

"Not really, he's certainly no Brad Pitt or Johnny Depp," Vicky replied.

"Still, if he's satisfying two women, he must be some kind of stud muffin," Becky shouted back.

"He's tall and in reasonable shape, but I don't know," Vicky replied.

Becky came up and poked her head out the door, along with Amy.

"What do you think Amy?" Becky asked.

"Not my type," Amy replied. "If he does have two girlfriends, they must be pretty desperate."

She walked back inside as I crossed my arms.

"That girl doesn't like me at all, does she," I asked the twins.

"Apparently not, but rumour has it she doesn't like men much, so it might not be you," Becky said in a fake whisper.

"It's him!" Amy shouted.

"Sorry, it is you," Becky unnecessarily relayed.

"I heard," I replied dryly. "So, no girlfriends here?"

"Nope, it doesn't look like it Mister," Vicky said as Becky shook her head.

"Maybe I'll have to go look elsewhere then," I said, scratching my head.

"Well I suppose you could come in and wait until they show up," Vicky suggested. "You're not dangerous or weird are you?"

"Well, I don't think so," I answered.

"Ok, but don't try anything, we're trained professionals," she said, stepping back.

I shook my head and followed them in.

"Mom, dad, there's some guy here who says he left his two girlfriends here," Becky shouted. "I don't recognize him or the description of the girls, but he says he's not dangerous or weird, so we let him in."

"That's nice dear," Mrs. Waters responded. "Make sure he doesn't get any dirt on the couch."

They pulled me to the living room and sat on either side of me.

"So, we don't have a boyfriend right now, he ran off with his personal assistant," Vicky said. "Maybe we can come to some sort of arrangement."

"Vicky, you know that we need to know how he kisses before we can even think about a new boyfriend," Becky insisted.

"I know that," Vicky agreed. "Do you think we would let us?"

"I don't know, you could ask him or we can just go ahead and kiss him anyway," Becky replied.

Vicky leaned over and gave me a kiss, slipping her tongue into my mouth. She broke away from me after a minute, panting a bit.

"So I take it he's a good kisser," Becky said dryly.

"Um, not really, he needs practice, lots of practice," Vicky replied.

"Well I better try him out to be sure," Becky said, moving to sit on my lap.

She leaned forward and kissed me as well. This time I held her tight and kissed back.

"Wow, he's a real good kisser!" she exclaimed when I let her up for air. "I think we should keep him."

"Fine, but you house train him," Vicky said in fake exasperation.

"Ladies, what's up with Amy, she's been real angry today," I asked quietly.

"I think she's jealous and a little worried about tonight," Becky whispered. "She still thinks you're going to want to do stuff with her and I know she doesn't like the fact that I want to be with you and not just her."

"Well, you two had better nip that attitude in the bud," I said. "Why don't you two have a talk with her and see what exactly is bothering her before our whole day is wrecked."

"Ok, we'll do that while you help out mom in the kitchen," Vicky replied as stood up and pulled Becky off my lap.

They both pulled me off the couch and pushed me towards the kitchen.

"Hey Mrs. Waters, can I help with anything?" I asked as I entered through the door.

"Oh, thanks for offering Michael, but you should be spending time with the girls," she said.

"They're going to talk to Amy and see what's up with her," I told her. "I don't mind helping, I used to help back home."

"Ok, how about peeling some potatoes?" she said.

"Sounds good," I answered, moving to the sink where she was about to start.

"I'll work on the gravy then," she said. "So, what's do they think is wrong with Amy?"

"She could be jealous or worried about having to do stuff with me, even though we all told her she didn't have to," I told her.

"Maybe, but it could be something else," she responded.

"Well hopefully they will find out," I said.

Over the next twenty minutes I peeled an entire bag of potatoes and then cut them up into chunks to cook better. I got them in water and on the stove to boil. Next, Mrs. Waters had me peel and cut up the sweet potatoes and set them to boil as well. Finally, she got me to pull out the turkey and help pour out the drippings for her gravy.

"Can you find Mr. Waters and ask him to come and carve the turkey Michael?" she asked. "We usually do that before hand and just put out a platter on the table."

"Sure," I replied, washing my hands before I left.

I found him in his workshop and let him know his carving skills were required upstairs.

"Alright, I'll be up in a second after I wash up," he told me.

I went back upstairs and let Mrs. Waters know. I pitched in and mashed the potatoes while he carved up the turkey after he took out the stuffing. I tackled the sweet potatoes after that and Mrs. Waters buttered up the dinner rolls fresh out of the oven.

"Where are those girls?" asked Mr. Waters. "Michael shouldn't have to do all of this."

"Michael wanted to help, and they are dealing with an issue right now," Mrs. Merks informed him. "But, you can probably go get them Michael; it's just about time to eat. They can at least set the table."

"Yes Ma'am," I said before heading upstairs.

I knocked on Becky's closed door and heard someone come over.

One of the twins poked her head out and said, "Hey Sweetie, we're kind of busy right now."

"Sorry darling, but dinner's almost ready and your mom would like everyone down to help set the table," I told her. "Everything else is all done."

"Ok, tell her we'll be down in a couple of minutes," she said with a smile.

"Sounds good," I replied, returning her smile before heading back down to the kitchen.

I let their mother know and volunteered to start setting the table. She let me know where the good china was and I started setting the table. There was already a fine lace tablecloth on it so I just doled out everything. The girls trooped in a few minutes later and helped finish up the table and then we all carried the food to the table.

I watched all three of them when I could do it discretely but couldn't tell if anything was resolved. Amy was quiet but at least she wasn't attacking me, for now. We finally all sat down and after a quick prayer, starting passing platters and bowls around.

I took things very slow and watched everyone more than usual. Becky and Amy were sitting opposite Vicky and I in the middle of the table while the parents sat at the ends. After the first mad dash to get food on everyone's plate, it got quiet for a bit as everyone ate.

The twins started chatting with their parents after a while and occasionally brought Amy and I into the conversation. It was a light hearted meal that I enjoyed very much, even though it took half an hour to eat. When we were all done, we all pitched in to clean the table and then the girls shooed Mr. Waters and I out of the kitchen, telling us to go and watch the football game.

The Detroit lions were getting mauled by Green Bay when we turned on the early game. Hopefully the later one would be better. We both reclined our loungers and were half asleep when the girls came in an hour later. They dragged us out of our chairs and sat us at the cleared off dining table, where a monopoly game was set up.

"Ok, different partners from usual," Mrs. Waters said. "Since we don't get to see our daughters much, we will partner with them while Michael can partner with Amy."

I looked at her and then the twins in surprise but they just smiled and nodded.

"Ok then, Amy and I it is" I said, looking over at her to see her reaction.

She had a smirk on her face and had her arms crossed, daring me to say anything else. I wisely kept my mouth shut.

We got the chairs organized and we started off the game. As I suspected, all four Waters were good players, so Amy and I had to work hard to keep our money. We made a deal with Vicky and Mrs Waters to get the third yellow property, giving up two railroads to get it. I made the decision to put some houses on all three and we got lucky when both teams landed on one of them the next time around.

After an hour or so, we stopped for dessert. The girls all helped Mrs. Waters bring out pumpkin pie, ice cream and whipped cream out and serve it to everyone. Amy even served me without dumping it in my lap and grinned at my surprise look.

After another hour or so, we called it a game when Mrs. Waters and Vicky had the whole Boardwalk side of the board lined with hotels and the other two teams were mortgaged to the hilt.

"Good game everyone, but I think it's time to call it an early night," Mrs. Waters said. "All of you have to be out of the house by six to get back to school and work. It's been fun to have everyone here and we'll miss all of you."

Everyone said their goodbyes and got hugs and kisses before the younger crowd went upstairs.

"Michael, can you come into here for a bit, we have something to talk about," Vicky asked, leading the way into her room.

I sat in the same chair as last night while the twins bracketed Amy sitting on the edge of the bed.

"The three of us had a long talk this afternoon and another one with mom after the meal" Vicky started. "As you know, Amy has been out of sorts today and taking it out on you. We found out why and it's really nothing to do with you. She's sorry she took it out on you and I'll leave it at that for now."

Amy interjected, "I am sorry Michael for being such a bitch to you, it certainly wasn't anything you deserved and it had nothing to do with what you thought. I'm not scared or worried about you doing something to me without permission and I'm not jealous of your relationship with the twins. Today is an anniversary of a very bad event in my life and I'm still not over it."

"Apology accepted and I'll just say sorry that you had to go though that bad event and that it still affects you so much," I responded. "If I can help in any way, please don't hesitate to ask."

"Thank you Michael, unlike some other people's sympathies, I know you genuinely mean that," Amy said.

"Ok, we're all going to have to get up early tomorrow so Amy and I are going to head to bed now," Vicky informed us. "I'm setting the alarm for five so you better not stay up all night."

"Just half the night!" Becky said with a grin.

"Alright, you two have a good sleep and I'll see you in the morning," I told Vicky and Amy.

I gave them both a hug and added a nice long kiss for Vicky before Becky dragged me to my room.

"I've waited too long for you Mister!" she said as she pushed me on the bed.

"I know Darling, I've missed you too" I said, pulling her down on top of me, kissing her hard.

It took two hours and four positions to satisfy her as she lay exhausted beside me.

"I really needed that Sweetie," she said with a sigh. "I can't believe I survived without you all these years."

"You were insatiable Darling; I thought Amy and Vicky were helping you out while you were away?" I asked her. "Not that I minded taking care of you."

"Oh, they were, but I seem to be craving what only you can give me Michael," she replied as she ran her hand over my torso.

"Well, it's nice to be wanted, we'll have to make sure we make time in our busy schedules to meet, even if it's in another city," I said.

"I know, I'm already dreading not seeing you for two weeks," she replied sadly. "I don't want us all to fall apart because we get too busy."

"Well, we'll just have to make sure we don't then," I responded. "All five of us need to make that the top priority."

"Ok, I certainly will," she said, leaning over and giving me a tender kiss. "Now I better let you get a little sleep, someone has a hockey game that he needs to be rested for so he can score a goal for me."

"Alright, have a good sleep Darling, I love you," I said.

"I love you too Sweetie, goodnight," she replied.

We drifted off to sleep and were rudely awakened by a cheerful Vicky way too early a few hours later.

"Rise and shine lovebirds," she said loudly as she turned on the light.

"Go away you witch," Becky mumbled.

"Hey, such is the price of our career sister," Vicky said with a smirk. "Amy and I already showered so you two get in there. You have ten minutes."

I got up and pulled Becky out of bed as she swore at both of us. I half carried her into the bathroom and placed her in the shower after I got it started. After practically washing her by myself, I quickly did the same for me and got us dried off.

"Come on Becky, you could help a little," I admonished her.

"I like you taking care of me, it makes me feel loved and all domestic like," she said, pulling my arms around her as she leaned back into me.

"Of course you're loved silly, by me, the girls and your parents," I reminded her.

"I worry sometimes that you're with me just because of Vicky, that you don't really love me as an individual," she whispered.

"I met you because of Vicky, but I love you because of who you are, different than Vicky but just as special to me," I told her. "You are more daring and impetuous, passionate and bold. I need you both to complete us. Just like you two would be lost without each other; I would be lost without either one of you."

"God I love you Michael Stewart," she said, turning in my arms to hug me as she kissed me passionately. "I'm never going to let you go Mister; you're stuck with me until you get old and fat, anyway."

"Thanks, I think," I replied as she grinned up at me.

Vicky pounded on the door and yelled, "Ok, enough mushy stuff, I'm getting all emotional out here. Get dressed and let's get moving!"

"We love you too," I shouted back.

She opened the door and peeked her head in before saying softly, "And I love you two very much as well."

Then the smile turned into a grin and she added, "Now get out here and get dressed people!"

She shut the door before the wet washcloth hit her in the face; her sister just missing with the throw. We raced out and split apart to get dressed in our own rooms. I joined everyone downstairs after putting my bags in the front hallway.

Mr. and Mrs. Waters had gotten up to see us off. Everyone one was in the kitchen sipping on their coffee cups and there was a place at the table with a can of diet coke waiting for me.

"Good morning everyone, I see someone has left the nectar of the gods for me, thank you," I said with a smile.

"You are going to rot out your stomach Michael, drinking that stuff in the morning," Mrs. Waters warned me.

"Not that stomach, it's probably cast iron," Becky said with a grin.

"Mickey, he'll eat anything," Vicky added, parroting the commercials from long ago.

They all laughed while I just sat down and took a big swallow and smiled at them all.

"He looks like he just drank ambrosia," Amy noted. "It's just wrong to be that cheerful in the morning."

The rest of the table all agreed as they sipped their disgusting coffee.

"So, thank you so much for having me over for Thanksgiving," I said, looking at the twins' parents.

"You're quite welcome Michael, you're part of the family now," Mrs. Waters replied.

"I would also like to thank you and apologize for being less cheerful than the occasion warranted," Amy added.

"You are also always welcome Amy, we appreciate all you do to take care of our girls," Mr. Waters responded.

"So, what's on the agenda for this weekend ladies?" I asked.

"The twins have a fashion show tomorrow, so we need to go to the rehearsal this afternoon and the dinner tonight. There is a party tomorrow night after the show and on Sunday, they have an afternoon photo shoot for a clothes line. If that goes well, they might get another exclusive contract from them."

"Sounds great ladies, I'm sure you will do great!" I told them.

"Thanks Sweetie. We hope that with all the encouragement the last couple of days, you will do well in your games too!" Vicky said.

"I hope so, if I can get some sleep on the plane," I replied.

"Did you girls keep him up all night?" Mrs. Waters teased.

"Don't look at us, Amy and I went to bed like good little girls right away," Vicky answered.

"Hey, I needed my Michael fix, it's going to be two weeks before he comes to New York," Becky defended herself. "He's walking and talking this morning, so I left him plenty of energy."

They all laughed at her and at my red face. The conversation turned to something a bit more mundane and I looked at the clock. It was quarter to six and time for me to go.

"As much as I would love to stay with you all, I better get on the road," I announced. "I have to head to the apartment before I go to the arena."

"Ok Sweetie, Amy and Steph will get started on the condo and auto searches on Monday, and we'll all try and video conference via laptop each night," Vicky said. "Good luck this weekend and be safe."

The goodbyes and hugs and kisses continued for a few minutes before I could make my way to the car. Everyone waved from the front door as I pulled away and turned onto the road. It had been a wonderful two nights with my ladies.

A couple of hours later I was sitting on the bus, my suitcase in the luggage compartment below and my book bag underneath my seat. John sat beside me and we told each other about our Thanksgiving. The rest of the team trickled in and we left at eight as promised, even though a couple of guys hadn't shown up.

Fred addressed the team as we drove to the airport.

"I trust you all had a good Thanksgiving and are coming back well rested and raring to go," Fred said dryly, looking at the tired faces. "Ok, you can nap for an hour on the plane; I know how early some of you had to get up to be here on time. We do appreciate it."

Fred got serious and continued, "As you have noticed, we're missing a couple of starters, Ralph Fox, our second line right defenceman, and Adam Steel, our fourth line right winger, were unavoidably detained due to circumstances out of their control. Randy Pierce will take over for Ralph and that pairing will move down to third pair. Larry Dennison will take over for Adam on the fourth line. We'll see how that goes tonight and make adjustments for Saturday's game if necessary. Are there any questions?"

There were none and Fred sat down and we relaxed as we drove to the airport. An hour later we were in the air and on the way to Minneapolis, Minnesota. John and I both shut our eyes and had a nap for the brief hour and a half trip. We grabbed our carry-on bag and trouped out when we finally pulled up to the terminal around ten forty five. An hour later we were in banquet room of the hotel where we would be staying at for the night, after putting away our luggage.

We had a buffet style lunch and then relaxed for another hour before heading to the Mariucci Arena, home of the Minnesota Golden Gophers. The arena was built in the mid nineties but was still in good shape. We got changed and got warmed up before doing some drills out on the ice. The coaches made sure Randy and Larry knew their responsibilities in their replacement roles and then we had a mini scrimmage before our time was up.

After a quick shower, we took the bus back to the nearby hotel and had an early dinner before heading back to the arena, dressed in our suits. There were cameras from the local stations as well as for the Big Ten Network covering our entrance. We were quickly ushered to the locker room and got changed for our warm-up skate. Finally, after the usual National Anthem and team introductions, we were ready to play.

The Gophers came out fast, moving the puck into our zone against our number one line. They kept the puck in for at least a minute, getting three shots on net, all of which Mark stopped. Finally, he smothered the puck for a face-off and Fred changed up the lines, with John and me taking over the defence.

Henry, our second line centre, won the draw back to John who then passed it behind the net to me. I quickly moved it to Kerry on the right half boards and he got it out of our zone, hitting Henry out in centre ice. He carried it into their zone and dumped it into the corner, allowing Ron Zonk, the left winger to go after it. He battled with their defenceman for possession of the puck and passed it back to John at the point after he got it. John faked a shot and passed it over to me, allowing me to one time it at the net. There were four bodies in front of the net so their goalie couldn't see a thing. Luckily for him, the puck deflected off a leg and hit the post before bouncing to the corner, where Kerry Simpson, the right winger retrieved it.

Kerry faked a pass back to me and instead shot it back towards the net and the bodies in front of it. It ended up in the feet of Henry, who was unceremoniously knocked off his feet by one of their big defenceman in a mad scramble for the puck. The puck disappeared underneath Henry and the whistle was blown.

The Gophers changed their lines but Fred decided to keep us out there. Henry won the draw again and I stepped into the soft pass back to me. It was labelled for the far top corner of the net but the goalie got his blocker up at the last second to deflect it up into the netting and out of play, generating another face-off.

Their centre won that one and John and I backed up as they got the put out of their zone. Their forward dumped the puck in the corner behind me and tried to hit me with a big check when he chased me, and the puck, into the corner. I sidestepped the crunching check and he hit the boards with a crash, falling to the ice behind me as I wrapped the puck around the boards behind the net. I followed the rest of the line as we changed up.

As I sat down I noticed that the forward was just getting out of the zone, limping on one leg. Our team had a five on four advantage in their zone which resulted in another great scoring chance.

The play went back and forth for a bit and John and I got onto the ice as the first line forwards carried the puck up the ice. John went down the centre of their zone and one timed a pass from Gary but the goalie saved the low shot and the rebound was lobbed out of the zone to a streaking forward. I skated backwards and he finally had to shoot with me as a screen, while I tried to block the shot. It dribbled through me and Mark calmly swept the puck to the corner, where I retrieved it before going behind our net.

The forwards changed up and I let John come around and pick up the puck before following up the other side. He went slowly up his side and faked a dump in, instead hitting me with a pass as I accelerated through centre ice. I blew by their forward at their blueline and deked the flatfooted defenceman on my side. His partner came over to cut me off so, after faking a shot, I calmly slid the puck over to Ron, our left winger, who tapped it in for an easy goal.

The crowd booed as my teammates and I congratulated Ron before lining up for the next face-off at centre ice. Henry won the face-off and John carried up the puck past centre ice before shooting it in the corner. We manned the points again as the puck was eventually pinned for a face-off. We all changed up for another line.

"You would think the opposition would catch on to that play," I said to John.

"Eventually someone will pick off the pass if we do it too much," John agreed. "But if they try to when we actually dump it in, they'll put themselves out of position."

We watched as the fourth line, along with the third pair of defence got in trouble as the rookie defenceman Randy got caught pinching in at the point. Mat Cook had to haul down a streaking Gopher and got called for hooking. The resulting power play netted the Gophers a goal and the period ended in a one all tie.

Frank talked to Randy about his mistake during the intermission as we hydrated. He also came over to us and asked us to get even more involved with the offence, to which we agreed to with smiles. After a bit of a rest Fred spoke up.

"Not a bad period gentlemen, we took it to them for the most part," Fred started. "They needed a power play to score on us, so let's make sure we keep out of the box this period. The first and second defence pairings are going to be shooting more and even going deep into their zone, so wingers on that side curl back if they do and protect the point while the opposite winger heads to the net."

We headed out soon after and Frank sent John and me out with the first line for the start of the second period. Gary won the draw and John passed it over to me once two of their forwards converged on him. I carried it into the neutral zone and faked a dump in before deking the remaining forward. I caught him by surprise and he got his stick up and hooked me, trying to stop me from getting by him. Out of the corner of my eye I saw the ref put up his hand, indicating a delayed penalty, so I kept on with the puck, pulling the forward's stick out of his hand with my body.

We had numbers as I hit the blueline with the puck. Their defence backed away from me so I kept on going until he stopped to try and check me. I faked a shot and drop passed it to Chris Appleton as the defenceman and I hit each other, taking each other out of the play. Chris had an open lane to the net and the forward behind him didn't have his stick. The other defenceman came over to the middle so Chris came in close, faked a shot and passed it off to Gary who one timed it by the sprawling goalie and we took the lead again.

The goal took only eighteen seconds so we all stayed out while the Gophers changed their line-up. At centre ice we won the face-off again and Gary got the puck to Daniel, the left winger, who chipped it into the corner past the defence and chased after it. He got to it just before their defence did and shot it around the net. Chris was waiting at the half boards for the puck but saw a forward coming hard at him, so he let it go back to me at the point. I stopped it and pulled it away from the boards and wound up for a slapshot. I aimed just a bit high, forcing everyone in its path to duck or jump out of the way. It hit the glass and, of course, caused it to crack and splinter with a loud bang. The whistle blew and play was stopped as the crowd buzzed. We went back to sit on the bench while the maintenance crew took out the Plexiglas and installed a hastily found one.

"Again, Michael?" John asked with a laugh.

"Missed it by that much," I replied with a grin.

It took them fifteen minutes to fix the panel and get the game started again. John and I sat through two more shifts to let the other two pairs get on the ice. We finally got back on with the third line and John went in deep with the puck this time. He set up Brad Eddings, our third line right winger for a shot but this time the goalie got a piece of it and it deflected out of play. The Gophers won the ensuing face-off and got it into our zone. I was battling with a forward in front of the net when a puck hit my leg and bounced past Mark to tie up the game.

"Shit, sorry Mark," I said.

"It happens," Mark replied. "Don't worry about it."

I wanted go get it back right away but Frank changed up the pairing and I came off mad.

"Hey, don't worry about it Mike, just cool down for a couple minutes and we'll get you back out to get it back," Frank told me. "It was a lucky bounce, not a mistake."

I nodded and took a drink.

"Ok, you go in next time and cause some havoc in there," John told me. "If you can, try and split the D, their second and third pair are a tad slow."

"Ok, I'll try it," I answered.

We watched as the Gophers poured on the steam, sensing the momentum shifting. The play was in our end for the next couple of shifts and Mark had to make a couple of key saves to keep the score tied.

We replaced the third pair of defence and got on with the fourth line. Peter, the centre, won the draw and John took the puck behind the net and then sped up the ice. I broke up ice as well and hit their blueline as John dumped it cross ice into the corner on my side. I blew by their forwards as they couldn't interfere with me, and raced the defenceman for the puck. I let him get to the puck first and hammered him into the boards with a huge, but clean check.

He bounced off the boards and fell down while I caught my balance and skated after the puck. The second defenceman came after me to hit me but I concentrated on the puck and swept it by him out to the front of the net where Victor March, our left winger, one timed it past the hapless goalie. Their defenceman and I collided hard and we slammed into the boards before going down in a heap. I got up and went over to congratulate Victor on his goal.

"That's how to cause havoc Mike!" John said as we skated back to centre ice for the next face-off. The Gophers changed up but the fourth line and the two of us stayed out. Peter lost the draw and the Gophers got the puck deep. Two of their forwards came after me in the corner and tried to smear me into the boards as payback. I took a quick look and lofted the puck up the ice out of the zone when I saw that Larry was taking off. He blew past the two defencemen and corralled the puck before their blueline. I didn't see that, or the resulting breakaway goal as the two forwards both hit me hard into the boards before we all fell down. They tried to hold me down as I pushed them away so I could get up. The cheer that the crowd raised when I went down became a groan as Larry put the puck behind their goalie to make it four to two.

I got up on one knee and then up to my skates as John came over to see if I was ok.

"Yep, just lost my footing there for a second," I said, as we skated to the bench.

Frank came over and congratulated me on another great shift as did a few of my teammates. The rest of the period belonged to us as we ramped up the physical play. The period ended at the same four to two score and our spirits were high as we marched down the hallway to the crowd's boos.

Fred let us rest for a while and then got up for a quick pep talk.

"Good period everyone, we really took it to them, with the puck and without," Fred said. "They haven't had a chance to show their puck possession skills. We're going to keep up the pressure so they don't regain the momentum. Let's try a few more point shots as they will probably be backing in anticipation of more rushes from our D. Forwards get to the net and set up a screen or tip the shots if you can. Any questions?"

There were none so we walked back out to more boos from the crowd as we took the ice. John and I sat for the first couple of shifts and had to watch the Gophers put the puck in the net off a breakaway, when Randy missed a pass back to the point. They were back within one as John and I replaced the third pair.

We got the puck into their zone and we both got a chance to wind up and shoot at the goalie. John's attempt got stopped by the goalie and mine, a bit later in the shift, was deflected just past the goalpost by Daniel. Their defenceman iced the puck and we changed up our players while they couldn't.

The game went on with the score four to three and they got more desperate for the tying goal. With four minutes left they came up with numbers through the centre ice and the defenceman tried to hit a streaking forward at out blueline with a pass. I read the play and went after the puck, rather than the easy check, and picked off the pass. I was already moving in the opposite direction as all of their players, so I took off with the puck. I deked the out of position defenceman on my side and crossed their blueline. The other defenceman, who had made the ill advised pass, rushed over to try and stop my unopposed breakaway to their goalie. As he came close, I had the puck in a shooting position and then, at the last minute, passed it over to Gary, who had caught up to us. He made no mistake as he shot it into the top corner, over the blocker of the goalie, to make it five to three.

That goal took the fight out of them, though they pulled their goalie for an extra attacker with just under two minutes to go. John and I got on the ice for the last minute after Mark froze the puck in our zone. Things got a bit desperate for a while as they kept the puck in our zone for a bit, peppering Mark with shots. Finally, I got hold of the puck and lobbed it out of the zone and Shawn, the third line centre, outraced their defenceman and took a long shot at their empty net. It went in and the score became six to three.

Their goalie went back in and the game ended ten seconds later. We congratulated Mark and then left the ice. I was pulled aside and had to endure the boos from the home crowd when I took a quick circle around as the announcer introduced me as the first star. I joined my teammates as Fred was quieting them down so he could speak.

"Great win out there gentlemen, we proved we could play with the best in the country!" he said, pausing to let us cheer. "Though we asked our defence to help out more with scoring tonight, I'm afraid they didn't even score one tonight. Better luck next time guys."

The team laughed and looked over at us as we smiled.

"We don't usually do this but I think Mike deserves a game puck for his play tonight, as he broke a long standing record for assists in one game with six," Fred added. "He set up every goal tonight and played a hell of a game. Let's hear it for him."

The guys gave me a big cheer as John pounded on my back. I turned beet red with embarrassment as Fred waited until everything calmed down.

"I'm going to break another of our rules and have Mike join the captains at the press conference, as I'm sure they're tired of answering questions about him," Fred told everyone.

"Finally!" Gary shouted which got everyone to laugh.

"Ok, everyone else get dressed and on the bus while we go talk to the media," Fred said, getting down from the bench and coming over to me.

"I know you don't want to do this Mike, but it's not fair for the captains to have to answer so many questions about you. Besides, you need the practice for when the media starts bugging you about Vicky," Fred said. "Here's your game puck, keep it safe, we don't hand out many of these."

"Thanks Coach," I responded and shook his hand. "I hope I don't embarrass myself too much out there."

"Just think about what you're going to say before you speak," Fred advised. "I'll step in if the question is inappropriate."

"Ok, I guess I have to do this sooner or later," I replied.

"Good, now get showered and dressed quickly," Fred instructed as he walked away.

I quickly got out of my equipment and had a fast shower. I joined the other three players and the coaches as Fred led the way to the conference room. The home team was already in front of the media so we stayed in the hallway and listened to the questions and answers. About ten minutes later they finished up and left the podium and went out the other door on the opposite side of the room.

We were waved up and directed to sit at a table with a few microphones in front. I took the far chair and looked out at about twenty people sitting in chairs and another four guys with cameras on tripods looking at us. The guy in charge introduced Fred as the coach and then moved to stand off to the side.

"Good evening," Fred started. "I would just like to say thank you to the organizers of this mini-tournament for the wonderful job they have done and compliment the University of Minnesota for their excellent facilities. Now, to your questions."

Fred answered questions about the game, the Gophers and our team for about ten minutes and then introduced Gary as the captain and allowed questions for him. Daniel and Steve followed and then Fred introduced me.

"Normally we don't allow sophomores to talk to the media, let alone freshmen, but the captains are tired of answering questions about Mr. Stewart, so we're going to have Mike answer a few if you gentlemen have any for him. Please be patient as it's his first time in front of the media."

Immediately every reporter shouted out a question and Fred had to quiet them down and point to one of them.

"Mike, you had six assists out there tonight, a new Michigan record. How do you feel?" he asked.

"Pretty good, it's nice to be able to set up others to score," I said.

"You spent more time in deep in the opposition zone than usual, can you tell us why you changed things up tonight?" asked another, when Fred chose him next.

"The coaches asked the defence to get more involved in the offence, so I was just following orders," I replied.

"You're just a freshman, but you're leading the team in scoring and in points," a reporter from ESPN stated. "How have you been able to that as a rookie defenceman?"

I thought about it for a few seconds and then responded, "I guess it's been with the help of the coaches and with my teammates, especially from John Reilly, my defence partner. They have all worked hard in practice to show me how to play the game properly at this level. Believe me; I didn't know much when I started."

"Where did you play before this?" another reporter asked.

"I played up in Northern Ontario a bit," I replied, keeping it vague.

"Isn't it true that you're actually at Michigan on a computer science scholarship and not an athletic one?" came another question.

"That's correct," I agreed.

"How did you get on the team?" asked another.

"I was practicing a bit at the arena before school started, thinking I might join an intramural team, and Frank, our defence coach, asked me if I would like to try out," I told them. "Robert Samuel had just broken his ankle and they thought my shot would be useful."

"There have been recent projections that you could be a high first round pick in the next NHL draft in June," said another reporter. "If you are selected, would you leave Michigan to jump into the NHL?"

"I came to the University of Michigan on an academic scholarship, to get an education," I stated. "My plan is to finish my degree as fast as I can before pursuing a career. Obviously I would listen to any offer, it would be foolish not to, but the plan is to be at Michigan for another two years after this."

"Can you tell us more about your hockey career before Michigan?" asked the reporter who had asked before about it.

"Not much to tell, I did play midget for a couple of years, but this is the first organized hockey I've played in over four years," I replied.

"Then how did you learn to play so well?" the reporter persisted.

"Just playing on our home rink with my dad every winter," I answered. "And with the help of the coaches and teammates here."

Fred interjected, "Ok, that's all the time we have, we need to be in Wisconsin tomorrow. Thank you for your time."

We got up and left the room, following Fred out the door. He led us through the arena and out to the bus where we joined the rest of the team. I sat down beside John as the bus took off for the hotel.

"So how was your first press conference?" he asked with a grin.

"Ok I guess, I just answered the best I could," I replied. "There wasn't anything too surprising."

"Good, I think you'll be having a lot more, for hockey and for the twins," he said with a laugh. "You might as well get used to them."

I just groaned and sat back in my chair as we made the quick trip to the hotel. We all got changed and then had a late snack downstairs before hitting the hay. My phone buzzed as I finished my food and was walking in the lobby. I saw it was Becky and hit the button to answer it.

"Hey Becky, how are you doing Darling?" I asked.

"Very good, my lover just broke a record and was on TV!" she shouted and I heard a couple of female cheers in the background.

"Well, good for her," I said with a laugh. "Let Amy know I'm happy for her."

"You dolt!" she replied laughing. "Seriously, we are all so proud of you Sweetie. You had a great game tonight!"

"Thanks Bec, but how did you find out so quickly?" I asked. "I thought you were at a dinner tonight?"

"Well, your people called our people and let us know how well you did," Becky replied. "It seems your little PA likes to watch you play. That sounds a bit kinky doesn't it?"

I heard some giggles in the background.

"So, are you three still out at the dinner?" I asked.

"Yep, we're having one last round with some friends and then heading home," she answered. "You back at the hotel?"

"Yep, just finished eating and going up to bed, alone and lonely without you, in a strange city, without you to take care of me," I responded.

"Poor Sweetie, all alone and lonely," she said, and I heard a couple of girls say Awww in the background. "Oh well, so sad, too bad, talk to you later."

The girls with her laughed out loud at her antics.

"Alright Darling, you have a good night and be safe," I replied. "Tell the girls I miss them and I'll talk to you tomorrow."

"Ok Michael, you have a good night too and we love you!" Becky said and all the girls with them shouted "We love you too Michael!"

"I love you all too!" I replied with a laugh. "Good bye ladies!"

"Goodbye Michael!" the girls shouted into the phone.

I hung up after I Becky did and smiled as I walked to the elevator. I was glad they were having some fun with some friends. I headed up to the room and got changed for bed after brushing my teeth. I fell asleep before John came back to the room.

Saturday morning I woke up at five as usual and headed downstairs after taking care of the usual. I found the hotel's workout room and rode the bike for half an hour before doing a couple of rounds around the weight machines. I snuck back into our room and had a shower and got dressed without waking John. Grabbing my book bag, I left him snoring and headed down to the lobby. I sat in the lobby as per my usual and read ahead in my textbooks for next week's classes.

"Good morning Mike, studying as usual," Fred noted as he sat down across from me.

"Morning coach," I replied. "Just one week left of classes so I have to keep up."

"Good for you," he remarked. "So, how did you like the press conference?"

"It was ok I guess," I said. "The spotlight isn't really my thing but I know I'll have to get used to it. At least it was only about hockey this time."

Fred chuckled and added, "I gather you think eventually you will be answering questions about Vicky and her sister."

"That's what they tell me," I answered. "They will probably become pretty popular in the new year so I was going to warn you. They will be in a bunch of magazines and super bowl commercials and I'll probably be hounded a bit as Vicky's boyfriend. We're going to take some precautions like moving to a secure condo that won't be in our names and hiring a personal assistant for me, but it could get messy at school and at the press conferences."

"Thanks for the warning Mike, I'll pass it on to the Athletic Department and let them handle the press," he told me. "Don't be surprised if they want to meet with you."

"No problem coach, just let me know when and where and I'll be there," I replied.

We moved into the hall and had breakfast with the team and then we packed and checked out of the hotel. The team boarded the bus and drove back to the airport for the quick flight to Madison Wisconsin. We were in the new hotel eating lunch by noon.

After an afternoon practice at the Badger's arena, we relaxed at the hotel for a couple of hours before having an early supper. Then it was back to the arena to get ready for the night game.

Fred got up and we quieted down to hear him speak.

"The Wisconsin Badgers play real tough at home gentlemen so don't expect to walk out there and just breeze through this game just because we beat the number one team in the country last night," Fred started out. "These guys play a real tenacious defence and will take advantage of any mistakes you make so play smart and cautious. Their goalie is very good so expect a low scoring game. We won't be sending in the defence the way we did last night, so the forwards are going to have to generate some offence off of point shots."

Fred stepped down and we followed him up to the ice. After the usual anthem and team introductions, the game got underway. The first line took the puck into their zone but was quickly bottled up and the puck was taken away. The Badgers brought the puck down the ice and dumped it into the corner and chased after it, tying up Albert, our defenceman, in the corner. Additional players joined the scrum and eventually the ref blew the whistle for a face-off. Both sides changed with John and me taking over on defence.

Henry lost the draw and the puck got back to the point for a shot as John and I tied up the forwards in front of the net. Mark shot out his pad and directed the puck away from the net and I chased it into the corner. Two forwards immediately came after me and hit me hard after I passed it up to Kerry at the half boards. Kerry lugged it up the ice and I took off after I shrugged off the hit.

The two forwards kept close to me all the way up the ice before one of them peeled off to cover John at the other point. Both of their forwards were staying closer than normal to us and our forwards couldn't use us to pass to. Their defence and centre corralled our line and, after a weak shot from the boards, retrieved the puck and tried to hit the forward shadowing me as he broke out of the zone.

John and I rushed back as the forward took the pass just out their zone and his forward partner joined him in their rush. The puck carrier dropped it for his partner and tried to tie both of us up by going to the net but I let him go and concentrated on the new puck carrier while John took the first guy.

The puck carrier tried to deke me but I didn't bite and hit him hard, dislodging the puck. John and the other forward went after the puck while I shadowed the other guy. John beat him to the puck and passed it out of the zone to Henry who promptly dumped it deep and peeled off for a change. John and I joined him for a change.

"Are they going to cover us with a forward all the time?" I asked John.

"We'll see if they're doing for everyone or just us," he replied, looking up the ice.

We watched as our third line and third pair of defence had the puck in their zone. Their forwards were not shadowing our defence as close as they did us earlier.

"Looks just for us," John remarked as he got Frank's attention. "What do you suggest we do about their forward shadowing on us?"

"If you get the puck at the point, fake a shot and go around the defender," he suggested. "Move around a lot more when you're back there, maybe go in deep once and a while to see what they do. If you carry it in shot it as soon as you can. Basically, you're not going to have a lot of time with the puck."

"Ok, we'll see how it goes," John responded as I nodded.

The next time we got on the ice we played against another line but still each had a shadow. John picked up the puck behind our net after we changed and started bringing it up the ice. Immediately two forwards were on us, forcing John to pass it up to a forward in the neutral zone, rather than carry it up or pass to me.

We followed up the ice, our shadows sticking close. Our fourth line had the puck in their zone in the corner and I motioned John in while I stayed back at the blue line. John cut into the centre and looked for a pass, while his shadow followed close behind. The pass never came so he circled back around back to his point position. I had moved over to the middle of the ice, still back at the blueline, while John had gone in. I faked a dash in before moving back over to the other point, hoping to lose my shadow.

While all this was going on with the two of us, our three forwards were trying to cycle the puck between the three of them with the little bit of extra space afforded to them by having two of their forwards up so high at the blueline defending us. They got a couple good scoring chances but finally their goalie froze the puck for a face-off and we all changed up.

The rest of the period was just as frustrating for John and I as it was difficult to shake our shadows. They were on us from our end of the ice all the way into their zone, even if the puck was behind them. They were very effective in taking us out of the offence.

The period ended with no score and we walked back to the locker room for the first intermission. The coaches huddled to talk strategy as we hydrated and rested on the benches.

Fred got up on a bench and began, "Ok, the Badgers are trying to neutralize John and Mike from our offence with two of their forwards on them at all times. It could be pretty effective against them, but it should open some space for our forwards in the neutral zone and in their zone as they are playing so tight to them. Continue to cycle the puck down low and look for Mike or John to rush into the slot for a one timer. John and Mike, look for some long break out passes out of the zone instead of carrying the puck up. Also, move around a lot more in their zone, one of you go deep and cause some havoc once and a while, with our forward on that side peeling back to cover him. The rest of the time they seem to be using a more conventional style so we will have to attack hard then. Any questions?"

There were none so we headed back out to the ice for the second period. John and I started the period on the bench and changed on the fly a couple minutes later as the second line took the puck up the ice. Immediately, the two opposition wingers slowed down and took up shadowing positions on us. I skated hard and kept going deep into the zone, going in to hit a defenceman with the puck before he could clear it. The puck squirted loose and Ron picked it up and passed it out front to Henry who one-timed it at the net. The goalie stopped it and froze the puck for a face-off.

On face-offs the defence couldn't cover the points as they lined up on the other side of the face-off circle. That meant John and I had a second or so to shoot the puck before their forwards could get out to us, if the centre won the face-off. Luckily Henry did and the puck got back to me quickly. I wound up and shot low to allow a forward to tip it if possible. The puck made it through but hit the far post and shot off to the side boards. There was a race to the puck but the Badgers got to it first and shovelled it out to the neutral zone and then dumped it deep in our zone before changing up their players.

I went back to get the puck as John had tried to hold the puck in at the point. I skated back hard and rounded the net with speed, my head up to see if I should pass it up or carry it. I saw Kerry up by their blue line and quickly passed it up to him, trying to catch the Badgers in a change. He took the pass and skated in on their net while their defence rushed to cut him off. Kerry knew he wouldn't be able to deke as the defenceman would hit him as he was doing it, so he took a quick shot. The goalie stopped it and the rebound was steered to the side by the second defenceman. John and I changed up while the puck was deep in the offensive zone.

Play continued and with no score for most of the period. John and I had a couple of chances to shoot the puck but couldn't put it past the goalie. While we were off, Henry got called for a tripping penalty and we took the first shift of the penalty kill. They controlled the face-off and set up around the perimeter of our standard box formation. They passed the puck around until they got our forwards out of position just a bit; then they passed it back the defenceman at the point for a one timer. I was trying to tie up the stick of their centre as he moved in front to provide a screen and to try and tip the puck. John was doing the same on the other side so there were four bodies for the puck to get through, and to screen Mark, our goalie. The puck hit a skate and, unfortunately for us, deflected past Mark before he could react. The crowd roared their approval as their team celebrated the goal. We left the ice on a change as the first line took over for the centre ice face-off.

The period ended in the one to nothing score for the Badgers. Fred got up on a bench soon after we had settled down.

"Ok, they got one against us and they needed a power play to get it," he began. "I'm not worried about their five on five play, we just need to stay out of the penalty box. What I'm worried is the fact that we can't seem to score against them. We need some forwards to step up and generate more shots on net. Make them make mistakes down low and either draw a penalty or get a good scoring opportunity. Everyone start playing more physical to cause some turnovers."

"Ok, Sam and Frank will talk to you individually as needed," Fred finished up as he got down from the bench.

Frank talked to the other two defence pairs first and then came over to John and me.

"Ok, keep doing what you've been doing guys, you're getting open and have gotten a few shots off," Frank instructed. "If we're still down half way through the period, I want Mike to start taking chances and go in deep any chance he can. John, you obviously stay back and float to the middle, they will try and counter with a stretch pass up their forwards. Sam is making sure every right winger knows what to do when you go in."

"Sure thing Frank," John agreed as I nodded.

The third period got a lot more physical as we followed our instructions. I smashed one of the forwards that was assigned to shadow me when he came in with the puck. He got up slowly as I passed the loose puck up the ice and followed the play into their zone, finally free of my shadow.

Brad Eddings, the third line right winger, got the puck back to me as I entered the zone. I wound up for a slap shot but a defenceman went down to block it and it hit him in the leg and bounced out of the zone. My shadow, back up and skating back to his zone, was the beneficiary of the lucky bounce and scooped up the puck and wheeled around for a breakaway.

Both John and I raced after him but he had too much of a head start and got in on Mark all alone. He put a good deke on Mark and slid the puck into the open side for the Badger's second goal.

We tried everything we could, including pulling our goalie with two minutes left in the period. That just let them score a third goal into the open net and the game ended with the final score of three to zero. We left the ice as the crowd screamed out their approval of the outcome of the game.

Everyone got changed quickly and quietly and Fred kept his comments brief. He took just the captains with him to the press conference, much to my approval, and we got on the bus to wait for them. Eventually we got back to the hotel, got changed and had a late snack before hitting the hay.

I had just gotten asleep when my phone rang. I hurriedly picked it up and moved to the bathroom so I wouldn't wake up John.

"Hey Vicky" I said after looking at who was calling.

"Hey Sweetie, how did the game go?" she asked, talking loudly over the background noise.

"Not too good, we lost three to nothing," I told her. "They put a shadow on me and on John the whole game. We barely got free all game."

"Aw, too bad Michael, that must have sucked big time," she said, sounding a bit drunk.

"Yeah it did. So, you sound like you're having fun at the party; how did the fashion show go?" I asked.

"It went great, Bec and I are getting lots of compliments tonight," she replied. "We're in the VIP section and hanging out with some celebrities. You'll never guess who is sitting right beside me!"

"It had better not be a guy!" I fake growled into the phone.

She laughed and responded, "Of course not Sweetie. Nope, we're sitting with Leighton Meester from the Gossip Girls and Emma Rossum, that actress from the Phantom of the Opera and the Day after Tomorrow movies. We're all having a good time."

"Good for you; how are they? Are they nice or all obnoxious?" I asked.

"No, they're great, like regular girls hanging out," Vicky said.

I heard Becky in the background ask who Vicky was talking too. When she heard it was me, she made Vicky put me on speaker.

"Hey Sweetie, how did the game go?" she shouted.

"Not too good, we lost three to nothing," I replied. "I hear the show went well."

"Yeah it rocked, didn't it ladies?" Becky replied.

Several girls answered with positive remarks.

"That's good to hear ladies, and you're all having fun tonight?" I asked.

They all shouted and cheered into the phone.

"I'll take that as a yes," I said dryly.

"Sweetie, we've told the girls all about you and they can't wait to see you in a couple of weeks," Becky shouted. "Emmy lives just up one floor in the same hotel as we do so we're all becoming best buds. Emmy say hi to Michael so he knows you're here."

"Hi Michael, Vicky and Becky both talk very highly about you, I can't wait to see if you're as good as they say!"

"Hi Emmy, I don't think you should believe too much that the twins say about me, you're going to be disappointed when we do meet," I replied. "By the way, I thought you were terrific in both movies."

"Thank you Michael, that's so sweet of you to say," Emmy responded. "I can see that you at least are as charming as they say. I can't wait to verify the rest."

"Hey, you can't verify everything we said!" Becky said.

All the girls laughed and shrieked.

"Hey Michael, it's Leighton, both these beautiful ladies seem to be head over heels for you. Are you really both their boyfriend?" she asked.

"Vicky is my girlfriend Leighton and the twins are obviously close to one another, so Becky spends a lot of time with us," I replied, giving her the standard answer we all agreed to give.

"That's a good non answer Michael," she shouted back, as the rest of the girls laughed. "But how is it that Becky knows how good your butt looks naked?"

"Well, the devious minx must have snuck a peak," I answered.

"Sure, and I've got a bridge I'd like to sell you if you believe that!" she responded with a laugh.

"Even Red says you have a great bod," Emma added.

"Is Red there? Hi Amy, you having a good time?" I asked.

"Hey Michael, don't listen to these girls, they're just fishing for answers," Amy replied. "I'm having a good time with everyone, and don't worry, security is keeping away the vultures. I'm not sure if Leighton or Emma appreciate that, but we do!"

"Oh we do appreciate it, we get hit on all the time and it's a pain," Leighton said. "We love our girls' night out like this one."

"I'm glad you're all having fun, just be safe going home and try not to get too drunk ladies," I said. "You two have fun at the photo shoot tomorrow afternoon."

"Ok Michael, have a good sleep and a good flight back," Vicky said. "I love you."

"I love you too," I replied.

"I love you three," shouted Becky. "Have sweet dreams about us Sweetie!"

"You can dream about us too," Leighton added.

"Oh me too," Emmy added. "You can tell us all about what happened when you get here."

The girls all laughed and I blushed.

"Now you all have me blushing up a storm ladies," I told them. "You have a good night and I'll see you all soon."

"Goodnight Michael," they all said in unison, using sultry voices.

"Goodnight Ladies," I replied as I laughed.

They all laughed until they hung up the phone. I shook my head and hung up the phone as well. It was good to hear from them, even if they were a bit tipsy. I got back into bed quietly and fell asleep dreaming about them all.

Sunday was a normal travelling day, with a workout, breakfast and bus to the airport. After a quick one hour flight and bus ride, we were back at the arena by noon. I drove home and did some laundry while studying for final exams. The next week would be the last week of classes and then we had two weeks of exams.

I called my Aunt and left a message about when we could come up to see her. The rest of the afternoon I watched a hockey game and promptly fell asleep half way through. The phone woke me up around six.

"Hello?" I asked, still half asleep.

"Hey Mikey, did I wake you or something?" Stephanie asked.

"Actually, you did," I responded. "I must have fell asleep watching the game. How was your weekend Princess?"

"Pretty good, but I'm happy to be back," she replied. "Care for some company?"

"Sure, do you want me to pick you up?" I asked.

"That would nice, I'll wait for you in the lobby," she responded.

"Ok, give me five minutes and I'll be there," I said. "See you in a bit."

"Ok Mikey," she replied and hung up.

I jumped into a pair of jeans and a clean tee shirt before running out the door with my keys and jacket in my hand. I went up the stairs and found her sitting on my car's hood.

"Princess! How did you get here this time?" I said in surprise.

"My dad dropped me off here," she replied with a grin, pointing to her suitcase and book bag beside her.

"Come on in out of the cold silly," I said, reaching for her bags.

I gave her the keys and she let us in the door and the apartment. I put her bags down and she came into my arms and planted a kiss on me after pulling my head down to her level.

"Someone missed me," I said as I slid my hands down her back and lifted her up by her butt.

She wrapped her legs around me and smiled as I carried her over to the bed and laid her down beneath me. I supported my weight with my elbows and knees as we kissed passionately. She grabbed the bottom of my shirt and pulled it up and off me as I helped. I then pulled her tee shirt up over her head and then unsnapped her bra she took the shirt off.

"Someone's just as eager as I am," she said, pulling me down so that our bodies touched.

"I missed you Princess," I said simply, before kissing her again.

Her skin was so smooth and soft yet her body was firm underneath it. I kissed her neck and then slowly worked down to kiss and suck on her breasts, causing her to gasp and hold my head to her.

Her hands worked their way down my back and under my jeans to massage my butt and pull me down as she thrust upwards with her hips.

"I've waited four days to get you alone Mikey, I want you so bad," she moaned. "Please make love to me."

"Well, if you insist Princess," I said with a chuckle. "You're going have to let me go for a minute to get my pants off though."

"Oh, sorry," she said with a giggle as she loosened her vice-grip on my body and spread her legs to let me up.

I rose up on my knees as I kissed my way down her belly until I got to her pants. I unbuttoned her jeans and slowly pulled the zipper down as I looked up at her. She was biting her lips and looking at me like a cat looks at a cornered mouse. I kissed down the opening until I couldn't go any further. She tried to arch her back to get me to kiss her in the right place but I lifted my head out of the way.

She growled and reached down to push her pants off as she said, "Mikey, please don't tease me, I'm so hot for you already. I need you so bad Sweetie."

She got the jeans and her panties down below her butt and I sat up to pull them, and her socks off her gorgeous legs. I kissed my way down her leg and all around her pussy until she grabbed my hair and pulled me to where she wanted me. She was soaking wet as I took a long lick that ended at her clit.

"Awww yeah Mikey, that's the spot," she moaned.

It didn't take long to make her cum as she was so worked up. I tweaked her nipples and had her gasping and arching her back in a few minutes. She shrieked as she came and her juices covered my face. I lapped at her gently until she settled down and then quickly got my pants and underwear off before climbing back up between her legs.

I lowered myself until I touched her pussy lightly, coating myself with her juices. I reached down and positioned myself before easing into her hot wet pussy, while watching her face. She opened her eyes and gave me a big smile as she pulled me in until our hips bumped together.

"You fill me up so good Mikey," she said with a sigh.

"You feel so good Princess," I replied, smiling back at her.

We started off slow and she lay still I moved in and out of her. She had her eyes closed and I could tell she was enjoying it as her smile got bigger. Eventually she got up the energy to wrap her legs and arms around me and start thrusting up as we sped up. She opened her eyes and gave me a kiss as we made love. I could see how much she loved me when she looked at me and my feelings for her deepened. She was just as special to me as the twins.

We moved to our mutual climax as our feeling spurred us on. I held on until she came and then joined her in our release. She held me tight as we looked into each other's eyes and cemented our relationship.

"I love you Stephanie Merks," I told her as I gave her a kiss

"And I love you Michael Stewart, she replied.

After a couple minutes I pulled away as she groaned. I lay down beside her which allowed her to take a big breath.

"As much as I love having you on top of me, you are damn heavy Mikey," she said with a grin.

"Sorry Princess, next time we'll do it another way, but I wanted this time to be special," I told her.

"I know, and it was," she responded, reaching over to hold my hand. "This was for us, all alone, to show how loving it could be. Thank you so much for knowing what we needed."

"I knew that you enjoyed last Wednesday, but it was just sex, this was making love," I told her. "Not that Wednesday was anything but fantastic mind you."

"I love anytime I spend with you Mikey, so don't worry so much," she replied with a giggle. "I could lie here with you forever."

Of course, my stomach took that moment to growl as I missed dinner.

"Or maybe not!" she said with a laugh. "Looks like it's time for me to earn my ridiculous salary and take care of my man."

"Sorry, it has a mind of its own," I apologized. "Did you eat yet?"

"Nope, but I had a late lunch," she replied. "How about something simple, grilled cheese sandwiches perhaps?"

"Sounds good to me," I agreed as I sat up.

I pulled her up and she made a face.

"I need to clean up first," she said before rushing to the bathroom.

I cleaned up with some tissues and got dressed. After washing up in the sink, I got the frying pan out and started making the sandwiches. She joined me and set the table and we soon were eating.

After the cleanup we continued with the laundry as she brought some back with her. We read our textbooks and did some review of our common courses and then called it a night. She put on some normal pyjamas, pants and a camisole and snuggled next to me in the bed.

"The honeymoon is over now; you don't have to wear the exotic lingerie anymore to entice me?" I asked with a grin.

"Of course not silly, I'm just a little sore, so I didn't want to have to disappoint you when I couldn't let you continue," she said. "I'll make it up to you tomorrow ok?"

"Now who's being silly, there's nothing to make up," I told her. "I'm sorry you're sore, do you have some cream or something that would help?"

"No, but I'll be ok, you're just a bit big for me and we went on for a long time," she remarked. "Don't worry; it's not painful, just a bit sore. I stretched my legs a bit more than usual too. I'm going to have to get a bit more limber."

"We can use other positions if that's the case Princess, I don't mind you on top," I responded. "Or any other way you would like to try. I'm not very experienced so if you have a favourite let me know."

"Goody, we can experiment together, I'm not all that experienced either," she said with a grin.

I gave her a kiss and then she snuggled into my side, her back to me. I wrapped an arm around her and she moved it to her breast, capturing it with her arm.

"Good night Mikey, I love you," she said softly.

"Good night Princess, I love you too," I replied, kissing the back of her head.

She fell asleep quickly in my arms as I listened to her breathing slow and get regular. I joined her soon afterwards, dreaming of all three of my lovelies.



-------

Chapter 33


Author's Note:This chapter is unedited by any other human so I probably did not catch every mistake. Read at your own peril.

Monday morning dawned on a new month. I couldn't believe it was already December of 2008 and how much my life had changed. I looked down at my tiny Princess and gently moved her head off my chest onto her pillow and eased out of the bed. I grabbed a quick shower and got dressed quietly. After leaving her a note, I walked to the arena in the brisk cold of a Michigan December morning.

I remembered that today was the first day of forward training for me and quickened my pace to get there faster. I was looking forward to the challenge. The rink was empty except for Rolf when I got there. After getting changed quickly I got warmed up while he got the nets, and Patrick, set up.

"Morning Rolf, did you have a good Thanksgiving?" I asked.

"Not too bad Mike, yourself?" he replied.

"It was pretty good, except for having to go play hockey out of state," I told him.

"Hey, I have a couple of plastic benches you can use to shoot over if you like," Rolf said.

"Yeah, that would be good, I'm getting too many low shots blocked lately," I agreed.

We got them out and I put them between me and the net. I went to the blueline and practiced shooting at Patrick with the obstruction. I hit one of them once and it slid almost to the net.

"Thanks Rolf," I called to him as he shut the Zamboni door.

"No problem Mike, I don't mind doing things for those guys who put the effort in, who want to improve," he responded, before waving as he walked away.

I continued to shoot from the point and the centre of the blueline, using the two benches as screens. I had to aim for the top corners and the clang of pucks hitting Patrick or the posts soon filled the empty rink. I was shooting mostly while moving to one side or the other, simulating game time scenarios, so my accuracy was a little off versus standing still.

After about twenty minutes of outside shooting, I moved the benches in a bit and started skating in from the right side. If I was going to be a right winger, I would need to shoot from them that side or break in on net from that direction. The top right corner was still a good target if the goalie cheated a bit to cover a potential pass, as was the far left post, up off the ice about a foot.

After another ten minutes of shooting from the right half boards, I skated towards the net and shot from close in, going around the benches as if they were defencemen. By the time my teammates joined me on the ice, I was already a bit tired from all of the shooting.

"Hey John, long time no see," I said with a grin. "Looking forward to playing with Samuel?"

"Not really, he's likes to control the puck distribution when he's on the ice," John replied. "I'm going to have to be a bit selfish when I get the puck or I'll never see it."

"Sorry to hear that," I responded. "You're just as good as he is at moving and distributing the puck."

Fred gathered us around soon after and started his usual morning speech.

"Gentlemen, it was a so-so weekend for us, we beat a team that was ranked much higher than us, first in the country no less, and then lost three to nothing to an unranked team the night after," Fred stated. "As much as we benefited from our offensive minded defence pair of John and Mike on Friday, we couldn't score when they got shut down on Saturday."

"So, as we discussed, Mike will start learning the right winger position on the fourth line while Rob will join John as his new partner on the third pairing for now. Mike will still be on the point for the first power play unit. Mike will play defence Friday and Rob will play Saturday."

"This week's opponent is Michigan State, here on Friday and in Lansing on Saturday. They always play hard against us and this year they are relying on a more physical game versus a puck possession oriented scheme like last year. So, quick passes and fast skating to avoid the hits. We should have some fast break opportunities if they try to get physical and send in a couple of forecheckers."

"Ok, let's practice some fast breakout passes out of the zone up on this half while the fourth line and Mike work with Sam for a bit on the other half of the ice."

I moved over to the far end and joined the fourth line along with a few of the rookies.

"Ok, we're going back to basics to see how quickly we can get Mike up to speed," Sam said. "Ian and Don, you two can play defence but just take it real slow for a bit. Mike, Fred and I talked and we think we can use your speed and size to disrupt things in deep. We'll dump the puck into your corner and you go in and hit whoever goes to get it. If you get to it, look for Victor behind the net or Peter out in front first, and if they are both covered, try and pass it back to the point. Your third option is to go to the net with it."

"Now, if they don't dump it in, you have to wait at the blueline for someone to carry it in. If you're going too fast, you can turn into the centre of the ice while straddling their blueline until someone dumps it in or carries it in. Once we see how you do, we'll work on passing plays in the zone and the cycling down low. On defence, your responsibility is the defenceman on the right point, or their left defenceman. Don't let him go in on net by himself and try and disrupt or block his point shots. Do you have any questions?"

"I don't think so, but I'm sure I'll have some after we get started," I responded.

So we started at centre ice and Peter brought the puck up and dumped it into my corner. I raced in and got to the puck first and moved it along to Victor behind the net. I moved to the side of the net for a pass as Peter moved to the left side for a pass as well. Victor fed it to Peter and he shot on goal which Bob, our back-up goalie, saved.

"Good first attempt, let's run that at full speed and with some contact in the corner," Sam said.

We did it over and I bumped with Ian in the corner. We battled for the puck and I managed to get a pass to Peter out front, who tipped it in the net.

"Switch it up and put it in Victor's corner Peter, so Mike goes behind the net for a pass," Sam instructed.

So on it went, for a good half an hour. We worked on various offensive plays off the dump and then we practiced Peter passing off to either one of his wingers as we entered the zone. I excelled a bit on taking a pass at full speed and rushing in on net. I would either shoot of pass of to Victor on the other side or back to Peter crashing the net.

Finally, we worked on a simple cycling of the puck in the corner, with each of us curling back around to try and shake off a defender. We did it at half speed to start and got up to three quarter speed before Sam called it quits.

"Ok, enough for now guys," Sam told us. "I'll work with Mike during the rookie practices on Tuesday and Thursday and we'll keep at it until we make something of Mike here."

"Thanks guys for your patience, it's been a while since I played forward," I told them all.

The guys brushed it off and seemed to be ok with everything, even Adam. He had even given me a few pointers during the practice, which was surprising.

Fred called us together and we had a scrimmage, with me still as the right winger on the fourth line. It was different at full speed for sure. I got a few chances to go in deep and battle with our defencemen for the puck. The difference was the additional help they got as their forward or centre helped along the boards to dislodge the puck. I did better taking a pass at full speed and going in on net. I scored a goal and had an assist when I set up Victor for an easy one timer.

On defence and in the neutral zone I was a bit lost. Sam helped me after each shift, pointing out what I should have done and where I should be. By the end of the practice I was a bit overwhelmed; a fact that Sam spotted as we finished up.

"Mike, don't take it so hard, it's your first day," he told me. "You have the hockey skills to handle this; you just need to get comfortable in the positioning on the ice in various situations. All of that can be taught. I'm already impressed with your play down low and especially your offensive ability at full speed. You'll pick up the defensive side of things soon enough. Just wait until you can start hitting people in the neutral zone and you'll have some fun."

"If you say so Sam," I replied. "I'm not feeling too comfortable out there but I'll keep working at it."

"That's all we can do," Sam responded. "I'll see you this afternoon."

I got dressed quickly and saw that I had a message. Steph told me she would meet me in class as she wanted to pick a few things up at her dorm. I walked up to the main campus. I walked into the Logic classroom and sat down beside Steph.

"Hey Princess, how did you sleep?" I asked.

"Very good Mikey, thanks to you," she said with a smile. "How was practice?"

"Tiring and busy, I started learning how to be a right winger today," I replied. "It's a lot more complicated than I thought. It's going to take a lot of practicing to be ready on time for after Christmas."

"Well, we'll have to make sure you get the time," she said. "Maybe you fly to New York in the afternoon each Friday, rather than miss that practice time."

"That might be a good idea, as long as it doesn't ruin the twins' plans," I agreed.

"You would have to miss the Old Navy commercial shoot the first Friday morning, but we need you to be at the Calvin Klein shoot the next Friday afternoon," Steph told me. "I think we can get a flight out around eleven and still make that photo shoot."

"Ok, let's do it that way if the girls all agree," I instructed her.

"Alright, I'll handle that at lunch," she agreed. "We'll also discuss the condo and car topic with Amy then."

"Right, I forgot about that," I remarked. "It's going to be a busy week."

The professor came in and started the final two chapters that he wanted to cover before the review on Wednesday. We took notes furiously and had to scramble to get packed up and off to next class on time.

"Ok Mikey, I'll see you at the cafeteria," she said as we split up outside the building.

"See you there Princess," I responded as I watched her head off.

She was wearing a winter coat that hid her fabulous butt from me but I made sure to keep looking until she turned. I grinned and waved as she imperiously pointed me to my next class. She rolled her eyes and then grinned back and we went our separate ways.

Creative writing was boring, especially now that I was done the novella. The professor asked me to stay behind.

"Mr. Stewart, I've read your novella and I'm very impressed," she said. "It's very good work for a non-major."

"Thank you Professor, I certainly put in enough time on it and Cynthia definitely helped a lot," I responded.

"Yes, I can see her influence in the work," the professor agreed. "Well, here it is and you really don't need to come for the last class, it will be used to help out the students still not done with their last assignment. It's been a pleasure having you in the class Mr. Stewart, good luck in your future endeavours."

"Thank you professor, I've enjoyed the class very much," I responded.

I took the novella and left the room to go meet Steph. I found her waiting inside the doors and we joined the line-up for the food.

"I got my novella back and I don't have to go next class," I told her.

"How did you do?" she asked.

I opened the front cover and read the brief note and the grade below it.

"She says she really liked it and gave it a ninety three," I said happily.

"Congratulations Mikey, all that hard work paid off," she said with a big smile.

"Sure did," I replied.

We got some food and quickly ate it before calling up Amy. I had my laptop powered up and had the search look up condos in Ann Arbour near the University. I found a likely site and pulled it up as Steph talked to Amy. The condo was in a nine storey high rise with an underground secure parking lot. They had one three bedroom condo on the eighth floor with two parking reserved parking slots. The condo was luxurious and the asking price was three hundred and seventy five thousand dollars, plus a four hundred monthly maintenance fee. It was certainly out of my price range but probably what the twins wanted. I turned the laptop to Steph and she looked at it while Amy was talking. She put the phone down and put it on speaker.

"Amy, you're on speaker now; Mike has a nice looking one close by in downtown Ann Arbor," Steph said. "Mike, can you send her a link?"

"Sure, just give me a sec," I replied as I turned the laptop back to me.

I hit the send via link button and typed in Amy's email address and hit send.

"Ok, you should have it in a few seconds Amy," I told her. "So how was the rest of the weekend?"

"Good Michael, the photo shoot went well," she replied. "Ok, I got the email and I'm clicking on the link now."

After a minute or so she continued, "It is a nice one guys, not the penthouse but nice enough and big enough. It has a secure front door as well as a secure garage. Three bedrooms and two bathes should suit everyone just fine. The view of the city and the university is great too. The price is a little high but it's worth it and the value should only grow when we're done with it. I'll show it to the girls but I think Steph should set up an appointment for you two to see it as soon as possible."

"Ok, I'll handle that today and we'll set it up for one of the next couple of evenings," Sam replied. "On to the car, it should be able to carry all five of us plus luggage, so I thought we would look for a small SUV or a mini-van."

"Ok with me, but the girls have to drive in a limo as per contract so a four seater car would be enough as long as Mike can sit in it comfortably," Amy reminded us.

"Ok, a mid-size car would do fine then, with a big trunk or a hatchback" Steph said. "I'll look at some online while Mikey is in practice and we can look at some tonight and tomorrow night."

"Alright, you have your credit cards right Steph?" Amy asked.

"Yep, we can use the one for the car, but you'll have to wire money for the condo deposit or send a certified check via overnight express," Steph replied.

"No problem, just call me we what they need and I'll get it done that evening if you guys like it," Amy responded. "Ok, I have to go get the twins ready for their photo shoot so I have to go now. I'll show the condo to them and I'll let Steph know if they like it. We'll all talk tonight ok?"

"Alright Amy, have a good one and say hi to the twins for us," Steph said.

"Ok, I will, bye for now," Amy replied.

"Bye," I said as she hung up.

"And we need to go to our math classes Mikey," Steph reminded me. "I'll see you back here and we can study before we go to the arena."

"You should spend a bit of time with your roommate and get some more stuff ready," I suggested. "You can pick me up after practice."

"Alright I guess; you're not trying to get rid of me already are you?" she asked, looking at me.

"No Princess, you're going to miss her once we move out permanently," I told her. "I'll see you here after class and I'll walk you to the dorms."

We split up and I headed to Algebra. The professor was also determined to get in two last chapters in before the final exam. I took some good notes and made a note to myself to do all the problems in the back of those chapters to help in studying for the final exam.

I met Steph at the cafeteria busily looking at her laptop while talking on the phone.

"I assure you that we are serious about the condominium Ma'am," she said in exasperation. "I realize that you have the right of refusal but I would think in these tough economic times that you would at least be willing to let a prospective buyer tour the condo before you reject us because I sound young. My employers have ample funds to buy the condo outright so there is no worry on that front."

She listened for a moment and then replied, "I thought that might change your mind. We'll see you at seven o'clock tonight in the front lobby. My name is Stephanie Merks."

She hung up and looked up at me before saying, "It's going to be a pain working with adults when I look and sound so young."

"Welcome to my nightmare," I answered. "I had a hard time dealing with my parent's estate after just turning eighteen. We'll just have to show that we have the money by some means. I suggest you call Amy and get something to show the people tonight or we won't get out of the lobby. We can show the Platinum card for the car I guess, but the realtor or the building management will want something a bit more substantial."

"Ok, I'll call her once I'm in my room," she replied. "Now, what kind of car do you like?"

"I'm easy, I think with lots of legroom would be nice, a smaller SUV would be best I think," I told her. "You never know when you have to carry a few bags and a few people. Some of them have good gas mileage. We should stick to Ford as Mr. Waters works for them. Maybe you should call him and get his recommendation."

"Great idea, why don't you do that now, since he's practically your father-in-law," she said with a smirk.

"Fine, I think Vicky programmed his number somewhere in this phone," I replied.

I accessed the directory and found it under the heading Daddy. She was so going to get it the next time I saw her, I thought as I hit the button to dial.

"Hello," Mr. Waters said in a slightly puzzled tone.

"Hey Mr. Waters, it's Mike Stewart. I hope I'm not bothering you during a meeting or something," I said.

"Nope, just at my desk Mike; is everything all right?" he asked, sounding a bit worried now.

"Everything is ok Mr. Stewart, we just need some advice on a new vehicle and thought I would call an expert," I told him. "We're thinking a small SUV to fit five plus luggage or hockey gear."

"Well, I'm glad you called me then," he responded a bit brighter. "I would suggest the Ford Escape; it's great on gas, can sit five plus has room in the back for lots of luggage. It has no safety issues to speak of and I maybe I can help with the price."

"That sounds great Mr. Waters, we're going to check one out in the next couple of days," I told him. "I'm not sure whose name it will go in but Steph or Amy will probably be in touch to get that information from you if we like it."

"Ok, Mike, glad to be of help," he replied. "Anything else you need, you just call."

"We will Mr. Waters," I assured him. "Tonight we look at a nice condo in a high rise nearby. It's got three bedrooms, two bathes, underground secure parking and a great view of the city and of the college. Steph can send you the link if you would like to look at it."

"Yeah, send it to my email at Ford and I'll look it over," he responded. "If I see anything I'll give you a call."

"Thanks Mr. Waters, we appreciate your help," I said. "Talk to you later."

"Ok Mike, bye for now," he replied before hanging up.

I looked over at Steph and she said, "Already sending it to him Mikey. I've found the nearest Ford dealership and they have a few Escapes on the lot. We can check them out later tonight or tomorrow evening."

"You're good at this PA stuff Princess," I told her.

"Thanks, I'm really trying to earn my salary helping you, and the girls, out," she said with a smile. "I don't want to get money just because we're sleeping together."

"Nope, the sleeping together is just a perk," I told her with a grin.

"Yeah, but for who?" she retorted with a smirk.

"Well, I hope we both benefit from it actually," I replied.

"Good answer Mikey," she said dryly. "Ok, back to business. We'll inspect the condo tonight and maybe do a quick look at an Escape as well."

"Sounds good," I agreed. "How about I walk you your dorm and I get to the arena early for some extra ice time before practice. That way I won't stay late after practice and screw up your schedule."

"Alright," she said, packing her stuff up. "I'll meet you at the arena at six with the car."

I walked her to the dorm and left her in the lobby before walking to the arena. I got dressed and found the women's figure skating team still on the ice. Each skater was taking a turn performing what looked like a short program.

I found a seat and sat down to watch as each girl skated to their music and then got some pointers from the coaches. It looked like a full dress rehearsal as the ladies had on their good costumes. There were some beautiful ladies and all were in fantastic shape. Most of them were fairly petite but I admired a taller one as she skated gracefully around the ice. She seemed to hit all her jumps and spins with ease. She was one of the more beautiful women and her long shapely legs led up to a very shapely derriere. Her long brown hair was tied up in a ponytail and her smile lit up the rink.

"She's a beautiful skater isn't she?" Fred asked, startling me as I sat mesmerized.

"Oh, hi coach," I said, looking over at him standing beside me. "Yes, she is very graceful and beautiful."

"So, you're here early," he stated.

I just wanted to practice more being a right winger, without tying up the practice so much," I said. I can at least practice shooting and skating from the right wing until practice starts."

"I admire your enthusiasm Mike, but don't burn yourself out," he told me.

"No problem coach," I answered. "I'm enjoying learning the new position."

We watched the last skater go through her routine and then they all walked by Fred and I, with some of them smiling at us as they went by. The Zamboni came on while I went into the bench area to do some stretches. Fred followed me in and sat down.

I finally got on the ice and stretched a bit more before skating a while. I got out some pucks and shot on Patrick from the right side. I took shots from the blueline all the way down to the red line, first standing still, and then skating in from centre ice. I then did a few rushes from the half boards and out from the corner before practicing some wrap around shots from behind the net.

Fred joined me on the ice after putting on his skates and grabbing a stick. He played defence against me and showed me how to pass the puck to myself by banking it off the boards to elude the check. He also showed me how to fight off a defenceman using my left hand and my body to shield the puck. Then he explained how a quick stop could shake a checker off for a split second to allow a quick pass or shot.

We took a break as the rest of the team started filtering out onto the ice.

"Thanks for the extra help coach, it sure helps a lot," I said to him.

"No problem Mike, I wish I had more time to do more of it," he responded. "It's what I like to do best but with so many players and so little time I only get a few hours in a week."

"It's really too bad, because it's really useful for the younger players," I told him.

"Alright, I have a couple of things to do before practice, I'll see you later," he said before walking down to his office.

I got back on the ice and shot a few times on the goalies from the right side with the rest of the guys. The coaches came out ten minutes later and practice got started.

This afternoon the fourth line stayed with the rest of the team and we practiced the quick break passes from the defence. I switched off with Adam as the right winger and with Rob Samuel as the defence to get some practice at both positions.

We also practiced our defence set from their end back, using a two-one—two set, two forwards on the forecheck in their zone as the defence came out, one forward in the middle to go after the puck once it was passed, and two defencemen back at our blueline to stop a stretch pass. I practiced at both positions again.

Finally we had a scrimmage where I played on the right wing exclusively, with Sam giving me pointers, along with Peter and Victor, my linemates. I started getting the hang of things in the neutral zone in terms of positioning, and even contributed a bit on defence, covering the point. On offence, I screwed up a couple of times at the blueline, getting called offside as I went in before the puck did, but felt good about my down low play. I put Samuels on his ass once behind the net and earned an assist on the play by passing the loose puck out to Peter for an easy one-timer.

All and all, I felt good about my progress, even though it was only my first day. A lot of my dad's training on our rink was coming back to me as I played. Little things like how to get out of a defenceman's pin along the boards, or how to chip the puck by the forward and avoid the hit helped out.

I got dressed and headed out to the parking lot to see if Steph was here. She beeped her horn and I walked to the car, getting in the passenger door.

"Hey Princess, how was your afternoon?" I asked, giving her a smile.

"Pretty good, how was practice?" she replied.

"Very good, Fred worked with me before practice and gave me some one-on-one tips that helped a lot," I told her. "So, shall we get some take-out to eat on the way?"

"Yeah, I guess so, we don't have a whole lot of time before we have to be there," she agreed.

We drove to a Wendy's and grabbed a combo to go for each of us and ate it while driving to the building. We parked in front of the nine storey building and finished the food before getting out of the car. A tall thin, well dressed woman was waiting in the lobby when we knocked on the locked door.

"Miss Perkins, I'm Stephanie Merks, we spoke on the phone this morning," Stephanie said as she let us in the lobby.

"Miss Merks, I hope this is not some kind of silly joke, my time is very valuable," Miss Perkins responded.

"I assure you, we are most serious about this condo," Steph replied. "This is Michael Stewart, one of my employers who will be living in the condo."

"How do you do Miss Perkins?" I asked as I shook her hand.

"Fine Mr. Stewart," she replied shortly.

"Ok, shall we go up and see the condo?" Steph asked.

"First, before we can proceed, I will need to see some financial information showing you can afford the mortgage and the monthly fees," she insisted.

"I see," Steph said. "We would need you to sign a non-disclosure statement before we can allow you to see the financials. Are you willing to do that at this time?"

"It is most irregular but I suppose so," Miss Perkins replied.

Steph pulled out a form from the folder she was carrying and handed it over to her. Miss Perkins read it over and then signed it with her own pen, before handing it back to Steph.

"Alright, here is the current financial statement of the Gemini Holding Company that my employers will use to purchase the condo," Steph explained as she handed it over. "As you will see, it is from our accounting firm in New York and it shows assets of three quarters of a million dollars. That should be more than sufficient to convince you that we have the funds to purchase the condo outright and pay the monthly maintenance fees."

Miss Perkins perused the document and then handed it back to Steph, who placed it back in her folder.

"Shall we proceed?" Steph asked.

"Alright, let's go show you the condo," Miss Perkins agreed.

Miss Perkins led us to the elevator and hit the up button. The doors opened and she punched the eighth floor and away we went. The doors opened to a view of the city through a large window with two hallways leading away from them in a V. She led the way to the left past three sets of doors to the left and right and stopped at the last door on the right. She took out a key and unlocked the double doors and opened them both up to show off the condo.

Hardwood flooring lined the small foyer that opened up into large carpeted living room. The foyer had a chandelier and a large coat closet. We slowly stepped down one step into the living room and looked at the luxuriously appointed room. There was a gas fireplace, elegant wall lighting and mahogany trim throughout. At the far end of the living room across from the foyer, was an open room up a step. It had hardwood flooring and a large bank of windows with a sliding door leading outside.

"All of the drapes come with the condo for the price quoted, as well as the various light fixtures," Miss Perkins spoke up as she led the way through the living room to the hardwood floored room. "This is the dining room and the sliding door leads out to the balcony that faces the south."

We stepped out to see the view and found a five foot wide balcony that ran at least sixteen feet to either side of the dining room, all along the south side. It was blocked off from the next condo by a brick wall but had another sliding door at that end. She led the way back in and stepped into the kitchen through a door off to the side of the dining room.

"Ok, the appliances also come with the condo," she informed us. "The cabinets are all handmade out of mahogany and the appliances are all top of the line stainless steel. There is a pantry through there and the other door leads to the right hallway."

She moved through the door and we were in a hallway that, to the right, led back to the living room. She turned left and entered the next door on the left of the hallway.

"Here is the laundry room with high capacity washer and dryer, laundry tub, ironing board, clotheslines, cabinets for storage," she told us as she let everyone in.

After a few seconds, she continued down the hall into a bathroom, also on the left side.

"This is the small bathroom, as you can see it has a shower, vanity and sink and a toilet," she said.

We looked around for a second and then followed her to the end of the hallway. She opened the door into an empty room that had a sliding door leading out to the balcony.

"This is the third bedroom with access to the balcony," she said. "It has been used for a live-in maid or cook in the past."

"Alright, let's go see the other hallway," she continued, whirling around and marching down the hallway, through the living room and into hallway opposite.

"This hallway contains the two master bedrooms, with the main bath between them," she said. "The bathroom is accessible from either bedroom and from the hallway. Both bedrooms have access to the balcony and are identical in size. The only difference is that the far one has additional windows facing south east around the corner of the building as this is a corner apartment."

She opened the first bedroom door and let us walk through the carpeted room. She then opened the door on the left and led us into the big bathroom.

"Ok, we have an enclosed shower in the corner, a Jacuzzi bathtub in the middle, a secluded toilet and bidet, over there at the end. On the other wall we have a long two sink vanity with a large mirror mounted above it," she described the ornate bathroom. "Gold plated fixtures, a large window up above the Jacuzzi for natural light, marble vanity top and tiles, large linen closet and plenty of shelving for all."

It was a woman's dream bathroom, that was for sure, and Steph was enthralled as she moved around. Miss Perkins waited a bit longer and then led the way through the opposite door and entered the final bedroom. The extra windows looked upon a different part of the city but added something to the room.

Finally she led the way out to the living room and we looked at each other.

"So what do you think?" Miss Perkins asked.

"It's very nice, almost too nice," I said. "I like the amount of room it has and the view is fantastic. What do you think Steph?"

"It's great, especially the kitchen and big bathroom," she enthused. "We can put a nice dining room table in there to study on. It's just what we're looking for."

"Well, I guess we go back and talk to the others and make a decision," I said.

"So we'll be in touch with you over next couple of days either way Miss Perkins," Steph told her. "The other principals might want to come into town to see it before a final decision is made."

"Alright, but I have to warn you that you're not the only one looking at this condo," Miss Perkins responded.

"Well, I'm sure we can find something else if it goes this week," Steph replied easily.

We left Miss Perkins in the lobby and walked back to the car.

"Well she was a bitch," Steph said as we got in.

"She certainly didn't win any charm points," I agreed. "But, we only have to deal with her a couple more times if we buy the condo and then she's out of our hair."

"I suppose so, but it irks me that she will get such a good commission while being so snooty," Steph said angrily.

"Well, we can always continue to look for something else if you want, we're not in that much of a rush," I told her.

"True, but there isn't many three bedroom condos in the city, and most of them are either unsecured loft type condos or expensive penthouses," Steph replied. "I checked out a few more while you were practicing. This one is in our price range, with a great location and view, and the girls will love the kitchen and the bathroom."

"Ok, then when we get back to the apartment we'll call them up and talk it over with them," I said, before starting up the car.

"Ok, let's quickly look at an Escape before we head home," she suggested. "There is a Ford dealership just a mile down the road."

"Alrighty then," I said.

"Channelling a little Jim Carrey there Mikey?" she asked with a laugh.

"Well, he is Canadian, eh?" I replied with a grin.

She just shook her head as I pulled out onto the street. We quickly found the dealership and parked the car in front. We entered the well lit showroom and walked over to a light green Escape.

"I like the look of these, Princess," I said, looking over at her. "Is it too big for you to drive?"

"No, I'm used to Mom's mini-van and its pretty close," she responded.

I opened the driver's side door and got in after I moved the seat all the way back. It felt pretty comfortable and I liked the dash and console setup. Steph got in the passenger side and looked around for a bit. We got out and opened the back doors and looked at the room. It seemed pretty good. Finally we opened the back hatch and looked at the cargo space.

"Those back seats fold down and you get another two to three feet for larger items," a woman's voice told us.

We turned to see a pretty woman, just a few years older than us, smiling back at us.

"Hi, I'm Sandi, I see you're interested in the Escape," she said, offering her hand.

"Hi I'm Mike and this is Stephanie," I replied as I shook her hand. "Yes, we're interested in it. It looks roomy enough but not too big for Steph to drive and park."

"I sell a lot of these to women who don't want a mini-van or a large Expedition or an Explorer," Sandi informed us. "Mike should be comfortable in it, even with his size and Steph should still feel in control if she drives it. It's great on gas and we have several models to choose from."

"What's the difference between models?" Steph asked.

"This is the high end model, with heated leather seats, power seats, doors and locks, sun-roof, side air bags, custom bigger wheels and a six cylinder engine," Sandi rattled off. "The lower end models lose some of extras and have a four cylinder engine in them."

"We would like to test drive a high end one please," Steph said.

"Ok," Sandi said in surprise. "Any colour choice?"

"Red would be good, or blue I think," Steph replied.

"Let me find the keys and I'll pull one up for you," Sandi said with a big smile.

She walked over to another room and I looked at Steph.

"That was quick," I stated.

"We both like it, she's much friendlier than that other bitch earlier and we don't have time to drive around and look at five different vehicles," she replied glibly.

"Good enough," I grinned at her.

Sandi walked back to us and said, "I'll go and find it and bring it out front. Here is a brochure you can look at in the meantime."

She walked away quickly as I admired her trim figure until Steph hit me in the ribs with her elbow.

"Eyes off the sales lady Michael, I'm the one you're supposed to ogle," Steph said with a stare.

"Sorry Princess, it's a guy thing I guess," I said. "I just like looking at pretty women."

"It's tolerable when you're alone, but it's rude when you're with another woman," Steph said. "In fact, it's downright insulting."

"I'll try and curb my staring Princess," I told her. "I don't mean anything by it; I'm not going to go after her or anything."

"I know, but you have to realize that it makes us feel inadequate when you stare at other women when we're standing right beside you," Steph said, a bit more lightly. "I'm sure you would feel the same if I, or the twins, would stare at a hot guy when we're with you."

"I guess so, now that you put it that way," I said, getting a frown. "I'll do my best to stop it ok?"

She smiled and patted my arm and said, "We'll get you trained up right in no time Mikey!"

I groaned and shook my head.

"Hey, we come with lots of nice benefits right?" she asked in a whisper, while she grinned up at me.

"Yeah, I guess so," I relented. "The cooking and cleaning is nice."

She looked shocked for a second until I grinned at her and she growled, "I'm so going to get you for that! Cooking and cleaning my ass mister!"

I was saved from torture by Sandi driving up to the front with a deep red Escape. I led the way out the doors and opened the passenger door and got in, forcing Steph to get in the open driver's side. Sandi got in the back and told us a few things as Steph adjusted the mirrors and seat.

We both got to drive it around the neighbourhood and we both liked the ride. It handled well, had good pick-up, and parked easily. I pulled up to the front of the dealership and we got out.

"So, you like?" Sandi asked with a smile.

"I think so," Steph replied, looking at me.

"Yes, we did," I agreed.

"So, shall we work up some pricing options for you?" Sandi asked.

"Sure, give us a price to buy it outright, another with financing over sixty months, and a two year lease option," Steph instructed her.

"Ok, come on over to my desk and I'll be happy to provide that for you," she said, leading the way.

We passed a couple of men standing around, who gave Sandi a couple of dirty looks. Another one, sitting at a nearby desk, also looked a bit perturbed at her.

"The men around here don't look too pleased with you," I noted quietly.

"They all passed on helping you out when you came in," Sandi said quietly. "They thought it would be a waste of time since you're so young looking. I'm glad they did. I'm the low woman on the seniority pole around here so everyone else gets a crack before I do. With the recession going on, I'm lucky to see a couple of customers a day."

"Well, we appreciate your attitude tonight and your honesty," Steph said. "We just came from looking at an apartment and the realtor was such a snotty bitch because we're young."

"I hate it when older adults treat us that way," she agreed. "I might not be as well off as some of them, but I'm not a stupid child. The men treat me like a little girl when they talk to me, except when they're hitting on me."

"Well, let's see if you can get a sale out of this to rub in their faces Sandi," Steph told her.

She smiled and turned to her computer before saying, "I like the sound of that Steph!"

She brought up her program and got things ready.

"Ok, I've got the base model loaded up; are there any of the options that you liked that you would like to add?" she asked.

"How about you price out the one we just drove?" Steph said with a smile.

"Really, that the top of the line model!" she responded with a shocked look. "I don't mean to sound like an old adult, but that's runs almost ten grand more."

"That's ok, we can handle that Sandi," Steph said with a grin. "Just work up a purchase price for us to drive it out the door now, and a lease option in case we want to buy it through the company."

"Ok, I can pull that exact vehicle up in a jiffy and we can get you both options real quick," Sandi said, with an answering grin.

She had two pieces of paper in front of us five minutes later.

"Ok, let me talk to someone on this for a minute and we'll be back," Steph said. "We'll just go over there for some privacy."

"No need, I'll go get you both some water and be back in a few minutes," Sandi offered.

She got up and walked away, and I struggled not to look at her lovely body as she did.

"Boy that looked pretty difficult for you to do," Steph said with a giggle. "Thank you for remembering and trying so hard Sweetie."

"It's not an easy habit to break," I acknowledged with a grin. "Try not to get too mad if I slide once and a while."

"She is a pretty girl; if Becky or Amy was here, they would be staring at her too," Steph said with an answering grin.

She took out her phone and got Amy on the line. They talked things over and Amy recommended the lease option so the company could write it off as an expense. She also told us to dicker a bit on the price as it was definitely a buyer's market. Once we had the best deal we could get, we were to send the documents to her and she would handle the rest from there.

Sandi must have been watching, because she came in just after Steph hung up the phone.

"Here you go," she said, handing us each a bottle of water.

"Thanks," we both said.

"So, what's the verdict?" she asked, looking hopeful.

"Well, we like the vehicle and, if we can come to an agreement, we'll take the lease option," Steph told her.

"But, our people and we agree that, in this economic climate, the price should be lower, especially for a fully loaded vehicle," I said. "I know you don't have the final say on it, but we're going to have to see some savings or we won't get authorization to buy it."

"It's ok, I understand perfectly," Sandi said with a smile. "I would do the same if the roles were reversed. I'm sure the sales manager will be able to knock something off for you."

She lowered her voice and whispered, "Don't settle for anything less than four grand off the price, they are getting desperate for sales and that high end model won't sell for weeks. Don't worry about me; I get a commission based on the vehicle and a bonus only for a higher end model. Just don't tell anyone what I just said."

"Ok I'll go see what my sales manager can do for you," she said in a normal voice as she got up.

We watched her as she went into a glass walled room in the back and sat in front of an older man. After she explained the situation, I saw him look over at us and then say something to her. They talked for a bit and then he wrote something down and handed it over to her. She got up and walked back to us, while the sales manager stared at her ass as she did.

"Ok, the sales manager knocked off fifteen hundred of the purchase price," she said after she sat down. "That works out to about thirty five less a month on the lease payment, if you pay the thirty five hundred down to start."

"Not enough Sandi, I'm sorry to say," I told her, talking a little louder. "I would think in this economy, we could get up to five grand off this high end vehicle. I don't see too many people shopping for cars right now."

"Well, it's true sales are down, I don't think we can take that much off this vehicle," she responded. "Perhaps we have to go to a lower model."

"How about you try one more time to see what your manager has to say," I suggested. "We like that model and I'm sure we can find another dealer to be more accommodating."

"I'll go see what I can do, but I'm not sure if he will be willing to go down so low," she said, getting back up.

We watched as she went back in and told him what we wanted. He laughed at her and shook his head. She said something and he looked over at us again. After a long look at us, he turned back and asked her a question. She replied and he shook his head again. He wrote down a number and handed it to her. She came back and sat down at her desk.

"Ok, he says his final offer is three thousand off the price we worked out," she told us in a normal voice, knowing that at least the sales guy sitting nearby was listening. "I know it's not what you hoped for, but it is about eight percent off the price."

"I'm afraid it's not enough Sandi," I told her, getting up. "I appreciate your time but we'll take our business elsewhere."

I held out my hand and she shook it and then shook Steph's hand.

"It was nice to meet you both and at least take my card and call me if you change your mind," she said, putting a smile on her face. "If you give me a number where I can reach you, I could call you if a better deal comes available."

Steph gave Sandi her cell number and then Sandi got up and walked us to the door.

Once outside the door she said, "He didn't think you would walk out, the dick. I'll call you if he goes down to four grand ok?"

"We'll wait until tomorrow night Sandi and then go somewhere else," Steph said. "We don't have too much time to waste. That guy is a slime ball; he was staring at you every time you walked back and forth. He's old enough to be your dad!"

"My skin crawls whenever I'm in his office, believe me," she replied. "But, I wouldn't find another job in this climate. He needs me though; there is a certain percentage of customers that insist on dealing with a woman, so he doesn't act on his urges thank God."

"Ok, give us a call if he changes his mind, if not, we'll go somewhere else," I said as we got in my car.

"Let's sit here for a minute and watch what happens," I suggested. "Talk to me as if you're mad about what happened.

"I am mad at that asshole," she said. "I can't believe what she has to put up with. I would have slapped him silly after the first day."

"She's smart enough to know she can't do that in the real world and expect to hold a job long," I responded, while trying to watch what was happening inside.

Sandi went directly into his office and he started getting animated at her while pointing out at us. She responded for half a minute and then he looked back at us.

"What's going on in there?" she asked, looking at me only as she raised her arm as if to emphasize a point.

"They're talking and he looks at us every once and a while," I said as I shook my head. "He sat back down now after getting mad at her. He's looking at us again. I'm going to start the car and see if he does anything. Put your hand on me to stop me from putting it in drive.

I started it up and she did what I asked. He pointed it out to her and she said something. He wrote something down and handed it to her and she rushed out of his office. I put the car into drive and looked behind to pull out.

"Ok Mike, she's here, stop the car," Steph said, reaching to grab my arm.

I looked back and saw her in front waving us down. She winked and came over to my side, where I lowered the window.

"He went down the full four we were looking for," she said, keeping her face neutral. "We wouldn't go the full five you were looking for but it's what I thought he would go down to. Don't nod or anything, but just whisper if it's good enough."

"Yep, we're good," I told her.

"Ok, I'm going to put on a desperation act here to show him how hard it was to convince you," she said. "After about a minute, if you want to come back in and we'll get the paperwork started and you can take the vehicle with you tomorrow after it goes through our pre-sale prep. Sound good?"

"Ok," I said.

She got animated, showing the paper to us and using her arms to show how hard she was trying to get the sale. She even pushed her head in to talk to Steph, though her words didn't match her expression.

"Aren't they all so sleazy Steph?" she asked. "I have to wear nice clothes to look professional, but I feel like a dancer at a strip club sometimes around here."

"No other jobs out there for you?" Steph asked.

"Not in these times," Sandi replied. "I'm good at what I do, but I refuse to be dishonest like all the others. I could make more money but I couldn't live with myself if I cheated people out of their hard earned money."

"Well thanks for looking out for us," Steph said.

"You're welcome," Sandi replied. "So are you two a couple?"

"I'm actually his personal assistant, hired by his girlfriend," Steph gave her our pat story.

"Really, I would have pegged you two for lovers," she said. "I'm not usually wrong about people. Ok, nod and smile and shut off the car and come on back in. Mike, you can still look peeved but Steph can smile if you want."

We followed her instructions and went back in. She sat us down and got busy on the computer.

"Ok, here is the lease offer sheet for my manager to approve," Sandi said. "If he does, I'll come back and get all the information from you and we can set up an appointment for tomorrow night if you like"

"Once you have that, we need to send it to the office in New York and Amy will work with you on the financial aspect," Steph said. "Tomorrow night after seven sounds good to us."

"Ok, I'll be back," she said.

I watched as she walked into his office and handed him the page. He looked it over and then signed it, shaking his head. He said something to her and she answered back angrily. He responded and she stomped out of the room, back to us.

"That prick just knocked off the entire bonus, just because he can," she said angrily, but quietly.

"How much?" I asked.

"An extra five hundred," she whispered as she turned to her computer.

"Sorry Sandi," Steph said.

"It's not your fault, it's that prick's fault," she said. "Ok, give me Amy's information and I'll work with her on the financial portion."

Steph gave her all the contact information and then we got up. Sandi walked to the door and thanked us with a smile and said she would see us tomorrow night.

"So, we're going to give her the bonus ourselves right?" I said, looking over at her with a smirk.

"You read my mind Mikey," she said with a smile.

"You're the soft hearted one," I said. "Now, just a thought, how much to you think that was an act for us?"

"Sandi?" she asked, looking over at me. "You think that was all an act to get us to feel sorry for her?"

"The car companies are putting out big cash incentives to get people to buy in stock vehicles, she could be faking us out," I reasoned. "She could be just a good actress."

"It's possible, except for the last bonus thing, she wasn't faking how pissed she was," Steph said. "Well, let's go home, it's been a long day and I'm all stressed out."

"You were great today Princess, you earned your salary for the month today," I praised her.

"I was good, wasn't I," she replied with a smile. "It's good to know I can take care of things like this."

"You get a nice massage as your reward Princess," I told her.

"Oh goody," she replied with a grin.

We headed home and called the girls after we got changed and had a drink in front of us.

"Hey Vicky, its Steph and Mike," she said. "You're on speaker."

"Hey you two, I hear you've been busy bees tonight," she replied. "How did it go?"

"Well, we picked out a new Escape, Amy should be getting a call from a Sandi to deal with the lease options," Steph told her.

"Wait a sec, let me get Beck and Amy so they can here, as long as they're not fooling around," she said with a laugh.

She put the phone down and we heard her go off shouting for them. We heard them come trouping into the room and someone hit a button on the phone.

"Ok, you're on speaker now," Vicky said.

"Hi everyone," Steph said.

"Hey Steph," Bec said. "Is our studly man there?"

"Hey Honey, how are you tonight?" I said.

"Better now that I hear your sexy voice," she replied.

I laughed and replied, "Vicky said you and Amy were fooling around, so you must have been having a good time."

"Oh we were, but you make our day even better," she said with a sultry voice.

"Hey, don't get him all riled up Becky, I'll be the one who has to take care of him," Steph protested.

"Yeah, like you would just hate that, wouldn't you?" Becky teased.

"Well, he did promise me a massage for working so hard," Steph said with a giggle.

"You lucky little minx," Bec said with a laugh.

"Ok, why don't you brief us on what you two did tonight so you can go get manhandled," Vicky said dryly.

"Ok, we got four grand off the price of the high end Escape and Sandi will get in contact with Amy in the morning to finalize the lease option," Steph started. "Mike and I will pick it up tomorrow night. You're going to love it, it has all the bells and whistles, and will fit five plus lots of luggage."

"Good, you needed something more reliable than Mike's old car," Vicky said.

"Next, we visited a three bedroom condo in a high rise in downtown Ann Arbor, just a couple of miles from the college," Steph continued. "It's on the eighth floor and faces south so there's lots of sun. It's gorgeous, mahogany trim and cabinets, hardwood floors or carpet throughout, a balcony that stretches all along the apartment. The main bathroom is accessible from both big bedrooms and is to die for; a Jacuzzi bathtub, a separate enclosed shower, a toilet and bidet, two sinks in a marble vanity, and a huge lighted mirror. The bedrooms have lots of closet space and the end bedroom has windows not only on the south side but also on the south east side as it's at the end of the building. What else; oh the kitchen appliances are top of the line stainless steel and the laundry room comes with high capacity washer and dryer. The curtains all stay too. There is a second smaller bathroom down past the laundry room in the other hallway, and the third bedroom is at the end. It has a sliding door out to the balcony as does the other two bedrooms and the dining room."

"It sounds great guys," Bec spoke up. "Do you both like it and do you think we would like it?"

"I love it and so would all three of you," Steph said. "The bathroom and the kitchen are to die for, and the view out all the windows is fantastic. The balcony is secluded so we can all sunbath if we want."

"How about you Michael?" Vicky asked.

"It's big enough for all five of us at two to a room when we're all together, especially with the two bathrooms," I responded. "The third bedroom is at the end of the other hall so we would be separated a bit. Nice big bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchen and the balcony will be nice in the spring all the way to late fall. My only beef is that it's expensive and very fancy. I'm not used to living in such grand style."

"Forget about the money, could you live there for the next three years?" she asked.

"I could, I guess," I responded. "I like that it has a locked front door and a secure garage with two parking spots reserved for us. How about you three? Do you like what you see in the pictures?"

"Yes, we do actually," Vicky answered. "Bec, Amy, do you two think we should make a quick trip to see it for ourselves or just go ahead and buy it?"

"Normally I would want to see it but I trust Steph and Mike to know what we would like," Bec responded.

"I don't know when we could fit in a trip honestly," Amy stated. "You're busy every day this week and on the weekend. It would have to be a one day trip there and back on Monday and that's if nothing comes up."

"Well, that settles that option," Vicky said. "I guess we leave the decision in your hands."

"On the financial side, the condo has gone up it price both times it was sold and they are asking just over fifteen percent more then what they bought it for," Steph told everyone. "It should be a good investment for your money."

"Maybe we can offer three twenty five and see if they go for it. It's been empty for six months now so they might be ok with just getting their original money out of it," I suggested.

"We'll probably have to settle for around three forty, but it's certainly worth trying," Amy said. "Even if the economy stays bad for a couple of years, it's still a good investment. There will always be someone who wants fancy digs close to the U of M."

"So, are we in agreement?" Vicky asked. "Shall we go for this one?"

"I vote yes if I get a vote," Steph said with a giggle.

"Of course you do silly, all five of us vote," Vicky said. "I'll vote yes."

"I vote yes as well," Bec said.

"I vote yes if we get it for three forty max," Amy conditioned her vote.

"I still think that's too much so I vote no," I said.

"So are we majority rules or do we need everyone to agree?" asked Steph.

"Is it just the price or will you hate living there Sweetie?" asked Vicky.

"I won't hate it but I definitely felt uncomfortable when I was there," I told them.

"Vicky and I felt the same way when we first moved in to this apartment," Becky said. "It's even fancier than that one. But we're used to it now and we're happy with it. I think it will make you a bit more careful with things so you don't damage the carpets and stuff, but you'll get used to it. As for the money, remember we'll get it all back in three years or so when we sell it, so think of it as free rent in a great place."

"All right, I'll vote yes, if we can get it cheaper," I capitulated.

"Yea!" came a little cheer from the girls and from Steph.

"Ok, Steph, get on the phone with that realtor in the morning and pass her on to me," Amy instructed. "I'll handle the negotiations and let everyone know how it turns out. I'll let you know about the car as well."

"Ok thanks Amy," Steph said. "How soon do we want it?"

"As soon as possible," Vicky stated. "I want you two in it by the middle of the month if possible, or at worst case the end of the year. Things are picking up and you two might be hounded right after Michael's first weekend here."

"We can move our clothes and stuff by ourselves in one day," I told them. "All we have is the bed then, and I can get some help from John and rent a truck to get that over one evening."

"We'll have to get more stuff once we're in there, some living room and dining room stuff, plus two more king beds," Steph added.

"That can all be delivered once you're in there," Amy stated. "If you have time, do some shopping and get delivery once we know when we take possession. I'm going to insist on a Dec. Fifteenth closing so you can move in right after you're back from the first week Michael."

"Sounds good to me," I agreed. "We have exams that week so we're just going to get in with our clothes and the one bed on that day. We'll get everything delivered after our second weekend when all we have to worry about is my hockey practice."

"It sounds like we have a plan people," Vicky took over. "We'll all talk tomorrow night after you pick up the car."

"Ok Darling, have a good night and talk to you tomorrow," I said. "I love you all."

"We love you too Sweetie," the twins said in unison. "Give her a great massage, she deserves it. Thanks Steph for your hard work."

"You're most welcome," she replied. "Thank you Amy for your help and hard work too."

"Geez, we sound like the freaking Walton's here," Amy said. "Let's hang up before we fall asleep already."

"Alright Amy, thanks and good night everyone," I stated.

Everyone said goodnight and I hit the button to end the call. I gave Steph the phone and sighed.

"I'm glad that's done and Amy is handling it from now on," I said.

"Me too, she's had more experience at everything," Steph agreed.

"Ok, you go have a quick hot shower and then I'll give you a nice massage," I instructed her.

"Yes Sir," she said and gave me a salute.

She got up and went to the bedroom to grab her stuff before closing the bathroom door behind her. I soon heard the shower running so I turned up the heat in the apartment and grabbed a couple bottles of water before heading to the bedroom. After getting changed I watched the sport's wrap-up until Steph came in, bundled in her robe.

"I turned the heat up so it should warm up in here shortly, Princess," I told her.

"Good thinking, I don't want to catch a chill wearing this," she said, opening her robe to show off a pink chemise that ended just below her delectable rear.

"Wow, very sexy Princess," I told her with a smile. "You better get under the covers for a bit until I can warm you up.

She got in quickly as I held the covers up for her and scooted over to get close to me. I wrapped my arms around me as she burrowed into my chest as she shivered. I rubbed her back and legs to warm her up until she sighed and relaxed against me. Her breathing evened out and she wrapped her arm around me and laid her head on my shoulder.

"You're so warm and cuddly," she whispered as she cuddled up against me.

"That's me, your friendly neighbourhood teddy bear," I said.

"That's right, you're my cute and cuddly teddy bear Mikey," she agreed. "Now hush, I'm ready to fall asleep here."

"What, no massage?" I asked.

"Tomorrow, I'm too tired to appreciate it," she mumbled. "Good night Mikey."

"Good night Princess, I love you," I said as I kissed the top of her head.

"Love you too," she whispered back.

She was snoring lightly a couple minutes later. I stayed awake thinking about the new condo and car and even the right winger practices before eventually falling asleep.

Tuesday morning found me at the arena early as usual. I continued to practice shooting and skating in from the right side until the rest of the team showed up. The coaches split my time about evenly between both positions as I still had to play defence one more time on Friday. We also practiced special teams and I manned the point on the power play and also took a few turns on defence on the penalty kill.

After practice I met up with Steph in the parking lot and we walked up to the main campus together.

"Hey Princess, did you sleep well?" I asked with a smile.

"Sorry that I conked out so soon after getting into bed," she apologized. "I guess I was wiped out from all the running around yesterday."

"That's ok Princess, I know you just hate my massages," I said tragically.

"Don't give up either of your day jobs for acting," she said dryly. "Besides, you can give to me tonight instead."

"I don't know, I'm not sure massages are transferrable," I said, shaking my head in doubt.

"Hmmm, I was going to rock your world last night after the massage, but I guess that's not transferrable either then," she replied with a wicked grin.

"Nope, I looked it up in the manual and rocking your world is always transferrable," I informed her. "It's actually a state law."

"You are so not funny," she said, sticking her tongue out. "So, how was practice?"

"It was good, still trying to get the hang of right winger," I told her.

We walked in silence for a bit and quickly got to the main campus. We sat down a few minutes later in the classroom.

"Did you talk to Amy this morning?" I asked.

"Not yet, I'll call her after class while you work out," she replied.

"What are you going to do today while I'm at the arena?" I asked.

"I'll study for exams I guess, either in my dorm room or at the apartment," she answered.

"Well, only if you walk back with me after class to get the car," I told her. "I don't want you walking by yourself, to the arena or the apartment."

"Ok Mikey," she agreed.

The prof came in and started on the last new chapters before the exam. He went through it quickly and suggested doing the questions at the end of each chapter as study material for the final exam. We packed up and left the classroom.

"So, dorm or apartment?" I asked.

"Dorm I think, I need some books I have there," she responded. "You can pick me up there after your practice and we can go eat and hopefully pick up the Escape."

"Sounds good to me," I said, as we angled off towards her dorm.

I dropped her off and continued on to the arena where I got changed and did a full workout, increasing both the weights and the amount of reps again. After having lunch in the arena cafeteria, I joined the rookies for our afternoon practice. I worked on right winger almost exclusively and learned some of the offensive drills forwards did. They involved a lot of close in passing and skating to help in the cycling and working down low in the offensive zone.

We then had a long scrimmage and I realized how far I had to go to play forward at this level. I was in the wrong position most of the time, caused more than one offside whistle, and lost track of my man in the neutral zone and in the defensive zone. I did ok in the offensive zone once I knew to go after the puck or hit a defenceman, but if I had to think about where I should be or who I should cover, I was always a split second too late.

"Don't worry too much about it Mike," Sam told me after practice. "You're still trying to think and then react, rather than just react. That will take a bit of time and a lot of practice. You're doing ok when it's just time to react in the offensive zone, where you've have some experience already."

"Alright Sam, I trying my hardest, but I guess it will take some time," I responded.

I showered and grabbed a snack before sitting in the cafeteria and opening my Logic books to study as it was my first exam on Tuesday morning. I started from the beginning and reviewed everything covered by the first midterm and then redid the midterm. I had just finished when John sat down across from me.

"Hey Mike, studying as usual," he said with a grin. "You're the last one on the team that needs to study and yet you're the guy who does it the most."

"Hey, I here to get an education and getting good marks is just part of that," I told him.

"Yeah, but we both know that you'll be playing hockey for a living, probably a better living than what you will ever make with computer science," John remarked.

"Who knows what the future will bring," I responded. "I could get injured, be a bust at a higher level, get sent to the minors, anything could happen. An education gives me options. Besides, I like programming a lot."

"I suppose you could get injured, but I don't think you will have to worry about being a bust at the next level," John replied. "You're already doing well as a forward so you'll be even more valuable to a team."

"What, I stunk up the rookie practice just this afternoon," I retorted.

"You have the size and the talent to be very good, you just need some more practice to get the timing and coverages down," he told me. "I think that you'll be fine in a couple of weeks."

"I wouldn't bet your pay check on it," I said with a grin as I packed up my books.

We headed off to the dressing room and got changed before heading out to the ice. The ladies figure skaters were still out on the ice and I watched the tall browned haired beauty practice some jumps in the corner. She was in a pair of tights and a long sleeve top that showed off her athletic body.

"Hey Mike, should I get a camcorder or a camera?" John said, startling me out of my staring. "She's hot and all but don't you think you have enough women already?"

"Yeah I do, she's really good though," I replied, tearing my view away and looking at him. "Besides, she's much better to look at than you."

"Ok, I'll give you that," he said with a grin. "Just don't let the twins or Steph see you making googly eyes at her or your name will be Michelle."

"Tell me about it," I agreed.

The ladies finally finished up and walked by us to their dressing rooms. Some of them said hi and smiled or grinned while others were shy. The girl I watched was one of the shy ones and looked down as she passed. I admired her as she walked up the hallway and turned the corner.

"She is a hottie," John admitted. "Luckily for you, she's a shy one so you don't have to worry about her trying to steal you away from the twins."

"Thank God for that," I agreed.

We stretched and warmed up as the rest of the team joined us. Again, my time was split between defence and forward, with Rob Samuels or Adam Steel taking over when I switched. I was a forward when we worked on neutral zone trap and forechecking. Near the end of that portion of practice I seemed to get the hang of things and made a few plays to disrupt the opposition's attempts at getting out of their zone. I even anticipated a pass and jumped in front of the forward to steal the pass and go in on their goalie. I put a double move on Mark and got him moving to the left and then stopped suddenly to put the puck into the right corner as he couldn't stop his slide over.

"Nice move Mike," Mark said as he got up. "They'll make a forward out of you yet!"

"Thanks, but I'm not so sure about that," I responded before skating back into position.

Soon after that we stopped that portion of practice and ended with a scrimmage. I didn't do as bad as the afternoon rookie practice, and actually had a couple of good plays on the defensive side of things; blocking a couple of shots as well as digging the puck out from the side boards and starting Pete on a breakaway. I got physical with the other team in their zone and in the neutral zone as my timing improved. All and all, a more satisfying practice than most.

Adam walked with me as we headed to the locker room.

"Good practice out there Mike, it looked like you were really getting the hang of it," he complimented me.

"Thanks Adam, it was much better than rookie practice this afternoon," I agreed. "Thanks for all of your help, I'd be lost if you weren't so helpful. I know it must suck to have me doing this."

"Hey, I'm more of a team player than most, and I know you're going through the same thing with Samuels," he replied. "I'm glad to help out. Besides, I don't think you'll be on the fourth line for long."

"I know, I think I'll be back on the scout team in no time," I laughed.

"Yeah right, you'll probably end up on the third or maybe even the second line by February if you keep progressing like you have," he said seriously.

"What! I think you've mistaken me for someone good," I replied with a laugh.

"Mike, you're a pretty modest guy, which is why I like you, but we all see how good you are," he stated. "Some people don't like it, but the guys who are team players know that you make us all look better when you're on the ice. As soon as you get the knack of things, you'll do just fine, trust me."

"Well, thanks for the vote of confidence, but I think you've been eating cafeteria food too long and have some sort of fever or something," I replied with a laugh.

We split up and went to our separate lockers.

"Nice play out there Mike," John complimented me. "That was a sweet move on Mark."

"Thanks, I got lucky a few times for sure," I replied.

"Yeah right, luck had very little to do with it my friend," John scoffed.

I just shook my head and headed to the shower after getting out of my equipment. After getting dressed, I told John I would see him in the morning and left to go get Steph. I parked nearby and walked to her dorm to find her waiting downstairs with Lin.

"Hey Lin, babysitting again?" I asked, shaking my head.

"Yes Michael, but I'm finished for the day, it's time you took over," Lin responded with a grin.

"Ha Ha, you two should take that act on the road so I won't have to put up with either of you," Steph remarked. "You're corrupting this nice girl with your really bad attempts at humour. Here, make yourself useful and carry my books."

"Yes, my Princess, your carriage awaits," I replied, bowing low and taking her bag from the floor.

"I see the training is going well," Lin remarked to Steph.

"Yes, he shows some potential," Steph agreed. "Ok, I'll see you soon."

"Take care of her Mike," Lin said.

"Of course Lin, you take care too," I told her as I opened the door for Steph.

We walked to the car and I got her in before heading for the driver's side.

"So, where are we headed?" I asked as I started the car.

"We can pick up the Escape right now and eat at the apartment if you like," she suggested. "Or we can eat first and then go."

"Let's get the car and then we can cook at home," I decided.

"Okay," she agreed.

I drove to the dealership as she told me about her day.

"So, after studying for awhile, Amy called and told me the car was all taken care of and negotiations were ongoing on the condo. They countered with three fifty when we first offered three twenty five so we'll probably offer three thirty five and settle at three forty tomorrow," Steph reported.

"Sounds good, she doesn't mess around does she?" I stated.

"Nope, she takes care of things real quick," she agreed. "I feel bad; she does so much more than me."

"Hey, you did all the hard work on both the car and the condo, so don't put yourself down," I reassured her. "You missed one of my famous massages because you worked so hard, so don't feel bad."

"That's true, the girls were shocked when they heard I missed it," she informed me. "I'm supposed to make damn sure I get it tonight."

"Alrighty, let's get cracking and get you home then," I said, stepping on the gas to go faster.

"Hey, there's no rush silly, we don't want old Bessie here to fall apart getting there," she said with a laugh.

"Hey, watch what you're saying, she's sensitive," I said, patting the dashboard. "She didn't mean it Bessie; you're not that old,"

She laughed again but patted Bessie on the dashboard and said she was sorry. I saw a bank on the way and stopped in to get some cash and an envelope from the ATM, just in case we wanted give Sandi a bonus.

"You probably don't have to give her cash Mikey, she's still going to get her normal commission," Steph reasoned.

"She saved us at least a couple of thousand that we probably wouldn't have gotten if she didn't put herself out there," I said. "Don't you think we should help her out?

"I'm like you yesterday, I'm not sure if that was all an act or not," she admitted. "Have it ready in case we decide we want to give her something."

I put in three hundred into the envelope and put it in my inside jacket pocket. I parked the car in the front of the dealership and we went inside to find Sandi. She was with another client but waved and put up one hand to signal five minutes. We sat in a couple of chairs and watched her.

"Oh she's good," Steph said. "Look how she's standing close, and touches his arm when she points something out. She knows just how to use her charms without doing anything overt."

"More power to her I guess," I replied. "She's using everything in her arsenal to make a sale. The guys aren't with clients so either he asked for her by name or just for a woman."

The decent looking guy was probably in his early thirties and was taking any opportunity to check her out when she wasn't looking, like when she bent over to show how the seat worked or when her top opened a bit to show some cleavage. Finally, she asked him something and he replied. She smiled and walked him over to a shelving unit and pulled out a brochure while he watched her butt in tight dress pants.

She walked back over and stood close to him to show him a couple of different pages. She then handed it over to him, along with her card and walked him to the door, giving him a big smile as he left.

She let out a big breath and then looked over at us and grinned.

"Hey guys, sorry to keep you waiting" she said, walking up to us. "I couldn't be too rude; he was referred to me by another customer."

"That's ok, it was fun watching him ogle you while you worked your charms," Steph said with a grin.

"He was pretty obvious about it, wasn't he," she said with a laugh. "I'll probably get asked for a date if he works up the nerve. He's not bad looking but a little old for me. Anyway, let's go look at your Escape and you can check it out before signing the release forms."

She led us to a well light back garage/showroom area where the deep red Escape shined in the light.

"Wow, it looks good in here," Steph said, walking around the SUV.

I walked around it from the other direction and looked for dings, scratches or other imperfections, luckily finding none. I looked underneath and everything looked normal. Steph got in the driver's side and I got in the passenger side and we looked around.

Sandi came up to Steph's window and asked, "How does everything look?"

"So far so good," Steph replied as I nodded.

"Good, now let me show you all the features," she said.

For the next fifteen minutes she went over all the items in the cockpit and then had us get out and follow her to the front. The engine compartment was explained and then the back hatch area. Finally she pronounced us ready to go. She led us back to her desk and had us sign for the vehicle. We both signed for it and then she handed over the two sets of keys.

"It's been a pleasure working with you and thank you so much for buying a car from me," she said with a smile. "Please call me if you have any issues with the vehicle."

"Thank you, you made it almost a pleasant experience," Steph said.

We walked back to the back showroom and Steph nodded to me.

I got up closer to Sandi and handed her the envelope after I made sure no one was around.

"Here's a little something to cover the some of the bonus you lost, we appreciate all you did for us," I told her.

"You didn't have to do that Mike," she said, looking shocked. "Thank you very much; it will definitely help pay the rent."

"You're welcome Sandi, thanks for everything," I said.

She walked over to Steph and they hugged while Sandi thanked her. Finally she opened the big garage door and Steph drove the Escape out. Sandi walked me back to the front door and shook hand and thanked me again before I left. Steph was waiting and I pulled out behind her and we drove home. She parked in the back while I parked Bessie on the street and met her at the back door.

"How was the drive?" I asked.

"Great, so much more smooth than Bessie," she smirked. "I'm higher up too so I can see everything so much better."

"Good, I feel better you're in a safer car now," I said.

"You'll be driving it too," she said.

"When we're together maybe, but I'm still going to drive Bessie to the arena," I told her. "You need to get a parking pass for a lot near the main campus and maybe for the arena too."

"I'll do that tomorrow," she agreed as we went downstairs to the apartment.

We put our bags and the car information down before looking in the fridge for something to eat. We found some leftovers and heated them up in the microwave while we got into some bum around clothes.

After eating we studied a bit before watching a hockey game together. Steph insisted so she could learn more about the game from an expert. I told her a few things about some of the defensive sets both teams were playing and told her about cycling the puck. I turned if off after the second period and turned her onto her stomach.

"It's time for your massage," I said as she laid her head on her crossed arms.

"Finally!" she said with a giggle.

Her giggles turned to sighs as I started on her shoulders and neck. Her back came next through her tee shirt and I could feel her muscles relax as I carried on down her body. I quickly bypassed her butt, just caressing her hips and continued with her legs. When I finished with her stocking feet I patted her on the butt and told her to turn over.

She groaned but rolled over onto her back and I proceeded back up her body, avoiding her more erogenous zones. I finished about ten minutes later, planting a kiss on her lips. Her eyes opened and she gave me a smile.

"That was very nice Mikey, I'm so relaxed I could fall asleep," she said.

"Well, that was part one," I told her with a smile. "Sit up for a second and we'll get you ready for stage two."

"Do I have to?" she whined.

"Yes you do, now up you get," I told her as I pulled her up by her hands.

I reached for the bottom of her tee shirt and pulled it up over her head. She had already taken off her bra so I got to see her beautiful breasts as I dropped the shirt on the other side of the bed.

"Oh, I like where this is going," she said as she wrapped her arms around my neck and kissed me.

I kissed her back and then gently pushed her away before telling her to lie on her stomach again.

"Maybe I don't like where this is going," she said with a pout as she did what I asked.

"Oh, you will, I guarantee it," I said with a chuckle.

I started from her shoulders again, but this time it was a sensual caress rather than a deep muscle massage. I lightly ran my fingers and hands around her body, brushing the sides of her breasts and the other sensitive spots. I ran my fingers along her pants from side to side and then up to her breasts.

"Hmm, I'm liking this again," she moaned.

After a bit of teasing I lightly grasped her sweats and she got the hint as she raised her hips up to allow me to pull them down to her knees. I then worked them off her legs and then caressed her legs from her feet up to her thighs.

I had kept her boy short underwear on and caressed her wonderful butt through them. Soon I had her panting as she opened her legs allowing me to caress her from behind. I reached below and rubbed her though the underwear as she arched herself up to my hand. Her juices had already soaked them and she gasped as she opened up. I rubbed her for a while until she was moaning out loud, begging me to take her.

I reached for her shorts and pulled them off before getting undressed myself as she turned to see what I was doing. She got up on all fours and moved back to the edge of the bed where I had stood up to get out of my clothes. She reached for Big Mike and pulled me towards her, rubbing the head through her wet pussy. After getting it all lubricated and using the head to rub her clit for a bit, she pointed it into the correct passage and eased herself back on it.

I helped by thrusting forward gently as I slid inside her tight wet pussy. We both moaned as I bottomed out. I eased out and then pushed back in slowly again until she joined in the movement. She started thrusting back as I came forward and we ground harder against each other. She let out a groan and sped up her thrusts. Within a few minutes she was going wild with her thrusts back and loudly urging me to fuck her harder.

I sped up and she screamed as she came suddenly, her pussy squeezing me as I kept thrusting for a bit. She slumped her body down to the mattress but I kept her hips up and continued making love to her as she moaned. I slowed down but still thrust deep into her and she eventually roused herself as she got back into it.

"God, Michael, that was so good and you're making me hot again," she said, looking over her shoulder as she got up on her elbows and pushed back.

"I'm glad you enjoyed the first one, and I'm sure you'll enjoy the next one too, I replied with a grin.

"No, not another one, the last one almost killed me," she said with a moan.

I chuckled and reached around her leg and massaged her clit to get her primed again.

"Oh yeah, that's the spot, yeah rub my clit as you fuck me," she said, gasping after each thrust.

I sped up and she started thrusting back again as she bit the sheet to stop from screaming. I diddled her clit for a bit longer and then stood up, grasped her hips and started fucking her hard. She was tearing the sheets with her hands as she came again with a scream which triggered my release deep inside her. I shouted and thrust a couple of times into her before staying deep inside her and resting. Her pussy milked my cock until I finally pulled out and lay down beside her. She put her hips down and pulled herself beside me and collapsed on my chest.

"That was one hell of a massage," she said weakly.

"Damn right it was," I said with a grin.

"I'm not going to be able to get up," she said.

"That's ok, it's late, just go to sleep and we'll clean up in the morning," I said, pulling the covers over both of us.

She hugged me tight and said, "I love you Mikey, you're never ever getting rid of me, I'm hooked on you."

"I'm glad to hear it, because it's mutual, I love you too," I told her. "Good night Princess."

"Good night Sweetie," she mumbled before starting to lightly snore.

I followed her shortly into a dreamless sleep as well.

Wednesday's classes were reviews and it was also the day that both Steph and I signed up for next semester's classes. Team councillors met with both of us, once Fred explained the situation, and we got into the same classes where we could. Thursday's one programming class was also a review.

Practices continued with me at both forward and defence about even. Thursday's rookie practice was all at the forward position and I did much better than the previous one.

On Thursday evening we got the news from the girls in New York that the price was agreed upon for the condo at three hundred and thirty five thousand dollars and the closing was set for the fifteenth. We had a celebratory bowl of ice cream and made love before falling asleep.

We had our usual Friday morning practice as tonight's game was at home. I played defence for the entire practice with John to get ready for the game. Fred talked up the game as Michigan State were our bitter school rivals, though I really didn't feel any different having them as an opponent than any other school. I guess not coming from Michigan didn't instil the hatred for the in state rival like some of the other guys on the team or the fans.

Steph and I studied for the afternoon, going over the middle third of the Logic course along with the second midterm. I drove us to the arena in the new Escape and Steph sat with Amanda while the team had supper together and then got changed to take the pregame warm-up.

Finally we were ready to play. As we took to the ice we saw more than a few Michigan State fans in attendance with their green and white jerseys, but it was prominently maize and blue.

John and I started as the third pairing on defence, so we sat on the bench and watched the first two lines just feel each other out. We jumped on the ice as the teams changed on the fly and followed the third line into their zone. The forwards had the puck in deep and John snuck in from the point into the high slot, hoping for a pass. The Spartans gained control of the puck and passed it out of their zone to a speedy forward. I backed away at the first sign that they had control and was in position when he took the pass. He just got his head up when I hit him with a clean check. I made sure not to leave my feet or hit him in the head.

He flew a few feet to the side and landed hard on the ice while I raced to the puck that dribbled into our zone. I circled around and wired it up to Brad Eddings, the third line right winger just getting out of their zone. I skated hard back up to get into the play while their forward was trying to get up off the ice. I was wide open as I came in past their blue line and Shawn, the centre, set me up with a beautiful soft pass to step into.

I wound up while skating full bore and stepped into the pass with all my might. My reputation must have proceeded me because everyone cleared the front of the net, even my forwards. I aimed for right beside the goalie's head on the stick side and it was in the net as the goalie, like any sane person would, ducked his head out of the way when he went down in his butterfly position. The red light came on and the crowd cheered as my teammates came out to the blueline to congratulate me. We skated to the bench as the Spartan trainer helped the forward I hit to the bench.

After that, things got a bit chippy as the Spartans starting getting physical, taking the body rather than the puck any chance they could. When John and I got back on a couple shifts later with the second line, two of their forwards tried to hit me into the next century when we all went into the corner to get the puck. One missed and I leaned into the other one so it sounded much worse than it was. I chipped the puck around the net and John got it up the ice.

I untangled from the pair of them and skated hard to get back in the play while they were busy talking trash. I ignored them and raced them into their zone. This time John was open and got a hard shot off at the net that deflected away to the corner off a leg. The puck was tied up long enough for a face-off to be called.

They won the face-off and we backed out of their zone. They came out slowly so John and I kept backing up until we hit our blue line and the forwards lined up in our neutral zone trap. Their defenceman tried to carry it up too far and our forwards converged on him quickly. He made a hurried pass to a forward along the far boards and John plastered him to the boards. I skated over and grabbed the loose puck and brought it back up the ice and dumped in deep into their zone before peeling off for a change.

"Nice hit there John," I congratulated him with a grin.

"Hey, you're not the only one that can hit you know," he replied with a laugh.

Near the end of the period, Gary, the centre from the first line, scored on a nice deflection of a shot from the point. The period ended with the score two to nothing.

Fred let us rest for a while and then just told us to keep up the neutral zone pressure and watch out for them to retaliate physically.

The second period had the Spartans coming out hard trying to turn the momentum around in their favour. They had us on our heels for a bit, keeping the puck in our zone for most of the first half of the period. They scored a goal to make it two to one on a nifty play from behind the net.

Fred came over to John and me and told us to cause some havoc next shift by hitting everything in sight. We hopped over the boards and joined the fourth line out at centre ice. Peter won the draw and John dumped the puck across the zone into the far corner just as I crossed the line. I raced their defenceman to the puck and let him get to it just before I did so I could paste him to the boards. Peter swooped in to get the loose puck as Adam covered my point position. I went to the front of the net and battled hard with their defence to provide a screen.

He tried to push me out of the goalie's sight line while I pushed back to keep us both blocking the view. The puck got back to John who rifled a shot at the net. It snuck through and was by the goalie before he even saw it. I broke away from the defenceman and skated over to John to congratulate him on the goal.

Play continued with the score three to one for a while longer as the Spartans kept on with the rough play. One of their big forwards on the first line crushed Gary to the boards and he had to be helped off the ice. It was just the first of many questionable hits, slashes and other dirty tactics they did to get under our skin.

With Gary out for a bit, Sam had Peter, our fourth line centre, take over for him rather than move all three centres up one line. That meant we basically had three lines unless Peter went out with his old line mates as well.

Finally one of the Spartans went too far and got called for a slash and we had a power play opportunity. John and I joined the second line out for the face off in their zone. Henry won the face off and John stepped into the puck, aiming low for the near corner to get a tip. The goalie stopped the shot and angled the rebound for the corner. Ron chased the puck and wrapped it hard around the net. I raced to the boards and stopped the puck from going out of the zone. A big forward came out to hit me, the same guy who had hit Gary so hard. I banked the puck off the boards and ducked around the hit so that he crashed hard into the boards by himself.

I took the pass to myself and proceed down the right hand boards as Kerry switched back to cover the point. I faked a pass back to John at the left point that froze the other forward and drove to the net. The two remaining defencemen converged on me as I tried to go between them, or so they thought. Just before we all collided I flipped a short pass over the defenceman's stick to a wide open Henry. As the three of us crashed together, Henry was able to shoot the puck past the distracted goalie to make the score four to one.

I got untangled from the two defencemen and skated back with John after congratulating Henry on his goal.

"You just embarrassed Joe Randall, the first round pick of the Philadelphia Flyers back there at the point," John told me as we sat down.

"The big forward?" I asked. "He's a first round pick?"

"Yep, a pretty high one too, like six or seventh last year," John informed me. "You better be careful, he'll be looking to get some payback, especially if the score gets out of hand."

"Well, the coaches don't want me to fight so he's out of luck," I replied.

The second period ended with the score four to one and the crowd screamed their approval as we headed to the locker room.

"Good period gentlemen, we handled their physical play quite well so far," Fred told us while we had a drink and munched on some oranges. "We need to keep the pressure on them so they don't come back in this one. I expect things to get rough out there so get rid of the puck quickly and keep your head up and on a swivel. Gary is out for the rest of the game so Peter will continue to centre the first line and double shift sometimes on the fourth line."

We relaxed for the next ten minutes and then marched back out for the third period. Henry's second line started along with John and me on defence. The Spartans put out the line with the big forward, Joe Randall, and two large defencemen to line up against us. Henry won the draw and John delayed with the puck until two forwards came to him and passed it over to me. I took the pass and skated hard up the ice as Randall skated towards me to either dislodge the puck or hit me. I waited until the last second and passed it up to Kerry skating towards their blue line and braced for the hit.

We were both going full out and I felt like I hit a locomotive as we bounced off each other. I staggered for a couple of steps and then kept going while he went to one knee after losing his balance. The crowd cheered as he seemed to get the worst of it. I set up at the point but kept an eye out for Randall to come back and retaliate. Henry had the puck deep and the three forwards started a cycle in the opposite corner so I moved a bit to the centre of the ice, still near the blueline.

Randall came back in the zone and went after Ron and hit him hard into the boards when he had the puck. It squirted free and the Spartans skated out with it. When they got to centre ice the defenceman dumped it into my corner and I raced back to get it, with Randall hot on my heels. We rode each other into the boards and he tried to slew foot me, meaning he tried to take my feet out from underneath of me so I flew back onto my back. I braced myself and slowed up just enough to get a shoulder into him. We battled hard for the puck as he tried to shove me into the boards. I kicked the puck up the boards as I leaned into him to keep him away from it.

Kerry picked up the loose puck and passed it out of the zone as I pushed Randall away when he tried to hold me back.

"Who the hell do you think you are rookie?" he asked as he slashed me on the back of the leg. "Let's go you punk."

I ignored him as I skated to the bench.

"You're such a pussy Stewart," Randall said as he skated by, going to his bench.

The game got rougher as time went on. The Spartans got called for a cross checking call and John and I got on the ice. Randall was put on in a penalty killing role.

We got the puck into their zone and were passing it around the outside of the box. It came to me at the right point and Randall came out tight to pressure me. I faked the shot and passed it over to John when Randall went down to block the shot. I skated by him and John hit me with a quick return pass. I faked another shot and passed it hard to Daniel, the left winger, who was at the side of the net. He redirected it into the open net as the goalie had come out to challenge my shot. The crowd cheered as we celebrated the goal. Randall gave me a murderous glare as we skated by each other and I just grinned.

Randall stayed out and ran a couple of our players from the fourth line before skating by the bench.

"You're next Stewart," he said as he went by before leaving the ice.

Fred came by and said softly, "Mike, since you're not playing tomorrow anyway, you're free to take him on if you want. Just make sure he takes off his stuff first."

"Thanks coach, I think we've had just enough of him for today," I said with a grin.

"Be careful, he's pretty good," he cautioned me before moving away.

With about eight minutes left John and I got back on the ice for a faceoff in their zone.

I took the right point and Randall looked at me like a lion looks at a gazelle. I grinned at him and then watched the faceoff. The puck went to his side and I went down the boards to hit him as he tried to clear the puck.

"That's it, we're going no matter what!" he shouted as he dropped his stick and gloves.

I dropped mine as well and then we both reached for our helmets and took them off. He came charging at me and tried to grab my right shoulder with his left hand as he swung his right at my face. Since I was left handed it didn't work out like he planned as I swung my left at his head as he came in. His right hit me on my cheek as mine hit him on his jaw.

I snapped and went into berserker mode for a minute as I barely felt his blows as I swung at him again. I think we traded a few blows and then I hit him twice in the face and then in the nose and blood splattered as I felt it give. He tried to duck out of the way, but I had grabbed him with my right hand, so I pulled him back towards me and gave him a hit to the stomach and then another to his face before he suddenly became dead weight in my right hand.

I held him up for a couple of seconds and then lowered him to the ice as the linesmen came in to break it up. The crowd went wild as the players on our bench banged their sticks on the outside of the boards. I was escorted to the bench as the game was over for me for fighting. The Spartan's trainer rushed on the ice as I passed their bench and I looked to see Randall just starting to try and sit up.

The guys all patted me on the back as I walked by and went down the hallway to the dressing room, with Chris Jenkins, the trainer, along with Wendy his assistant, following.

"Way to take care of that asshole Mike," Chris said as he caught up to me. "He certainly didn't expect that from a rookie!"

"He's been taking cheap shots at us all game, I finally had enough and Fred gave me the green light," I told him as we went directly into the training room.

"Well, let's get your jersey and shoulder pads off and I'll stitch up your cheek before looking at your hands," Chris instructed me.

They both helped get my jersey, shoulder and elbow pads off and then had me lie on the table. After Wendy cleaned the cut on my left cheek, Chris gave me a local and then stitched up the cut with twenty five stitches to limit scarring. I heard a loud cheer during the repairs and then another one signalling the end of the game.

Chris checked out my jaw and my teeth where Randall had hit me again without me even feeling it. There were a couple of cuts inside my mouth but they weren't anything major enough for stitches. My lip was swollen and my eye was swelling shut a bit but the local kept the pain away. He had me sit up while he washed his hands and Wendy put a bandage over the cut.

"Ok, let's check out your left hand," he said, taking my hand in his and turning it over to look at the knuckles. "Does it hurt anywhere?"

"The cut between on the knuckle hurts a bit but nothing seems broken" I told him as I moved the fingers and then made a fist.

"Good; I'll put in a few stitches and it should heal before the next game," He stated, lying it on my lap while they prepared for the next repair.

Chris had Wendy give me the local in my hand and then stitch up the cut wearing surgical gloves. He held the hand tight and guided her through the procedure until it was done to his satisfaction. Wendy cleaned the surrounding area and put a bandage over it to keep it safe.

"There you go Mike, all sewn up," Wendy said, giving a big sigh of relief.

"Good job Wendy, you'll be a pro in no time," I said. "Thanks, and to you too Chris, I appreciate you taking care of me so well."

"Our pleasure Mike, you made sure no one else will be hurt by that that goon tonight or tomorrow," Chris said.

"I think he'll be out for more than one game," Wendy piped up, patting my arm. "You give Chris or me a call if you get dizzy or start feeling sick later ok?"

"Good for you Wendy to remember that," Chris praised her. "You might have a concussion from the punches so is Vicky home this weekend?"

"Nope, but I have a friend staying over that can monitor me," I told them.

"Good, have him or her wake you up a few times tonight if they can," Chris instructed me.

"Will do, and thanks again," I said, standing up slowly as they watched.

Wendy put a towel around my shoulders and they grabbed my equipment for me. We walked down the hall and Chris kept the reporters and other people away from me and got me inside the locker room quickly.

"Come back after your shower and we'll put on a fresh bandage on both cuts," he instructed me before dumping my jersey in the laundry and following me to my locker.

Fred was talking and I tried to slip in unnoticed but he saw me and had to say something to draw everyone's attention.

"Well, I see Chris and Wendy have been making improvements to your face again Mr. Stewart," he commented dryly. "So good of you to finally join us after your rest in the training room."

The guys all laughed as I moved over to my locker.

"Sorry coach, I fell asleep in there for a few minutes while Chris and Wendy practiced their knitting," I said. "I hope you guys didn't let in too many goals while I was napping."

They all laughed as I sat down to relax for a bit and Chris dumped the rest of my equipment nearby before heading out.

"We managed to score a goal without you on the ice Mr. Stewart so I think you can take tomorrow night off," Fred said with a grin.

"Thanks, it appears I need my beauty sleep," I replied.

"You better take the rest of the year off then," Adam Steel said with a grin.

Another round of laughter followed and then Fred continued his speech while I continued to get out of my equipment. He finished and stepped down which allowed me to get to the shower. I quickly washed my hair and my body and got out before the bandages got soaked. I got into my good clothes and grabbed my wallet and keys and then headed back to the training room.

Wendy had the bandages ready and said, "This is going to hurt."

She gently pulled the bandage off my face, dabbed the cut with some gauze and then applied another bandage over it.

"Your poor face Michael, you're going to be black and blue for a week," she said as she gently cupped my face with her hand.

"Like Fred said, it will be an improvement," I said, trying to smile, but wincing instead as the local wore off.

"You still have that pain medication from before?" she asked, looking worried.

"Yeah, it's in the cupboard at home I think," I replied.

"Take a couple of them when you get home," she instructed me as she started on my hand. "You'll need it to dull the pain enough to sleep."

"Ok, thanks Wendy, you always take good care of me," I said.

"You make it too much of a habit Michael," she said with a frown.

Soon she was done with the hand and I thanked her again before heading back to the locker room. I waited until Frank came back and asked him about tomorrow.

"Obviously you're not playing but I'll talk to Fred about whether you should even go with us to Lansing," Frank told me. "It might not be such a great idea to subject you to their fans in your condition, especially after what you did to Randall. Fred or I will give you a call later in the morning; the bus doesn't leave until the afternoon anyway."

"Ok Frank, I'm going to head home now, I'm starting to throb," I told him.

"Someone there to keep an eye out for you?" he asked.

"Yep, got it covered," I assured him. "Have a good night Frank."

"You too Mike," he replied.

John was waiting with Amanda and Steph outside the locker room and both the girls took one look at my face and rushed over.

"Michael, are you ok?" Steph asked worriedly as she put her hand on my arm.

"That looks painful," Amanda added right afterwards.

"Ladies, don't worry, it actually makes him look better," John said with a laugh.

Steph gave him a dirty look and Amanda actually elbowed him in the stomach.

"Oof," he said as the breath whooshed out of him.

"If you don't have anything good to say, keep your mouth shut John," Amanda told him.

"Yes dear," he said.

"So, how are you Michael?" Steph asked.

"Chris and Wendy stitched up a cut here," I said, indicating my cheek. "I have a couple of cuts in my mouth and another stitched up one on my hand. They all are throbbing a bit so I'm going to go home and take some pain killers."

"You're all swollen and you're getting a black eye," Steph said, reaching up to touch my face but stopping before she actually did. She looked around and then said, "Let's get you home and taken care of."

She turned and led the way and we followed her down the hall.

"Man, you sure cleaned his clock," John said quietly as the girls walked in front of us.

"Right now it doesn't feel like it," I said.

"He had to be helped off the ice and the trainer's towel was drenched in blood as he held it to his face," John told me. "You knocked him out there for a bit, didn't you?"

"I guess so, he was dead weight there for a few seconds before I lowered him to the ice," I admitted. "I lost it there for a minute."

"Yeah, I thought so, he hit you a couple of times and you didn't even flinch, you just kept hitting him," he enthused. "You've just destroyed one of the best fighters in the entire college league."

"He wanted to fight, not me," I said. "He got me mad picking on the smaller players and then trying it with me."

"Yeah, Gary is still woozy from his hit," John told me. "I'm not sure he's going to be able to play tomorrow."

"I might not make the trip tomorrow, since I can't play anyway," I told him as we got to the lobby.

"That might be for the best," he said. "It's going to get nasty in that building tomorrow night, they love Randall over there."

"I can't believe he's a high first round pick," I said.

"Now you know why I'm sure you'll be in the top five," he said seriously.

"Yeah right," I said, scoffing at him.

"You just had a goal, two assists and beat the crap out of a top seven first round pick," he told me. "It's better than a Gordie Howe hat trick and top it off Randall was a minus four tonight."

"Alright boys, enough about hockey," Amanda said, interrupting us. "Steph needs to get Mike home and so do we."

"Yes Ma'am," John said with a grin. "Hey, I bet some of the sports shows will carry the fight either tonight or tomorrow. You should watch it to see it from an outside perspective."

"Good night John," Steph said, dragging me away and out the door.

We walked to the new SUV and she remotely unlocked it and got in the driver's side while I walked to the passenger side and got in. She got us on the road and then said, "I was so scared watching you fight that giant, Mikey, but I'm glad you cleaned his clock. He was picking on everyone out there. Are you really ok?"

"I'll be fine Princess," I reassured her. "You'll have to keep an eye out for me tonight; they want to make sure I don't have a concussion. You'll have to wake me up every couple of hours or so. I feel fine and don't have any of the symptoms but they want to be cautious anyway."

"Ok, I can set the alarm after every two hours and get you up," she said.

We got to the apartment soon after and got inside quickly.

She gave me a big hug and lightly kissed me on the other side of my mouth as soon as we got in the door.

"I wanted to do that as soon as I saw you but I held back," she admitted. "I was so worried and concerned for you Mikey."

"It's all ok Princess, it's part of the job," I told her. "I'm sorry we can't be open with each other, but I know how much you care."

"Ok, are you hungry?" she asked.

"I'm a bit hungry but I think I'll let the cuts in my mouth heal a bit tonight," I told her. "I'm going to take a couple of painkillers and lie down for a bit."

I got them out of the cupboard and took two with some water before heading to the bedroom. I got out of my clothes and into some shorts and a tee shirt before lying down on the bed. I switched on the TV and found a Detroit sports broadcast that was showing highlights of the Red Wing's game this evening.

Steph came in and got changed and I divided my time between the TV and her disrobing. She grinned as she caught me looking as she shimmied out of her tight jeans but kept on her number 5 jersey with my name on the back.

"You, my Princess, have the most scrumptious derriere I have ever seen," I told her as she let the jersey cover it up.

"Why thank you kind sir," she replied with a grin. "I'm glad you like it but I really didn't have anything to do with it being so delectable."

"That's ok, I still love you anyway," I said, grinning back at her.

"Oh look, they're showing the game," she pointed to the TV.

I turned up the volume and watched as the announcer talked about the game as they showed the goals. They also showed some of the hits Randall was handing out and they commented on how nasty some of them were. The announcer then came back on screen.

"Rookie Defenceman Mike Stewart, already the leading candidate for rookie of the year and a possible Hobey Baker candidate, scored one goal, had two assists before taking on Joe Randall, the Philadelphia Flyer's first round pick last year. For those who are squeamish about blood, I suggest you look away before we show the fight."

I watched the film and it showed Randall making the first move to drop the gloves. After the first punches that we traded, it showed that we hit each other four more times before I got two into his face and then broke his nose. I doubled him over with a punch to the stomach and then the final one to his jaw knocked him out cold. At least I didn't let him drop onto the ice as I lowered him to the ice gently.

The film went on for a few seconds as the crowd was shown cheering as I skated away. The camera zoomed back to show their trainer being helped over to Randall and trying to stem the bleeding from his nose and mouth. They filmed him being helped off the ice by two players who passed him to two of the training staff to get him to the dressing room.

"Joe Randall suffered extensive facial damage and will be out for an undetermined amount of time," the announcer spoke up after the clip ended. "Mike Stewart had some stitches and will sit out the mandatory one game suspension for fighting and miss tomorrow's rematch in Lansing."

"Wow, that was scarier than seeing it live," Steph said, sitting down on the bed. "And I was scared big time at the arena."

"Hey, you know I would never hurt you or any woman right?" I asked. "You don't have to be scared of me Princess."

"Mikey, don't be silly, I'm not scared of you, I'm scared for you; he really could have hurt you," she said, turning to me. "He was bigger and older than you with way more experience. I don't know how you took those punches and kept on fighting."

"I didn't feel them at the time," I told her. "I go a bit berserk I guess."

I switched the channel to ESPN and turned the volume down as they were showing basketball. Steph went to the bathroom to get ready for bed. I closed my eyes and rested for a bit as the painkillers started to work.

I must have dozed off for a bit because Steph shook me awake and had the TV volume up.

"ESPN is covering the fight nationally," she told me and turned to watch.

"There was a heavyweight fight tonight in the Michigan - Michigan State NCAA hockey game in Ann Arbor tonight and it was a doozy," said one announcer. "Joe Randall, a first round draft pick of the Philadelphia Flyers, got it on with Mike Stewart, a rookie defenceman for the Wolverines. As you can see they went toe to toe for a few punches but Stewart took over and laid a licking on Randall. Randall was knocked out cold and was lucky Stewart didn't let him fall onto the ice to hit the back of his head on the ice.

Randall had to be helped off the ice and will require extensive facial surgery to repair the damage caused by Stewart. Stewart will miss the tomorrow's rematch in Lansing due to the mandatory one game suspension for fighting."

The two announcers then talked to each other and commented on the fight.

"I haven't seen such a brutal fight in a long time Pete," one announcer said.

"I haven't either Dan, but boy this kid can not only fight, he scored a goal and had two assists in the game, which Michigan won six to one," Pete replied. "He's at the top of the scoring lists and he's just an eighteen year old rookie defenceman."

"He's eligible for the NHL draft in June and me thinks he will be off the board quite early," Dan added.

They moved on to other sports and I shut off the TV.

"Well that puts you more on an equal footing with the twins," Steph said with a smile. "If that gets replayed a few times people will know who you are next weekend when you go to New York."

"Yeah, they're think I'm a thug," I said bitterly.

"A few of them, but all the other things they're saying about you will get you noticed too," she said. "Hopefully your face will heal a bit before you go."

"What, you don't think I'll be photogenic enough?" I asked with a little grin.

"We don't want to scare the children do we?" she responded. "Ok, it's time for lights out after I set the alarm."

She moved to the clock and set it for two am and then slid in beside me. She got up on her knees and kissed the other side of my mouth gently and then gave me a hug.

"How do you feel Mikey?" she asked, looking down at me.

"My face and hand are a bit sore but my head's ok," I told her.

"Good, now you get some sleep and I'll check on you in a couple of hours," she said as she cuddled up next to me in her jersey.

"Hey, aren't you going to take that off?" I asked.

"Nope, you don't need any temptations and I like wearing my man's jersey any time I can," she said primly. "You could bring one of yours home for me after you've played in it. I'd love to sleep in that forever."

"I'll see what I can do Princess, but it will be even bigger than the one you're wearing," I told her.

"Well, you'd have better access to what's underneath then, wouldn't you?" she asked with a giggle.

"Like I would love to have right now, you little minx," I said, caressing her on top of the jersey.

"As much as I'd love that Sweetie, I'm not going to let you get all worked up tonight," she said. "If you all ok through the night we can have some fun in the morning, I promise. I'm disappointed too; my man just showed me again how well he can take care of me."

"Ok, I'm holding you to your promise in the morning Princess," I told her as I put my head back on the pillow.

"Goody, I'm counting on it," she replied as she put her head down on my chest. "I love you Mikey."

"I love you too Princess," I replied and hugged her close.

I replayed the game and the fight in my head for a while and was a bit ashamed about how I went overboard at the end of the fight. I had lost control of myself and wondered if it could happen again. Randall was hurt bad and, even as much of a jerk as he had been during the game, he didn't deserve having to go through what could be weeks of painful recovery.

With these thoughts swirling around in my head it was a wonder I got to sleep at all, but I must have drifted off because Steph shook me awake at two to check that I was ok.

"Mikey, how are you feeling?" she asked, as I woke up.

"Ok I guess, I'm surprised I even slept," I said groggily.

"How's your head?" she asked, peering into my eyes as I squinted in the light.

"Tired but there's no pain in my head, just my face," I said. "My mouth is really hurting."

"I looked at the painkillers, you need to wait until morning to have another couple," she replied. "Ok, your eyes look ok and you don't have any symptoms, so you can go back to sleep."

"Yes nurse Stephanie," I said as I closed my eyes. "You need to get a sexy outfit."

She giggled and kissed me lightly on my good side before rolling over to fiddle with the alarm before shutting off the light. I felt her move back to my side as I slipped back asleep.

Steph repeated the wake up drills at four and six and wouldn't let me go practice when I wanted to go and at least skate.

"No way Mister, you can't shoot with that hand and your face is even more swollen this morning," she said. "Take these two and sleep in for once."

"I can still skate at least," I said after swallowing the painkillers.

"You will stay in this bed Michael Stewart or I'll get very angry with you," she threatened as she sat on top of me. "Besides, I'll give you all the exercise you need later if you're good and listen to Nurse Stephanie."

I knew when to give up and said, "Ok, you win."

"You really are a genius, aren't you?" she said with a smirk.

"And you are a minx," I replied, pulling her down for a hug.

"Ok, more sleep for both of us," she said, sliding down beside me.

Her legs were mostly uncovered by the jersey as she got off me and I reached down to caress them as she got comfortable.

"Hmmm, your hands feel great Mikey, but I'm pretty tired, it wasn't easy getting up every two hours," she said as she burrowed back into her nest.

"Sorry to make you do that Princess, I'll make it up to you," I whispered. "Get some sleep now."

I fell back asleep surprisingly and didn't wake up until nine when the phone rang. I reached over and picked it up.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Michael Stewart! How is it we find out you were in the fight on TV rather than from yourself?" asked a very pissed off Vicky.

"Hi Darling, it was late and we didn't want to bother you," I said. "I'm ok, just a cut on the cheek and my hand. I'm fine really."

"Put Stephanie on the phone and I'll get the real story," she demanded.

"Fine, hang on a sec," I told her and then handed the phone over to a still groggy Steph.

"Here, she wants to talk to you," I said, before heading to the washroom.

When I got back, she was still reassuring Vicky.

"Like I said, he's just a bit swollen and cut up, with no signs of a concussion Vicky," Steph said. "He even wanted to go practice this morning but I wouldn't let him."

She listened for a minute and then spoke, "I know it's my job to take care of him, but I can't stop him from fighting Vicky. I woke him up every two hours and checked him and I'll take him back for a check-up with Chris at the rink after we get cleaned up. I care for him as much as you do, you know."

Another pause and then she replied, "I'm sorry I didn't call you, I was more concerned with making sure he was ok. It won't happen again, I promise."

I moved to the bed and indicated to Steph that I wanted the phone back.

"Vicky, Mike wants to talk to you," she said and handed it to me.

"That's enough with bitching at Stephanie, you know she didn't do anything wrong," I said. "I'm sorry we didn't call, it was midnight before we got home and I thought it could wait until this morning. You usually don't watch the sport shows so I thought we had time."

"Bec was flipping through channels and she caught a glimpse of the Michigan colours so she stopped and watched the whole thing," Vicky told me. "So, I thought Fred didn't want you to fight?"

"He came over to me and said it was ok this time, since I wasn't going to play today anyway," I told her. "The guy was really hitting everyone and taking too many cheap shots at everyone, not just me. He put Gary out of the game earlier and slashed me pretty good on the back of the leg. Anyway, he started it."

"And I saw that you finished it Michael," she said dryly. "Next time just let us know, as soon as possible. You don't know how upset we were to see you go off the ice bleeding like that."

"Ok Darling, I promise we will call you the second I'm done the fight next time," I said. "I'll make sure someone has a phone on the bench and is dialling the number while I'm still on the ice."

"Ha Ha, don't give up your day job," she said. "Your other girlfriend is upset, talk to her for a bit."

"Sweetie, are you ok?" Bec came on the phone. "You took a few hits before you put down that asshole."

"Yeah, I'm ok Honey, just a couple of cuts and some swelling," I said. "Sorry to have upset you and Vicky."

"And Amy, just because she's not sleeping with you, doesn't mean she doesn't care for you too," Bec told me. "She was concerned about you too."

"Well, tell her that I'm ok and that I thank her for her concern," I responded. "Chris and Wendy patched me up and Steph made sure I didn't have a concussion. I was well taken care of."

"I glad to hear it, but I'm sad we can't be with you at times like this," she said sadly. "I wish we didn't have to be apart so much."

"Me too Becky, but I do love you very much," I said.

"I love you too Michael," she replied. "Vicky wants to talk to you now so I'll talk to you soon."

"Ok, bye for now," I told her.

"Hello?" Vicky asked.

"I'm here Vicky," I said.

"Look, I'm sorry I was a bitch, I overreacted after seeing you hurt," she said softly. "I love you so much and I hate not being there for you."

"I know, and I love you too Vicky," I replied. "You have to trust that I can handle things, especially with Steph here to help. We'll make sure you're in the loop next time."

"Ok Michael, but let's try not to have a next time," she said. "And tell Steph I'm sorry for yelling at her."

"I will," I agreed. "You three have a good morning."

"You two as well," she said. "Make sure you get checked out again this morning."

"Yes Mom," I said with a laugh. "Goodbye Vicky."

"Goodbye Sweetie," she answered.

"She says she's sorry for yelling at you Princess," I turned to Steph after hanging up the phone. "She was pretty upset seeing on the TV like that."

"I guess I would be too, but that wasn't my fault," she said, looking upset. "She didn't have to take it out on me."

"I know Princess and she knows that too," I agreed and moved over to her. "I should have thought about it as soon as we saw it on ESPN, but I didn't. They're my girlfriends and I didn't think to call them. It's my fault, not yours."

"That's right, it is your fault Mikey," she said as I hugged her tightly. "I'm going to make sure they know that later."

She stepped away with a grin on her face and walked to the bathroom. I watched her very shapely legs until she shut the door. The shower started a few minutes later as I retrieved the coffee maker and had eventually got it brewing a couple of cups for her.

I grabbed a diet coke and moved back to the bedroom and turned on the TV. ESPN was doing highlights of NHL hockey games from Friday night and then ran the fight again. I watched it again more to analyse the fight and I was surprised to see how easy it was to move him around with my right hand and to hold him up when he lost consciousness. The weight training had really improved my strength in the four months I had been doing it.

The broadcasters had finished with the fight but put up a list of possible first round draft picks and I was surprised to see I was in the top ten, currently sitting ninth.

"This list was done a week ago before last night' game and I think he will probably move up into fifth position in next week's listing," the one announcer said. "He will probably be the second defenceman taken in the draft after the kid from Sweden."

They moved onto other sports and I shut the TV off and sat there thinking about the draft. I finally accepted that, unless something really bad happened in the next six months, I would be picked by a NHL team and I would get a chance to play hockey for a living. It was so amazing to me that in four short months that this was happening to me. My dad had trained me much better than I thought he had, and I guess I inherited some of his talent. My recent growth spurt had contributed as well as the help of my coaches and teammates.

I realized it was still a long way away and I couldn't take anything for granted. Just because a commentator had said it, didn't mean that it would happen. I knew that I would probably be picked at some point in the draft, but I had to work my ass off to make sure a team wanted to expend a first round pick on me. I also knew that I had better not let this go to my head like I had heard it sometimes did to others.

I had been in deep thought for some time when I saw two tiny feet in my vision. My gaze rose up the beautiful legs, past her sexy hipster underwear and her flawless abdomen, slowed at her gorgeous breasts covered in the matching bra, and then settled on her lovely face, her eyes shining blue as she smiled at me.

"I had to pull out the big guns to get you out of your trance Mikey," she said as she grinned at me.

"Sorry Princess, I was thinking about some things," I said, giving her a smile. "You look wonderful this morning."

"Thank you kind Sir," she said with a smirk. "So are you going to let me in on the subject of your deep thoughts? Curing cancer, solving the current economic crisis, or the standard World Peace?"

"Sorry, nothing so noble I'm afraid," I said with a laugh. "I turned on the TV and the fight was on again on ESPN. After the clip, they predicted I would go in the top five draft picks of the first round. I was thinking how much help I had to get to this point and how much more I had to do to actually earn that spot. I also have to try and keep this from going to my head so I'm going to need you and the others to make sure I don't turn into an ass."

"Don't worry about that Mikey, we'll keep you down to earth," she assured me. "None of us will put up with you getting all puffed up with your importance. Besides, the twins will be infinitely more famous than you will be because hockey isn't anywhere as big as football or baseball is in this country. You might get more coverage in Canada then them but the guys who care about hockey are going to care more about your hot girlfriends than you anyway."

"So true, my three girlfriends are super hot aren't they," I said, reaching for her.

She danced out of the way with a laugh and said, "No fooling around this morning Mikey, we need to get you checked out before the team leaves. Let me get you a bag for your hand and you can have a quick shower before we head over there."

"You tempt me with your body and then run away," I said, standing up. "You are such a little minx Princess."

"You might get to see this body later but only if you get moving Mister!" she said as she pulled on a pair of jeans.

I watched as she wiggled her ass to get the up over her hips and do them up. She smirked at my stare and then covered up the rest of her body with a snug tee shirt. I groaned and then headed to the kitchen for a plastic bag and a rubber band. After undressing in the bathroom, I put my hand in the bag and put the rubber band over it with my right hand before stepping into the shower.

After awkwardly washing with my non-dominant hand I dried myself off and dabbed at the bandage on my cheek to get some of the water out of it. I wrapped up with the towel and went to get dressed. My caretaker had laid out clothes for me and she whistled from the doorway as I put on my underwear. I shook my head and continued to get dressed as she came to help take off the bag and get the tee-shirt over my head and my hand without hitting them.

"You clean up nice Mikey," she said, planting a soft kiss on my lips.

"So do you Princess," I replied as I caressed her back and her ass.

"None of that now Mister," she rebuked me. "Time to get you checked out and then you have to feed me."

"Yes Ma'am," I said as I continued to massage her ass.

"Mikey, I promise I'll take care of you when we get back ok?" she said in exasperation.

I let her go quickly and said, "Hey, you're not here to 'take care of me' as if it's part of your job."

"I didn't mean it like that, I just want to get you checked out as soon as possible," she replied. "I would love to drag you back to bed and make love to you right now. Your hands feel fantastic on me and I love that you find me attractive."

"No, I find you smoking hot and I can barely keep my hands off of you," I corrected her. "Just don't think you ever have to do anything with me because the twins are paying you."

"Ok Mikey, thanks for being such a good guy about it," she said. "Now, let's get you checked out."

She grabbed her purse and led the way out of the apartment and got into the driver's side after unlocking the vehicle with her remote. Ten minutes later we were in Chris's training room and he had me sitting on the table.

"Ok, let's look at your eyes for a second," Chris said as he shone a light into them. "Ok, look left, good. Now right, excellent, up and then down. Alright, there doesn't seem to be any damage to the left one close to where he hit you, other than a black eye around it. The swelling seems to have gone down. Are you having any headaches or dizziness?"

"Nope, I feel fine Chris," I told him.

"Good, now how about pain, any in the cheek bone or in your mouth besides the cuts?" he asked.

"My cheek is a bit sore and so is my jaw, but it's a more of a dull pain rather than broken bone pain every time you move it, if you get what I mean," I tried to explain.

"I understand perfectly Mike, your cheek and jaw will be sore for a week or so until the swelling goes down," he replied. "Are you taking any painkillers?"

"Yeah, the same ones for the cuts last time," I told him.

"Good, now let's look at the cuts," he said, and gently pulled the bandage off my cheek.

He cleaned it up and brought a mirror over to show me.

"Ok, it seems to be healing nicely, just oozing a bit," he said as I looked at the long cut. "It might make thin scar but nothing too bad. I'll bandage it up and you should keep it covered for the week until we get the stitches out, probably on Thursday or Friday. Now let's look at the hand."

He put the mirror back and then took the bandage off the cut on my left hand.

"Still no issues with the fingers or knuckles?" he asked as he manipulated them.

"Nope, a little sore but nothing painful," I replied.

"Ok, good," he said. "The cut looks good, and should heal fine if you don't move the hand too much. So no shooting until after we take the stitches out Friday morning. You have exams next week so practice will be limited. So just skate with no gloves or stick, if you go on the ice."

"Ok, sounds good Chris, thanks," I responded.

"On the topic of your hands and fighting, you're going to have to be very careful, you seem to cut real easy and you could damage them so bad that you might have to give up hockey all together," he informed me. "You're going to have to try and either toughen up the skin somehow or stop fighting."

"Any ideas on how to toughen up the skin?" I asked.

"Not sure, maybe boxing, or with some solution of brine or something," he suggested. "I'll ask one of the boxing trainers and get back to you on that."

"Thanks Chris, I appreciate all the help," I told him. "The weight training has really helped develop my strength and I needed it out there last night."

"Yeah, I noticed you controlled him pretty easily with your right hand, and you lowered him down with just one arm," Chris remarked. "You've certainly have gotten a lot stronger than it shows because he's listed as six foot four and two hundred and forty five pounds."

"He's a big boy and hit like one," I agreed.

He redid the bandages for both cuts and then told me to come back on Monday sometime for one more check. I thanked him again and we left to go see Fred.

"Hey coach," I said, when I stepped into the open door.

"Hey Mike, how are you feeling?" he asked in a cheerful mood.

"Not bad at all Coach, a bit sore but nothing's broken and the cuts will heal soon enough," I told him. "This is Stephanie; she looks after me for Vicky."

"Hello Stephanie, you have a big task, looking after this lug," Fred said with a smile.

"Hi Mr. Benson, it's nice to meet you," she replied. "And yes, lurch here is a handful, but we manage somehow. Don't worry, I'll make sure he gets where he needs to be on time and hopefully without a swelled head from all the TV coverage."

"I'm glad to hear it, a lot of eighteen year olds would let the media coverage and the accolades go to their head and start to believe all the hype," Fred responded. "I think between the twins and yourself you should be able to keep his feet on the ground."

"You have no idea," I said, shaking my head.

Fred laughed and then said, "Good, because it's going to get hectic around here, with sports writers and with the other stuff going on with the twins adding too it. Don't let all of that attention distract you from school and hockey, let alone your girlfriend."

"I won't," I told him. "So, what do you think about travelling with the team today?"

He looked me over and, after thinking about it for a bit, said, "I think you should stay here today. I just got the report on Mr. Randall and he's in pretty bad shape. He has a broken cheek bone, nose and jaw, let alone the various cuts he sustained in the fight. You even put a deep bruise on his abdomen that they are monitoring closely."

"Damn, I never meant to hurt him so bad," I said in shock. "He was an ass on the ice, but he didn't deserve all that."

"No one does Mike, but that's what can happen when two big guys fight," Fred told me. "You could have easily had that happen to you. From this side of your face, you didn't get off Scott free either. Don't feel too bad for him, he would have done the same to you if he could have. He started the fight and it was a fair fight between similarly sized opponents. In fact, he's had a lot more experience than you."

"Ok, but I maybe I should visit him or send him a note," I suggested.

"I'll talk with his coach and express your sympathies and see if Mr. Randall would be receptive to any of that," Fred told me. "Now, about going to their arena, just to watch the game, I think you would be recognized and it could get ugly with their fans. There is no need to subject you to that and I'm sure your teammates won't have an issue with it."

"Ok, I'm ok with not going," I said. "I imagine it could get pretty nasty and I can't really defend myself too well with this hand."

"It wouldn't come down to that but the verbal abuse would be more than you need to deal with at this time," Coach said. "Use the time to study and heal up and we'll see you after you're all healed up."

"I'll probably come and just skate a few times to keep in shape during the two weeks of exams," I told him as we got up.

"As long as Chris gave the go-ahead," Fred insisted.

"He did," I answered. "Good luck tonight Coach. I'll be watching at home."

"Thanks, we'll need it," he replied. "It was nice meeting you Stephanie, take good care of him."

"I will, it was nice to meet you too Mr. Benson," she replied.

We left his office and made our way through the hallway back to the lobby. A couple of people said hi to me and congratulated me on a good game or a good fight and I thanked them. One youngster ran over and asked me for my autograph. I patted my coat but didn't have a pen, but Steph dug one out of her purse, along with a pad of paper.

"So what's your name?" I asked the young boy.

"Kyle Henley and I play defence just like you Mike!" he said excitedly as his father stood behind him.

I wrote 'To Kyle, keep playing hard. Sincerely, Mike Stewart, fellow defenceman' and then dated it.

"Not the best thing for an autograph but here it is," I said as I gave it to him and shook his hand.

"Thanks Mike, I'm going to put this up on my bulletin board when I get home," he said excitedly.

"You're welcome Kyle, good luck with your hockey," I said.

"Thanks Mike, he really looks up to you guys," his father said. "We watch whenever we can."

"He's my first autograph so thank you for watching," I said to him as we shook hands.

"You hear that Kyle, you have Mike's first ever autograph, you'll have to keep that safe, it will mean a lot when he gets into the NHL," his father said.

"That is so cool, thanks again Mike," Kyle said before they moved away.

"Well, that was pretty special; I wish I had a camera," Steph said with a big smile. "You were pretty great with him."

"He was a good kid," I said, embarrassed.

"Don't be embarrassed Sweetie, you just made his day, no his month," she said. "Now I had better get you to give the two rugrats at home an autograph each so they can say they got the second and third one's from you."

"Sure, we can do that when we get home, maybe print out the picture on the Team's website and sign a couple for them," I suggested. "If you don't think that's too conceited or anything."

"Don't worry, I'll watch the size of your head every morning for signs of swelling and prick you with a pin if needed," she said with a grin. "I think Albert and Alex would love a picture with a message from you. I bet even Sam would like one, but she might use it for other things."

I blushed as I imagined what that young beauty would use it for.

"You were just thinking about her weren't you," Steph said with a smirk. "You are such a perv Mikey."

"Hey, you're the one who brought it up," I said, trying to defend myself as we walked out the arena.

"You have enough women, you don't need a girl added to the mix," she said, warning me as we got in the SUV.

"I wouldn't do anything with her," I retorted.

"Listen, if she got you alone, dressed in one of her short skirts and tight tops, you wouldn't have a chance resisting her," Steph told me. "I know how hot she is and I saw how you checked her out. You're only human and just a guy. She's ready to experiment with guys and I think she would love you to be the guinea pig."

"Well, keep her away from me then, I don't need her screwing things up for all of us," I said. "Maybe you should borrow a couple of her outfits and keep me from straying."

"I haven't shown you all of mine yet, we'll work on hers later," she said in a seductive voice.

"Damn, I love it when you talk like that," I told her.

"You are so easy," she replied with a laugh. "I think an eighty year old great grandmother would turn you on if she talked the right way at you."

"I'm new at this women stuff," I explained. "It was a lot different back home, no girls ever talked to me and now lots of them want to spend time with me and do more than talk. It's so overwhelming sometimes and I can't control my reaction sometimes."

"Well, you had better or it will get caught on tape and the all hell will break loose," she said. "You're going to be a Big Man on Campus after that fight and then when the twins and you go live. Every teenager, college girl and woman will gunning for you to either get their fifteen minutes of fame or to try and steal you from us. I can only defend you so much but some will slip by. You need to keep them all at an arm's length away or someone with a camera cell phone will get the picture and it will be front page news that day."

"Ok, I understand, I'll hold them off if need be but you have to help," I told her.

"Can't you wait until we get back to the apartment?" she asked with a smirk.

"I meant holding them off silly," I said exasperated.

"Well I'm not going to hold them down for you," she continued to make fun of me. "Maybe Amy, she might like it that way."

"What!" I said in shock as I looked over at her. "I think she went though something pretty bad a little while ago, I don't think she would like to be held down."

"I think that, under the right circumstances, she would love it," Steph contradicted me. "Becky let it slip one day we were all together. I think Amy is a bit submissive, at least in bed."

"Really? She seems so in control and in charge whenever we deal with her," I said. "I would have to see it to believe that."

"Would that turn you on if it was true?" she asked.

"I don't think so, I've never fantasized about that kind of stuff before," I said. "I'm sure it could be erotic if it was just something mild, but I don't think anything that would hurt someone would get me turned on. In fact it would probably turn me off and get me mad."

"I'm glad to hear that, I'm not into that either," she let me know. "If you want to experiment, do it with Amy and Becky."

"Ok Princess, don't worry I won't ever hurt you," I said.

We got back to the apartment and immediately called the twins and left a message on Vicky's cell that the check-up was all ok. We had a late breakfast/early lunch and then cracked open the Logic books and studied the last third of the course, including doing the questions for the last two chapters. At around four we finished studying for Logics and took a break.

"What do we want for supper?" she asked, looking into the freezer and fridge.

"Anything interesting in there?" I asked her.

"Not really, some pork chops and some chicken," she replied. "We ate all the leftovers so either we cook, order in or go out to eat."

"As long as we either go where the game is being shown, or get back here by seven, we can go out," I said. "How about we get into some decent duds and hit a nice restaurant early?"

"I would like to be waited on for a change," she said with a smile. "Let's do it."

"Ok, you hit the shower first while I book a reservation," I instructed her. "Do you like seafood or a steak place?"

"Oooh, seafood would be great, I love lobster," she cooed and gave me a hug.

I lifted her up and she curled her legs around me as I carried her to the bathroom.

"Lobster it is Princess," I said as I kissed her and played with her ass.

"Keep that up and we'll never get out of here Mister," she said with a giggle. "And I want my lobster!"

"Fine, I'll put you down," I said and did so before leaning on the doorframe.

"Well, give me some privacy," she said, trying to shoo me out of the bathroom.

"I at least get to watch you get undressed," I protested.

"Mikey, Mikey," she said, shaking her head. "I let you see me naked and you're not going to keep your hands off of me. I'm just too hot for you not to. Then we'll have to make love and we'll be late for dinner and you'll miss the game and be so sad."

She stood there shaking her head and had a sad look on her face, even though her eyes were twinkling at me.

"I could live with that scenario," I said as I moved towards her.

She shrieked and backed away laughing until I cornered her against the shower. I pulled her towards me and gave her a kiss as I pulled her tee shirt up her body. I broke the kiss off and pulled the shirt over her head and then tried to undo her bra. My bandaged left hand wasn't working properly so she helped out and had her wonderful firm breasts open to the air in no time. I caressed them both as I kissed her and soon had her nipples standing out proudly as she got a nice rose tinge to her chest and neck.

"Ok, I better go make that reservation or we'll never get in," I said, backing away.

"Noooo Mikey, you've got me hot and bothered now," she begged. "Please don't leave me like this."

She stepped forward to follow me and I said, "Now Princess, you don't want to miss your lobster do you? We can finish this later, after the game."

She quickly unbuckled her pants and slid them and her underwear down her legs and stepped out of them.

"Are you sure you don't want to continue?" she asked as she showed me her gorgeous ass.

My teasing of her backfired as she bent over to pick up her clothes and put them on the countertop. She moved in front of me and rubbed my hardening bulge and then lowered herself to her knees to pull down my sweats and let Big Mike out. She grasped him quickly and wanked him until he was hard and then took him in her mouth while she looked up at me with twinkling eyes.

In a couple of very short minutes I was very primed and ready and she saw it in my expression. She released me and stood up and bent over the counter, resting her breasts on the cool top as she looked back at me.

"Still want to leave?" she asked with a smirk.

I growled and bent down to line up my cock with her opening and pushed in a bit as she gasped.

"Easy Sweetie, I'm sorry for teasing, take it a bit slow, you're so big right now ok?" she said as she put her hand back to stop me.

I fought the urge to thrust in deep and hard and pulled back to the opening and rubbed it around to get more moisture on it. She helped by grabbing it and moving it around and then moving the tip on her clit. She was soon moaning and squirming as she made herself hot and lubricated. She pointed me towards her opening again and pulled me inside slowly.

"That's better Mikey, I'm ready for you now," she said, looking back at me.

I pushed in firmly until I reached bottom and then pulled out until only the tip was in.

"Aw damn that feels good," she said. "Please don't stop Mikey, I need you so bad."

I waited a few seconds until she tried to thrust back and I held her hips tight as I pushed back into her again. I continued slowly as she begged me to go faster. She was getting worked up but slower than she wanted and she tried everything to get me to go faster.

"Sweetie, I need it so bad, please I'm begging you to fuck me harder, faster," she moaned. "I'm sorry I teased you, I'll never do it again, I promise."

I kept on going the same pace and reached up to tweak her nipples and arouse her even more. With my right hand I lightly rubbed her clit and she shuddered and gasped.

"Oh Sweetie, you're torturing me, I'm so ready to cum, please take me over the top, I'm begging you," she said as she tried to push back.

I stayed silent and sped up slightly, bringing her to the next plateau before she came.

"Oh God, Oh God, I'm so close, you're so good Sweetie, I'm dripping I'm so hot," she moaned. "I need to cum so bad, I'll do anything Sweetie, I'll be your slave for life if you make me cum; I'll get my sister to join us and hold her for you to fuck too."

Ok, that got to me as I imagined Steph and Sammi together in bed with Steph holding her down. I unconsciously sped up and she realized what changed.

"Oh, that did it, you want Sammi don't you?" she said, looking back at me. "I think you want me to be Sammi right now, in her little short skirt and you behind her while I hold her out front."

I groaned and thrust in deeper as she pushed my buttons. Her little sister did turn me on and I was already fucking a most exquisite woman with a gorgeous ass. I sped up as she continued to talk dirty to excite me.

"Yeah, I know she would love you to fuck her just like you're doing me right now Mikey," Steph said. "She's got a great butt too and she's still a virgin. You could order me to hold her down and I'll have to obey you as your slave."

"Oh yeah, you're fucking me so good, you really are turned on now aren't you, and you're going to make your little slave girl cum real soon. Then I'll have to get Sammi for you to enjoy won't I?"

I couldn't hold back as she pushed my buttons. I grabbed her hips and started pounding away at her as she held on to the counter top and stopped talking. She moaned and gasped and started babbling before she screamed as she came like never before. I needed but a minute more as I let go with a shout, thrusting deep each time until I was finally drained. I rested for a couple of minutes until she finally stopped squeezing me and I pulled out of her. I staggered over to the shower and started the water before pulling the curtains shut.

Walking back to her I pulled her up and led her to the shower. I checked the water temperature and then pulled her in with me and let her have the water on her back. I soaped her up with a washcloth as she leaned on me and then I turned her around to rinse her front as I washed her back. After rinsing her back off I asked her if she needed to do her hair.

She shook her head and then made an effort to rouse herself. She took the washcloth and washed my front, paying particular attention to Big Mike before turning me around to do my back. I got my head wet and quickly washed my hair while she finished with my legs. I got rinsed and then asked her if she was done. She quickly washed her pussy a bit and rinsed before she told me she was finished.

I shut off the water and reached out for a towel and dried her off before grabbing a second dry one. I bundled her up in it and used the first one to dry off before opening the curtain. I stepped out and then picked her up and carried her to the bed and laid her on the bed. After covering her up I joined her on the other side and got close to her. She moved onto her side and pulled me behind her and captured my arm between hers.

"Mikey, that was the most fantastic experience of my life," she said softly. "You had me so worked up I had to have you and then you wouldn't so I had to tease you until you wanted me. Your face as you took me was almost scary and then you settled down to make me pay. I was literally squirming on your cock as you tortured me. I had to come up with something to get you to fuck me harder. I finally remembered how you got turned on when I promised to be your slave, so I did it again and added Sammi into the mix. That did the trick and you turned it up. I finally came so hard and then you did inside me so hard and hot and I think I fainted for a little bit."

I squeezed her from behind and whispered, "I so enjoyed making you excited and seeing you so passionate."

"I'm going to walk around with a permanent grin on my face for a week," she said.

"I am too," I said.

She stroked my arm quietly for a bit and then turned around to face me.

"You like the idea of me being a little slave to you, don't you," she said as she looked at me.

"It's just a fun fantasy, Princess, that's all," I told her. "I'm not looking for you to be at my beck and call or anything like that."

"But you would like to maybe try some things while we're in bed?" she asked.

"I don't know, I guess if you wanted to, we could try some things," I suggested. "You seem to bring it up so maybe you have some fantasies that you would like to explore."

"Hmmm, I guess I am the one that says it, maybe I do have something subconsciously that I would like to try," she said, surprised. "I know I've never fantasized while awake about that."

"If you want, you just let me know and we can maybe role play a bit sometime," I said. "Think about it for a while and let me know. It's not something we need to explore if you're uncomfortable."

I could tell she was thinking about things so I just watched and waited. I'm sure she would want to bring up her sister and what she said about her. She was in deep thought for almost five minutes before she looked up at me.

"Um, Michael, about my sister, I know I promised to get her for you, but I don't think I can do that," she said, looking worriedly at my face. "She would probably agree to do it, hell she'd race over on her bike if I told her about it. I don't think the twins would approve and I really don't either."

"So why did you bring her up?" I asked.

"I know you're attracted to her and probably have fantasized about her already," she replied. "I knew it would get you really hot to think about having her while you were already making love to me. I needed you to step it up and I thought it would work. And it did the trick, didn't it?"

"I admit that both things turned me on more and I couldn't continue at the same pace anymore," I agreed.

"So, you're not going to hold me to either promise are you?" she asked timidly.

"You're the one who has brought the idea of her into our lovemaking," I said. "Are you sure there isn't something that you want to see happen, whether with her or with another woman? Did anything get stirred up when you watched Vicky and I?"

She was going to get angry with me but I stopped her with a finger on her lips and added, "Think about it for a minute before you blast me. You were pretty explicit and excited when you described that portion."

That stopped her from shouting and she blushed as she went over what she had said, about her holding down Sammi while I did her. I could almost read her mind as her facial expressions changed. She finally looked up at me.

"I have had a few fantasies about Sammi," she admitted. "I would never act on them of course and I don't want you to act on them. I'm not sure how they started and I don't know how she would feel about them. It's just something that can turn me on if I need something. I don't know if it would be the same with another girl. I hope you don't think I'm sick for thinking about my sister that way."

"Of course not Princess, I said. "I just thought about your sister that way and it turned me on big time. Maybe when she's eighteen you can have a talk with her and see how she feels about you."

"And about you too?" she asked.

"No, let's just keep that as a fantasy, I have my gorgeous Merks sister already," I said.

"Thank you Michael, I'm not sure what I would have done if you insisted on involving her," she said as she kissed me.

"You're welcome Stephanie," I replied. "Now, are you up to going out to eat, it's already five thirty?"

"I'm starving and not in the mood to cook so let's go," she responded with a smile as she sat up.

I sat up and watched as she got out of bed and paddled over to the dresser and got out a matching bra and undies, this time a small thong. She slipped them on and turned to me.

"Ok, show is over, get up you letch," she said with a grin.

I got up and joined her at the dresser and caressed her bare ass.

"Stop it Sweetie, we'll never get food if you keep working me up like you do," she said with a giggle as she swatted my hand away.

I chuckled and pulled out underwear and put them on before going to the bathroom to quickly shave and put on deodorant. Steph came in and butted in front of me to use the mirror and I bent over her.

"You better watch where you put that Princess or I'll have to continue where we left off," I said, before nibbling on her ear as I ground my hardening cock into her ass.

She shivered as I made her squirm and she gave me a hot look in the mirror before saying, "Afterwards Sweetie, we need to eat."

"Damn woman, you're playing with fire tonight," I said before leaving the room with Big Mike getting stiff.

She giggled as I walked away and I growled.

"Sorry Mikey, I'll be good I promise," she said contritely as she looked out the door.

I took a deep breath and tried to smile but it came out as a grimace.

"You ok?" she asked.

"Yeah, I just get so turned on around you," I said. "You're not helping showing off like that."

"Sorry Sweetie, I'm just so happy right now and a little clingy," she said. "I love the fact I turn you on but we need to eat or I'll pass out on you. I'll tone it down."

"Thanks, Princess," I said as I pulled up my slacks and tried to stuff in Big Mike.

She giggled as she saw my predicament and then disappeared as I glared at her.

Fifteen minutes later we were in the Escape and I was driving to a small restaurant downtown. I had called and surprisingly got a reservation as they had a cancellation. I parked in their lot and we walked side by side without holding hands. She walked in first as I held the door for her and we walked up to the hostess station past at least six couples and a foursome.

"Hi, welcome to Sam's Seafood, do you have a reservation?" a pretty raven haired hostess asked.

"Yes, under Mike Stewart," I said, passing her a fifty on the sly.

"There you are, Mr. Stewart," she said with a smile. "Just let me check if your table is ready."

"Thank you," I said and made a point to look down at Steph when she walked away.

She smiled at me and I gave her a wink before looking around as I heard someone muttering.

"How the hell do they rate?" a large pot-bellied man said loudly so everyone could hear. "We've been here for half an hour now!"

"Shush Henry, don't make a scene, they have a reservation," his wife tried to quiet him.

"He's just a young punk, who obviously been in a fight," he said, looking over at me. "How can they put them in front of the rest of the people here?"

I got a little peeved at him but Steph grabbed my sleeve and shook her head when I looked down at her. She tapped my left hand lightly to remind me that I was in no condition to get involved in anything.

The pretty hostess came back and said, "Mr. Stewart, your table is ready if you would follow me."

I lightly guided Steph forward and then followed them into the restaurant, ignoring the loud mouth who swore loudly.

She led us to a very nice secluded table and said, "Will this do Mr. Stewart?"

"Yes, it's perfect, thank you for this and I'm sorry if we're causing any problems with the others waiting," I replied.

"Think nothing of it Mr. Stewart, you took the time to call for a reservation, they did not," she said. "Besides, the owner is a very big Michigan fan so just enjoy your dinner and let us take care of you and this beautiful lady."

"Thank you," I said as Steph blushed.

The hostess signalled a waitress and she came over quickly.

This is Rachel, our top young waitress and she'll be taking care of you this evening," she said. "Rachel, treat these two as if they were Sam's parents, understand?"

"Certainly Miss Mertz," said the young blonde beauty, before turning and smiling at us. "Welcome to Sam's, have either of you been here before?"

"No Rachel, this is our first time," I said.

"Well, you're in for a treat then, this is the premier seafood restaurant in the city if not the state," she said. "We've been here for twenty years and been rated first for the last ten years straight. So, can I start you off with a cocktail?"

"We're not old enough for that, just a diet coke for me. Steph?" I asked.

"An iced tea would be nice," she replied.

"Ok, I'll get those for you and bring a nice selection of breads and buns for you to snack on while you peruse the menu," she said. "Our specials tonight are trout, Alaskan King Crab or a surf and turf with a filet mignon and two lobster tails."

She left and Steph smiled at me and said, "Thanks for being a gentleman tonight Michael. It means a lot to me. And thank you for taking me to this very nice restaurant."

"You are more than welcome Princess," I said, returning her smile. "You deserve this every night."

"Yeah right," she said with a smirk. "Ok, what are you thinking of having?"

"Maybe the King Crab, I've only had it a couple of times but I really like it," I told her. "Are you going to have the surf and turf?"

"I was thinking of that, but you'll have to help me with the filet, I can't eat all of that by myself," she replied.

"Sounds good to me," I told her. I looked around the restaurant and took in the elegant tables surrounded by different nautical items on the walls and hung from the ceiling. There were lots of model ships of all kinds, the big sailing ships and large passenger liners, that helped divide up the rooms and tables.

"This is so cool with all the nautical stuff eh?" I asked.

"It is," she said and then added with a grin, "eh?"

"Sorry, it slipped out," I said, shaking my head.

Rachel came back with a tray and put it down on the tray holder near the table.

"Ok, iced tea for the lady and diet coke for the gentleman," she said, placing them in front of us. "And here is the bread and buns along with garlic butter, onion and chives butter, and plain butter. Are you ready to order or do you need a few more minutes?"

"I think we're ready," I told her. "Steph?"

"I'm going to go with the surf and turf, with a baked potato," she said.

"Very good choice Steph; how would you like the filet done?" Rachel asked.

"Medium?" she replied, looking over at me.

I nodded and she confirmed it with Rachel.

"And for you Mr. Stewart?" Rachel asked, turning to me with a big smile.

"Mike is fine, and I'm going to have the King Crab, also with a baked potato," I replied.

"Great choices; I'll bring the Caesar salads out in a few minutes after you've had time to sample the bread," Rachel informed us.

We both looked around the restaurant and then our attention was drawn to the foursome entering the restaurant proper from the secluded lobby. Luckily the hostess sat them far away, at a table close to the busy kitchen doors, a fact that didn't go unnoticed by the loud mouth. We could hear him complain to the hostess but she showed him the busy tables and told him it would be up to another half hour wait for any of them.

"What an ass," Steph said in disgust. "He might ruin everyone's meal around him if he keeps it up."

"I'm so glad he's far away," I stated.

An older gentleman approached the table.

"Hello, how are you this evening?" he asked.

"Very good and you?" I replied.

"Very good as well, Mr. Stewart and friend Stephanie," he responded. "I just wanted to welcome you to my restaurant; I'm Sam, the owner."

"Hello Sam, I'm Mike and this is Steph," I said as I shook his hand. "You have a wonderful place here."

"Thank you Mike, I'm glad you like it," he said. "Miss Mertz told me you were here and I wanted to introduce myself as I'm a big Michigan hockey fan. I'm glad to see you're up and about with no major injuries from last night's fight."

"Yes, I'm still a bit swollen but other than my ugly mug I'm doing ok," I said.

"Good to hear it," he said with a smile. "And is this lovely lady your girlfriend perhaps?"

"Sadly, no, she's a good friend who makes sure I don't stray from my girlfriend who's in New York right now," I replied.

"Well if I was a few years younger I would gladly take her off your hands Mike!" he said with a grin as Steph blushed.

"You and most of the rest of the guys in here," I said with a laugh.

"So, enjoy yourselves and I'll see you once more before you leave," he stated before he walked away with a smile.

"That was nice of him to drop by," I commented. "Sorry I have to lie to people about us."

"It's ok, I know the truth and that's all that matters," she said with a smile.

Soon the salads came and we were quiet as we ate them. We looked around at the other diners and realized we were by far the youngest there. We were getting looks from some of them but I don't think they knew who I was. That was fine by me.

Rachel came and took away the salad plates and told us our meal would be out soon.

"So, enjoying yourself Princess?" I asked.

"Immensely, despite the terrible company," she replied with a grin.

"That hurts," I said, clutching my heart. "I, on the other hand, love the company I'm with and am also having a wonderful time."

"Thank you kind sir," she said with a smile. "This place is so refined and the food so far is great."

"It's certainly a nice treat," I agreed.

Soon Rachel came with another tray and put our plates in front of us as well as heated butter trays. Another girl came by and spooned out butter, sour cream and bacon bits to our specifications on our baked potato. A third refreshed our drinks and we were left alone to dig in.

"This looks marvellous," I said, looking over our plates before I dug in.

Steph had already had a scoop of potato in her mouth so she could only nod.

"And here I was going to propose a toast before we ate," I said with a little pout.

She swallowed quickly and stammered out an apology, "Sorry Mikey, it looked so good I had to try it. We can still toast now."

I couldn't hold it back and grinned at her.

"Oh you big Meany," she said in a huff.

"Yeah, but you're the one who told me to slow down and look at you now," I said with a laugh.

She stuck her tongue out at me and hooked a bit of lobster with the small two tined fork and, after dunking it in the warm butter, plopped it in her mouth.

"Hmmm, that's delicious," she moaned in appreciation.

I set upon my crab legs with the cracker and managed to find some meat out of one of the large sections. I dunked in the butter and then savoured the experience, slowly chewing before swallowing.

"The crab is great as well," I said, before trying the baked potato.

We ate in virtual silence as we enjoyed the food. Rachel came over and checked on us and we assured her we were fine.

Steph shared half of her filet with me and we traded some lobster for crab as well. I was on my best behaviour and it took us half an hour to finish what we could fit in.

Rachel came over and asked us if we wanted to take the leftovers home and we looked at each other and grinned before nodding.

"Good choice, it's too good to throw away," she agreed. "Now, while I package this up, why don't you two look at the dessert menu, there are some fantastic items there. And you two don't have to worry about the calories do you?"

"He doesn't but I do," Steph replied. "I'm going to have to be rolled out of here as it is."

"Yeah right, that outfit doesn't hide a thing and you look fabulous," Rachel said to her.

Steph was wearing a tight gray dress that hugged her fantastic figure and showed off her legs.

"Thank you Rachel, that's sweet of you to say," Steph said, blushing a little.

"Maybe you two could share one," she suggested as she carried away our plates.

I was stuffed as well but I opened the menu and looked at the wonderful desserts shown in pictures by the description. I passed it over to her knowing she would love some of them but was probably too full to even attempt one.

"Maybe we can get one or two to take with us for later," I suggested.

She looked it over but didn't feel the need to indulge so I declined when Rachel came back. She offered coffee or tea but we said no and she came back with the bill. I looked at it quickly and put my credit card in the billfold and handed it back to her.

Sam dropped by and asked for a favour of a photograph with me for his wall. I agreed and the hostess came over and we stood together by a ship model and she took three or four with a digital camera. We shook hands and he thanked me and I did the same to him.

I signed the slip after adding a generous tip and Rachel told me our leftovers were waiting at the front door. We thanked her for her wonderful service and I followed my lovely Princess through the tables. I noticed several male eyes on her as we passed their tables but I couldn't do anything without causing a scene. We picked up the large take out Styrofoam containers, thanked the hostess for wonder time and left the restaurant after I helped Steph with her coat.

"You, my Princess, were the hit of the restaurant and I was getting jealous of all the male staring at you," I told her. "You are absolutely gorgeous tonight."

"Why thank you Mikey, I wanted to look good for you," she said with a smile as she held my arm. "I didn't notice anyone staring at me."

"It happened as we walked out, they all followed you as you passed them," I told her. "It made me angry but I kept my cool."

"The women were looking at you, especially when you were taking a picture with Sam," she told me. "I gave them evil stares but they lived."

She laughed and I did too and it was all better again.

"Man, these are heavy, I hope they didn't give us someone else's leftovers," I told her as we got to the Escape.

I unlocked the door and got her in before putting the food in the back. We drove home and lugged the food into the apartment and I opened it up to take a look at it.

"Wow, there's another full meal for each of us in these things," I told her in shock.

She looked into the bag and found a note.

Mike and Stephanie

Thank you for gracing my humble establishment tonight. You must have come here already three quarters full because you hardly ate a thing tonight. Just heat them up in the oven at 350 for about fifteen minutes and you'll have another meal. Your desserts should go in the fridge though, not the oven! It was a joy to meet you both and please come back any time, reservation or not. Miss Merks (my daughter) also says you don't have to slip her money ever again.

Sincerely,

Sam

Steph turned the note over and the fifty I gave her was paper clipped to the back of the note.

"Oh that kind man," she said as she looked in the bag to see two smaller containers and pulled them out. "Wow, two slices of Black Forest Cake."

"That was so nice of him," I said. "It's nice to see there is still nice people out there, even in this rough economy. I'd love to go back there but I don't want to take advantage either."

"So we just go once and a while so we don't abuse it," she responded. "Let me see the bill."

I handed it to her and she looked it over.

"They charged us less than half the actual cost of each meal," she noted. "The NCAA would never find out even if they investigated. He must have done this before for other team members."

"Oh well, I didn't ask for any preferential treatment so I don't feel guilty," I told her.

We put the food away in the fridge and went to the bedroom where I turned on the TV and found the game about to start, with the commentators going through the warm-up.

"We're glad you could join us tonight for the second game of the home and home series between these bitter rivals Michigan and Michigan State," the announcer said. "After last night's shellacking the Spartans will try to avenge the loss without their star forward Joe Randall, still in the hospital after suffering that severe beating in the fight against rookie defenceman, Mike Stewart. Ed Smith will replace Randall for State. Stewart is serving his one game suspension for fighting so senior Robert Samuel will get the start, the first of the year for him."

The announcer turned to his partner and asked, "Bob, have you seen such a vicious fight before?"

"No Dean, I haven't," Bob replied. "Randall was being his usual annoying self but Stewart seemed to make him look silly out there. Randall finally had enough of the rookie and left the kid no choice but to fight him. They went toe to toe for a few punches and then Stewart took over and knocked him out cold. Randall was lucky Stewart held him up or he would have broken his skull on the ice for sure."

"I'm sure most of you hockey fans have already seen the fight on any sports show so we won't be showing it again," Dean told the audience. "On another note, Gary Crawford, the Michigan first line centre, was on the receiving end of a hit from Randall last night and also will not play tonight. Alex Trammel has been added to the fourth line and Peter Stomach will centre the first line for Michigan."

They went on to talk about what each team had to do to win the game and then went through the whole line-up for both teams.

While they went through the line-ups Steph was getting out of her dress by the closet. I rushed over to help her with the zipper and then slid it down her shoulders. Her gorgeous body was revealed as she stepped out of the dress and I stared as she turned to take it from me.

"Thank you Sweetie, why don't you get into something comfortable while I wash off my make-up?" she advised.

"Ah, ok," I said, still staring at her.

"Um, Mikey, my face is up here," she said, pushing my jaw up so my eyes looked into her grinning face. "While I love how adore my body, you could pay attention once and a while."

"Sorry Princess, you said something?" I said with a grin.

"Men, show them some boobies and they turn into zombies," she said exasperated. "Get changed Michael."

"Yeah, sure," I said, my eyes still following her as she stomped off to the bathroom and slammed the door.

I got out of my good clothes and hung them up before putting on some shorts and a tee shirt. I propped myself on the back wall and turned up the volume on the TV as the game started. I wished I had some way to record the game but still had my cheap TV hooked to basic cable and a DVD player. I decided to upgrade when we moved into the condo so we could at least record the games.

Steph came out of the washroom wrapped up in her robe and slid under the covers as I was watching the game. I looked over at her and saw she was upset, so I turned down the volume and asked her what was wrong.

"You only want me here for my body," she said.

"Princess, that's so not true; I want you here to cook and clean too!" I said, trying to lighten the mood.

The girls had all warned me of my humour but I still said it. It was not well received.

She turned over and gave me her back and the silent treatment.

"Princess, you know that was my pale attempt at humour," I said, leaning over to talk into her ear. "I love you for all of you, your mind, your humour, your kindness to small children and animals, your patience with my attempts at humour, how you cuddle with me to keep warm. I also love your beauty and your body and how you smile at me. I want you here because I love being with you."

"Humph," was all she said.

"I don't know what the matter is; I thought you liked me looking at you?" I asked.

That got no response.

"You know, I'm just a guy, I can't read minds and I admit to being very new and dumb about women and relationships, so this silent treatment is not going to work," I said. "If it's about the TV being on, you know I need to watch this game so I know what happens. If I don't, I'll look pretty bad when John asked me if I saw him score that great goal."

Still nothing.

"Fine, lie there in silence like a little girl," I said perturbed.

I turned up the volume and watched as the Spartans opened the scoring when a forward beat Samuel to the outside and cut in on Mark, chipping the puck over top of him when he went down to cover the bottom of the net. The crowd cheered as the red light came on.

"Damn, Samuel isn't ready yet to face the speed rush," I swore angrily.

The game continued and we tied it up just before the end of the first period when John hit Henry with a pass as he was streaking out of the zone. He split the backpedalling defence and had a breakaway on their goalie. Henry made no mistake as he deked the goalie out of his jockstrap and put the puck into the empty side. I shouted as the red light came on and the crowd groaned.

Steph couldn't stand it and had to look at what had happened. She turned to look at the TV and watched the replay before turning back to hide her face.

"You know, you see more when you actually face the TV," I said. "You can still be mad at me if you like and we could pile a few pillows between us so you don't have to look at my ugly face."

"You are such an ape," she said, turning around to look at me.

"Well, that's harsh," I replied. "You don't have to come out and say it to my face and everything."

"You don't have the slightest clue why I'm mad, do you?" she asked, sitting up and crossing her arms under her breasts.

"Well it could so many things; I stared at you too long, my attempt at humour backfired, the TV being on right away, or all of the above," I replied.

"All of the above fits best," she said. "We just came back from a wonderful dinner where you treated me like a Princess. We get back here and the TV goes on, you stare at me like I'm a stripper and you go ahead and make jokes about it, reminding me that I'm your maid and cook. I realized that I'm not really that important to you, that I'm really just a bought and paid for, easy lay for you."

I reached for the remote and shut the TV off and turned to her while thinking about how to address the situation.

After more than a few seconds, I spoke up, "I'm very sorry you got that impression but it is wrong. I know I'm not the most sensitive guy but I don't think of you as the cook or maid, I never have. I've told you that you don't have to do any of that and I've tried to help out. I don't need you here for that and I don't want you here for that."

"I want you here because I love you; you're smart, beautiful, kind, generous and a wonderful lover. I love looking at you; whether you're in a winter parka or in jeans and a tee-shirt, or a sexy dress or just in your underwear. I will always stare at you Princess, that will never change as long as you live."

"I'm honoured that you wanted to be with me and I feel that we make a great family. You are as much a part of the family as Vicky, Becky and Amy are. That you get paid is now meaningless to us, we can stop it any time if it really bothers you that much. I was a jerk tonight, plain and simple. We had a wonderful dinner and I should have continued with the wonderful feeling we had going instead of gawking at you while the TV blared. I'm sorry I was such a moron."

She looked at me for a bit and gave me a little smile before saying, "There is some hope for you, once you put that genius mind to work."

"I'm sorry I don't catch on so quick when you're upset," I told her. "Please just let me know right away so I don't make it worse. I don't have enough experience with women to read what's going on. You have to be pretty blunt with me Princess; I'm not really one of those sensitive guys that are in touch with their feminine side and all that."

She laughed and replied, "No shit Sherlock, no surprise there. But you can be observant when you want to. You knew I needed help the first time you met me at the computer lab. You were very helpful and caring, even though you had a girlfriend."

"Maybe all the weight training and hockey have knocked it out of me," I said. "Remember, I just got my face pounded on last night, I'm barely able to smile let alone be sensitive."

"Good try, but no cigar," she said. "You have to put effort into your relationships with all of us; we're not going to give you a free pass because you're a Neanderthal. We should be worthy of that effort. You hardly even talk to the twins let alone expend some energy to let them know how you feel about them. Out of sight shouldn't mean out of mind."

She was right, I was coasting with them, and she called me on it. Being a loner made it hard to think of others and I had dropped the ball with the twins. They weren't calling much either but that was no excuse on my apathy.

"You're very smart for a short person," I said. "I've been coasting with all of you. I've neglected the twins and I've made you sad because I been taking you for granted. I've always been a loner and kept emotions inside. It won't be easy but I promise I'll try harder to show you how much I love you and need you Princess."

"Ok, you're forgiven this time, and I'll try and nudge you a little when you slide," she responded.

"Thank you Princess, I do love you," I told her.

"And I love you too Mikey, even when you disparage my height," she replied dryly. "Now give me a kiss."

I leaned over and planted a soft one on her lips as she wrapped her arms around me. She was gentle with my mouth and planted little kisses on my face.

"You can be so sweet when you try," she whispered. "So try harder."

"I will Princess," I whispered back.

She let me go and pushed me back before saying, "Ok, turn the game back on, I need to keep up with it so Amanda won't surprise me with something."

I looked at her in shock as she smirked at me.

"What?" she asked.

"I thought you wanted to be all lovey-dovey now?" I asked.

"Michael, business first, lovey-dovey later," she said primly. "You can properly attend to me during the intermissions."

"Yes dear," I said without thinking and turned on the TV.

Steph was outright laughing beside me and I arched an eyebrow at her.

"You sounded like any married man I've ever heard with that 'Yes dear'," she said, still laughing. "I can't believe you're already using it."

"Well, I couldn't believe you used the silent treatment already either," I rebutted.

"I had to get your attention somehow," she answered. "It works for my mom."

"Just remember, I don't mind quiet," I told her with a grin.

She stuck her tongue out at me and turned to the TV. The intermission was just about over and nothing exciting seemed to happen as they showed some highlights.

"So, John made a great pass to Henry and he gets an assist," I said. "Amanda might mention it."

"Oh she will, she always makes sure the other girlfriends know how well John plays," Steph said. "Then again, she does it because the other ones do. The girlfriends of the seniors are the worst, so haughty because their boyfriend is the captain and drafted by the Hurricanes."

"Really? I didn't know that happened," I said amazed. "Do you say anything?"

"I can't silly, I'm not your girlfriend," she reminded me. "It would be pretty tiring; you're always doing something to brag about."

"Thank you, Thank you very much," I responded in my best Elvis impression.

She rolled her eyes and shushed me as the second period started. We watched in silence as the teams went more end to end than the first period or the game last night. Steph moved over in small increments until she was leaning on me.

"Hi there, it took you long enough," I said with a smile.

"I just can't let you off the hook all at once mister," she remarked.

"And why not? I asked.

"It's just not done, it's in the rule book," she whispered.

Can I get a copy?" I inquired.

"Nope, girls only and it's not written down anywhere," she replied with a grin. "No hush, I'm trying to watch the game."

I put my arm around her and she burrowed in. The game continued at a good pace and the teams exchanged goals within five minutes of each other. Our third line scored on a quick shot from a pass behind the net while they scored on a deflection from a point shot.

Just before the end of the period we scored during a power play after a hooking penalty. John cranked a shot well wide of the net to allow for a hard rebound out in front of the net. Daniel was waiting for it and shot it in the net while the goalie was out of position. The period ended with the Wolverines up three to two.

Steph got up and headed to the washroom while I went and grabbed us some water and one of the pieces of Black Forest cake and two forks. When I got to the bed I placed it her water and the cake on her stand and put my water on mine before calling Vicky.

"Hello?" she asked.

"Hey Darling, it's me," I said.

"Hey Sweetie, let me move somewhere quieter," Vicky said, as I heard voices and music in the background.

The noise dropped off and she came back on the line, "There, I can hear myself think. Are you still there Michael?"

"I'm here, how are you doing?" I asked.

"Not too bad, we're at this party we just had to attend," she said in disgust. "We keep getting hit on and having to turn down drinks and drugs. We're getting out of here as soon as we can. Enough about me, how are you doing?"

"The face is getting better, though it looks scarier as the colours all come out," I said with a laugh. "Steph and I went to Sam's Seafood and had a nice meal; now we're watching the hockey game."

"That's nice that you two a free Saturday to spend together," Vicky said with a little envy. "Take advantage of it Michael."

"I can't wait to see you next weekend; I miss you so much," I told her. "I wanted to apologize for not calling so often as I should, but I promise to do better."

"No need to apologize Sweetie, we're all busy," she responded.

"That's why we need to make a better effort to talk more and keep in contact with each other," I told her. "I know I'm not the most sensitive guy but I want to make sure we keep in better touch so we don't start taking each other for granted."

"Ok, what's up Michael, this doesn't sound like you at all?" she asked.

"Well, Steph read me the riot act for taking her and you two for granted and I realized that we hardly talk to each other, except to discuss things," I explained. "I've been a loner pretty much all my life so I don't realize that you girls might like to hear from me a bit more, even if we can't be together as much."

"It would be nice to hear your voice more Michael, we do miss you," she agreed. "I know how you are so I know it's not something you're used to doing but it would be nice if you did. We're at fault too, we've been neglecting you two as well. I'll talk with the girls and we'll set up a schedule so we can talk to you guys more regularly, maybe even by web so we can see each other. How does that sound?"

"That sounds great Darling, I do love you very much and let Becky know I love her too," I responded.

"We love you too," she replied as the door opened and it got noisy.

"We were looking for you, are you ok?" Becky asked. "Who you talking to?"

"Here it's Michael," Vicky said.

"Michael, you called!" Becky said. "How are you Sweetie, does your face hurt?"

"Hi Honey, I'm doing ok, my face doesn't hurt as much but looks scarier with all the bruises starting to sprout new colours," I told her. "And yes I called, I missed you all and I've been very bad at calling you ladies and letting you know how much I, and Steph, miss you and love you."

"Awww, that is so sweet of you; Steph put you up to this, didn't she?" Becky asked.

"Steph read me the riot act this evening after our dinner out but I made the decision to call you all on my own," I said. "I promise to get better at this kind of stuff."

She laughed and replied, "We got Steph to take care of you and she ends up training you better than we did. We know how you are and we're not angry at you for not calling. But we will definitely appreciate it if you do. We do miss our Sweetie!"

"Good to hear it and I promise to be in touch more," I said as Steph came in and heard what I said.

She smiled and I indicated she should come over and take the phone. She nodded and I spoke into the phone.

"Bec, Steph just walked in so here she is," I said before giving it to her.

"Hey Becky, how are you?" Steph said in a cheerful voice.

She listened and walked out of the bedroom. I heard her laugh and then talk for a bit but too softly for me to hear.

She stayed out there for almost ten minutes and the third period was about to start when she came back in and handed me the phone with a big smile.

"Hello," I said.

"Hey Michael, you do know how special that girl is don't you?" Vicky said.

"Yes, she's as special to me as you two are," I agreed. "I love you all very much, even if I have to be hit on the head to say it."

"I think we all just got reminded to do that more often," Vicky stated. "So, the three of us here are going home to spend some quality time together and we want you to show our Princess how much we all appreciate her. We'll have to wait until she gets here to show her ourselves. We love both of you very much."

"I love you all very much as well," I replied. "Have a wonderful night and I will call you tomorrow."

"Twice in one weekend Michael?" she asked with a laugh. "Be still my heart."

I heard laughter from the other two girls and I replied, "Yes, wonders will never cease. Goodnight ladies."

They all shouted goodnight and then hung up and I hit the button to close the line. I looked at Steph and she smiled at me.

"Our ladies are very happy with you it seems," I said as her smile got bigger. "I think you will be getting a very big thank you when we travel to New York."

"As long as you follow through with what you said you would," she responded. "They miss you so much but didn't want to change you."

"Well, you're in charge of kicking my butt if I fall down on the job," I told her. Now, let's eat your cake and then I can give you my thank you."

She grinned and we climbed into bed to watch the rest of the game while sharing the cake. The Spartans tied the game up on a power play as Samuel hauled down a forward speeding by him at the point. The Wolverines scored with about five minutes left as a point shot by Steve Mason was deflected by Peter and made the score four to three. The game ended with the Wolverines scoring a goal into the empty net to make the final score five to three.

I shut the TV off and carried the plate back to the kitchen. When I returned, I noticed her robe was on the chair and she was covered up with the blankets. I joined her in the bed and shut off the light and proceeded to thank her for the next hour until she begged me to stop before we fell asleep exhausted.

Sunday was a study day. Steph studied Calculus while I did Algebra. We took breaks for food and when my hand hurt too much to write. We got a web cast going with New York we had a nice chat with lots of teasing and we decided I would go up Thursday afternoon as I couldn't practice much on Friday anyway. Steph still had to stay home as she had exams Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of the following week, while I only had programming on Tuesday. I would come home Sunday and study with Steph for that.

We studied some more by ourselves until we called it a day. After heating up our 'leftovers' from Sam's we had ourselves another gourmet meal before relaxing in bed. She watched Desperate Housewives while I read a Clive Cussler novel. She was tired afterwards and fell asleep curled up to my back as I read for a while longer. I finished the book and turned off the light before falling asleep with my Princess snuggled up beside me.



-------

Chapter 34


Steph and I woke up early Monday morning and, after a hearty breakfast, did a couple of hours reviewing Logics from start to end. We did some of the harder questions in the book as well as from the two midterms and then quizzed each other before taking a break.

We split apart and did our own review of our math classes until lunch, which was soup and sandwiches. After a walk down to the convenience store down the street for snacks and ice cream, we decided to do a quick review of programming as a change of pace.

The nice thing about programming is that once you used a programming feature in a program, you really knew it and studying was easy. It was like learning to dribble a basketball and then never having to think about it afterwards.

So, we reviewed the harder questions for each midterm, the ones that combined several concepts together to provide a solution. For the chapters after the final midterm, we redid the assignments and the questions from the end of the chapters.

"I think we're in good shape for the two exams coming up this week and the one next week," I said as we packed up the programming notes and books.

"I feel pretty good right now too," Steph agreed. "I'm going to go through Logics again after supper again and then get a good night's sleep. We can do a quick review in the morning before the exam as well."

"Sounds good to me, as does pizza for supper," I said. "It's the perfect study food."

"I second that," she said as she got out the phone book and phoned a nearby pizza joint.

"Twenty five minutes for delivery," she said. "You have some cash on you?"

I grabbed my wallet and found fifteen and she found ten in hers so we were ok for the pizza but had to hit an ATM machine in the morning. After filling up on pizza and diet coke, or water for Steph, we went through Logics again until we couldn't fool the other with our made up questions. We packed it in around ten and, after giving the girls a call, hit the hay.

"The girls were all too smug about not having to go through exams anymore," I said.

"I know, they just had to rub it in that they were just watching TV and relaxing," Steph agreed. "It must be nice to know that they will earn enough in a year for normal people to retire on."

"They certainly lucked out a bit, but they work hard for their money and their careers won't last as long as most others," I reminded her.

"I guess, but can't I be a bit envious?" she asked as she put her head on my shoulder.

"Hey, you're getting to sleep with the handsome prince, you're not doing too badly," I said with a chuckle.

"I hate to break it to you, but you're not looking to handsome right now, and you've never been charming," she replied with a giggle.

"You wound me deep fair lady, my heart is pierced with thoust sharp barbs," I told her.

"Yeah yeah, tell it to someone who cares," she replied. "I'm going to sleep."

She cuddled up and we were soon snoring away.

The next morning we were up at five to get in a good review before heading to the morning exam. After an hour review I was pretty comfortable so I grabbed a shower and then made some eggs and toast for the both of us. Steph looked like she was starting to panic so I took her books away for a few minutes and put a plate of food in front of her.

"Relax Princess, you know this stuff," I said. "Have some breakfast and then go take a shower. You can review some more on the way and before the exam if you think you have to."

"Easy for you to say genius boy," she retorted. "I bet you get perfect on this one, computer brain."

"I think we will both do well Princess," I said with a smile. "Now eat and relax. I'll give you a quick massage and then a nice long one after the exam if you're at all nice to me."

"Alright," she said as she looked at my face. "You're less ugly than yesterday. You owe me two massages now."

"You've turned cruel Princess," I responded, shaking my head in mock sorrow. "It must be old age creeping in."

"You're losing it, I'm younger than you," she rebutted.

"Yes, but short people age faster, it's a scientific fact," I told her. "You can look it up if you like."

"Bite me," she replied and had a bite of egg.

"I would love to but you'd be a wreck for the exam," I responded with a grin.

She spat out her food into a quickly raised hand as she laughed out loud.

"Gross," I said as she got up and washed off the appendage.

"It's entirely your fault for making me laugh," she said, coming back to the table. "Now, be quiet so I can finish breakfast and get back to panicking."

"How about you finish breakfast and have a shower, our classmates will appreciate that more," I told her.

"Fine, but I want lots of massages the next two weeks," she replied. "And I want lots of ice cream too!"

"That can be arranged, but what's in it for me?" I asked with a grin.

"I don't bite off your head," she replied with a smirk. "And I'm not talking the ugly one on your shoulders either."

"Princess, don't even joke about something like that," I admonished her.

"Well you better keep me loose and well fed then," she said primly as she got up and put her plate in the sink. "It's pretty simple really."

She walked away saucily and hit the shower as I cleaned up the kitchen. I heard the shower stop and a few minutes later I heard her in the bedroom opening drawers.

"Sweetie," she said.

I turned around and saw her leaning against the door frame, dressed in a very sexy bra and hipster combo.

"Wow, you look hot," I said, reaching for the towel to dry my hands. "You ready for a massage now?"

"Not a chance mister," she warned with a finger as she stood up straight. "This is a little reward for getting my mind off the exam, not an invitation to start anything. Don't even think about trying to get me worked up right now."

"Sure, but is it ok for you to tease me?" I asked wryly as I stared at her gorgeous body.

"Of course, you need to get some blood out of your big head for a while, Mr. Smarty Pants," she said with a giggle before turning around and slowly walking as she watched my reaction over her shoulder.

"You wait till after exam you vixen," I said, adjusting myself to point it downwards.

"I'm counting on it Mikey," she said as she bent over, still in my view, to put on her jeans.

"You're killing me here," I moaned and took a step towards her.

"You stay there mister until I get these pants done up," she said, working harder now to pull them up.

I walked towards her, just slow enough to panic her a bit as she had them up to her thighs and was wiggling to get them over her slim hips. I reached her as she got her butt covered but not done up and pulled her to me.

"You know what happens to little girls who tease big men?" I asked as I ground my erection into her bum and tried to reach down the front of her jeans as she struggled to do them up.

"They make things rise?" she said as she tried to wiggle away while giggling.

"Maybe I should get you all worked up and let you be frustrated for the whole exam," I suggested as I rubbed her lower abdomen and moved my fingers lower.

"Don't you dare, I'll fail for sure," she gasped and tried to grab my hand. "I'm sorry, Mikey, I won't tease you again."

I moved my other hand up and caressed her breasts and tweaked her nipples.

"Please Mikey, don't get me worked up, I promise I'll take care of you afterwards," she begged. "We don't have time for this Sweetie."

I let her go and she quickly stepped away and hurriedly did up her jeans and slipped on her tee-shirt as she watched me closely.

"Geez Michael, a girl can't tease you for a second and you go all caveman on her," she teased as she was now out of danger.

"Princess, you know how much you turn me on," I told her. "I'm not going pretend you don't affect me, so don't tease if you don't want the reaction. I'm not a high school boy you can play games with Missy."

"Ok, I'm sorry Sweetie, I'll behave and I will make it up to you, I promise," she said as she rose up on her tippy toes and give me a light kiss.

"You will be the death of me woman," I told her.

"But you still love me don't you?" she asked in a tiny voice.

I was sure she was playing me, again, but I had to answer the little cutie, "Of course I love you."

"Well that's all that matters," she said primly. "Now chop-chop, it's time to go write an exam."

She moved around me and went to go get made up in the bathroom as I gathered our books in our bags. I threw in some water bottles and snack bars and then went in to brush my teeth, working around her as she bent over to put on some makeup.

Soon enough we were on our way and parked the Escape as close as we could on a nearby street. We were early so we went to a nearby cafeteria, and after getting some cash from the ATM machine, grabbed a coffee and a diet coke. We walked to the assigned building and found the large hall where we, along with other classes, would be writing the exam this morning.

We were deliberately early so we both slid down to the floor and opened our books in the hallway and reviewed the material again, this time starting from the latest and working backwards. Eventually more people joined us in the hallway and either sat or leaned on the wall. I got up as I was tired of pulling in my legs for everyone. I packed my stuff away except for some pens and pencils and waited. I got a few looks, or my face did anyway but no one approached me with the frown I put on my face.

The doors opened at quarter to eight and we found the rows for our class. Steph sat in front of me and turned around to talk to me.

"Mikey, if I fail, you won't kick me out will you?" she asked.

"Maybe, I don't need a dumb PA around," I said.

"Hey, that's not nice!" she exclaimed with a frown. "I didn't think you would be so mean."

"Then you better not fail or you'll find out," I warned her with an evil grin.

"I'm going to do better than you and kick you out Mikey," she replied. "You can be a meany to someone on the streets."

"Alright, you do better than me and you win a prize," I told her.

"What's the prize?" she asked, now interested.

"I don't know yet, what do you want?" I asked.

"I don't know yet either, we'll decide after we see who does better," she said.

"I know what I'll pick when I score better than you," I said.

"Hey, I didn't offer any prize if you beat me," she responded. "What do you want, as if I had to guess?"

"I'll tell you when I win," I said with a grin.

She stuck her tongue out at me and then turned around as the moderators explained the rules before passing out the exam booklets.

"Hey, I'll wait for you in the hallway when I'm done," I whispered and she nodded without turning around.

Right at eight we were allowed to turn the exam over and we had three hours to finish it. I read it over and then started answering from the front page.

Just over two hours later I finished up the last question and then did a slow review of every answer. I made sure everything was legible and then packed up my stuff before walking up front to hand in my exam. I shook the professor's hand and walked back through the aisle to wink at Steph who stuck her tongue out at me again. I closed the door and gave a sigh of relief before sitting down and grabbing my water bottle.

I checked a couple of answers and then just relaxed as people started trickling out. Most of them who left early were the more confident looking people, while some were shaking their heads, probably leaving early because they couldn't answer the questions.

My princess came out ten minutes before the end of the time allowed and looked frazzled but not too down.

"Hey Princess, how'd ya do?" I asked as I stood up and grabbed her bag.

"I think I did ok, except for a couple questions," she said. "Boy I'm glad that one is over!"

"I'm proud of you, you really worked hard on that course," I told her.

"Thanks for all of your help Mikey, I couldn't have done it without you," she said with a smile. "You even kept my mind off of it so I didn't get nervous this morning."

"My pleasure Steph," I replied.

We walked out of the building and decided to get something at a little Mexican restaurant nearby for lunch as a reward for finishing a hard course. Afterwards we went home and relaxed for a bit.

"When do you want to pick out furniture for the new condo?" I asked. "We also need to line up a truck to get the bed over there next week."

"I don't want you to move the bed until next Wednesday afternoon," she said. "I'll be writing my last exam and you can get John to help you while I'm gone. You can rent a truck for a couple of hours. The rest of the clothes can go in our cars or in the truck at the same time. We need to make sure we don't get distracted on our exams."

"I'm ok with that, and we could have anything we pick out delivered that Thursday since we're not going to Friday morning right?" I asked.

"I suppose so, but when are we going to find time to shop for stuff?" she asked.

"Today would be the only day I think," I replied. "You have Calculus tomorrow afternoon and I have algebra the next morning and then fly out right after. You could go yourself on the weekend if you need a break from studying."

"Maybe, but with three exams in a row starting Monday morning, I'm not sure if I will," she said. "We could go for a couple hours right now but we have to be quick and decisive."

"Fine with me," I agreed and pulled her up.

We got dressed again and I hardly mauled her when she was down to her naughty bits. She brought the phone book in case we had to go to more than one store as we drove to the closest one that advertised fine furniture.

"Do you know what we want for the living room and dining room?" I asked.

"The girls and I talked it all over and everything is in here," she replied as she indicated her blackberry. "Colours, styles, how many pieces, have all been decided on, including how much roughly to spend. We also are getting all new furniture, except for the one bed, for all three bedrooms."

"Do I get a say at all?" I asked bemused.

"Of course, that's why you're coming with me silly," she said with a grin. "You have to make sure it will hold your weight."

"You're such a comedian," I said, blowing her a raspberry.

Steph was still giggling as we stepped out of the SUV and walked into the large store. The next two and a half hours Steph and a sales lady picked out bedroom, living room and dining room furniture and arranged to have it delivered next Thursday to the condo. I got to try things out and that's about it.

We left the store and drove back to the apartment, picking up supper on the way. It was back to studying after supper as we both studied for our math exams. We called it a night at around ten and I gave her a massage to fall asleep and I joined her soon after.

Wednesday I woke her up early to study and I went to the rink to get in some skating before the practice. I just put on skates and a helmet and got on the ice for stretching before doing a light skate to start. I worked up to wind sprints going forwards and backwards before a few guys showed up for practice.

I stuck around until they started shooting and then left the ice, meeting up with Frank and Fred in the hallway.

"Hey Mike, how's the hand?" Frank asked.

"Getting better, Chris will take out the stitches tomorrow after my exam and before I head to New York for the weekend," I told him.

"Are you sure that's wise to go to New York during exam week?" he asked.

Two of my three exams will be over and my last one is computer programming which is my major," I replied. "It's on Tuesday and I've already studied for it. I'm perfect so far in the course so I'll be fine. I'll be at most practices next week and all of them the following week. I'll hit the hotel gym while I'm in New York."

"Relax Mike, you're the least of our worries, either scholastically or being in shape," Fred said. "Have a good time but no drinking or drugs or shit will hit the fan. Try and stay off the subject of hockey if you get interviewed OK?"

"Sure, I'm hoping not to actually have to talk to the media, but I can't pass up the Victoria's Secret fashion show," I said.

"No shit?" Frank said. "Bring me back a souvenir, like a model!"

"Hard to sneak that out of the theatre, but I'll see what I can do," I replied with a grin.

"Enjoy it while you can!" Frank said.

I grabbed a quick shower and drove back to the apartment. Surprisingly Steph seemed pretty calm and was quietly studying at the table.

"Hey, you're much too calm and collected to be my Princess," I said. "Who are you and what have you done with her?"

"I am the gatekeeper, are you the key master?" she said in a deep voice.

"Well, yes I am," I said, not being the fool everyone took me for.

"Oh goody," she said, still with the deep voice. "Make me breakfast Key Master."

"Oh, that's not what happened in the movie," I complained.

"This is real life Sweetie, not pretend," she said in an overly sweet voice. "I'll have some toast please."

I put some bread in the toaster before getting changed. I made up some up with peanut butter and jam for her and then just with jam or honey for me and we ate at the table.

"How was your skate?" she asked.

"Boring but ok," I told her. "I didn't even bring a stick on the ice."

"Well, your hand should be good by Monday morning," she consoled me.

"So, you feel ready for this afternoon?" I asked about her Calculus exam.

"I think so, but I'm going to keep reviewing until noon," she replied. "Can you drop me off so I don't have to waste time finding a parking spot?"

"Sure, and you can call me to come pick you up afterwards," I told her. "I'll head to the arena to work out and study."

"Thanks Sweetie, you're not bad for a nerd," she giggled.

"As are you, my dear," I replied.

I got my Algebra books out and joined her at the table until eleven thirty when I got up and made some sandwiches for lunch. Steph ate while still looking at her books until it was time to get ready. After getting changed, she packed her stuff up and I gave her a big good luck kiss before we left the apartment.

After dropping her off and wishing her luck I drove to the arena and worked out in the weight room, doing exercises that didn't involve my hand as well as riding the bike. I then grabbed a snack and studied some more for Algebra while waiting for Steph's call.

She called just before four and told me she would be waiting by her dorm, so I packed up and was on my way in a couple of minutes. I pulled up to the parking lot closest to her dorm and walked over to the building. Steph and Lin were in the lobby surrounded by black garbage bags.

"Finally had enough of her Lin?" I asked her.

"Yep, booting her out of the crib," she said with a grin.

"Just for that, you can both grab some and help," Steph said as she picked a couple up after hoisting her book bag onto her shoulder.

I grabbed a bunch in each hand and Lin handled the rest as my Princess led the way. I had to put mine down to unlock the truck using the key. We shoved most of them in there and stuffed the rest in the back seat.

Lin and Steph hugged and I waved to her before getting into the car and driving back to the apartment.

"We couldn't have done this next week and drove right to the condo?" I asked.

"I want to wash them while I study; don't worry, we'll have to do another trip there next week to get the rest of the stuff," she replied.

"So how was the exam?" I asked.

"Good, I finished after about two hours and decided to get some stuff done before I called you," she replied. "It was pretty easy actually."

"Good for you, all that studying paid off," I congratulated her.

"Thanks, you help me focus better than I used to," she said. "I used to get so distracted and couldn't study for more than an hour at a time."

"Wow, me a good influence, who would have thunk it?" I asked.

"It is amazing," she agreed.

We lugged all of her clothes downstairs and she started a load while I studied some more. Back in the kitchen she got busy marinating a couple of steaks and cleaning a couple of potatoes. After a bit she started cooking and I soon got distracted by the smells and her cute butt. I packed up my books and set the table and we were soon eating.

"That was an excellent meal my Princess, thank you," I said, giving her a kiss as we cleaned up afterwards.

"I wanted to send you off with a good meal," she said, looking a bit sad.

"Hey, I'll be back before you know it," I said, giving her a hug.

"I'm going to be here all alone, I'm missing you already," she said, squeezing me tight.

"Are you sure you can't come with me?" I asked.

"I won't get any studying done if I do," she shook her head.

"Why don't you go to your parent's house for the weekend?" I suggested.

"I'll get even less studying done there with the rugrats and Sammi bugging me," she said dryly. "Don't worry about me, I'll be fine. Maybe I'll call up some cute guy to keep me company."

"I think not," I said. "I should be able to bar the doors shut before I go."

"Humph, you're going to cavort with multiple women and you want to lock me up?" she asked. "Something is wrong with this picture."

"Sorry Princess, I wish you were coming," I said quietly with a hug. "Then I could have three women to cavort with!"

I jumped back as she tried to punch me in the stomach and grinned at her.

"You are so sleeping on the couch tonight Mister!" she said mock angrily.

"Listen, let's study for a bit and we'll get to bed early," I said. "You should head home for a couple of days and come back to study for a couple here. "That way you're not alone for four days."

"I just might do that, and I can study all morning tomorrow," she replied. "I'm going to drive you to the airport tomorrow afternoon and I can head home from there."

"There, all better," I said, giving her a kiss.

We studied for a few hours after supper and then I made sure she wouldn't miss me too much after we hit the hay.

"Wow, you should go away more often if you're going to take care of me like that before you go!" she said, panting after her second orgasm. "I'm so satisfied I won't need you for a week!"

"Well, I had to make sure my Princess didn't feel the need for male attention while I was gone," I said with a grin.

"I'm running in the other direction Mikey, I swear," she said. "I hope you have something left for the girls."

"Oh, I'll need a good night's sleep but I think I'll be all right," I said. "I can't promise how I'll be on Sunday night though."

"Knowing them, they'll drain you dry and send you back to me a broken husk of a man," she said, patting my chest. "Don't worry; I'll give you a couple of hours to recuperate before doing your duty."

"You're all heart," I said.

"Ok, let's get some sleep so you can get up early to review," she commanded as she settled in. "Good night Mikey."

"Goodnight Princess, I love you."

"I love you too Mikey," she replied. "Now hush."

"Yes Ma'am."

I woke up early Thursday morning and had a shower before sitting down to review one last time. I woke up Steph at seven and told her I was going and I would be back later.

"Hey, I can drive you," she said, sitting up to show me her lovely pert breasts.

"I have to go the arena afterwards to get my stitches out so I'll park there Princess," I told her. "You sleep in and I'll see you by eleven thirty."

"You better, we have to leave at noon to get to your flight at two," she said. "I'll pack for you so we can leave right away."

"What, no quickie to send me off on my way satisfied?" I asked with a grin.

"You just got a quick look at my boobies, that should hold you until you see the girls," she said before flopping back down and covering up.

"See you later Princess," I said.

"Yeah, yeah, I'm sleeping here, go get perfect on your math test why don't ya," she said, waving her hand.

I chuckled and left her in bed as I headed out. Even with parking at the arena I was early and did a quick review of the last couple of chapters before they let us in and went over the rules again. I turned over the exam at eight am and went to work.

One hour and forty minutes later I was reviewing the exam for the second time. I was a bit surprised on how easy it was so I was looking to make sure I hadn't missed any questions or pages. I looked it over and then turned it around to see if there were any questions on the back. The prof happened to be nearby and came over when I was doing that.

"Is there a problem Mr. Stewart?" Professor Adams asked.

"I think I'm finished but it seemed too easy, so I'm checking to see if I missed some questions or there are some on the back," I told him.

He picked up my booklet and leafed through it quickly.

"You got them all Mr. Stewart, good work as usual," he told me with a smile. "Everything looks good at a glance so you can relax. Have a good holiday and good luck in the Great Lakes Invitational after Christmas."

"You have a good holiday also Professor Adams, it's been a pleasure having you as a teacher," I said, packing up.

I shook his hand and left the exam room, much to the chagrin of my classmates. I walked quickly to the arena and Chris had me up on the table just after ten.

"Ok, this will sting for a minute," he said as he started cutting and pulling out the stitches from the cut on my face.

I gritted my teeth as he pulled each one out slowly so they wouldn't break.

"You would have made an excellent torturer back in the Inquisition days," I told him.

"I try," he said with a grin. "Next time, don't let him hit you."

"I'll remember that sage advice next time," I said dryly.

Finally the torture stopped and he cleaned up the cut before having me sit up. He was just as unsympathetic when he pulled the stitches from my hand.

"Ok, keep an eye on them to make sure they heal up properly but you can leave them open to the air if you like," he said. "I hear you'll be knob hobbling with the rich and famous over the weekend with Vicky and her sister, so try not to get in a fight where you have to use it ok?"

"God, I hope not, she'll kill me if I embarrass her," I said. "I'll see you Monday morning at practice."

"Have a good one, and remember, no drinking or drugs, they'll be looking out for embarrassing pictures of you," he told me.

"Don't worry, I don't drink or do drugs and don't plan on starting either this weekend," I said. "Have to keep my wits about me; I'm going into the Dark forest."

"That you are lad, that you are," he said. "Watch yourselves amongst that crowd; you're like a babe in the woods."

"I'll just growl at them and hover," I said as I stood up and looked down at him.

"Yeah, that should work," he said looking up at me with a grin. "Hell it would work on me and I know you're kidding."

"Look who's talking, the Marquis de Sade has nothing on you," I retorted as I grinned back.

I wished him a good weekend and left the arena for home. I snuck into the apartment and heard Steph in the shower. I slipped out of my clothes and surprised her by climbing into the shower with her.

"Damn it Michael Stewart, you scared the crap out of me," she said after she calmed down from her shriek.

"Sorry Princess, just wanted to join you for a few minutes," I said as I pulled her near.

"What the hell are you doing here so early, it isn't even ten thirty yet?" she asked as she reluctantly came closer.

"I got done real fast, like an hour and forty with two reviews of the exam," I told her. "I even had the professor look at and he said it looked good. Chris took out the stitches and here I am."

"Wow, my own freaking genius here in the shower, naked with me, and we got like an hour or so," she said with a grin.

"Whatever should we do?" I asked.

"Well you can start by washing my back," she said, slapping a washcloth and soap in my hands and turning around.

I washed from the neck down to her calves and then turned her around and did her front, leaving her girlie parts for last. I concentrated on them for a bit until she looked up at me in exasperation.

"I think they're clean now," she said dryly. "Probably for the next week in fact."

"Just making sure, you can't be too careful with these things," I said, helping her rinse off her breasts.

Eventually we shut off the water and I dried her off before wrapping her up in her robe.

I quickly dried off and wrapped a towel around my waste and we left the steamy bathroom.

"Not enough time left Sweetie, and I'm not getting all sweaty now either," she said when I tried to pull her close.

"Princess, I'm a little worked up here," I said, looking down at the towel.

"And what do you want me to do about it?" she asked.

"I thought we were going to, you know," I said.

"Nope, I guess you better go take a cold shower," she said primly.

We could, um, help each other out," I suggested.

"I suppose you could finish what you started in the shower for me," she said as she sat back on the bed.

I quickly got down and pulled her robe apart and kissed my way down her body. I concentrated on her breasts and then continued down her tummy. I spread her legs as she lay back on the bed. She moaned as I licked her pussy and then concentrated on her clit with my tongue as I slid a finger inside her.

When she started humping herself up to me and becoming more vocal, I stopped and stood up quickly and pulled off my towel.

"Oh no, I'm not getting all sweaty before we leave, I can't go home like that!" she whined as I rubbed the head of Big Mike gently into her wet pussy. "Get back down there and finish what you started Mikey!"

I hit her clit with the head and she gasped and raised her hips to grind herself on me. After a little bit of that I pointed Big Mike lower and teased her by going just inside her opening.

"You're driving me crazy here Mikey," she cried. "I'm getting so close. Stop teasing me."

"Do you want me inside you now?" I asked.

"Fine, but don't blame me if you're late because I need another shower," she said as she reached behind and pulled me in.

I plunged in and we quickly made love until we both shouted out as we came.

"You are such a horny bastard," she said as we tried to catch our breath.

"Yeah, you looked like you hated every minute of it," I replied dryly.

She sat up and stuck her tongue out at me before getting up.

"I would have been ok with that too," I said with a grin.

"That is for very special occasions and you leaving me is not a special occasion," she replied before shutting the door. I heard the water running and went in to wash up a bit in the sink.

I was dressed and packed when she came out of the washroom in her robe.

"You stay on that side of the bed so I can get dressed in peace," she said as she dropped the robe and put on some clothes.

I watched the whole time and had to remind myself not to go and caress her again.

"Geez, you look at me like you haven't touched me in a month," she said.

"I'll always look at you like that Princess," I said with a grin.

She just shook her head and said, "Come on, we have to go before you miss the plane."

I picked out up my suitcase and garment bag while she grabbed her stuff and we left for the airport.

"Ok, here is your information, you're flying NorthWest so go to their counter and check in your bags," she instructed. "The girls are meeting you so look for them at either the gate or the luggage area. Have a good flight and remember no drinking or drugs, you can't be seen or photographed doing either."

"Why does everyone have to remind me not to drink or do drugs?" I asked.

"Because we all care for you and we all know you're going to parties where there it will be easy to get that stuff," she said. "Can I trust you not to pick up another woman between here and New York?"

"Of course you can silly," I said. "Be careful driving home and I love you Princess."

"I like you a little too," she said with a grin.

She gave me a big kiss and a hug and then let me go when a policeman tapped on the window.

I got out quickly and grabbed my bags.

"See you Sunday night Princess, I'll call you when I can," I said with a smile before shutting the door.

She waved and took off and I turned and went inside the terminal. I found the NorthWest check in and looked at the ticket information. I was surprised when I saw first class on it and joined the much shorter line.

Within five minutes I was at the counter and put my suitcase and garment bag on the scale and handed the pretty associate my information.

"Good afternoon Mr. Stewart, off to New York I see, with two bags and one carry-on bag," she said. "Have you had the bags in your possession at all times and has anyone given you something to bring with you?"

I answered yes and no to the questions and she quickly got me on my way, giving me a boarding pass and directions to the gate. I joined the security line and once through that, took the long walk to the gate, using the moving conveyors in the middle when I could.

I got there with fifteen minutes to spare and joined the first class passengers boarding first. I walked down the extended walkway and ducked my head to step on the plane. A smiling attendant welcomed me and pointed to my aisle seat after she looked at my ticket. I put my bag in the overhead compartment and sat down, angling the seat back a bit before the passenger behind me got there.

For the next fifteen minutes I watched all manner of man, woman and child enter the plane as they looked at me already in my seat, sipping on a diet coke and eating peanuts that another pretty attendant brought to me.

Just before they were set to close the doors, a beautiful young woman rushed up and boarded the plane. The attendant quickly looked at her boarding pass and pointed towards me and led her to her window seat. They got her rather large carryon bag into the overhead compartment and then I had to get up to let her by my knees.

"Sorry about that," she said as she sat down and I followed suit.

"No problem," I replied.

The attendant got her a club soda and then asked us to buckle up as we were about to taxi to the runway.

"I'm Sasha by the way," she introduced herself in a slightly European accent.

"I'm Mike, it's nice to meet you," I said.

"Hi Mike, are you heading to New York for business or pleasure?" she asked with a smile.

"I'm going to meet my girlfriend actually so I would say pleasure," I replied.

"I would hope you would say pleasure or I would tell you to get a new girlfriend," she said with a laugh.

"And yourself?" I asked.

"Work I'm afraid," she said. "No pleasure for me on this trip until the end of the weekend."

The plane started backing up and we were soon taxiing to the runway, abet slowly. We were both looking out her window so I could look at her without appearing like a loser. She was wearing a pair of dark tight pants and an expensive looking blouse that both showed off her slim wonderful body. Her face was simply beautiful and her black hair was short and cut in a fashionable, trendy way.

She turned to me and saw I was looking her way and smiled.

"Sorry, I just love looking out the window as we taxi around and take off," she said. "I fly a lot but never get tired of it."

"No need to apologize, I do the same thing," I told her.

She turned back and continued to watch the action outside and I glanced around the cabin. It was a pretty full flight and the first class seats were all full, mostly with business men or older couples. A pair of young pretty women smiled as my glance hit them and I smiled back before moving on. The attendants were sitting in seats looking back at us and they also smiled when I looked at them. I smiled back and then looked over at Sasha and the window again to avoid getting into trouble.

Unfortunately she had saw the whole thing and of course had to tease me.

"So, I see you have some admirers on this trip, and being so handsome I can see why," she teased. "I guess I'm the lucky one to get to sit beside you all the way to New York."

"I'm sure they're just being polite to the country bumpkin who's looking around as if he's never flown before," I said. "I'm the lucky one to sit beside you. I'm sure every guy in the plane would trade seats with me right now."

"Why thank you Mike, that is so sweet," she said. "You sure you're going to see your girlfriend or can I tempt you away for dinner one night?"

"That is a kind offer, but I'm very much in love with her and she's just as beautiful as you, I'm afraid," I told her. "I'm sure someone like you has half of all the men in New York chasing after you while you're there."

"I suppose, but I like to choose myself," she said. "I don't suppose this woman would share?"

I laughed and replied, "You're lucky she's not here, she wouldn't be happy about the seating arrangements at all. So no, she's not going to be sharing."

We turned onto the runway and, after a quick wait, went rocketing down the runway and lifted up into the air. The bumps and clanks of the landing gear folding up went on for about ten seconds and then we smoothly climbed in the air before banking east. Sasha pulled out a fashion magazine and got engrossed in it so I closed my eyes and rested for a bit.

The flight attendants came around and offered the first class people drinks and expensive snacks, but I just asked for some chips and another diet coke. Sasha asked for a Martini and a small salad. I munched away on my chips while she dipped her salad in the side dressing and ate daintily.

After we finished our snack she asked me about myself and I told her I was in school for computer science. She told me she was in the clothing industry and travelled all over the world for her company.

"You must love travelling then," I asked.

"For the most part but it can get lonely," she said. "I'm not in any one place long enough to even start a relationship, and one night stands are not my style. But I'm still young and I get back to the home office once a month and can relax for a few days."

We chatted a bit about places she had been and about school until the seatbelt sign came on and we had to buckle up. The landing went well at Kennedy Airport and I got Sasha's bag down while she was still sitting down.

"What do you have in this thing, rocks?" I asked, putting it down on my seat before grabbing mine.

"A little this and that," she said with a smile as she stood up.

A couple of guys from further back tried to scoot by to get to the front but I stayed out in the aisle and they had to wait. Sasha grinned at me as I let her go in front of me as the door was opened. Soon we were walking up the Jetway to the terminal side by side with Sasha pulling her carryon behind her. I looked around once we hit the terminal but didn't see the girls.

"Is anyone meeting you?" I asked.

"No, I'm going to grab a taxi after I get my other two bags," she told me.

We both followed the signs to the baggage claim and then looked at the screens to find the right carousal for our flight. It was the third one and when we got there, there wasn't any bags on it and it was stationary. I looked around but didn't see the girls waiting here either.

"You know, you're really tall," Sasha said. "How tall are you? Six three?

"Last measurement was almost six four actually," I said. "You're pretty tall yourself; about five nine?"

"Just over, actually," she said with a grin.

The carousal came to life and soon after bags appeared through a curtain and dropped onto the moving conveyor. The gathering throng moved to get to a clear spot to grab their bags and we did the same. We watched for a couple of minutes and Sasha pointed out her two. I pulled them off for her and placed them a bit behind us. My garment bag came next and then my suitcase followed a few later.

Sasha had procured herself a luggage cart and had just returned so I helped her put her two suitcases on it and then her carryon. My carryon went over my shoulder and then I picked up my two others and we moved away from the luggage area. I was scanning the area to find the girls when a voice came from behind me.

"Sasha Solomon, what do you think you are doing with my boyfriend?" Vicky asked in her most pissed off voice.

"Victoria Waters, what are you talking about?" Sasha asked. "Are you telling me that Mike is your boyfriend?"

"Yes I'm telling you that!" she said before turning to me. "Stephanie left you at the airport two hours ago Michael, how is it that we find you helping one of the most beautiful women in the world with her bags two hours later?"

"Hi Vicky, good to see you," I said. "I see you know Sasha here; she sat beside me on the flight actually. Don't know who she is other than she works in the clothing industry."

"And he said he was meeting his girlfriend and wouldn't go to dinner with me; he said his girlfriend is just as beautiful as me, can you believe it?" Sasha piped up.

"And I'm supposed to believe you two just happened to meet by coincidence?" Vicky asked, still looking pissed off.

"Well no, actually I took him back to the stewardess's lounge and I initiated him into the mile high club," Sasha said. "He's quite good; I see why you're so on about him all the time. You said he was cute but he's really quite the hunk."

I looked at her in shock and said, "What the hell are you talking about Sasha? Vicky, she's bullshitting for some reason. I never left my seat the whole time."

Vicky was looking really mad and then broke out in laughter as did Becky and Amy behind her. Sasha started laughing as well and moved to Vicky and they hugged. I, of course, realized that they had set me up big time and dropped my bags to cross my arms and glare at all four of them.

"Ahem, I'm really not amused," I said, which of course made them all laugh at me harder. "Was this a setup from the get go?"

"Yeah, we knew Sasha was coming in for the Victoria's Secret show and Amy and Steph got you two sitting together," Vicky said. "So did Michael behave himself Sasha?"

"Disgustingly so," she admitted. "He didn't stare at me, flirt or touch me at all. He didn't even mention that you were a model or that he was a hockey player. For the first time in ages I enjoyed a conversation with a guy that wasn't trying to impress me or pick me up. I think I'm falling in love with him already!"

"Damn it Michael, you got another one after in just two hours?" Vicky asked in despair. "Well Sasha, you can't have him so just go find your own guy."

"Damn, all the good ones are all taken," Sasha muttered.

"Alright, let's get out of here before another woman tries to steal him," Vicky said, leading the way.

A large black guy dressed in casual clothes cut in front of us and I slowed down and looked around to see a second equally large white guy move into a close position behind us, making me stop and put down my bags.

The guy in back stopped while the one in front kept going towards the nearby door until he looked back to find us not behind him.

I moved to keep in front of the girls facing the guy in back of us when Vicky put an arm out to stop me.

"Mike, it's ok, they're our security detail," she told me. "Sorry we didn't tell you, they blend in so well, sometimes we forget they're around. This is Barry and the other one coming back to see what's up is Marcel."

I relaxed, as did Barry, and I said, "Sorry Barry, the girls forgot to mention the little detail that they had two Goliaths guarding them."

"No problem Mike, I'm glad she stepped in before you got angry," Barry said with a smile. "I've seen what you do when that happens."

"I'm glad she stepped in too, I wasn't looking forward to taking on one of you, let alone both," I said.

"Ok, now that we have the three really big guys on the same side, can we proceed please?" asked Sasha.

"Oh be quiet Sasha, my boyfriend was just protecting us from harm," Vicky said, grabbing my arm and giving me a kiss. "Now we can go."

We continued to the door and Marcel turned around again and went out first, looked around and then motioned us forward. We all exited and walked to a limo waiting at the curb for us, its driver standing by the open trunk. I lifted in my bags while the driver put in Sasha's as the others got in. I followed Sasha in and the driver closed the door. Barry was in the back with us and Marcel rode up front with the driver.

"So, are you still mad at our little trick we pulled?" Vicky asked, sitting beside me with Becky on the other side.

Amy and Sasha sat together with Barry, who was on the far side looking out the window as we pulled out into traffic.

"I suppose not, but Sasha nearly gave me a heart attack when she said that," I told her.

"I wish we had that recorded so you could see the look on your face," Becky said. "It was priceless."

"So, was this a test to see if I would flirt or something?" I asked.

They all looked guilty and I frowned.

"Hold on, it wasn't my idea, it was Sasha's," Vicky said. "She bet me that you would be all over her and would do at least one of several things."

"Like what?" I asked.

"Brag about me, talk about how good you were in bed, hit on her, flirt with her, brag about your hockey, talk about the fight or talk about Becky and I being twins," Vicky listed. "I didn't want to bet but she wouldn't let it be."

"So how did he do Sasha?" Becky asked with a grin.

"He didn't do any of them," Sasha said, looking disgusted at me. "He was as good as you said he would be."

"So what was the wager?" I asked curiously.

"We'll discuss that when we get to the hotel," Vicky said, before anyone else blurted it out.

Sasha looked really embarrassed and had turned red as we looked at her.

"She wanted to bet with us too," Becky said. "So she lost to all three of us. We knew you wouldn't do any of those things, even Amy."

I looked at Amy and she blushed a bit as I winked at her. We drove for a while, heading downtown towards all the skyscrapers. We pulled up to a fancy hotel, called the Plaza Hotel, that overlooked Central Park and spilled out after Barry and Marcel made sure everything was ok. A porter brought out a luggage cart and we piled Sasha's and my luggage on it and entered the opulent lobby.

Sasha went to the counter and checked in while I looked around at the fancy furnishings. After she got her key card, Barry and Marcel left for a few hours when Vicky assured them we would be staying in to eat and wouldn't be going out until the later in the evening.

We took the elevator up to Sasha's room to drop her off. The girls had made arrangements for her to get freshened up before coming up to their condo on the twenty third floor. The porter helped her with her bags so we continued up to the condo by ourselves.

Amy opened the door and led me to the room where I hung up my suits and other clothes with the help of all the girls. They showed me around the two bedroom suite that boasted a living room/dining room and a small balcony that overlooked Central Park.

"Well, you ladies have a nice condo here, how do you like living here?" I asked, sitting down with a diet coke.

Becky spoke up, "It's different than back home, but this is a really nice condo for New York. It took us a bit to get used to it but we're adapting."

"These two were like babes in the wood for the first little while but now they're getting to be pros," Amy said.

"Well, you helped us so much Amy, we would have lost without you, both with our careers or learning how to live here," Becky said, giving her a big hug.

Amy looked embarrassed but happy with Becky's sign of affection. Vicky came and sat beside me just as close.

"We really missed you and our parents, especially Bec, so those two quickly became more than just friends," she told me quietly. "I was a little worried for a bit but everything has turned out just fantastic. I still get lonely for you but we all make sure that everyone is loved."

"Well, I'm glad to hear that," I said to her. "I worry about you three but I'm happy to see that you all take care of each other."

"And we're happy that Steph is taking such good care of you," she replied. "I know you didn't want to add her to the equation, but I think we're all better for it."

"Yeah, she's been great," I agreed.

"So, here's the plan," Amy spoke up. "We're going to hang out here for a bit, Sasha will join us and we'll all go down to the Oak Room for a nice dinner. We'll come back up and rest for a while and then we'll start our introduction of Michael as Vicky's boyfriend. We've reserved a table at one of the hottest clubs in town, Vixens, and I'm sure that someone has sold that information to the press, so there will be lots of Paparazzi and a couple of camera crews as well. Michael will walk the two between the two of you into the club and we'll sit in the VIP section. Sasha, Emily and Leighton are joining us so there will be plenty of celebrity watchers and photographers there to get pics."

"Please don't tell me that I'm going to be the only guy with six women?" I asked.

"I'm not sure but probably," she admitted.

"You're going to be pretty tired with all the dancing you're going to be doing," Vicky said with a grin.

Amy continued, "Barry and Marcel will be with us the whole time so don't think you have to protect us. Guys will try and hit on us all and some of the others might take them up on dancing, but the three of us will stay with you. Be friendly with the other girls but don't be hugging or kissing them, even if they get drunk. And for God's sake, no drinking or drugs, stick to diet coke. If you have to go to the washroom, take Barry or Marcel with you, the other will stick with the three of us. Under no circumstances are you to get into a fight over us, let Barry and Marcel handle things. Understand?"

"I can't fight right now anyway with this hand, but I can't promise I won't protect you if something really bad happens," I said. "Are you sure this is the right place to go if you have to make all these precautions?"

"Alcohol, drugs and pretty women make young boys and men do stupid things to try and get their attention," Amy stated. "We know how protective of the twins you get, so we're just trying to avoid a situation that can paint you in a bad light, even if it's for a good reason."

"I'll try my best to restrain myself from being overly protective of all three of you," I said, making her blush again as Becky hugged her.

Vicky took over, "We won't get there until ten and we'll leave by one so that we get enough sleep for the commercial shoot for Old Navy first thing in the morning. This is just something extra we put in to get more exposure for you. Try to have fun and we'll all make sure you survive. Don't get pulled away by other girls trying to get into the spotlight."

I just nodded.

"The Oak Room here is very fancy so wear your more conservative suit," Becky told me. "You can change into slacks and a shirt for the club later."

"Alrighty then," I agreed.

"Enough for now, I need some Michael action," Vicky said as she pulled me to her.

I kissed her as I took her in my arms and we were soon in a full blown kiss. I glanced over at Bec and Amy and saw they were kissing as well, their hands roaming around on each other. Vicky stopped kissing me and turned to look at what I was looking at and smiled.

"Aren't they sexy together?" she said softly. "Sometimes I get so turned on watching them and feeling what Becky is feeling that I join them. I hope that doesn't make you jealous?"

"Of course not Honey, I'm glad you can get some loving here too," I said. "Watching them turns me on too, so I know what you mean."

"Amy is beautiful isn't she?" Vicky whispered in my ear. "I love her green eyes and red hair and her pale skin. She's got a great body too."

"Yes she's beautiful," I agreed and I could tell she was getting turned on.

"I've missed you," I whispered as I ran my hands down her back and squeezed her fantastic ass.

She groaned and ground herself on me while kissing me passionately and wrapping her arms around my neck. I was getting hard and turned on as well from her actions and the show Becky was giving me of Amy's breasts as she pulled up her blouse. Amy was moaning as her breasts came loose from her bra.

"She has great breasts, I love sucking on her big nipples for such a slim girl," Vicky whispered. "Wouldn't you love sucking on them and caressing her firm warm breasts?"

"Ok, why are you talking about Amy when you should be enjoying what we're doing?" I asked her.

"I love what we're doing but I thought you would enjoy a little look at Amy too," she whispered back.

"She's lovely but she won't like me staring at her when she's too occupied to cover up," I said.

"Don't worry about that, look if you like to Michael; it turns me on when you get turned on watching her," Vicky said.

There was suddenly a knock on the door and the three girls were all scrambling to get clothes buttoned back up and tucked in. I got up and adjusted Big Mike before going to the door as another knock sounded.

"Hey Sasha, sorry it took so long," I said as I let her in. "Wow, nice dress."

She swirled around to show me the low cut, form snuggling light grey dress that came down to mid thigh.

"You like this old thing?" she asked with a twinkle in her eye. "You're so sweet to say that, even with three gorgeous ladies here that probably have on their designer best."

I led her to the living room where the girls were just finishing getting straightened up.

"I thought we were dressing up for dinner," Sasha asked, sounding puzzled.

"We are, but you're a bit early Sasha," Vicky said. "We were just showing Michael around and catching up."

"The reservation is at six, right?" Sasha asked. "That's in half an hour and none of you have started getting ready. What have you been doing?"

They all looked at their watches and got up amid some swearing and embarrassed looks.

"Ok, we just lost track of time," Vicky stated the obvious. "Michael, go get your suit on while we get ready quick. Sasha, hang out for a few minutes and then keep Michael company while we finish."

"Sure thing, I'll help Michael get ready," she added.

Three sets of eyes locked on her as they stopped walking to the bedrooms.

"Wow, if looks could kill I'd be history right now," Sasha said with a grin. "I was kidding; I'll wait here for Michael and keep him company. Boy, how did you three coordinate that look at the same time?"

Amy blushed but the twins said in unison, "Don't even think about it Sasha."

"Fine, I won't even lay a finger on him alright?" Sasha said in exasperation. "You're no fun not sharing."

The girls glared at her for a few seconds and then twirled at the same time and left the room.

"They are so tuned to one another aren't they?" she asked me.

"You could say that," I answered before heading out.

Becky had a dress and some undergarments in her hand and was leaving the one bedroom that Vicky was in. She stopped and kissed me before heading to the other one. Vicky was undressing in first bedroom and I stopped inside the door to stare at her.

"Normally I would love to let you stare all night Sweetie, but we don't have time right now," she said. "Can you get into your suit quickly and clear out so we can get fixed up?"

"Sure Vic, but you look even more beautiful than I remember," I told her.

She smiled a big smile and kept undressing down to her tiny panties. I found it hard to turn away but I finally managed and started getting undressed myself. I caught her looking at me and raised an eyebrow at her. She grinned and moved to the dresser mirror and started touching up her makeup. I got into the suit pants and, after putting on some deodorant, put on a white shirt and a tie. I carried my suit jacket with me and gave Vicky a kiss before leaving for the living room. I passed the other room and looked in to see Bec also doing her makeup in her underwear.

"Hi beautiful," I said, leaning on the doorframe.

"Hi handsome," she replied with a smile. "You're looking quite debonair."

"And you're looking very sexy," I told her.

"Thank you Sweetie, I'll just be a few minutes," she said. "Keep Sasha company for us please."

"Ok, see you in a bit," I said and walked down the hall.

I walked into the living room to find Sasha standing with her back to me, looking out the sliding doors at the park. She had the long lean beauty of the rest of the girls and the dress moulded to her frame. I watched her for a bit and then joined her looking down at the park. It was dark and the pathways were lined with lights and a few couples were still walking through.

"It took you long enough to join me once you got in here," she said, lightly bumping her shoulder into my arm.

"I was appreciating the view, just like you were," I said.

"Are you flirting with me Michael?" she asked, feigning shock.

"No Sasha, just telling you the truth," I replied. "Besides, you know you look beautiful, just like the twins and Amy know. I'm just a simple guy, not a monk. I couldn't stop looking at any of you beauties for a million bucks."

"Well, you made me lose my bet with all three of them, so you're not just a simple guy," Sasha retorted.

"Sorry you lost, I didn't know about it," I responded. "So what was the wager?"

"Don't you tell him Sasha!" Amy shouted from the bathroom.

"Geez, all three of them watch and listen for you like a hawk," Sasha said.

"I don't know why it's such a secret?" I asked a bit louder. "I should get to know since it was me who won the bet for them."

"Every woman has her secrets Mike, even from you," she said with a giggle.

"I guess so," I responded. "So how did you meet them?"

"We met down in the Caribbean at a photo shoot and since then we've done a couple of fashion shows, and a commercial," Sasha said. "I really like them, even the one with the temper."

"They all have a temper Sasha," I told her.

She giggled as we heard three voices say, "I heard that!"

Finally the three came out of the hallway and I whistled in appreciation as they lined up beside Sasha. All four of them were wearing the same style dress, the twins in silver and Amy in a light green. Even their hair was all done up similar, with the three piling their longer hair up to show their necks like Sasha's short hair.

"Wow, we better call for more security, like a whole division, to fend off all the guys that will be coming after you ladies," I said in awe. "You are absolutely breathtaking."

That got me four big smiles and I quickly got on my new suit jacket and escorted them to the elevator. When we got to the lobby floor and the doors opened it was pretty busy and fairly loud. I let the ladies fan out on either side of me and Vicky pointed me in the right direction. The noise in the area quieted down until the girls' high heels hitting the marble echoed throughout. I looked around a bit and saw we were the centre of attraction for almost everyone except one guy talking loudly on a cell phone and even he stopped talking as we passed him.

"You ladies would stop a war," I said with a grin. "Does this happen all the time?"

"We don't usually dress like this so this is a bit unique," Vicky said with a smirk.

We approached the Oak Room and an older distinguished man smiled when he saw us.

Miss Waters, so good of you, your sister and Amy to join us," he said in good cheer. "You have company this evening. Welcome to the Oak room everyone."

"Albert, I would like you to meet a good friend of ours, Sasha Solomon, who is also a very accomplished model," Vicky said.

"Miss Solomon, I will always remember the vision of you four lovely ladies walking towards me to grace our humble establishment," he said, bending to kiss her hand.

"Thank you for that wonderful compliment Albert, it is nice to meet you," Sasha said with a smile.

"And this guy is my boyfriend Michael," Vicky told Albert.

"Michael, it is an honour to meet the man that is special enough to capture this wonderful lady's heart," Albert said, extending his hand.

"It's good to meet you Albert, I'm glad to see that there are gentlemen here to appreciate and look after these ladies when I'm not here to," I said.

"These ladies always get the finest service the Oak Room can provide, their looks are the least of the reason that they are so special to us," Albert told me. "They have charmed us all with their wit, kindness and sincerity. You are possibly the luckiest man on the earth to have one of them as your girlfriend Michael."

"Albert, truer words have never been spoken," I agreed with a smile.

The girls were all smiling at the two of us while the others in line were hanging on every word.

"Let me show you to your table," Albert said, leading the way.

The room was crowded for a Thursday evening and quieted down as the girls entered the room. They all had small smiles on their faces as they weaved through the tables to one in the corner. Albert and I seated the girls and then I took the open seat between the twins.

"Francisca will be your waitress this evening, I know she's your favourite, ladies," Albert informed us. "Please let me know if you need anything to make your dining experience more pleasurable."

"Thank you Albert, I'm sure it will be fantastic as always," Becky said.

Francisca was at our elbow not five seconds after Albert left us.

"Good evening ladies, it's so nice to see you here again," she said with a grin. "You brought some friends with you I see, a fine looking gentleman for Francisca perhaps?"

"This one is mine Frannie," Vicky said with an answering grin as she took my hand.

"Wonderful Vicky, I'm glad you have someone now, but he looks big enough to share perhaps?" Francisca suggested with a smirk.

"Oh, he's big enough, I'm just too enamoured with him to share," Vicky replied. "Sorry, you'll have to stay with Sergio."

"Such is my life," she sighed. "So, some drinks to start perhaps?"

The girls ordered cocktails while I stayed with diet coke. Francisca outlined the specials and then went to get the drinks.

"The Prime Rib or the Porterhouse is the best in the city Michael," Vicky told me. "That is if you're hungry."

"Oh, I'm hungry," I said with a grin.

The girls discussed their choices and were ready when Francisca came back with the drinks.

"I'm not sure how to handle this so please don't get mad at me or the restaurant ok?" Francisca said, waiting for a response.

"What's wrong Frannie?" Vicky asked.

"The table of gentlemen over there have asked to buy you your drinks, except for whoever is with Mike," she said. "I wouldn't have done it normally, but they are very rich powerful people in the financial sector."

"Tell them we're all with Mike," Becky said, as both twins kissed me.

Sasha and Amy blew kisses at me and I smiled back at them.

"Damn girls, I know he's hot but all four of you?" Francisca asked.

"Just go tell them thanks but we're taken and not interested," Vicky told her. "We're ready to order so don't be long."

I watched as she delivered the message to four men in their thirties, dressed in power suits and looking at me with smirks. That changed when they heard what she was told to relay to them. Two laughed, one looked disappointed but the fourth gave me an angry look of a man that hated to be thwarted in anything. I stared back at him with an expressionless face until he turned away.

Francisca came back and we ordered our food. When I looked back after our appetizers, the table was empty so I put it out of my mind. The rest of the meal was without incident and the food was delicious. My Porterhouse was tender and juicy and I savoured the meal, eating slowly and politely.

The girls all went to the washroom in a pack and I watched as the room went quiet as they walked through it. They were gorgeous young women, dressed in similar sexy dresses. I felt eyes on me as they disappeared behind the bathroom door. I took a sip of pop and glanced around at the curious faces, trying not to feel like I was under a microscope.

After the longest eight minutes of my life, the ladies came back and we had dessert before Vicky signed the bill to be charged to their room. I followed the girls out of the restaurant and we headed back up to the room to relax. The girls all changed into some sweats and tees, with Sasha borrowing a set from Vicky. I pulled out a pair as well and we all met back in the living room.

"So how do you like it so far Michael?" Sasha asked.

"It's a beautiful hotel and condo and that restaurant was the fanciest I have ever seen, let alone ate at," I told them. "But the stares I got from the people in the restaurant when you left for the bathroom were a bit disconcerting."

"They were curious about you, that's all," Vicky tried to reassure me. "One guy with four gorgeous women is an oddity, even in New York."

"We shouldn't have left you all alone," Amy said. "Two of us should stay with him if possible, especially at the club."

"Good idea Amy," Becky said.

"So what should we do for a couple of hours, it's only seven thirty?" Sasha asked.

"I'll get the games out," Amy said, moving to the hall closet and coming back with some board games and some cards and poker chips.

We decided on Monopoly, with Bec and Amy partnering on one side, while Vicky, Sasha and I each had our own. It was surprisingly a lot of fun as the girls all got pretty competitive. We had some drinks, pop for me but the girls had wine, but were full from dinner so no snacks. We stopped the game at nine forty, with Amy and Bec in the lead, so we could get dressed for the club.

Vicky and Sasha went into one bedroom, Amy and Becky in the other and I took the bathroom to get into slacks and a shirt. I was out in a couple of minutes and waited in the living room for the ladies.

This time all four came out and I sat there staring at them. They were all wearing fancy miniskirts that showed off their gorgeous long legs; and loose colourful blouses, that tantalized the viewer with the hope that he could catch a glimpse of something through the low top or the loose sides.

"Barry and Marcel definitely need backup tonight," I said. "You four are going to cause a riot looking like that!"

"Oh, you like?" Vicky asked, quite needlessly.

"No, I love," I said. "You know, we really don't have to go anywhere, I'm happy to stay and play monopoly with you ladies dressed like that."

They giggled and each came over and gave me a kiss, surprisingly all four on the lips. I held each of them by their hips as they leaned in to me and they all put their hands on my shoulders.

"Ladies, I'm going to give you each an hour to stop that," I said with a grin.

"There might be more of that if you're good," Vicky replied.

"And even more if you're bad," Sasha added.

All the girls laughed at that before moving to the hallway where we put on our shoes. I loved watching them put on their high heels in their short skirts trying not to give me too much of a show.

"Just a couple of things before we go," Amy said as she turned to me. "As much as you might want to, try not to be too touchy and feely with Sasha or me, we want you to concentrate on the twin out in public, but one at a time. You can dance with us but keep things appropriate. Sasha, you're sticking with us correct?"

"Of course, don't you want me too?" she looked around at the other girls.

"What she meant to ask is if you're going to pick up a guy or not?" Vicky asked.

"I wasn't planning on it but does it matter?" she asked. "I can bring him to my room downstairs."

"Michael doesn't play well with other guys when it comes to us, so decide now if you're spending the weekend with us or with another guy," Becky stated.

"Oh, would it upset you to see me with another guy Michael?" she asked with a little smirk.

"I'm not really sure what's going on with the four of you, but I don't have any right to get upset if you want some company Sasha," I told her. "I wouldn't like it if someone wasn't treating you properly right beside us, so I would have to take steps to stop it. Just tell me to mind my own business if you want me to butt out."

She looked at me for a few seconds and then at the girls before speaking up, "I think I'll keep with you guys. Besides, I'm dressed like you three so I might as well play the part of Mike's posse."

"Good choice," Amy said with a smile. "Mike, between the four of us and two others that will meet us there, you should have plenty of dance partners. Don't go looking for any others and we'll keep out the trash. Let's go."

She led the way out the door and into the elevator. I moved to the back and looked over the ladies, admiring their gorgeous bodies.

"Aren't you going to get cold without coats ladies?" I asked. "Especially dressed like that?"

"We won't be outside more than a few seconds to walk from the lobby to the street and from the limo to the front door of the club," Becky told me. "The cameras need to capture us looking good with you and a coat would hide these outfits."

"Besides, you can warm us up when we get inside," Vicky told me.

The girls all smiled up at me and I blushed, sending them giggling. I shook my head at them and luckily the door opened. We caused another shocked silence as we walked through the lobby to the front door where both Barry and Marcel were waiting. They both whistled at my ladies and then looked at me with grins.

"Man, you must have sat on a horseshoe in a previous life," Marcel said. "These ladies are looking fantastic tonight."

"Tell me about it," I replied. "You bring any reinforcements to keep all the guys away?"

Barry looked at Marcel and asked him, "He's got a point, these four will cause a riot in that club, and we might need to look after him too. Call up Jim and Dean on the way and they can meet us in there later."

"Wise decision. Ladies, Mike, give me a second to make sure we're ok and then head out when Barry tells you," Marcel instructed us.

We were soon in the car and driving to the club.

"Ok, a couple of things," Barry said. "We're here first for the twins and Amy, but we protect their reputation as well as their physical bodies. So Mike and Sasha, we'll be watching out for you as well. Mike, let us handle things unless it really goes south and you have to help out; that shouldn't happen so just stay behind us. People will try and provoke you so let us handle it so it doesn't get in the papers."

I nodded in agreement and he continued.

"Ladies, is anyone looking for additional companionship this evening?" he asked.

"No, we're sticking together, but Emmy and Leighton will be joining us," Vicky informed him.

"Good, then we will treat all advances as unwanted unless you give me a signal," he stated. "One of us will be near the table and one will travel with anyone to the bathroom or near the dance floor. Enjoy yourselves but look for us once and a while to make sure you're in our sight."

"We're going more for the exposure than for fun," Vicky said. "Let us know if we need to do anything and we'll pick up the extra cost for Jim and Dean."

We arrived at the club Vixen with a huge neon sign out front of a two story building with a long line-up to the right of the door. On the left of the door was a group of guys with cameras and video cameras waiting for celebrities. The limo stopped in front and Marcel got out from the front and opened the door. I got out first and helped all four of them get out without showing too much leg.

Marcel and Amy led the way and I walked between the twins with Sasha and Barry taking up the rear. Vicky was holding my hand and slowing me down so that the Paparazzi and the film crews could get their shot at us. The lights from their cameras half blinded me but we made it through it to the door where Amy spoke to the bouncers and we were let in.

Inside was a lobby with two double doorways, both with two bouncers. The one on the right had VIP in neon letters above it as well as a hostess standing behind a glass pedestal. Amy led us to the luscious blonde.

"Good evening and welcome to Vixens, do you have a reservation?" she asked with a smile.

"Yes, in the name of Waters, party of five plus two meeting us, along with two security here and two to meet us here soon," Amy told us.

"Your two guests have arrived and have been shown to the table," the hostess said. "Anyone not of age?"

I indicated that I was and she stamped the back of my hand. She handed out VIP passes on strings to go around our necks while Barry was discussing the two additional men that would join us with the bouncers at the door. The hostess led us through the doors and up a flight of stairs and into the club. The noise hit us like a wall as the dance music was blaring from speakers mounted all around the large room. We were up one level looking down on a bar, a large dance floor and tables lining it. On our level were more tables with another bar along the side. It was all decorated in neon and hanging lights, with large TV screens spaced out on some walls. The DJ booth was high up on a second floor balcony overlooking the dance floor across from the VIP area.

We were led to a long fancy table that was at the edge of the overhang that looked down at the dance floor. As we neared the table, I could see two ladies get up to greet us. I recognized Emmy Rossum who had a big smile on her face but the other girl Leighton I didn't know.

The girls all hugged and then I was introduced.

"Emmy and Leighton, this is Michael, Michael these are our friends Emmy and Leighton," Vicky said loudly.

"It's nice to meet you Ladies," I said as I shook their hands.

"My, you said he was big but I see you are still the master of the understatement Vicky," Emmy said as she looked up at me.

"He keeps growing taller and wider every time we see him," Vicky admitted. "He eats like a horse but has less body fat now then five months ago."

We all sat in the plush leather seats, with me taking the end seat and the twins bracketing me on my left and right. Emmy and Leighton sat beside a twin across from each other and Amy and Sasha beside them. Barry and Marcel took the seats at the far end of the table which was closest to the set of stairs leading down to the main floor. There were two bouncers at the top and another two at the bottom of them to discourage the common people from fraternizing with the special ones.

A waitress came and took a drink order and then I looked over the railing to people watch. The place wasn't packed yet, but it was busy. It was mostly young people down on the main floor, in their young twenties, dressed anywhere from jeans and a tee-shirt to sexy dresses or short skirts. The dance floor had mostly ladies dancing together in small groups but a few guys were dancing with some of the ladies here and there. Most of the guys were standing around the taller tables with beers or drinks watching the ladies dance or walk around. The lights made all the white on their clothes glow while the rest of the bar was darker.

"It's a pretty cool place eh?" Vicky said looking at my face.

"I'll say, do you guys come to these places often?" I asked, turning back to the table.

"It's our first time for this place, but we're been to a few of these types of clubs," she said. "We had to come at first to get noticed and mingle with the right fashion people. Now we avoid places like this so we don't get hit on."

"Will that happen up here in the VIP area?" I asked, looking around at the crowd around us.

"It's a bit different up here," Emmy spoke up. "Rejection up here makes the men lose face so they are a bit more careful who they approach and a bit more pushy if they do decide to go after someone."

"It would take a guy with big cohunes to approach this table when we're all here," Leighton added. "Six gorgeous babes and three rather large guys is a pretty intimidating table to come over to. Any guy interested will try when we're on the dance floor or by ourselves."

"Barry and Marcel will try to discourage any of that tonight, and they are bringing in a couple more guys to help," Becky told them. "They should be here soon and then we can head to the dance floor or mingle if anyone wants to."

The waitress came back with our drinks and Amy had her set up a tab with a credit card. All three of the guys were drinking pop, or soda, like they called it here. The girls were all having mixed drinks of one type or the other.

I looked at some of the tables surrounding us and the people were a bit older, mid to late twenties and more expensively dressed. They were a good mixture of men and women but not a lot of couples. I didn't recognize anyone but that didn't mean much as I didn't watch a lot of TV or keep up with the entertainment shows. There weren't any major celebrities that I recognized except for at our table.

Jim and Dean arrived soon afterwards and nodded at everyone after talking with Barry and Marcel. They also sat at the far end and got something to drink.

The DJ came on at eleven and he appeared on the screens. He got some cheers and the dance floor was soon packed as he started playing more upbeat tunes. The girls looked over the railings at the dancers and started to move with the music.

"Hey, shall we go down?" Vicky asked everyone.

The girls all nodded and got up but I stayed sitting.

"Michael, aren't you coming?" Vicky asked.

"I don't dance, never have," I told her. "You ladies go ahead and I'll watch from here."

"You sure?" she asked. "You don't have to move much, just move your feet a bit."

"Maybe when something a lot slower comes on," I said. "You go have some fun and I'll watch your cute butts from up here."

"Alright, but try and stay out of trouble up here, and no women," she said.

"Yes Ma'am," I replied.

She joined the other girls and told them what was up before they walked down the stairs and joined the crowd. Barry came over to sit near me and we watched them from above while Marcel, Jim and Dean moved down nearer the action, leaning on walls or at a table with their drinks.

"So, how are the girls to look after?" I asked.

"Actually very good, they're not prima donnas so Amy tells us the schedule in advance and they listen when we tell them how things should go," Barry said. "There's been only a couple of minor issues with persistent suitors that had to be advised to leave them alone. Just our presence is usually enough."

"Thanks for looking out for them, it's nice to know you're there if they need you," I said.

"You're welcome but this is the easiest job we've had in a couple of years," he replied. "Besides, where else can you get paid good money to look after beautiful women that hang out with lots of other beautiful women?"

"Too true, it's a hard life," I said dryly.

"Yeah, like yours is all that rough, hanging out with six gorgeous women and dating a model, soon to be a super-model," he retorted with a grin. "I feel for you man, it's got to be tough."

"It has its moments," I responded with an answering grin.

We watched as the girls got into the dancing, shaking their booties and twirling around with their arms in the air. They stayed down for a few songs and then the twins came back up to sit with me as Barry moved a couple of chairs over.

They were smiling and a little flushed as they sat down and each gave me a kiss.

"It looked like you were having fun down there," I said with a smile.

"It's nice to let loose a bit once and a while," Becky said with a grin.

"Did you like our cute butts out there?" Vicky asked.

"I loved your cute butts out there and right here," I answered. "You two look so great, I'm sure you hear it all the time."

"You're the one we want to hear it from, the others are meaningless," Becky said. "We love to hear how much you like our bodies. We dressed like this for you, not for anyone else."

"Well, you two are the pinnacle of evolution because I can't imagine anyone looking better than you two do right now," I said seriously. "I'm so in love and lust with you two right now it's not funny."

"Good, they're working then," Vicky whispered into my ear. "You are so going to get lucky tonight lover."

"I'm so looking forward to it lover," I whispered back to her.

She sat back and Becky leaned in and whispered, "We are going to make you so happy you won't want to leave us ever."

"I already don't want to leave and I'm going to do my best to make you pass out tonight lover," I told her.

Becky sat back and looked over at Vicky, who was staring at her. I reached under the table and placed a hand on the nearest bare thigh. They shivered for a second and then grinned at each other.

"You are so bad Michael Stewart," they said in unison before giggling.

I rubbed their legs lightly and worked my way up slowly as their eyes got bigger. Each shot a hand under the table and held my wrist so I couldn't go up further.

The other four girls came back along with the rest of the bodyguards and quickly downed their drinks. The waitress came over and Amy ordered another round along for everyone, including the guards.

I had kept on teasing the girls with my fingers while they held my hand stationary. I could tell it was working as they got a bit flushed and were wiggling their butts in the chair.

All of a sudden, Vicky turned to me and said, "Sorry Sweetie, us girls need to go freshen up for a bit."

I pulled my hand away before Becky and she stood up and smiled down at me.

"We'll be back shortly," Becky said, a bit huskily. "Anyone care to join us?"

The other four grabbed their small purses and joined them. Barry and Marcel accompanied them to the hallway and made sure they got inside ok before leaning up against the wall. Jim and Dean kept watch on the table, and me I suppose, while I looked around.

A table of girls nearby smiled at me and giggled when I looked away. Jim laughed and walked over to sit by me.

"You need looking after worse than the girls," he said. "I'm going to save you from a fate worse than death if the boss lady sees you with those girls over here, which was going to happen if I didn't come and sit down."

"Thanks Jim, I owe you one," I said with a grin. "She should know better than to leave me alone without immediate protection. It's like I'm wearing a sign or something."

"That's what we're here for, Big Man," he replied, slapping me on the shoulders. "You're like a babe in the woods aren't you?"

"Pretty much, yeah," I admitted. "But she's worth it."

"No shit Sherlock," Jim said with a laugh. "Just don't screw it up."

The girls came back a few minutes later and Vicky dragged me down to the dance flow when a slow song came on.

"Now, put your hands on my hips and move your feet to the beat as we move around a bit," she said as her arms came up over my shoulders.

I'd seen this type of dancing on TV shows before so I handled it ok but saw a couple of guys snickering at me. It made me a bit angry but Vicky saw what happened and moved close to me. She pulled me down and gave me a whopper of a kiss.

"Now, what does it matter what they think as long as you're dancing with the hot girl?" she asked with a grin.

"Who, pray tell, are you even talking about?" I asked with a smirk.

"That's it, my big genius," she answered as she twirled me around a bit.

"Ok, it's my turn," Becky said, standing close by.

"You couldn't have given me one full song?" Vicky said glaring.

"They won't be playing six slow ones in a row, so move over," Becky said, hip checking her sister out of the way.

She moved close and we assumed the position and danced until the end of the song. She gave me a less passionate kiss and let me go as Amy moved into my arms.

"Hey Red, are you ready to get down with Maniac Mike?" I asked with raised eyebrows.

She laughed out loud before the music started up again, which caused us to be the centre of attention for a second. Luckily the music started again and we moved in our slow little circle as some of the other dancers moved around us.

"Have I told you that you look absolutely gorgeous this evening Red?" I said to her.

"Just when you said it to all of us," she replied with a grin.

"Well, you look stunning, very svelte and sexy," I told her.

"Thank you Michael, I'm glad you find me attractive," she responded with a smile.

"Attractive? You would look attractive in a potato sack; no you look super hot and sexy wearing that," I said with a grin.

"Not the most elegant way to phrase it, but I get the sentiment," she grinned. "You look quite handsome by the way; you're getting stares from a lot of the women."

"Thanks, but there's only three women who's opinion means anything to me tonight," I told her, looking into her eyes.

"That's going to piss off your next three partners if they hear that," she said, reaching up to give me a very nice kiss before letting me go.

Sasha moved gracefully into my arms and wrapped her arms around my neck.

"Are you enjoying yourself Michael?" she asked with a smile.

"I'm not enjoying the act of dancing but I'm definitely enjoying the company," I answered.

"Well, you certainly have the six of us enthralled," she said.

"All six of you? I just met you, Emmy and Leighton; you can't be all that enamoured with me, especially how I dance!" I responded.

"I can't answer for the other two, but I think I fell for you on the plane or in the airport when you helped with my bags," she said. "You weren't trying to get anywhere with me, you were just being kind and helpful."

"Listen Sasha, I'm flattered, and you're a fantastic woman, but I'm very happy with Vicky so I'm sorry but nothing can happen between us," I told her.

She just smiled and danced a bit more before pulling down and kissing me like the others. She let go and moved out of the way so Emmy could take over.

"Hi Michael, having fun yet?" she asked with a grin. "We certainly are."

"I guess so, but I think I'm looking quite stupid out here," I said.

"No, we would never allow that Michael," she responded seriously. "You look cute to all the girls and the guys are just envious."

"Ok, I'll take your word for that," I said. "I don't know if I'll sound like a dork, but I have to tell you that I love your acting. I loved 'The Day after Tomorrow' and it made me rent the Phantom to see you again. You sing terrific too by the way."

"That is so sweet of you to say Michael, and you don't sound like a dork at all," Emmy replied. "I always like to hear that someone likes my work, especially a handsome guy like you."

I smiled back at her as we danced around some more.

"I had a chance to look up some footage of you on the ice and you play very well for a freshman," she complimented me. "I sang the national anthem at a Devils game so I know a little bit about what I'm talking about."

"Thanks Emmy, I still have so much to learn, so it's a work in progress I'm afraid," I told her.

"Of course it is," she agreed. "I got scared watching that fight last weekend, but I see the bruises are almost faded and the cut is healing nicely. Were you scared?"

"I was terrified, quaking in my skates," I replied. "He's two years older, is more experienced and has had lots of fights in games. I just went a bit wild and didn't feel much until after it was over. It's not something I'm particularly proud of, tell you the truth. He's hurt pretty bad and will be out for a while."

"Don't feel bad for him, he deserved whatever he got," Emmy said fiercely. "Damn, my time is up. I want to talk to some more, if not tonight, sometime this weekend ok Michael? You intrigue me."

"Ok, I'm sure we can talk sometime again Emmy," I said.

"Good," she replied before kissing me quite well.

She grinned at my shocked face and moved to the side to let Leighton take her place.

"Hi, Leighton, here to get your toes stepped on?" I asked with a grin.

"Oh, you're not doing badly at all Michael," she replied with a smile.

She moved in and stood close as we moved around slowly.

"So, Vicky said you were an actress, but I'm afraid I haven't seen you in anything," I said.

"You're not into teenage soup operas? I'm shocked and appalled that you haven't heard of me," she said in mock anger. "I'm a show called the Gossip Girls."

"I've heard of it but haven't seen it," I told her. "We didn't get many channels where we lived and we didn't have satellite TV. Is the show doing well?"

She smirked and replied, "Not bad, we've been on for two years now. You know you should be all nervous and stuff, dancing with a big star and all."

"Oh, sorry, I'll get right on that," I said. "Don't you think I'm nervous enough dancing with six beautiful women without piling that on top Leighton?"

"Sorry, you're so different than most guys I meet," she said. "Vicky says you're real smart and I watched a bit of the hockey clips Emmy did, so I know you're a good hockey player. You don't come across as an arrogant jock or a nerd."

"I was a nerd before I came to U of M, but I guess my growth spurt and hockey playing kind of stopped that a bit," I said. "Enough about me; tell me more about you, you're an actress and a good friend of Emmy, and both of you are friends with the twins and Amy. How did you meet them?"

"We like to go to fashion shows and we met them there," she told me. "We live up a floor at the Plaza as well so we just started to hang out when we're all in town."

"I'm glad the girls have some nice friends here now so you can all look out for each other," I said as the music finally ended.

"Thank you for the dance," Leighton said as she went up on her toes and kissed me lightly.

"You're all going to get me in trouble with Vicky," I said as we walked off the dance floor. The others were all looking over the railing at us and grinning, which made me blush as we walked up the stairs with Barry following.

The girls were all smiling at us as we joined them back at the table.

"Here comes Fred Astaire now," Becky said loudly as the girls giggled.

"Hey I told you I don't know how to dance, any broken toes are you own fault," I said as I sat down and took a long drink of diet coke.

"I think we all survived without too many bruises," Vicky said. "I'm a little surprised about how well you were kissing all of my friends though."

"They were kissing me as you well know, because you started it," I replied.

"I'm your girlfriend, I'm supposed to kiss you Michael, not these others," Vicky said, glaring at the rest of the girls. "I don't think you're striking the proper tone here Michael."

I was ninety nine percent sure they were all pulling my leg as only the actresses were keeping a straight face. Amy and Sasha were hiding grins behind a hand and Becky was struggling not to smile.

"That's it, it's over Vicky, I've had it with you," I said to her before looking at Becky and grabbing her hand in both of mine. "Becky, let's elope right now and get married, you're the better looking one anyway."

She looked shocked for a few seconds as the others gasped.

"Um, ok," she said tentatively.

"What! You can't marry my boyfriend!" Vicky said, looking pissed as the others looked between them.

"Well, he's my fiancé now," Becky said, sticking out her tongue at her sister.

The others all laughed as they glared at each other while I sat back in my chair and grinned.

"Not so funny when it's on the other foot, now is it?" I asked.

I had another big drink of my diet coke and looked around the VIP section. The tables were all full and the bar was busy with a bunch of people standing around waiting for drinks or talking to others nearby. Most of the women were at least pretty and some were real lookers. No one was as beautiful as any of the women at our table though so I didn't concentrate on any one woman for long. The guys came in all shapes and sizes, and it was fun to watch both genders play the age old game. A few tables had bodyguards, or so it looked like it to me. One was a table of four guys, who looked vaguely familiar to me; another was a good looking couple sitting quietly and watching the crowd.

The music volume was lowered after our last dance as the DJ took a quick break. At least I could hear myself think as I people watched. I looked over the railing and saw that the main floor was packed as well, especially around the bar. It didn't seem like anyone could enjoy being around so many people, but a lot of people looked like they were having a good time.

A few minutes later it was time to hit the washroom, so, after telling the twins where we were headed, Barry and I got up to make our way through the crowd to the washrooms in the back. Barry took the lead, as he was more familiar with dealing with crowds. A full two minutes later we arrived and we both went inside. A couple of guys were snorting white powder in the corner but we ignored them as we took turns at the only open urinal. We quickly washed and got out of there.

"I can't believe they were doing that right in the open," I remarked as we stood in the hallway before braving the human minefield back to the table.

"The high rollers in the VIP section like to think that they're untouchable," Barry remarked. "And for the most part, the cops won't bother with that stuff unless someone makes a big deal of it."

"Well, none of us can be linked to that kind of stuff or it will get out for sure," I said.

Barry just nodded and headed back to the table. A couple of guys tried to act tough as we both came to up to each other in an aisle between some tables but, as we had four inches and probably thirty pounds on each of them, they moved to the side to let us pass. We finally got back near the table to find Marcel blocking two men from access to the table. They were being loudly belligerent and Jim had joined Marcel to help.

Barry assessed the situation and motioned to the club bouncers at the top of the stairs to come with us as we moved to the table.

"What seems to be the problem Marcel?" Barry asked.

"These gentlemen wish to sit and the ladies are not interested in that occurring," Marcel replied.

"Gentlemen, the ladies have spoken, so please leave this area or these fine gentlemen beside us will assist in your departure," Barry informed them.

"Don't you know who we are?" asked the taller of the two.

"Not that it would matter, but no, I don't know or care who you are," Barry replied. "The girls are off limits so leave."

"Fine, but this isn't over," the other guy said as he glared at the girls.

"This had better be over or we'll call the cops to see what you two have imbibing in," Marcel threatened.

The two men told him where to go and then walked away. I sat down as Barry and Marcel talked to the club bouncers for a minute. One talked on a radio and followed the two men, while the other one went back to his post by the stairs.

"Leave you ladies alone for five minutes and the hyenas come a calling," I remarked with a grin.

"You're disparaging the good name of hyenas by calling those asses that," Vicky replied. "But that's why we bring security with us."

"Is anyone really having any fun here?" I asked the table.

They looked around and shook their heads.

"We've done what we came to do with the paparazzi and film crews; why don't we head back and call it a night," I suggested. "We can all get back together at the hotel sometime tomorrow and actually have a conversation."

Vicky looked at the other girls and they all nodded so she called Barry over and told him to get the car pulled around to the front so we could go home.

Five minutes later we weaved our way back to the entrance after Amy took care of the tab. We left the club to more flashes and a bright spotlight on the camera lighting us up. I helped the girls in and then Barry and I got in.

I looked out the windows to see a long line-up to get into the place, even though it was already well after midnight.

"I can't believe so many people find that place so great to go to," I said, shaking my head. "It was packed to the gills; too loud to even hear yourself think, let alone have a conversation, and guys were snorting something right out in the open in the bathroom!"

The girls smiled at my rant and Becky patted me on my knee before saying, "Sweetie, you are the best. You just said what we were all thinking but didn't want to say because we're supposed to love places like that. We got what we wanted from going there but I don't think we'll go back."

"I think we can take another visit to a club tomorrow night off the agenda, don't you agree ladies?" Vicky stated with a smile.

"At least we all got to dance with Mike," Sasha said with a grin.

"And we all got to witness his prowess on the dance floor," Emmy added.

"And don't forget we all got a kiss from him," Leighton pointed out.

"So, all and all a good night," Amy concluded as they all laughed at my expense.

We pulled up to the Plaza and walked in with Barry and Marcel. They accompanied us to the elevator door and then bade us good night after Amy gave them an envelope. Once in the elevator the girls discussed what to do tomorrow after the twins' commercial shoot.

"Dinner and a Broadway show?" Vicky suggested.

"Dinner and a concert?" Becky added.

"Some sporting event, like hockey or basketball?" Emmy proposed.

"Maybe a movie premiere?" Leighton advised.

"How about the pre-party for the Victoria's Secret show?" Sasha put her two cents in.

"Order in and stay in?" Amy presented her idea.

They all looked at each other and then twelve eyes looked up at me.

"Well?" Vicky asked. "Anything sound good?"

"Is there a hockey game on tomorrow night?" I asked. "If not, staying in sounds good to me."

Amy got out her trusty blackberry and looked up tomorrow's schedule.

"We're in luck, New York Rangers play in New Jersey tomorrow night," she informed us.

"That should be a good game, if we can get seats," I said.

"Let me handle that," Emmy offered. "I'll use my connections to get us something if that's what we decide."

"Sounds good to me," I said. "I'll pay for the tickets."

"Maybe some of the girls might not want to spend a Friday night at a hockey game," Vicky suggested lightly.

"Oh sorry about that, ladies; I got carried away there," I apologized. "What do the rest of you think?"

"Look at him, he's like a little kid; we can't say no now," Amy said.

"He'll probably cry if we did," Sasha agreed.

"I blame you for even suggesting it," Leighton said to Emmy.

"He plays hockey, I thought it would be nice for him to see a professional game," Emmy defended herself. "You don't have to go."

"I'm not going to be the spoil sport," Leighton stated. "Let Vicky and Becky crush his feelings."

"We like hockey, our fiancé and boyfriend plays quite well," Becky stated with a grin.

"He's not your fiancé so stop saying that," Vicky said with an angry look at Bec before looking at the rest. "Anybody really not want to go?"

They all said it was ok as the elevator door opened on Sasha's floor.

"So, you sure you don't need some help with Michael tonight?" she asked with a grin.

"We're fine, but thanks for volunteering," Vicky responded dryly. "Good night Sasha."

The girls all gave her a hug and a light kiss and she quickly gave me one as well, with Vicky and Becky watching her like a hawk.

"Ok, enough you harlot, we'll see you in the morning, we leave at eight," Vicky said, pulling her away from me.

"Alright, I meet you in your condo before that," Sasha said as she stepped out of the elevator.

She blew us a kiss as the doors slid shut. We rode up to our floor and everyone but Emmy and Leighton got out. The girls all did the hug and kiss thing and they too blew me a kiss before the doors shut. The four of us entered the girls' condo and collapsed on the couch and chairs in the living room.

"Ladies, it was an interesting evening but I don't think I'll ever enjoy that type of club," I said.

"That's ok, we don't either, so we don't have to go back to one," Vicky said. "We only needed the publicity from that one. Tomorrow we can go to an early supper and then the game should provide some more chances for some publicity."

"Yeah, they always pan the crowd for celebrities, so they should get a shot of us sitting on either side of you, with Emmy, Leighton and Sasha close by," Becky added.

"Just no kissing any of the last three in public," Amy warned. "We don't need that kind of publicity."

"All of you kissed me remember," I reminded her.

"Alright, it's late and we all have to be up early for the nine o'clock commercial shoot," Vicky informed us. "Let's hit the hay ok?"

"Sure, it's been a long day," I admitted. "Is there an exercise room or something in the hotel I can use in the morning?"

"Yep, it's on the basement floor beside the pool, which you might like as well," Becky replied. "Amy has a keycard for you that will give you access to everything and this condo."

"Ok, thanks," I said. "I'll get up early and be back by seven if that's ok timing wise?"

"We leave at eight, so have a shower down there and bring your good casual clothes with you," Vicky suggested as she got up with the other two. "Give us a few minutes to get ready for bed and one of us will come and get you."

I closed my eyes and dozed off while lying on the couch waiting for them. A short while later I heard giggles as they surrounded the couch and shook me awake. They were all wearing some sexy see through camis and matching boy short panties, even Amy.

"Wow, you sure know how to wake up a guy," I said, looking at all of them. "I gather it's time for bed?"

"Yep, hit the washroom first and we'll see you in a couple of minutes," Vicky said, as they all helped pull me up.

I followed them to the hallway and turned into the bathroom while they all carried on to the far bedroom. After a quick wash, teeth brushing and use of the toilet, I headed down to the bedroom to find them all in the king sized bed.

"There is a wonderful sight," I spoke with some reverence. "I'm a pretty lucky guy."

"We couldn't agree on who should get to be with you so we're all here," Vicky stated.

"Well, I'm flattered of course, but it looks like it will be a tight squeeze," I remarked.

"We'll fit you in," Becky said, causing them all to giggle.

I slipped off my shirt, pants and socks before joining them on the bed between the twins. I gave them both nice kisses as we hugged. I lay back on the pillow and they cuddled up close to me.

"Don't I get a good night kiss?" Amy asked from the other side of Becky.

"Sorry Honey, of course you do," Becky said, turning over to plant one on her and wrapping Amy up in her arms.

We were asleep soon after, with Bec facing Amy and Vicky cuddled beside me.

Friday morning came quickly as I woke up without the benefit of an alarm clock. I gently worked my way down to the end of the bed without waking the girls. I wet my hair down rather than having a shower and got dressed in some sweats. I grabbed a set of casual clothes and the cardkey Amy had left out before heading down to the basement on the elevator.

I followed the signs and used the card to open the door. After turning on the lights I found a state of the art exercise and weight training room that had a large window that looked out onto the pool. I hung up my clothes in the attached locker room and then got onto an elliptical for a half hour aerobic workout. I then started on a full work-out now that my hand was healed enough. I was half way through when a bang on the window startled me.

Sasha was grinning through the window that looked out at the pool. She had on a one piece swimsuit that, while functional, still looked real sexy on her. I waved to her and she wiggled her fingers at me before turning away and walking to the pool. Damn she was hot I thought as she showed me her tight, muscled ass. I continued my workout while looking for her between reps as she swam laps. Sasha was a pretty good swimmer and she stayed at it for half an hour before getting out and drying off with her towel.

She walked by and grinned at me before entering the nearby women's change room. I was almost done my workout when she entered through the attached door and came over. She had slipped on a pair of shorts and a tee-shirt over the swimsuit.

"Hey Mike, you're up early, it's just past six now," she commented.

"Good morning Sasha, you're up just as early," I noted. "You were looking good out there, that was an impressive workout in the pool."

"Thanks, we have to keep in shape in this line of work," she replied. "You're pushing some serious weight there yourself Mike."

"It's been a week since I've been able to work out, with the hand and all," I told her. "I had to take it easy this morning. It feels good to get back at it though."

"Are you going to swim?" she asked.

"No, I did some aerobic in here on the elliptical, and I didn't bring a swimsuit," I replied.

"Too bad, I was looking forward to the show, especially after giving you one," she said with a grin.

"Yes, I did appreciate that, you certainly belong in the modeling field," I replied with a smile.

"Well, you'll get to appreciate it more tomorrow night when I'm wearing even less," she noted.

"I promise I'll take full advantage of the opportunity to ogle you," I replied with a grin.

"Then you need to return the favour and let me see you in a swimsuit the next two mornings," she demanded.

"I suppose I can get my aerobic exercise in the pool, but no funny business Sasha; you can look but no touching," I told her.

"Fine, but you're such an old stick in the mud for a youngster," she mock pouted.

I continued my workout as she ran through a quick workout of her own. I watched her as she used the machines efficiently and correctly. She grinned at me when she caught me looking as did I when I looked up to see her doing the same. I finished up a few minutes later and walked over to her.

"I'm heading to the showers, you going to be ok in here by yourself?" I asked.

"Sure, I'm always in here by myself this early," she replied. "I'm almost done too so I'll meet you back here in fifteen."

"Alright," I agreed and headed off to the locker room.

I had a quick shower and got dressed in my clothes before heading back to the weight room. Sasha came out about five minutes later, dressed in a form fitting top and tight jeans while carrying a gym bag.

"You clean up handsome," she remarked as we headed out the door.

"And you look beautiful as always," I responded with a grin.

"It's funny, I get told that so much it doesn't even register anymore, but with you it makes me feel real good," she told me as smiled while looking up at me.

"I don't know what to say about that," I replied. "I'm just telling the truth, you are a gorgeous woman. I don't mean anything else by it."

"I know, and that makes me sad because I would like it to mean more to you," she said. "Don't worry, I'm not going to try and steal you from the twins, I like them too much to do something like that. You're too good a person to cheat on them either."

"Maybe you need to slow down a bit and let some nice guy into your life," I suggested. "You've got lots to offer the right guy, and you can afford to be particular in who you chose."

"I don't suppose you have a brother hanging around?" she asked with a smile.

"Sorry, I'm an only child," I told her as we got on the elevator.

"Figures," she responded.

"I'll keep an eye out for appropriate candidates for you," I offered.

"Fine, but he better be as good as you are," she demanded.

"Oh, you might want to set your sights a bit higher than me Sasha," I responded. "You could have just about any single guy in the world."

We rode up to the twins' floor and I let us in. I left Sasha in the living room and went down the hall to see if the girls were up. The washroom door was closed and I heard the shower running as I walked by. Becky and Amy were getting up and I stared at them, still in their lingerie as I came in the door.

"Good morning ladies, you're looking gorgeous this morning," I said with a smile.

"Morning Michael, did you happen to turn on see if the coffee machine is on?" Becky asked.

"I'll go check, double-double for both of you?" I asked.

"Just one and one for me Michael, thanks," Amy said.

"Sure thing Red; just so you know, Sasha is in the living room, she was in the pool and exercise room this morning," I informed them.

"Fine, just don't let her pull a fast one on you Michael," Becky warned.

I left the room and walked back out to the living room and asked Sasha if she wanted a coffee. She nodded her head and got up to follow me to the kitchen.

The machine was on and had a full pot already brewed. It was a big carafe so I poured four cups, and got them ready for the three down the hall while Sasha did her own. I carried them back through the living room and into the hall. I brought two of them to Becky and Amy and received a kiss from each. I went back and opened the bathroom door and placed the last cup on the counter top.

"Morning Darling, your coffee is here when you're done," I said, loud enough for her to hear over the shower.

She poked her head out and smiled before saying, "Thanks Sweetie; that was kind of you."

"You're welcome, I'll see you in a bit," I said. "Sasha is here already."

"Oh, you probably met her downstairs right?" she asked. "She usually works out early too."

"Yep, she had a swim and a light workout," I told her.

I shut the door and headed back to the living room where Sasha was watching a morning show.

"This one shows some entertainment stuff so we'll see if we were picked up last night," she informed me.

I went and grabbed some apple juice and joined her to watch the television. A few minutes later they told the audience that the morning gossip would be next after the commercial break.

"You should get the girls, they might want to watch this," Sasha suggested.

I got up and headed down the hallway to find Vicky getting her make-up on while Becky showered.

"Sasha says the morning gossip will be on in a minute or so if you want to see if we're on," I told Vicky and Amy.

"Yeah, we better see how it looks," Vicky agreed, looking over at Amy.

Amy nodded and we all marched back, Vicky in just a bra and underwear while Amy was still in her lingerie. They both carried their coffee cups and put them down as they bracketed Sasha on the couch.

"Morning Sasha," Vicky said.

"Good morning Vicky and Amy," Sasha said cheerfully. "You two look good enough to eat!"

"And you're way too cheerful this morning," Vicky grouched.

"I got to work out a bit with your handsome beau, so of course I'm in a good mood," she said with a grin. "Unfortunately, he didn't bring his bathing suit so I couldn't see all his good parts."

"Just remember, look but don't touch and you'll both survive the weekend," Vicky threatened, looking at both of us.

"You're not as fun in the morning Victoria," Sasha shook her head. "And not very kind with the sharing as your mother no doubt taught you."

The girls laughed at her and slapped her knees while I had to chuckle at her humour. The show came back on and talked about some Hollywood celebrities for a couple of minutes at the premiere of a movie in LA. Then something was said about tomorrow's Victoria's Secret show and how all of the top supermodels and their significant others would be attending.

'And speaking of significant others and supermodels, the Waters twins, Victoria and Rebecca, were caught stepping out with a tall blonde drink of water at Vixen's last night along with gal pals Emmy Rossum, Leighton Meester and fellow model Sasha Solomon. At this time we're not sure whose boy toy he is, but he doesn't seem to be having to choose one or the other as he walks them both into the club. We have calls into the budding supermodels' rep to find out the identity of the good looking mystery man and we will let you know as soon as we can. The Water twins will be in the Victoria's Secret fashion show tomorrow night and we'll look forward to another sighting of their hunky boyfriend.'

"Well, that went well," Amy stated, smiling at everyone.

"They didn't mention you Amy," I said.

"They don't mention the help Michael," Amy said with a grin.

"But you looked just as hot as the rest of the girls," I stated. "You're not just the help, you're our friend too."

"Thanks Michael, but I'm not upset," Amy assured me. "I'm happy out of the spotlight and neither the girls, nor their friends, treat me like the help."

"Ok, I'm glad you're not upset," I said to her. "But just remember, you're special to all of us, even if they don't acknowledge you."

"You know, he's really is a sweetie," Amy said to Vicky and Sasha.

"He has his moments," Vicky agreed, giving me a smile.

"And he is a tall drink of water," Sasha said. "And I'm really thirsty!"

The girls laughed at her as I blushed a bright red I'm sure.

"So, Amy, do we release Michael's name and information or do we build it up some more?" Vicky asked.

"Let them try and work it out for themselves," Amy suggested. "A bit of mystery will add to the story. Sooner or later someone will recognize him from the fight clip and put two and two together. Then you'll be dating a bad boy and we'll get even more exposure."

Becky came out drying her hair while a towel was wrapped around her torso.

"Another gorgeous sight," Sasha said as she sat down beside me.

"Morning Sasha, you're in fine form already," Becky stated with a grin.

"With three sexy half naked beauties and a tall drink of water all in the same room, I'm lucky not to be drooling" Sasha replied with a grin.

"Tall drink of water?" Becky asked.

Vicky rewound the TV with the fancy remote and played the clip over for her.

"It worked like a charm," Becky stated afterwards.

"We're going to leave him as a mystery man for as long as we can," Vicky told her.

"Sounds good to me," Becky agreed.

"Ok, time to get ready, so I'm off to the shower," Amy said, getting up and marching down the hall.

Becky kissed me and got up and followed her as did Vicky. Sasha and I both watched them until they swung into the bedroom or bathroom.

We watched the TV until they came out all dressed in casual clothes about twenty minutes later.

"Ok, all ready to go?" Vicky asked us.

We all said we were and got up to get our shoes on.

"Sweetie, you should bring your books to study, it's going to be boring for you," Vicky suggested.

"Ok, thanks for reminding me," I responded.

I quickly got my book bag and we headed downstairs, this time in winter coats. Barry and Marcel were waiting in the lobby and we were quickly bundled into the car.

"Man it's getting cold," Barry exclaimed, shivering as he rubbed his arms.

"This is still early fall to me," I responded with a grin. "Where I'm from, they have a foot of snow and it's twenty below already."

"That's right, you're one of those Canucks from the Great White North," he responded. "I couldn't stand living up there in the cold six months of the year."

"More like eight months of the year," I corrected him. "Obviously we stay inside when it gets real cold but you just have put on more layers and take precautions when you do go out."

"Ok, enough about the weather gentlemen, we need to talk about something serious," Becky interrupted.

"Oh? And what would that be?" I asked.

"Food!" all the girls shouted.

"That is a much more serious topic," I agreed. "Do we have time to get you breakfast before you need to get there?"

"We're going to pick it up on the way, we just need to know what you two, and Marcel and the driver want," Amy told me, holding up her BlackBerry.

We gave our orders and Amy forwarded them to the restaurant. Ten minutes later we pulled in front of a deli and a couple of guys brought out some bags and more coffee to the limo. Amy signed for the food and we were soon back on the road as the girls passed out the egg sandwiches, croissants, muffins and coffee to everyone, including the two up front through the sliding window.

It was ten to nine when we pulled up to a large studio and were directed to a building near the back by the guard. Everyone but the driver got out and Amy led us through the door and down a hall.

"Ok, most of us know how to act, I'll be with the twins in wardrobe and make-up, with Barry accompanying us for security," Amy said before we entered the studio. "Sasha, Mike and Marcel, you are our guests and have to act appropriately. Be quiet when they tell everyone to be and stay out of the way. They have a room with a TV, magazines and stuff to keep you occupied in until things get going. Any questions?"

I had a lot but kept quiet as I was sure Sasha could answer them.

"Ok, this director is a bit eccentric so just be polite and stay out of his way," Amy warned as she opened the door.

As soon as we were all in the studio we became the focus of about twenty people.

"Ah, the twins have arrived," said an older but still pretty lady said as she walked over. "Good morning everyone, I see you brought your tall drink of water with you."

"You caught that already Mona?" Vicky asked with a smile.

"I know everything that goes on in this town, except who he is," Mona responded with a grin.

"Mona, this is Michael, my boyfriend; Mike, this is Mona, the producer of the commercial," Vicky introduced us.

"It's nice to meet you Mona, thanks for letting us watch the process," I said, shaking her hand.

"It's my pleasure Michael, you're the talk of the town this morning," she replied. "How did you two hook up?"

"Mona, don't try and get gossip from Michael," Vicky warned. "We're letting him be a mystery man for as long as possible."

"Fine, I won't ruin your plan," she said with a laugh. "Ok, Vicky and Becky, time is pretty tight, so if you could follow Patty, she'll get you into hair and make-up while I warn wardrobe to be ready in twenty?"

"Sure thing Mona, can you make sure Sasha, Mike and Marcel can see the filming without being in the way?" Becky asked.

"No problem, I'll have Lilith take them to the waiting room and then bring them out to the set when you're ready," Mona assured her.

We all split up, with Vicky giving me a kiss and Becky winking at me before heading off behind a smiling intern, with Amy and Barry in toe. Mona walked over to another young woman and said a few sentences to her as she pointed us out. The young woman came over with a smile on her face.

"Good morning, I'm Lilith, and I'll be taking care of you today," she said cheerfully.

"Good morning Lilith, this is Sasha, Marcel and I'm Mike," I introduced everyone. "There's no need for you to take care of us, just point us to the waiting room and we'll be fine until things are ready to roll."

"Don't be silly, it's my job and Mona would just die if you weren't treated properly," Lilith replied. "Now, if you follow me, I'll get you situated before getting you some breakfast."

"No need for breakfast, we had some on the way," I told her.

"Are you trying to get me fired Mike?" she asked with a grin.

"What! Of course not Lilith, but you really don't have to cater to us," I said.

"Mike, just let her pamper us, it's what they do for guests of the VIPs," Sasha said. "Lilith is just doing her job as well as she can. Lilith, don't fuss, we're really low maintenance."

"No problem Miss Solomon, if you would just follow me?" she asked as she led the way.

I motioned Sasha forward and watched their butts as we walked across the set to a walled in room with a large window to look out on the set.

"I'll get some snacks and drinks and here's my card with my cell if you need anything while you're waiting," Lilith said as she opened the door and turned on the light.

Sasha thanked her and we flopped down on some couches that lined three sides of the room.

"Alright, wake me up if you need me folks, I need to catch up on some shuteye," Marcel said as he stretched out on one of the couches.

I stretched out on one of the other couches and was all set to snooze for a bit when Sasha landed on my stomach, causing me to gasp for air as I lost all of mine.

"Woman, what the hell are you doing?" I asked when I caught my breath.

"You are not going to sleep and leave me here all alone for an hour!" she stated as she looked down at me.

I lifted her up and dropped her on the floor as I sat up.

"Michael, how could you!" she shrieked as she rubbed her butt.

"Would you two lovebirds keep it down over there?" Marcel asked as he opened one eye to look over at us.

"Marcel, don't say things like that out loud," Sasha rebuked him. "Vicky will make hamburger out of all three of us if someone leaks that out!"

"Then you better be quiet and more discreet," he said, before shutting his eye.

I helped her up and sat her down beside me.

"Are you ok Sasha?" I asked with a grin.

"No, you hurt me you beast," she pouted still rubbing her butt. "You're going to have to give me a massage later."

"You'll have a hard time getting that approved by the twins," I said with a laugh. "Ok, read something while I study if you're not going to let me sleep."

I pulled out my programming textbook and went over the last few chapters while she picked up a gossip rag from the table. Lilith came in with a push cart and left it between the couches and handed Sasha a newspaper turned to the celebrity news page.

"You guys made the paper this morning, Miss Solomon," she said as handed her a pen. "Can I get an autograph from the both of you?"

"Sure Lilith, but you can't sell it, you have to keep it for yourself," Sasha told her before signing below the picture.

She handed it to me and told me to just sign my first name, which I did before handing it back.

"Thanks guys, let me know if you need anything," she said as she left with her copy, leaving us with another one.

I looked at the picture and read the caption underneath, similar to what the TV had said earlier.

"God, you women looked so hot last night," I told her.

"Why thank you Mike, you looked very handsome as well," she commented.

I handed the paper to her and went back to studying. She read more of it before going back to her magazine.

I got through a couple of chapters before Lilith came back and told me they were ready on the set. We followed her out to the large lit up set, leaving Marcel in the waiting room to sleep.

"Ok, I'm afraid you have to sit back here, the director is pretty strict on observers being well away from the action," Lilith told us. "They have a few scenes to film, with different sets of clothes on as they walk down a street or climb a stairway or sit in a cafe. It will seem real disjointed but they edit it them all down into a fast moving montage and put some upbeat music to it and it comes all together."

"Yeah, I've seen a few of their ads, some weren't so good at the beginning but they're getting more refined," I said.

"Ok, I'll leave you two here, just keep quiet when the director shouts quiet on the set and you'll be fine," she said.

Sasha and I watched as the assistants got the twins in their start position and then showed them where to walk and how to act. The girls caught on very quickly, overacting as they were shown. A third model was put in between them with blonde hair to contrast their dark hair I suppose. They rehearsed a couple more times and then the assistant director went over to another room and got the director out onto the set. The guy was flamboyantly gay, wearing a tight pink sweater tucked into low riding yellow jeans with a bright red beret on his head. I could barely stop from laughing out loud and Sasha had to elbow me in the ribs to stop my grin.

"So, we're ready finally?" the pompous ass said. "Are you sure these are the best we could get?"

"Victoria and Rebecca Waters are the hottest new models Sergio," Mona told him. "They've done a few commercials already so they know what to do."

"I hope so, we're on a tight schedule here," he sniffed. "I suppose they'll have to do."

Vicky and Becky both kept an expressionless face as they stood on their marks, wearing light winter sweaters overtop cotton undershirts and casual pants. It was a modern light casual look for the young professional or hip college girl.

"Ok, places everyone, lights, roll film, and action," the director shouted. The girls followed the directions to a tee, I thought. They weaved through the street with the third girl, laughing and smiling at each other, twirling around so their hair spread out. It took only about thirty seconds and there were probably five different cameras filing from all different directions.

"And cut!" he yelled when they stopped at their final mark. "Well, that was drivel. Left twin, you need to look like you're enjoying yourself, not looking like you're constipated. Blondie, you're not supposed to be playing a mindless bimbo, dial down that vacant smile. Right twin, we're not filming a death scene here, you can smile I hope?"

I was about to get up when Sasha put her hand on my leg and held me down to the chair.

"Don't Michael," she whispered fiercely. "They can handle this themselves. They're getting paid a great deal of money to put up with him so just sit there and watch."

"Fine," I growled. "For now."

Sergio yelled to everyone, "Let's try it again people, back to first mark."

Five minutes later they went through it again. And then again. At the fifth time I went back to the waiting room before I lost it with the little shit.

Sasha came in about half an hour later and said, "Ok, they finally finished that sequence and are back in wardrobe. They're setting up the next scene now, a large staircase that they have to run up."

"So, are all directors like that ass?" I asked.

"No, there are some that are worse and a few that are better," Sasha answered with a laugh. "We forgot to warn you about how superior and insulting they can be. The twins are still not all that used to it, but they're getting better. I heard the first time one of them said something insulting to Vicky she went up one side of him and down the other before Amy could stop her. The guy wouldn't come back out for an hour from his room."

"I can imagine her doing that," I said with a grin. "I'm surprised how well she took it from him."

"We just tell ourselves how much we're making to spend one day with the jerk and we can deal with most of insults," Sasha said. "If it gets intolerable, Amy will slide over to Mona and let her know it's gone too far."

"Alright, I'll try and stay cool or come back in here if he rattles me too much," I said.

"Just think of it as training for your hockey career," she suggested. "You must get heckled in opposing arenas already."

"A bit, but I can usually tune it out," I told her.

"Well, this is the same for them, they have to learn to tune out the insults and just pick out the bit of direction they provide," Sasha said. "So when we go back out, see if you can ignore his insults and pick out what he wants them to do and how well they change their approach. You're going to be getting heckled by fans and opposing players about the twins from now on, you have to build up a tolerance or they will make you lose your cool."

"You're right, I need to see if I can handle situations like this," I agreed. "Thanks Sasha, you've might have just saved me from doing something pretty stupid."

"Hey, just because I'm a model doesn't mean I'm dumb," she responded.

I chuckled as she led me back out to the set. I watched as they moved an extra wide elegant stairway into position under the lights and lock it down into place. Fake walls and lights behind the windows transformed the set into the inside of an office building.

The twins and their blonde companion came back dressed in chic office wear; skirts, blouses and short jackets in various colours along with high heels and leggings or nylons. The assistants went through the scene with them a few times and the director was called out again.

"I hope this one will be better girls," he said. "Let's go through it one time before we roll tape. And action!"

The girls ran up the stairs, smiling and twirling, stopping to look out the window before continuing on to step onto the platform at the top of the stairs.

"And cut!" he yelled, before motioning them down the stairs.

"Not bad girls, delay at the window for a couple of seconds, Blondie, point out at something and then twirl around before heading up the stairs. Twins, look at each other with a grin before following her up. Ok, first places, lights, cameras rolling ... and action!"

They ran through it again, adding the new parts to the window sequence.

"And cut!" he shouted and waved them down while he looked at the video from the cameras with Mona.

"That was good, we just need to change a couple of camera views or your tall drink of water mystery man back there won't like what you're showing to the public," the director said with a laugh.

He had them move the angle of a couple cameras and they ran through it a couple more times before he was satisfied.

"Ok, take a half hour for a quick lunch break while we tear this down and set up the next background," the director said to his actors.

The girls went to wardrobe and came out a couple of minutes later dressed in sweats, dragging over the blonde girl to introduce her to us as Amy and Barry followed.

"Hey guys, this is Violet, Violet this is Sasha Solomon, who you probably know, and Mike, my boyfriend," Vicky made the introductions.

"Hi Violet, nice to meet you," I said. "Looking good out there ladies."

"Hi Sasha and tall drink of water," Violet said with a grin.

"I'm going to regret that description for a long time, aren't I?" I asked no one in particular, making everyone laugh.

"We're glad to see you kept your temper Michael," Becky noted.

"I did have to stop Sir Lancelot from coming to your rescue at the first thing out of Sergio's mouth," Sasha stated. "But he calmed down a bit after spending time back in the waiting room."

"Yeah, thanks for the warning everyone," I replied dryly.

Everyone laughed at me again as Sasha described holding me down.

"Ok, I overreacted a bit," I acknowledged. "But Sasha explained everything and even got me to look at it like hecklers at a hockey game."

"Good for you Sasha," Vicky said. "We were lucky you were with him."

"Ok, I've got lunch set up for everyone back in the waiting room," Lilith interrupted. "We don't have much time so let's get you eating while you're talking."

We let the girls go through the mini buffet first as they had the shortest time to eat.

"I have to compliment you ladies, that acting stuff is harder than I thought it would be," I told them.

"Thanks Mike, it's pretty repetitive but you have to concentrate every take to do it the same way, while adding or changing what the director tells you too," Vicky stated. "Try running up a flight of stairs in a short skirt, high heels while spinning and twirling all the while smiling or grinning. I'm surprised we didn't fall over each other at least once."

"I'm glad the next one is just sitting at a table in a cafe," Violet said with a laugh.

I let the girls all talk amongst themselves and just listened as they talked shop and gossip for a bit.

"Sorry to break up the conversation ladies, but it's time to get to wardrobe," Lilith said, looking apologetic.

The three girls and Amy got up and Vicky shooed Barry down saying, "It's ok Barry, nothing is happening here and you look like you could use another plateful."

"Ok, just yell or hit you panic button and we'll come running," he said. "Marcel is going to take over since he's well rested."

"I'll be there in ten ladies, parked just outside wardrobe," Marcel told them.

Becky gave me a kiss this time with Vicky providing the wink as I stood to let them by. Violet smiled at me as she went by and Amy just shook her head at me as she trailed them out of the room. Sasha said she was going to find a washroom and left the room as well.

"So Mike, how does it feel to be the talk of the town?" Barry asked.

"So far it's ok, but I'm sure I'll be hiding in the broom closet before too long," I told them. "I'm not one for the spotlight; I'm only doing it for the girls."

"The women in this town are going to swarm you if they get the chance dude," Marcel told me.

"Geez I hope not," I replied. "I have enough to deal with the women in my life already."

"Yeah, we can tell," Barry agreed.

We ate another plate each and then carried another one with us to snack on as we watched the twins perform. Sasha rejoined Barry and me, while Marcel moved to stand near wardrobe.

A few minutes later the three actresses came out in jeans, tee shirts, runners and ball caps and approached the set. The assistant director sat the twins at the table and had Violet approach them. They worked on the greeting between the three of them as the twins got up and gave her hugs before she sat down. Then they acted out a quick sketch of Violet showing them the contents of an Old Navy bag she was carrying. It seemed very over acted to me but I remembered how some of the commercials I had seen were filmed in the same style.

They took a while to get it the way the AD wanted but finally she deemed it ready. The director was summoned and they dry ran the sequence. He was almost friendly as he worked with the three on their expressions and actions until he was satisfied.

"Ok, let's try it for real, just like that last one people," he shouted. "First marks everyone, lights... , roll film ... and action!"

They ran through it five times before the director and Mona were both satisfied.

"Ok that's a wrap everyone, good work," the director shouted. "Girls, it was a pleasure to work with you. Go give that hunk of yours a hug for me."

Ten minutes later the twins, Amy, Violet and Marcel came over to our group.

"Great work ladies, you looked really good out there," I complimented them.

"Thanks Michael," the twins said in unison as Violet smiled.

"All ready to go?" I asked.

"I just have to find Mona and you should thank Lilith and we can head out," Amy said, looking around before marching away.

I also looked around and found Lilith by the room and walked over and thanked her for how well she took care of us.

"No problem Mike, I'm glad you had fun," she replied.

Amy finished up with Mona and we finally got out of there after we all said goodbye to Violet.

"Back home to the condo?" Barry asked.

"Yes please," Amy replied. "The twins need to rest for a while before tonight's hockey game."

Barry told the driver where we were headed through the open window and we made sure the twins and Amy had some water and some snacks while we drove home.

Amy was on her BlackBerry checking out emails, texts and phone messages and she spoke up when she was done.

"Ok, Emmy has gotten a line on a Platinum Suite at the Prudential Center for the game tonight but it's going to be costly," she started. "It's the only way we can all sit near each other, the game is practically sold out. I don't think Michael can afford it by himself."

"Don't be silly, we'll pay for it," Vicky said.

"I'm pretty sure I have to pay for my own ticket and food somehow or it the NCAA might have a problem with it," I said.

"I'll check with Steph and she can call up the coaches if needed to see what you should do," Amy responded. "I would think you could just write a check to the girls and use the cashed check as a receipt."

"I might have to do that with the condo for rent payments too," I told them.

"We can just put it all in an account until you're done playing," Amy said. "I'll get Steph on it later. So, should I tell Emmy to go ahead and give her the credit card?"

"Sure, it should be fun; they have food and drinks in those suites right?" Becky asked.

"I'm pretty sure they do," Amy responded.

"Good, we don't have to go out for supper but can relax a bit longer," Becky stated. "When do we have to leave to get there before the start?"

Barry spoke up, "The game usually starts just after seven o'clock, so with traffic, probably in the limo at quarter to six should be ok, if we can bypass the crowds at the arena. I think they have a separate VIP entrance for the suites."

"Ok, that sounds good to me," Vicky agreed. "You and Marcel up to a game or do you want to pass it on to Jim and Dean?"

"I'm in," said Marcel from the front seat.

"I fine with going too," Barry said.

"Alright, let's do it and it looks like nine of us right?" Vicky asked.

Amy counted everyone in the limo and then added Emmy and Leighton before agreeing, "Yep, nine it is, which is just one less than the maximum for the suite."

We pulled up to the hotel just after two and took the elevator up to the condo after leaving Barry and Marcel in the lobby. Sasha wanted to come up too but the twins begged off, wanting to lie down for a while before going to the hockey game.

I got the door and let the three women in before locking it behind us. We sat down on the couches as the girls put their legs up on Amy's and my laps.

"Shall we provide a nice massage before tucking you in for a nap, ladies?" I asked.

"That sounds good, I tweaked a calf muscle on the last time up the stairs," Vicky informed us.

"Ok, off to the bedroom and into some comfy clothes for a massage and nap," I said, swinging her legs off my lap before standing up.

I pulled her up and then went to pull the others up off the couch. I got them moving towards the bedroom and left them to get changed while I put on some sweats in the bathroom. I spent a few minutes going to the washroom and brushing my teeth and then headed back. When I returned to the bedroom, I found all three of them in sweats lying on their stomachs and already snoring away. I shrugged my shoulders and quietly shut the door and flopped on a couch with my cell and my programming notes.

I gave Steph a call but she didn't answer so I left her a message, telling her I missed her and then studied for a bit until I got drowsy and fell asleep.

A kiss woke me up and I found a twin looking down at me with a smile.

"Have a good nap Sweetie?" she asked.

"I guess so, how about you?" I inquired.

"Very good, except someone didn't provide a massage like he promised," she replied.

"All three of you were already snoring away then I got there so I just let you sleep," I told her. "I guess we all need a bit more rest in our schedules."

"Yes, we haven't even had a chance for some serious snuggling," she agreed.

"Well there's no time like the present," I said, reaching for her.

"Sorry, you snooze, you lose Sweetie, it's time to get ready for the game," she replied, grinning as she took a step back.

She was already dressed and had her make-up on and both her sister and Amy stepped up beside her with matching grins on their faces.

"Ok, chop-chop, you got ten minutes to get dressed Mister," the other twin said. "Get up or you're going like that!"

I rolled off the couch and stood up to peer down at the sexy dictator.

"Jesus Michael, did you grow some more during your nap?" she asked, looking up at me.

"You obviously didn't sleep enough Darling, you're still pretty grumpy," I stated before giving her a raspberry on her nose.

"Aw gross Michael," she said as the other two giggled.

I quickly headed to the bathroom and got cleaned up before getting changed into casual slacks and a shirt. When I got back to the living room, Sasha, Emmy and Leighton were all there, and the other three had put on their shoes.

"There's the tall drink of water now," teased Emmy.

"Hello ladies, how are all of you doing this afternoon?" I asked.

"Good Michael, how was your nap?" Leighton responded with a smirk.

"Lonely," I pouted.

The girls all laughed as the twins hit me on my arms.

"Ok, time to go people," Amy told us as she opened the door.

We all filed out and I followed at the end, enjoying looking at the lovely ladies as they walked down to the elevator. They were all in dress pants that showed off their scrumptious asses, so I had lots to look at. The elevator showed up after a short wait and we piled on and rode it down, listening to classical music on the way while the girls were discussing the commercial shoot with Emmy and Leighton.

We met up with Barry in the lobby and squeezed into the limo, four on each side and Marcel in the front. It took about forty five minutes to get to the arena in New Jersey with all the traffic going to the game. We talked about where the twins should take me for sightseeing on Sunday and everything from the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, various museums and art galleries, other cultural areas, were all thrown out for discussion. The girls' favourite was shopping of course.

We finally got to the Prudential Center where the New Jersey Devils played and the limo driver let us out at a non-descript side door with a single window and woman sitting inside. Amy took care of the business side of it and the woman hit a buzzer that opened the door. We filed into the building and were met by a pretty hostess named Carmen standing before a security gate. She welcomed us to the arena and explained a few rules before leading us through the gate. The girls' bags were searched, as were our coats, before we were allowed in. We all followed our host to the bank of elevators and got in behind her. Getting off at the fourth floor, we were led to one of the suite doors and she opened it up with a key and walked in.

"Ok, all the food and drink is included in the price of the Platinum suite so please feel free to indulge," Carmen said. "I'll be taking care of you the entire evening so just ask if you need anything. The glass doors slide shut if you want some privacy in the room and watch the game on the televisions. The seats out on the balcony have a great view of the ice and you can bring food and drink out there. I'll send for the food now and take any drink orders as soon as I get off the phone."

A few of us moved out to the balcony and looked down at the ice. It was a great view of the entire sheet of ice, though high up. The arena was filling up, with Devils and Rangers fans heckling each other, still fairly cheerful so far. On either side of us there were more luxury suites and each had several people out on their balconies, separated from us by a steel railing.

"Wow, this is some suite," I said to no one in particular.

"Sure is," Barry agreed. "Wait until the food gets here and you'll be even more impressed."

There was about fifteen minutes before the start of game so we went inside and got in line for the food that had just arrived. The girls all just had a small plate worth so the three of us got ready to pig out when Vicky spoke up.

"Now you three do realize that people will be watching you and there will probably be cameras on you out there?" Vicky asked. "Let's not make pigs of ourselves. Go up as many times as you like, but keep each plateful reasonable and eat like you're dining with the Queen of England and your mothers. Understand?"

We must have looked pretty sad because the girls, including Carmen, our hostess, laughed at our looks.

"Don't they look like little boys who got their favourite toy taken away from them?" Becky remarked to the others.

"Or they just got rejected by a girl after asking her for a dance," Emmy added.

The girls all laughed louder as they tried to top each other. The guys looked at each other and we just shrugged before going through the line and filling our plates but not heaping on the food.

We sat inside for our first helping and, even eating slowly, were done in five minutes or so. We all went back for a second time and this time joined the girls out on the balcony.

The lights dimmed and the public announcer came on and introduced the New Jersey Devils as they came on the ice. After they started their quick warm-up skate, the boos rained down as the New York Rangers stepped onto the ice. A few minutes later the national anthem was sung and the game got under way.

The game was chippy from the beginning and I was surprised on how fast the action was. The crowd, not as partisan as it probably usually was, was cheering loudly for both teams. New Jersey opened the score about five minutes in with a shorthanded goal and then back to back fights occurred. The period ended with New Jersey ahead two to one.

I was sitting between the twins and I could see people looking at us from the crowd below and from the other suites. I even saw us on the big screen once or twice as a crowd camera zoomed in on us. We made sure to provide some good shots as I kissed Vicky a few times.

During intermission we went back inside to use the in-suite washrooms and grab some more food and drink. We watched the intermission show on the TVs and then went back out for the second period.

After New Jersey scored in the first period, another fight brought right after the next face-off. New Jersey scored twice more after that to take a five to one lead, before New York answered with two of their own before the end of the period, leaving the score five to three.

"This is a great game eh?" I asked the twins as we got up.

"Yes it is, eh" the twins replied, stressing the 'eh' of course.

They led me back inside as they laughed at what they thought of as highly amusing wit.

"We should go visit the Platinum Lounge and mingle for a bit," Emmy suggested. "Vicky and Michael can get some more exposure as the press and other celebrities will be in there."

The twins and Amy agreed so Carmen gave us badges to get into the lounge and we walked down the hall to squeeze in the fairly packed room. Immediately we became the centre of attention as six gorgeous women tend to do. A few women came over and greeted Emmy and Leighton, while a couple of models in town for the show tomorrow came over to say hi to the twins, Sasha and Amy. I got introduced to all of them as Vicky's boyfriend Mike, though both twins were standing very close to me.

A few guys tried to make time with the four women not attached to my arms but were quickly shot down, serving as examples for the other men in the room. Barry and Marcel were nearby, but just watched and didn't have to interfere. A woman came over to the three of us with a photographer trailing behind.

"Hello, I'm Sandi Travers, from the New York News' entertainment section; can we get a picture of you with your new man?" she asked with an ingratiating smile.

"Sure Sandi," Vicky said, putting on a smile as the three of us turned to the cameraman. He quickly took a few shots of us and then moved on to the other girls.

"So, can I get your boyfriend's name to put in the caption?" Sandi asked.

"This is Mike," Vicky replied.

"How about a last name, occupation, anything?" Sandi grinned.

"We'll leave that for you to find out," Becky replied with a grin.

"How long have you been going out? How did you meet?" she asked desperately as Amy stepped up.

"Awhile," is all that Vicky said as she turned us away to talk to her model friends.

A couple minutes later two men in suits, one that looked familiar to me, came into the room and walked around, greeting people. I noticed that the younger one, the one I didn't recognize, looked at me a couple of times, trying to place me. I caught his look when he realized who I was and he immediately went to the older gentleman and whispered in his ear and pointed me out. I tried to ignore that as Vicky introduced me to one of her friends, but they came over to our group and we had to acknowledge them.

"Hi, I'm David and this is Lou, we're part of the New Jersey Devils front office," he said with a smile as he offered his hand.

"Hi David, I'm Mike and this is my girlfriend Vicky and her sister Becky," I replied, shaking his hand and Lou's. "It's nice to meet you both."

"You are doubly blessed with these lovely ladies," Lou said as he shook their hands.

"Thank you," Vicky and Becky said in unison, giving him a big smile.

"So, what is Michigan's premier defenceman doing here tonight?" David asked with a grin.

"Ah, you're the first to recognize me, David," I said with a smile. "I'm here to support these two lovely ladies; they're in the fashion show tomorrow night. We thought it would be cool to take in a game, and I must say it's a good one."

"Well, we've had our eye on you for a bit and then the fight made you a bit more recognizable," David replied.

"Ah," I grimaced. "I'm not real proud of that, and I don't plan to make it a big part of my game. I'd rather be on the ice than the penalty box or on IR."

"Good thinking, especially in the college game where you sit a game for each fight and it gets compounded," Lou observed. "I've seen some of your other clips and I have to say I'm impressed with your raw ability. I understand you're an eighteen year old freshman that hasn't played organized hockey in years?"

"That's correct," I answered. "I have lots to learn but the coaches and my teammates have been great."

"Well, keep up the hard work and I'm sure we'll see you up here in the big leagues before long," Lou said. "Ladies, try and keep him out of trouble in the meantime."

"Oh, we will," they said in unison, with matching grins on their faces.

"Mike, Ladies, it's been a pleasure meeting you, I'm sure we'll be seeing each other again," David said, as we shook hands.

They walked away and the girls all crowded around us.

"You know that was the New Jersey Devils' general manager and the head of scouting right?" Emmy asked me.

"I figured it out as we talked," I told her. "They seemed nice."

"You just had your first job interview," Vicky said, giving me a smile. "You did very well Sweetie, I'm proud of you."

"Ah shucks Ma'am, twernt nuthing," I answered with a lopsided goofy grin.

"And then he blows it with his feeble attempts at humour," Becky responded.

Soon it was time to go back and watch the third period. We filed out and a film crew was just outside the lounge and had the camera pointed at us as we exited the lounge.

"Miss Waters, Hi, I'm Jackie Morgan from Celebrity Now," an energetic young woman said. "Can you tell us about your new boyfriend?"

"Hi Jackie, you can call me Vicky, and all I can say that this handsome guy here is my boyfriend Mike," she replied with a smile.

"Hi Mike, how did you win her heart over when so many other guys couldn't?" she asked me.

"My 'fromage et macaroni' is what did it, don't you agree?" I replied, looking down at Vicky.

She laughed and replied, "Yes Michael, that was it, along with the homemade garlic buns of course."

"He cooked for you?" Jackie asked. "That was all it took?"

"No, that was just one of the many things that made me fall in love with him," Vicky corrected her. "He's just a great guy and not too hard to look at either."

"And what do you do Mike?" Jackie asked.

"I'm sorry Jackie, but we can't miss the start of the third period so we have to go now," Vicky responded with a smile. "Thanks."

Vicky pulled me along and we quickly entered the suite and shut out the camera crew.

"Wow, how did they find us here so quick?" I asked.

"Someone leaked it, could be the ticket person or even Carmen over there," Becky said quietly. "It's ok, we wanted this to happen remember? We need to work on a story because everyone will want to know everything about you and about how you two met."

Amy came over and had her phone to her ear. She mouthed 'Claudia' and sat down beside us.

"We told you it was happening this weekend," Amy responded.

After a pause to listen to her, Amy said, "For now we're just introducing him as Mike, her boyfriend, leaving it a bit of a mystery. Just in the last ten minutes we've had a reporter from the New York News and a film crew from Celebrity Now do quick interviews with them."

"I know, we'll sit down and draft up something tonight and get it to you and Diane," Amy told her. "We want to leave his identity out until he moves into the secure condo on Monday."

"Ok, call Diane back and just tell her that for this weekend, she can just say that they can't comment on their model's personal life," Amy suggested. "Bye for now."

"She's had about twenty calls from all sorts of people for more information about Mike and you two as a couple," she told us. "Diane has been getting inquires as well and just called her to get more info."

"It's starting, for better or worse," Vicky said, looking at me. "I hope you're ok with it because it's going to get hectic for awhile."

"Not much choice in the matter now," I said dryly. "I did it to keep you girls in my life so the benefits outweigh the hassles."

"Good answer," Becky said with a smile.

"So, keep it simple when they ask you questions and one of us will interrupt if it's something you shouldn't answer," Vicky instructed me. "Don't get too mushy or attempt to be humorous. Just be vague for now in terms of how and when we met and we'll put out a statement next week. We'll have to get together with the U of M athletic department and let them know what's going on. Maybe Steph can get that started."

I took my phone out and called her cell.

"Hey Mikey! How's it going, eh?" Steph said with a giggle.

"Just fine Princess, and you?" I asked.

"Just studying while watching the rugrats," she told me. "So why are you calling me?"

"The wolves are starting to circle and the girls think you should warn the Athletic department about the storm coming their way, maybe as soon as Monday morning," I told her.

"Geez, not much I can do at nine fifteen on a Friday night Mikey," she reprimanded me. "And who knows who will be available on the weekend either."

"You're right, I'll call the Frank or Fred, I have their numbers in the phone here and let them pass it on," I told her. "Ok, don't worry about it. I'll handle it from here Princess."

"Alright, I'm sorry Mikey, I'll get in the loop with the coaches and the Athletic department next week," she apologized.

"No problem, say hi to the boys and I'll see you Sunday night," I told her. "Good night Princess."

"Good night Mikey," she replied before we hung up.

I looked through my contact list and decided to call Fred direct. I hit the dial button on his name and put the phone to my ear.

"Hello?" Fred answered.

"Hi Coach, it's Mike Stewart," I said.

"Hey Mike, everything ok in New York?" he asked.

"Yes, everything is ok, and sorry for calling so late, but I wanted to warn you how well the plan is working," I told him. "There has been film clips on TV and pictures in the papers. We're at the Devils game right now and we've had a reporter and a film crew in our face already. They don't know who I am yet but the GM and Head Scout from New Jersey recognized me so it's just a matter of time before it gets out. The girls' agent and the publicist have both got more than twenty calls each so it's getting out of hand."

"I see, but wasn't this what you wanted, or the girls wanted?" he asked.

"Yes, but we don't want you or the athletic department to be swamped with this and caught unaware first thing Monday morning," I told him. "We haven't said who I am and I'm hoping to get home before they find out. Steph and I will be moving into a more secure condo Monday so they can't get at me there."

"Ok, I see your point, and I did mention it to the department spokeswoman last week," Fred said. "I'll give her a heads up in the morning and she'll probably want to talk with you Monday morning."

I'll be on the ice first thing in the morning as usual Coach, she can see me there," I told him. "Steph has an exam and will have to get to know her later in the week, so they can keep in contact."

"Ok, let's leave it at that then," he said. "You're still at the game right?"

"Yes," I answered.

"Make sure you pay for your ticket and don't accept anything from anyone," he said.

"The girls paid for a suite so we're all in one and food and drink is part of it," I told him.

"Shit, get someone to write you a receipt for your share of the suite at least, better yet, pay them with a cheque and make sure they cash it," he said. "We'll talk about everything else on Monday, like rent payments and airplane tickets and such."

"Ok, I'll bring all the information we can dig up," I told him. "I'll see you Monday morning Coach, and sorry for the hassle."

"Alright, behave and no drinking," he said. "Good night Mike."

"Good night Coach," I answered and hung up.

"Shit, we had better make sure I pay my share for this suite and for the flight here," I told them. "I'm going to need to pay rent and all of it needs to be documented with cancelled checks and stuff."

"Ok, I'll work with Steph and get it all handled tomorrow," Amy promised. "I'll warn her with an email and she'll have checks ready for you to sign Monday morning and I can cash them that day. Then she can meet with the right people at the school and make sure all bases are covered, before you move into the condo. The car is in the company's name and you still have yours so that's shouldn't be an issue. You paid for the suits yourself, so if you pay for your flight and your ticket here and for the fashion show by check, you should be covered."

"Ok, let's be sure, because with all the media scrutiny, I'm sure someone will be asking real soon," I said.

The third period had already started so we moved out and watched as the New York Rangers tied up the score five to five just after half way through the period. The crowd was getting restless but became jubilant as the Devils scored on their next three shots and the game ended with that score.

We visited the food trays one more time and then left after Amy tipped Carmen generously. The limo pulled up to the side entrance as we walked out the door. We got back to the hotel just after eleven and we decided to call it an early night as four of the girls had to get to the Armory early for dress rehearsals.

The twins, Amy and I said goodnight to Emmy and Leighton in the elevator after we had already dropped Sasha on her floor. We walked down the hall and entered their condo. The girls immediately went and got changed and washed up for bed while I watched some sports news.

Vicky came in and told me they were heading to bed so I got up and went in to tuck them in. They were all in one bed again and both Becky and Amy were already under the covers.

"Sorry Michael, we know it hasn't been a real romantic visit, but it's that time of the month for all three of us, so we're one, not in the mood, and two, really tired," Vicky said as I looked at the other two.

"Oh, I didn't know, sorry," I said.

"It's not your fault silly, you have nothing to apologize for," Vicky said exasperated. "We should feel better in the morning and much better on Sunday ok?"

"Sure Darling," I said as she slipped into bed.

I gave them all a kiss and hug before tucking them under the covers. I grabbed my suitcase and put it in the other bedroom before going back to the living room. I found a movie to watch and settled down on the couch with some chips and diet coke.

I was startled awake in the morning as someone was cursing in the kitchen that no one had set up the coffee machine. Amy slammed things into place to get it started and stomped back down the hallway muttering about having to do everything around here. I got up and cleaned up the couch and coffee table and put things away in the kitchen. After lining up cups, sugar and milk, I waited the few minutes the coffee maker took to produce the nasty tasting brew and then poured it into the cups. I fixed them up the way they liked it and carried them down the hallway, stopping to see if anyone was in the bathroom. It was empty so I proceeded down to the bedroom and placed the cups on the two night stands beside the still prone ladies.

"Coffee is served ladies, I do believe you need to get up now," I said cheerfully.

After receiving three unflattering suggestions on where I should next visit, I backed out of the room and used the toilet and hopped in for a quick shower before the ladies commandeered the facilities. I was dressed and ready to go before the girls were stirring in the bedroom. I was sipping on some apple juice and eating some fruit salad watching a morning show when the girls finally came out with their empty coffee cups and purses in their hands.

"Thanks for the coffee Sweetie," Vicky said, bending over for a kiss.

"You're welcome Darling," I replied.

Becky was next while Amy just headed to the kitchen and filled a travel mug with the rest of the pot. They started getting on some comfortable shoes on and quickly got up and went to put on mine.

"Shit, I just realized that Michael can't go to the dress rehearsal," Vicky said. "Everyone will be half naked as they adjust the costumes."

"Oh ok, I can hang out here and maybe take in some nearby sights," I said, putting down my shoes.

"Sorry Michael, it hasn't been a great visit has it?" Becky said, giving me a hug. "We could get Barry or Marcel to stay with you."

"I'll be fine," I told them. "When are you coming back and when do you have to go back to get ready for the show?"

"We should be back by noon if all goes well," Amy said. "We have to leave around five thirty to get the girls into make-up and wardrobe for eight pm show start. You can't be back there then either, so we've arranged you to sit with Emmy and Leighton. They've already said that you can go with them to the show in their limo. They're leaving just after seven as it's not even ten minutes away."

I looked at the clock and it was only seven thirty in the morning right now.

"Good luck this morning ladies, and give me a call on my cell when you're heading back so I can get back here and have some lunch with you," I said.

"Ok Michael, enjoy your morning and be safe, don't go off the main streets or the main paths if you go into Central Park," Vicky advised. "You could walk down Fifth Avenue; it has tons of shops that you might like. It's just out the side of the hotel and you turn right. Don't forget your cardkey and your phone and wallet."

"Yes Ma'am," I said, giving her a hug and kiss as well.

Amy prodded the twins to get going and gave me a wave before the door shut behind them. I thought about what I wanted to do and put workout clothes and my bathing suit into a gym bag, and grabbed wallet and cardkey before heading out. The elevator dropped me in the basement and I got changed in the locker room before hitting the weight room. After a hard workout I changed into my swim trunks and did some laps in the pool. I had a quick shower and then took the stairs up to the main floor.

I found a small restaurant serving breakfast and grabbed a seat at a table. I ordered a large bacon and egg breakfast with toast and hash browns and sipped on an orange juice while waiting for the food. There was a rack of papers by the front door, so I grabbed New York News and flipped to the entertainment section to see what they had printed, if anything, about last night. I found a picture of the twins both holding my arm and smiling at the camera. The caption underneath was a bit more catty than yesterday's one.

'Identical twin models Victoria and Rebecca Waters were photographed last night in the Platinum Lounge that serves the luxury suites at the Prudential Center during the second intermission of the New Jersey Devils — New York Rangers hockey game. The twins were accompanied by Victoria Water's new mystery boyfriend Mike. The budding super models wouldn't divulge the full name of tall hunk but, by the way they were both holding on to him, it seems that they might be sharing more than just their beautiful looks.'

The reporter was the first one to suggest I was boyfriend to both of them and it came so soon. We know it would be put out there but on the second day? The girls didn't seem too worried about it earlier and Becky didn't let go when she could have so maybe they had their own plan. I slipped the paper into my bag to show the girls later.

My breakfast came and I ate fairly quickly before paying the check and walking out into the hallway. I went upstairs to put my gym bag in the condo and then took the elevator back down to the lobby. After getting my bearings, I headed to the far end of the hotel and left out the double doors. I found Fifth Avenue just down the street and turned right to head to the many stores lining both sides of the popular avenue.

I meandered though many of the shops along the famous street, browsing more to look at the stores versus actually wanting to buy anything. Every famous designer had a shop on the street it seemed, along with several jewellery stores. I walked through Tiffany's and Trump Towers, and then the Disney Store in the next block. After a couple of hours I headed back towards the hotel and took a walk through Central park. It wasn't as nice in the winter as the pictures I had seen of it in the spring and summer.

I was getting cold so I retraced my steps and entered the hotel lobby just before noon. I debated getting some lunch but decided to wait a bit to see if the girls were going to join me soon. I rode the elevator up to the condo and grabbed a diet coke before turning on the TV.

I scrolled through the channels until I found an entertainment show that was just beginning to talk about the fashion show tonight.

'The premier event tonight of course, is the Victoria's Secret Fashion show, being held tonight at the Lexington Avenue Armory. All the top supermodels will be in attendance and will model the company's lingerie, swimwear and clothing. Many top celebrities will be in the audience as the lovely ladies strut their stuff down the runway. The show starts at eight but if you don't have a ticket by now, you're not getting in.'

The story was accompanied by video from last year's show and the models looked fantastic walking down the runway. They were showing off a lot of skin but it seemed ok with everyone in the audience. The celebrities were filmed entering the Armory and there were even musical acts performing as the models walked the runway.

I got up and made sure my good suit was out of its bag and my shirt and tie weren't wrinkled. I wasn't going to embarrass the twins by looking shabby; I was sure I would embarrass them some other way.

The girls finally called and told me they were on the way and would pick up some lunch. I set the table and brewed some coffee in case they wanted some and sat back down in front of the TV. Flipping through the channels I found that Celebrity Now program and left it on. The girls knocked on the door and I rushed to open it and grab the food from them.

"Hi everyone, how did it go?" I asked, looking the three of them over.

"Not bad Sweetie, it's different from a normal show so we had to do a few more runs to get things down," Vicky said as they took off their shoes

"We have to coordinate with the bands or singers in a couple of our walks so it all had to be coordinated to the second," Becky added. "Then add those silly wings and it's a recipe for disaster. "Mine fell off twice while walking down the runway."

"We finally got through the whole show just before noon and they let us go for food and some rest," Amy told me. "We have to go back early and work with props to make sure that the various wings, headdresses and such, fit properly and won't fall off. We have to leave by five now."

I carried the food to the table and got the containers out of the bags and put some big spoons in various dishes of Chinese food.

"Do you girls want some coffee or something cold to drink?" I asked as they stood watching the TV.

"In a minute Michael, you better come watch this," Vicky said.

I moved over to the TV and saw the three of us on the TV in a still frame while the interviewer from last night talked.

'Last night at the Devils Rangers game I ran into the Waters twins, Victoria and Rebecca, with Vicky's new mysterious man.'

She played the short clip that showed us talking with our friends before she came up to interview us.

'So we still don't have much information about Victoria Waters' new boyfriend other than his first name is Mike and he likes to cook. Our ever vigilant research department has dug up the fact that he will be attending tonight's Victoria's Secret fashion show at the Lexington Avenue Armory to watch his supermodel girlfriend and her sister strut their stuff. We'll be on hand to cover the entire show, from the celebrity red carpet to interviews with the supermodels and the celebrities. This is Jackie Morgan reporting.'

"Not bad, they still don't know who you are," Vicky remarked as she shut off the TV.

"Oh, before I forget, I have the picture from the News in my bag," I said, before going down to the bedroom to get it.

I gave it to Becky and sat down beside Vicky.

"Oh, that was quick," Becky said, after reading the caption.

She passed it to Amy who read it and then handed it across the table to Vicky without comment. Vicky read it and then handed it to me and looked over at Becky.

"Well, this is what you wanted Bec, but I was hoping we could delay it a bit," Vicky said.

"We can delay it for as long as we want," she replied. "We can ignore it for a bit and then we can deny it and just say we like to pull pranks on the media or something."

Vicky looked at Amy with an arched eyebrow.

"It should work as long as only one of you pose as the girlfriend in public," she replied. "If both of you do, they will continue to speculate unless you're making a joke of it at the time."

"What's it going to be Bec?" Vicky asked. "Can you stand not being his in public for a couple of months?"

"Oh all right, but we can at least switch off a couple of times and see if anyone catches on?" Becky capitulated.

"Sure, I'm not trying to hog him you know," Vicky said. "We just don't want anything to damage our image until after February."

"I know, I know," she said. "I just get jealous sometime."

"Becky Darling, you know I love all four of you the same, and nothing will change that," I told her. "This is just a show for the public, in private everyone is equal."

There was silence from all of them for a few seconds and then the twins looked at Amy as I wondered what I had done wrong. She was looking at me intently as I focused on her like the twins were.

"Why did you say that?" she asked. "How can you say that, we barely know each other?"

"Listen, you're part of this family, as odd as it is," I replied. "We all care for each other and we've all decided to be equal partners in this. Everyone brings different talents to the group and help it exist and be happy. How can I not love all of you, even with how grumpy you all are in the morning?"

"You just had to ruin that wonderful sentiment with another failed attempt at humour, didn't you?" Vicky said with a smile as she patted my hand.

Becky gave Amy a hug and a kiss on the cheek before saying, "I told you how they feel about you; you're an equal part of this group."

"But I don't do things with you Michael, how can you love me?" Amy asked.

"Just because we're not having sex, doesn't mean I still can't love you," I stated. "Think of it as more of a brother sister kind of love if it helps. You can be my grouchy older sister."

"And you are my immature little brother who thinks he's funnier than he really is," Amy replied.

"Deal," I said with a grin. "Ok, now that we have that settled, let's eat!"

I passed a dish to Vicky and another to Amy across the table before spooning some chicken balls onto my plate. We filled our plates and I got some juice for everyone to drink and we settled down to eat.

"While I had some free time this morning I talked with Steph about you in terms of you paying for things," Amy told me. "She had to use your credit card for the plane ticket and you used it for the suits. She's used our credit card for some food but you have paid for some as well so it's not something they would ever find out about. The Escape is in the company's name so as long as only she drives it, so we don't think there should be a problem with that."

"Sounds good so far," I responded. "The condo is probably the biggest issue besides the tickets to the game and tonight's show."

"You still have your apartment so on Monday you can discuss it with the coaches and the Athletic Department before you move in," Amy stated. "If they think it's against the rules than you don't move in right away. We'll see what the team and the NCAA say before we do anything more about your living arrangements."

"I probably should have done that before we even started," I said. "It could have saved us a lot of money."

"Hindsight is 20/20," she responded. "On the ticket issue, Steph has two checks ready for you to sign Sunday night. After you sign them, she will courier them to me Monday so I can cash them and get copies of cancelled checks back to you."

"I hope that takes care of everything, the last thing I need is to be kicked off the team for some stupid NCAA violation," I said. "Thanks Amy for handling this for me."

"No problem little brother," she replied with a grin. "That's what big sisters do best; keep little brothers out of trouble."

The twins laughed at her wit as I stuck out my tongue at her before continuing to eat. We finished up the meal and we all pinched in to clean up before getting the girls to lie down for a nap before the show. Amy and I gave them a massage that quickly had them in dreamland before we left the bedroom.

Amy worked on her laptop while I studied some more for my last exam while the twins swept. We both called it quits after an hour and a half, with Amy rubbing her neck.

"Hey, you look like you could use a massage as well," I remarked. "I can give you one if you want."

She looked at me for a little bit and then replied, "Thanks but I'll be ok."

"It's just a massage Amy, I won't try anything," I said exasperated. "You did kiss me and slept almost beside me last night remember? Did I try anything then?"

"No, but the twins were there," she replied.

"I'm sure you can scream loud enough to wake them if I tried any funny stuff," I remarked dryly. "But suit yourself; you can live with a stiff neck, and probably a headache before long, if you like."

She sat there for a minute, absently rubbing her neck as I packed up my books into my bag and got up to put it in the spare bedroom. After going to the bathroom, I headed back out to find Amy lying on her stomach while she looked at me.

"I'm sorry Michael, I know you won't do anything I don't want," she said. "Can you give me a massage please? My neck and shoulders are so tight."

"Sure big sis," I said as I walked over and knelt down beside her.

I proceeded to give her one of my best massages ever, starting at her head and slowly working down to the bottom of her back. Her neck and shoulders finally loosened up and she sighed as she relaxed. I wondered if I should offer to do her legs but decided not to offer so she wouldn't tense up. Leg massages sometimes led to more amorous activities that neither of us wanted. She was a beautiful sexy woman, but I didn't need another woman to try and satisfy, and she didn't want a man that way either.

Her eyes were closed and she was breathing lightly so I got up quietly and walked to the spare bedroom and had a nap as well. The girls came in and woke me up and they were already in some sexy dresses and ready to go.

"Sweetie, it's just about time for us to go," Vicky told me as I sat up.

"Oh, sorry I slept so late," I told them. "Wow, you three look hot."

"Thanks Michael, the camera crews get there early to capture us entering so we need to look good," Becky said.

"Ok, Emmy and Leighton will be down just after seven to make sure you look ok before you go," Vicky told me. "They'll take you to the show in their limo and your seat is beside Emmy's so she'll make sure you know what to do."

"Ok, when will we hook up after the show?" I asked.

"Amy will come get the three of you after we get changed out of our last costume," Vicky said. "There will be a lot of media there so be careful on how look at the other women ok?"

"Ok, I'll behave," I said with a grin.

"Alright, time for us to go, you grab something to eat, we won't get a chance till late at the after party ok?" Becky told me.

"Ok, will do," I agreed. "Good luck tonight ladies, I love you all very much."

"I love you too Sweetie," Vicky and Becky said in unison.

Amy added, "I love you too little brother."

"I love you too big sister," I said with a grin.

I followed down the hall where they put on some high heels before they all gave me hugs and kisses.

"Good luck tonight ladies, I know you're going to be the hit of the show," I told them. "I'm going to be the proudest person in the room when you walk out there. Amy, I'm sure you're going to make them look their absolute best. Good luck too."

They all smiled and Vicky said to me, "We'll be looking for you out there and we know we'll be the envy of every woman there because we have you cheering us on."

I helped them with their winter coats and walked them down the elevator. We waited until it finally showed up and I gave them one last hug for good luck before they stepped in. I smiled at them until the door slid shut and went back to the room.

After a quick supper of leftovers, I grabbed a shower and then shaved before putting on some shorts and a tee shirt. It was only a bit after six so I relaxed by watching TV, tuning in a hockey game pre-show. I sat through the discussion for half an hour before getting up to get into my clothes, leaving the suit jacket on the hanger by the front door. I got my good shoes on that matched the suit and sat down again to wait for the girls to come downstairs.

When the doorbell rang, I slipped on my suit coat and opened the door. The two actresses were dresses in short slinky dresses, carrying their coats in their arms.

"Good evening ladies, you look ravishing tonight," I told them.

"Why thank you kind sir, you look very debonair yourself," Emmy said with a smile.

"Yes, you look very handsome Michael," Leighton said. "That suit looks very good on you."

"Thank you ladies, but you two make me look like a country bumpkin," I replied. "Shall we head down?"

"Yes we shall," Leighton agreed.

I grabbed an overcoat and locked the door behind me after first insuring I had my wallet, ticket and cardkey for the room. I followed the two lovely ladies down to the elevator and stood on one side when we got in. To my surprise Barry was waiting for us in the lobby.

"The twins wanted to make sure you got inside the Armory okay," Barry said when he saw my puzzled look.

"Glad to have you along Barry," I said, following him out the lobby door.

We let the ladies in first and then followed them in.

"Ok, this is how we'll play it when we get there," Emmy started. "Barry gets out and makes sure everything is fine. Then he helps Leighton gets out and she lets them get some pics of her for a few seconds. I'll follow out, with Barry's assistance as Leighton moves up the carpet. I'll let them take some of me before moving up as well. Finally, you get out and let Barry close the door before you both walk up. Barry has his own ticket and will go in with us but his doesn't let him sit in the audience."

Leighton took over, "There will be other photographers and camera crews inside so be on your best behaviour as we go through, or they will catch you doing something that will embarrass you and the girls. Follow behind us after a minute or two and we'll lead you to the seats."

"So, I'm not supposed to be seen as being with you correct?" I asked.

"That's correct, they won't be getting us all in one shot we hope," she answered. "You don't need us adding to the hype."

"Ok, let's see how it goes," I said, shaking my head at all the things these people went through.

We pulled up a few minutes later and there was a big crowd watching as the people emerged from the limos in front of us. Each camera had a spotlight adding to the bright lights already shining from the building. The paparazzi's cameras flashes added to the festival atmosphere and there were a bunch of onlookers behind railings as well.

When our turn came to exit our limo, we followed Emmy's instructions. Leighton got a cheer and a lot of flashes, and a film crew with a host came over to interview her as she walked up further to the building. Emmy got out and the same thing happened. Finally, I got out and, with Barry beside me walked up the carpet and sneaked by the two camera crews that were still with the girls. I few of the paparazzi took my picture but I think we lucked out with the film crews.

Barry and I showed our tickets inside and we were let into the large crowded lobby. There was a film crew up on a platform filming the entire room as celebrities were mingling, holding drinks and smiling at each other. We moved to the side to wait for the two actresses and, when they came in a few minutes later, fell in behind them as they made their way slowly through the crowd. They went to the bar and got some drinks so Barry and I moved up beside them and each grabbed a diet coke. Finally, we moved to the auditorium doorway and got in line.

"Ok, I'm off for the green room Mike, just buzz me with this if you need me and I'll come running," Barry told me as he handed me a small pager like device. "Just flip up the cover and press the button and I'll be at this door in less than a minute."

"We should be fine, but thanks for being here, just in case," I said.

"Someone has to look after your skinny butt," he said with a laugh as he walked away.

"We'll look after it for you if you like," a girl said in line behind me.

I just shook my head as the people around me laughed.

"Can't leave you alone for a second, can we?" Leighton asked with a smirk.

"I didn't say a thing!" I said.

Luckily they were next in line and the hostess asked for their tickets. They showed them theirs and they were shown to their seats by an usher. I followed them with my own a few seconds later and we were led to front row seats at the side of the runway near the end.

"These are prime seats Michael, you'll be seating beside another celebrity and more behind you so watch what you say to us," Emmy whispered to me as we sat down. "Don't ogle the models too much either, I know they're wearing lingerie right out in the open, but there will be cameras panning the audience's reaction and you don't want them to catch you drooling or checking out someone's naked butt all the way down the runway. Except for the twins, that is."

"Ok, I'll try my best, just elbow me in the ribs if I get carried away," I replied softly. "I'll try not to stare at you and Leighton's gorgeous legs either."

She blushed and put her purse on her lap as the short dress rode up to show lots of thigh. She leaned over to Leighton and whispered in her ear. Leighton leaned over and gave me a wink as she crossed her legs, giving me a nice view of her thighs as well.

I grinned at her and at Emmy as she did the same.

"You two are so bad, showing off for me like that," I whispered in her ear. "Wait till Vicky and Becky hear how you're acting."

"You're being naughty looking at our legs," Emmy responded. "I'm sure they'll believe it was all your fault."

"Probably, that's what my rep is, I'm a hard partying, fist fighting, bad boy womanizer," I said. "I'm going into the studio next week to put down my first rap song."

Emmy had to put her hand over her mouth so she wouldn't laugh out loud. She was laughing behind her hand as Leighton looked over to see what was up. I shrugged my shoulders and put a puzzled look on my face in response, which made Emmy laugh even harder.

"Are you sure she's been to these kind of things before?" I asked Leighton. "She's acting like she's a newbie at this stuff."

"I know, I'm embarrassed to be seen with her," Leighton played along.

"Maybe we can get her moved or something," I said. "She's hurting my rep."

Emmy had just about settled down when she heard me say that and she went off again, much to our amusement. I looked around the room to see if I recognized anyone and I did see a few people from movies or TV that seemed familiar. A couple of sports figures were in attendance as well. They were mingling in the aisles or in the rows, greeting each other like long lost family.

When I turned back to the ladies, Emmy was finally settled down and was telling Leighton what I had said. Leighton could see me so I made a little loop with my finger at my temple while rolling my eyes at Emmy and mouthed the word crazy. She was already grinning at her story and then burst out laughing when I did that. Emmy turned quickly but I just rested my head on my hand and looked at her innocently.

"Are you done laughing like a hyena Emmy?" I asked mildly.

"You are in so much trouble mister," she said with a growl.

"Good, I need to build up my rep," I remarked with a grin.

Leighton laughed again and Emmy had to grin as well.

The auditorium lights dimmed and came back on bright to signify the eminent start of the show, causing a rush to find seats. A couple came and sat down, with the woman taking the seat beside me. They looked familiar to me but the lights dimmed down and I couldn't place them.

A small stage to the side of the runway opened its curtain and a band, already on stage began playing some music. A voice from the auditorium speakers started the introduction over the music.

'Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the 2008 Victoria's Secret Christmas fashion show! We have the most beautiful supermodels in the world ready to show you the latest in lingerie, swimwear and clothes from the new Victoria's Secret catalogue. Please, no flash photography tonight and guys, no approaching the runway looking for a date!'

Emmy and Leighton leaned over to look at me with a grin.

"What? I already have a date with a supermodel!" I whispered with a grin.

'So without further adieu, I give to you, the models of Victoria's Secret!'

The lights of the runway lit up and out came model after model wearing angel wings, lingerie and high heels. The first few were their models on contract, that even I knew who they were, and then came the models just contracted for this show.

The twins came out together, each wearing opposite black and white patterned bra and panty sets with wings behind them. The one on my side smiled at me for a split second as they went past a few feet to the end of the runway and stopped for a second. They switched sides gracefully as they twirled around and the other one gave me a smile as well. I was beaming the whole time they were out there and watched them until they disappeared behind the curtain.

Sasha came out a couple of models later in a semi-see through baby doll outfit and gave me a smile both on the way up and the way back. A couple dozen models more came out until all of them had a go around and the music built out to a crescendo and stopped.

The audience clapped as the band took a bow and left their stage. A new group took over and started a softer tune with a male singer serenading the audience. The models came out as the announcer introduced one of their new softer comfortable lines of sleepwear. The models all carried a teddy bear or some other cuddly animal in their arms.

The twins came out with half a scene on each short sleep shirt, so when they reached the end they moved together to finish the New York skyline picture on the front and Naughty Girls on the back across their bums. They twirled around and showed the audience the saying as they wiggled their cute buns and then headed back, showing us the teddy bears in their arms dressed in Michigan jerseys with the number 5 on both of them.

I grinned as they winked again and sashayed down the runway. A dozen more models came out, including Sasha until the song ended and we clapped again.

Some of the more recognizable models hadn't made that round and we found out why as they started swooping down from the rafters, with fairy wings attached. They perched on platforms around the auditorium while more models walked the runway. The twins didn't come out for that portion but Sasha did near the end. The climax of that was the models swooping down again and then rising up to the rafters to disappear into the darkness as the lights dimmed. Everyone clapped as the lights came on for a short intermission.

"Wow, some show eh ladies?" I asked.

Emmy and Leighton smiled and Emmy replied, "It sure is eh?"

"We're going for a drink, are you coming?" Leighton asked.

I'm good, thanks," I said.

"I'll bring you back your favourite," Emmy told me as they walked away.

I got up to stretch but kept close to my chair. A well built guy, probably a couple of inches shorter than me, walked by and looked at me like he thought he knew me. He stopped a few feet past and turned back to look at me again. He stepped back over and held out his hand.

"Hey there, I saw that clip of you last week, you held up quite well against that guy," he said.

"Thanks I guess, I'm not real proud of that but it had to be done," I said as I shook his hand.

"Yeah, I guess so, but you might want to try and duck at least once or twice when he does swing at you," he said. "It didn't look like anything he did phased you, but I see you got cut at least."

"Yeah, I kind of lose it when I get real mad," I told him.

"That's ok when you're fighting an amateur, but a trained fighter would have made you miss by ducking and gotten the better of you," he told me. "You should always keep in control and get some simple training in boxing or martial arts. You're probably going to be fighting more in your career so it would be good to be prepared for the rare times you have to fight."

"I suppose you're right," I agreed. "Thanks for the advice."

"You're welcome," he said. "Good luck in your career, I'll make sure to keep an eye on you."

"Thanks, I'm sorry, I didn't catch your name," I responded.

"My name is Brian Chalmers," he said.

"It's nice to meet you Mr. Chalmers," I said. "Enjoy the rest of the show."

"Yes you too," he replied with a grin as he walked away.

The couple beside me were getting a lot of attention as people came up to say hello to them. I recognized them as the two that starred in that new vampire movie just out last month at the theatres.

Emmy and Leighton came back and I took the drink from her before reclaiming our seats, making a slick handsome guy get out of mine. He looked like he was going to say something like 'did I know who he was', but thought better of it as he looked up at me.

"Thanks, he was being an ass," the woman said.

"No problem, it looks like we both benefited from his removal," I replied.

"Now if you could do it with the rest of these sycophants you would have my undying gratitude," she stated.

"I'm supposed to behave or I would," I told her.

"Ah, you've been a bad boy before have you?" she said with a grin. "They remind me every time I'm out in public to be good as well. What did you do?"

"I'm not supposed to lose my temper or it could reflect badly on my girlfriend's career," I said. "I'm a bit over protective I guess."

"So your Emmy's girlfriend?" she asked.

Emmy looked over when she heard her name and smiled, "Hey Kristen, no this tall drink of water is Vicky Waters' boyfriend Mike."

"One of the twin's boyfriend, wow I can see why you're so protective Mike," she said with a grin.

"And I can see why you're sick of all the publicity you get, Kristen," I replied. "I've had two days of it and I'm ready to go home."

"Where is home?" Kristen asked.

"I'm not supposed to tell anyone, it's supposed to be a secret for a couple more days, sorry," I told her.

"Emmy will tell me, won't you?" Kristen asked as she leaned over to look at her. "Or Leighton will right?"

"We're sworn to secrecy Kristen," Emmy said, shaking her head. "And if you knew Vicky, you'd know you don't want to piss that girl off, she's got a temper on her. She scared Darrell Lawson straight when he critiqued her walk. She had him crying in his office for an hour."

"I'll have to look her up at the after party and get her to give me the scoop," Kristen responded.

The guy she was with, finally finished with the people in front of them and sat down beside her.

"Rob, this is Emmy and Leighton, they're both actresses, and Mike here is the boyfriend of one of those twin models in the show," Kristen introduced us to her co-star.

"Hello everyone, it's nice to meet you all," he said politely. "Emmy, you were great in the Phantom I must say."

"Thanks Rob, you two were great in Twilight," she responded.

"Oh, that's where I know you two from, I thought you looked a bit familiar," I said deadpan. "I've seen the commercials, it looks interesting."

Emmy looked at me in shock while Rob and Kristen grinned.

"What?" I asked Emmy. "I didn't want to come off like a sycophant. Kristen hates them."

"You have to excuse him, they keep telling him not to attempt humour but he keeps insisting on embarrassing himself," Emmy said, shaking her head.

"It's true, they have no sense of humour," I told them. "My material is to die for."

"So what do you do Mike?" Rob asked.

"He's not allowed to say, they're keeping it a secret," Kristen told him with a fake whisper. "We're going to corner the twins after the show and force them to tell us. This popularity must be good for something. You can try and charm them into telling me."

"No charming of the twins allowed," I growled.

"Oh yeah, Mike here is been a bad boy for being over protective," Kristen told him with a laugh.

"Well, he seems quite capable of keeping anyone away he wants to," Rob said, looking over at me with a grin.

"You have no idea," Emmy muttered.

The lights dimmed and came back indicating the restart of the show soon. The rest of the crowd came back in and took their seats as the lights dimmed and stayed down. A new band was on the stage when the curtains opened up and they started a reggae beat.

'Welcome back to the 2008 Victoria's Secret Christmas fashion show. It's now time in the show to travel south to the Caribbean! It's Swimsuit time!'

The models came out in a mix of one piece suits as well as summer wear like shorts ad tee shirts to start. Soon the suits became more sexy one piece suits. They walked down the runway and twirled at the end to show the back of each suit to the audience. Some were almost thongs in the back, showing off some very nice bums. I tried not to stare, really!

The twins came out together in matching neon yellow one pieces that were cut deep in front and, as I discovered, in the back as well. The bottom was high cut showing their gorgeous butts to me and then everyone else as they turned around at the end of the runway. I wasn't sure how to react to everyone seeing them like that but I tried to keep a smile on my face. They both turned to smile at me on the way back and continued on.

"Holy shit they have great asses!" a guy said loudly behind us. "What I wouldn't give to get a hold of them!"

I tried to turn around but Emmy held onto my arm tightly and whispered fiercely, "Mike, don't!"

I stopped and relaxed as she held on for a bit longer. Emmy finally let go but kept her arm close, just in case.

Sasha came up a few models later, wearing an almost see through suit, with just slightly thicker material in the appropriate areas. She smiled at me as well on the way down and we could that the back of suit was sheer with just her butt covered.

"Damn, you can almost see everything on that one," the loudmouth said. "I'd like to peel that off of her!"

I gripped the armrests hard as the Emmy watched me warily. Sasha came back and gave me a wink before moving on as I tried to smile back at her.

Eventually the models switched to two pieces, starting with boy shorts and bikini tops and progressing to thongs and skimpy bikini tops and the end. The twins came out again, wearing boy shorts and respectable bikini tops in contrasting white and black, with one wearing white shorts and a black top and the other the opposite. I was back in control as they smiled at me going by. The guy behind us kept quiet so I relaxed a bit. Sasha came out again, in a more risqué top and matching bottom but, while tiny, wasn't a thong. I was happy when the swimsuit portion was over and the twins hadn't come back out in anything skimpier. The band finished up their reggae set and another crooner came out to sing.

'Now the moment you've all been waiting for, the showing of the piece de résistance, the five million dollar bra! It's covered in hundreds of diamonds, rubies and emeralds along with gold and platinum inlays. As a further surprise, here are the Waters twins with matching five million dollar bras!'

The twins came out in the bra and matching boy short panties and high heels and slowly walked down the runway, stopping to pose as photographers and film crews captured them on either side. They made sure to stop in front of me and the one on my side bent over to show me some cleavage and grin at us before moving on. They stood at either corner at the end and showed the audience the bras before moving to stand beside each other with arms around their backs and their chests close together. The crowd stood and applauded for a full minute before the girls broke away from each other and switched sides as they turned around. They moved back towards the curtains, stopping along the way again.

Finally they stood together again at the back and let the cameras get another shot of the bras before leaving the stage.

"Wow, I didn't know they were going to be wearing the bras tonight," Emmy said. "It's a great boost to their career as those pictures and film will be played a lot and their names will be mentioned every time. Usually only a model under contract to Victoria's Secret gets that honour."

The finale was another big production, with models swooping down on two lines of models, wearing lingerie, swimwear, clothes and sleepwear of every type, as they walked down the runway on the outside. As they got to the end they stopped for a second and then curled back inside the two outer lines and headed back to the larger stage at the back. They lined up along the back stage until all the models were out except the twins. They came back out escorting an older lady dressed in a fashionable dress and the three of the stopped at the end of the runway. The twins were wearing very fashionable dresses and we could see portions of the million dollar bras through the low scooped V neck of the sexy dress. Their hair was all done up and they wore glittering diamond earring and matching necklaces that channelled the viewers eyes down to the bras.

'Ladies and Gentlemen, may we present the Chairwoman of the Board, Miss Helen Connors!'

Everyone got up and gave her a nice ovation for the fine show.

"Thank you all for that warm welcome, which I'm sure is mostly for the wonderful show that our people put on for you," Miss Connors said. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the producers and directors of the show as well as all the people in the back that make a show like this possible."

The crowd clapped dutifully while she paused.

"Next, I need to thank these wonderfully talented, beautiful models on the stage beside and behind me, they make a very difficult job look easy while having fun doing it," Miss Connors continued.

We clapped much harder and the models all smiled back at us and waved.

"Finally, I would like to thank you, the audience for coming to the show or tuning in on your TV," she finished up. "You're patronage over the years is why we still do what we do; design and produce the best, sexiest, and most comfortable lingerie in the world. Thank you very much!"

The audience clapped and the twins escorted her back to curtain where they disappeared behind it, followed by the rest of the models.

'That concludes the 2008 Victoria's Secret Christmas fashion show. Thank you for coming and have a safe and happy holiday! Have a good night everyone!'

The band played some light music as the lights came up and people started filing out of the auditorium.

"Mike, you're going to need help my friend," Rob said, shaking his head.

"Probably Rob, but for what in particular?" I asked.

"You're not going to handle your protection duties alone I'm afraid, those ladies of yours are destined for stardom," Rob replied.

"Yeah, I know," I said. "Luckily they have two bodyguards wherever they go," I told him. "You guys must have some security as well."

"Yep, we each have a bodyguard and we have crowd control at all the events," Rob explained.

"Ever lose Shorty here in a crowd?" I asked him with a grin.

"As a matter of fact, we did once, we had to send a couple of burly fellows to retrieve her," he replied with an answering grin.

"Hey, I'm five six, that's not short, it's above average," Kristen retorted. "Just because you two are skyscrapers is not my fault."

"She seems a bit testy about the subject," I said as we stood up. "You sure you want to hang out with the models later?"

Kristen looked at Emmy who was about five foot eight and Leighton was a bit shorter than her at five foot five.

"Leighton, you can stand by me right?" Kristen begged. "Everyone else will make me look like a pipsqueak."

"Tell me about it, when Emmy puts on high heels she's towers over me," Leighton complained. "The twins are taller than she is and Amy is almost her height as well."

"Man, I'm sorry I brought it up," I mumbled to Rob.

"I should have warned you," Rob responded.

"Alright, do we wait here or in the lobby?" I asked Emmy.

"We can go to the lobby and mingle for a bit, ' she replied. "We can get a drink and wait for them to send Amy to get us," Emmy suggested.

"You guys need a ride to the Plaza?" Emmy asked Rob and Kristen.

"No, we're good," Rob replied. "We're going to head over there now. We'll see you there ok?"

"Sure, we should be there in about three quarters of an hour," Emmy replied.

We followed them to the lobby and picked out a corner to stand in so we could keep out of the crowd. Emmy and Leighton braved the throng and returned with some drinks while I secured our spot. They mingled a bit with people they knew in our immediate area while watched the ebb and flow. Barry joined us a few minutes later just as Amy called my cell and asked where we were.

"Hey Amy, we're in the lobby in the far corner away from the entrance," I told her.

"Okay, we'll be out in a few then unless you want to see backstage?" she asked.

I asked the two actresses if they wanted to go backstage.

"No, it's crowded and lots of film crews getting interviews," Emmy said. "Unless Vicky wants you back there."

"Does Vicky want me back there?" I asked Amy.

"She hasn't said, and they're both being interviewed right now," Amy replied.

"We'll stay here for a bit until they're done I guess and you can call us if they want us back there," I said, after deciding for the group.

"Ok, I'll be in touch," Amy replied and hung up.

We started people watching and the girls told me what they knew about some of the celebrities that were milling about. Who had boob jobs, who was sleeping with whom, what some of them were rumoured to have down to get their big breaks. It was eye opening to an outsider like me. Barry told us some of his funny stories protecting celebrities over the last ten years. Finally my phone rang and I answered it quickly.

"Ok, the last interview is winding up, we'll be ready to go in five," Amy said. "Have Barry bring the car around and we'll attempt to leave through the lobby. Vicky will come over to you and you two can exchange some fluids and a hug before we walk out. Becky will attach herself to your other side and Marcel and Barry will provide a battering ram if necessary. Just follow the twins' lead and you'll be fine."

"We'll be ready," I said before she hung up.

I let Barry know what her instructions were. He got his phone out and made a call as the girls finished their drinks.

Sasha soon peeked out the door from the back and read the situation quickly. She motioned behind her and Marcel took point as he opened the door and squeezed around her. Sasha followed him then the twins came out with Amy trailing. We moved out to meet them as they quickly passed a crew filming an interview with one of the other models.

The twins were looking around for us and caught sight of us as we emerged from the corner. We met near the centre of the lobby and Vicky moved to me first and gave me a big hug and kiss for everyone to see.

"Congratulations Darling, you girls were terrific up there," I said with a smile, looking at both of them and then Sasha.

"Thanks Sweetie, it was fun but we're glad it's over," Vicky told me.

"It's hard to smile when you're half nude in front of hundreds of people and all the cameras," Becky added.

"Well, you girls were gorgeous," Emmy said, hugging the twins and then Sasha.

"Yes, the stars of the show," Leighton added.

"Thanks girls, we really appreciate the support," Sasha said.

"Ok everyone, shall we try for the limo?" Barry asked.

Vicky nodded and pulled me along as Barry led the way. Becky moved to my other side and the others trailed along. Marcel moved to the end to discourage the now supermodel less film crew from getting near us.

The twins smiled and said hi to people that congratulated them on the show as we walked through the crowd to the exit. We didn't stop, even for a friend of Becky's but she told her to come to the Plaza. Finally we left the lobby and exited the building one by one to find film crews and paparazzi ready to capture our exit. The twins moved back to either side of me and we walked down the carpet to the limo. I helped them in and then stood at the door to help the rest of the ladies in one by one. I got a smile from each of them as I blocked the view of their legs from the prying cameras and film crews. Barry followed me in and we shut the door as we squeezed in.

"So, you enjoyed the show?" Vicky asked me.

"Yeah, it was great," I responded with a smile. "I met a Brian Chalmers who recognized me but he was the only one."

"Boom-Boom Chalmers came up to you?" Barry asked.

"He didn't call himself that," I responded. "He was a fairly big guy, a few inches shorter than me and a bit smaller. Nice guy though."

"That sounds like him," Barry agreed. "You just met the top contender for the heavyweight boxing title."

"Really?" I asked. "Wow, I always thought those guys were giants, both in height and size, but I guess you don't have to be big to be a great boxer."

"He's really good, he should capture the belt when he finally gets his title shot," Barry said.

We pulled up to the Plaza and Marcel and Barry hopped out first and then I followed. I helped each lady out and got a nice peek at their cleavage as they stood up. I took Vicky's arm and Becky took my other one as we entered the hotel lobby. We proceeded down the hall to a large banquet hall and were let in once everyone showed their tickets.

We were soon surrounded by well wishers for the twins who wanted to share in their success or know who I was. Only a couple official photographers were allowed in the room along with a camera crew set up in the corner with a TV host interviewing one of the supermodels with her husband. The photographers all got shots of us as we entered.

As we moved further into the room the three of us started to get separated from the others and even Becky was being pulled from my arm. I stopped walking and held on tight to both of them, which made a few of the people take a few steps ahead of us until they realized we had stopped.

"We stick together and with our friends, right?" I asked the two of them.

"Of course, sorry Michael, we got carried away," Vicky responded. "It's a bit overwhelming."

"Sorry Michael, you're right of course," Becky added, looking back and motioning our friends forward. "Sorry guys, we got enveloped there for a minute."

"It's ok, it's happened to all of us at one time or another," Emmy replied.

Amy found out where our table was and we followed her to it. A waitress appeared after we sat down and took our drink order. She soon came back with them and we toasted the girls' success before having a big sip of our drinks. The second round came around soon after and everyone seemed to be having a good time as the night went on

People came up to the table in pairs to say hi to someone, the models or the actors. As people drank, I watched how they became more open and friendlier. I stayed with diet coke of course, so I kept an eye on everyone as best I could when they got up to mingle. A deejay started up some tunes and an area off to the side became a dance floor. All the ladies hit the dance floor, dragging me along. I followed Will Smith's instructions to Kevin James in Hitch on how to dance and just went side to side with my elbows close to my sides.

The girls took turns dancing in front of me and actually got me twirling them around me as I held their arm up over their heads. One of the twins came up close to me and did a sexy grind for part of a song and then switched with her sister, who mirrored the dance for the next while. Amy and Sasha came next and then Emmy and Leighton. We finally went back to the table after making a stop at the bar to get new drinks.

The girls made a beeline to the washroom to repair any damage, though they all looked fine to me. I cooled off alone at the table and downed my diet coke quickly. Barry and Marcel were by the washroom keeping an eye on all the ladies as they waited in line. The girls trickled back to the table as they finished and sipped on their drinks.

Rob and Kristen came by and sat with us for a while. The twins apparently really liked the Twilight books and the new movie so they were very happy to see them and talk about the film and their careers. They even told Kristen who I was after swearing them both to secrecy. I had to laugh when the house photographer got Kristen standing between the twins and then had Rob and I stand on either side of her before taking another one with us looking down at her.

All the girls exchanged email addresses, phone numbers and whatever else they needed to stay in touch, while Rob and I looked on in amusement.

"What's so funny?" Kristen asked as she looked up from her phone.

"You ladies must have eight or nine different ways to keep in touch with each other now," I said with a grin.

"I saw you two exchanging stuff too," she retorted.

"Yeah, just one phone number," I replied. "Not home phone, cell, agent, email, Facebook page, texting, apartment phone and address, vacation condo phone, European castle phone, yacht and in-car phone."

"We're busy people, we're hard to get a hold of," Kristen replied haughtily.

I wisely kept my mouth shut and talked to Rob about sports while they finished.

The girls all went up to dance while we watched with Marcel and Barry. Rob had women coming up for autographs every so often or wanted a picture with him and he was pretty gracious with them.

"That must get tiring," I stated one time.

"It does, but one bad one gets caught on camera and I look like an ass forever, no matter how badly they behave," he told me. "This is why we usually don't go out much."

"Yeah, I can see why," I replied. "I bet it was great in the beginning. I signed my first autograph for a little kid last week and it was so cool to see his face light up when I handed it to him."

"Yes it was just as cool for me the first time I was asked for an autograph," he agreed. "The trouble is I have to do one hundred of them in five minutes now and it's more of a chore than a pleasure."

The girls came back to try and drag both of us out to the floor, with Kristen attacking me while the twins went after Rob. We got up and danced with our new partners for a song of two and then switched back to our normal ones for another couple of songs. Then we all called it quits and went back to the table and had another round of drinks.

"I hate to look like a rabid fan but I have two friends back in Michigan that would love both of your autographs on a picture or something if you get a chance," I told Rob and Kristen.

"Sure thing, if we can get a couple of yours and the twins in return," Kristen said with a grin.

"Sure, though why you would want mine is a bit puzzling," I replied.

"Hey, it could be valuable someday," she replied. "And it doesn't cost me anything right now."

We arranged to meet for lunch in the hotel tomorrow as they were staying here as well. A half an hour later we all called it a night and headed upstairs to our rooms. Once inside we took the time to hang up our nice outfits and then collapsed onto the two beds and fell asleep soon after.

The sun woke me up Sunday morning as it came streaming through the sheers on the windows. I snuck out to the bathroom and then got into some workout sweats. The other bedroom door was still closed so I quietly left the condo and headed downstairs to the weight room.

My workout was pretty intense as my hand was fully healed. Their machines weren't as heavy duty as the ones at the arena, so I used the full allotment of weights in most cases.

"Wow, I can't believe how much weight you're using," said a guy who had came in half way through my workout.

"It just looks like a lot but these machines aren't really professional grade," I replied.

"I see," the guy in his late twenties replied with a grin. "They do just fine for me."

I grinned back and continued on with my workout. When I was done I gave him a nod and went into the locker room and got into my swimsuit.

The water was a nice temperature as I eased in down the steps. I started swimming some laps as my aerobic exercise until a family with three little ones came in and started playing in the shallow end. I got out soon after and had a shower in the locker room before getting dressed. After a stop in the lobby, I headed back up to the condo with a couple of Sunday newspapers in hand.

The bedroom doors were still shut so I entered the kitchen and started getting stuff out for breakfast. I made sure the coffee machine was on and brewing before anything else and then got some bacon and sausages frying. A batch of scrambled eggs was next and then some bread readied in the toaster. I made a pitcher of orange juice for those who didn't like coffee and then went from one frying pan to the next to tend to the food.

I had a spare minute or so I set the table and put out the orange juice and condiments. Back in the kitchen I rescued the bacon and sausages from burning and put them on a plate before flipping the scrambled eggs. The bread got put down in the toaster and I cracked a few eggs into the rinsed frying pan for those who didn't like scrambled eggs.

I was swamped for the next few minutes, putting the scrambled eggs in a covered pan, buttering the toast and flipping the eggs before turning down the heat. Luckily nothing got burned as I put everything out on the table before going to wake up the ladies.

Carrying a half full cup of coffee, I entered the bedroom with Bec and Amy and lightly shook them awake while wafting the coffee aroma in front of their noses.

"Ladies, coffee and breakfast is ready out in the dining room," I said with a smile as they opened their eyes.

"What time is it Michael?" Becky asked.

"It is coming up on nine, pretty late to be sleeping on a sunny Sunday morning," I replied. "Come on, I've got everything out already, it's getting cold."

"You are such a morning person," she said, shoving Amy to wake her.

"What's up?" she said, sitting up quickly and looking around in a panic.

"Get up, our man has breakfast and coffee on the table," Bec said.

"Shit, what time is it" Amy said, falling back down on the bed.

"It's nine," Bec said. "Come on, he means well."

I left the room and went to wake up Vicky.

"Hey Dearie, it's time to get up, coffee and breakfast is on the table," I told her as I shook her awake.

She sat up slowly and tried to take the coffee from me.

"Yours is out in the dining room," I said, standing back up. "Come on, the other two will drink it if you don't hurry."

I pulled her up and she staggered along beside me as I pulled her down the hallway. Looking in to the other bedroom, I saw the girls getting up on their feet as well. After getting Vicky situated and her coffee poured and fixed, I did the same with Bec and Amy.

"Ok, who wants scrambled or fried eggs?" I asked.

I gave the twins some scrambled eggs while Amy and I had some fried eggs. We passed the toast, bacon and sausage around and we settled in to eat, no one being very talkative. Half way through I filled up their coffee cups from the pot before helping myself to more food.

As we finished up we heard a cell phone ringing and Amy rushed off to answer it. She came back to the dining room still talking.

"Today? I don't know Claudia, we got in late from the after party and we're just finishing breakfast with Michael," Amy said into the phone.

"Fine, I'll ask," she replied after listening to the twins' agent.

"Claudia just got a call from Steve and Diane at the agency and a new client wants you two to be the face of their new campaign," Amy started.

"Sounds good so far, what's the problem?" Vicky asked.

"They want us in Los Angeles tomorrow morning for a first photo shoot and then commercials as soon as they can get everyone together," Amy told us. "They're going full out to capitalize on the new fame you're getting by wearing the bras."

"Who is it?" Becky asked.

"The Gap," Amy replied.

"Cool," Becky said with a smile.

"Claudia is negotiating a contract but it hinges on you being there tomorrow morning first thing," Amy said.

Vicky and Becky looked at each other and nodded and then turned to me.

"Is it ok if we head out before your flight home Sweetie?" Vicky asked. "We'll make it up to you next weekend."

"Of course it's ok," I replied with a smile. "How soon do you have to leave?"

Amy piped up, "Claudia has us on a flight leaving in three hours so we have to pack and head out to the airport in an hour."

"Ok, let Claudia know we'll do it, I hope she's handling what we had on our schedule for tomorrow," Vicky said.

Amy talked with Claudia for a bit as the twins and I finished our meals. She was grinning when she hung up.

"That just got a cool half million extra in the bank account ladies," she shouted.

"Alright," the twins said loudly in unison.

"You're the new face of The Gap for the next six months, print ads, tv commercials and a few big store openings," Amy continued.

"Cool!" Becky responded. "I love their stuff anyway!"

"A clothing deal is part of the compensation, you both get supplied with any of their fashions for the entire six months," Amy elaborated.

"That's a nice perk," Vicky said.

"Ok, lets' get cracking, we're there until Tuesday night so pack accordingly," Amy said.

They all got up and headed down the hallway while I cleaned up the table and did the dishes. They all had quick showers and then got dressed and packed over the next hour, while talking on their cells as phone calls came in. Finally they had their bags at the door and sat down in the living room with me for a couple of minutes.

"Ok, we told Kristen and Rob we had to leave so they're just going to drop off some autograph pictures for us. You should print out a few pictures and sign them for them and we can do that now as well," Vicky said, looking at Amy.

Amy got up and pulled two sets of head shots and another two of them together and put them in front of the twins to sign while I powered up their desktop computer and printer and came back the couch.

"Sorry this has been such a busy weekend Sweetie," Becky said, scooting over to sit beside me. "Thanks for being such a good sport about it."

"No problem, I know you'll be busy for the next few months, just try and fit us in when you can," I told her.

She gave me a big hug and a kiss before getting up and letting Vicky sit down.

"We'll make sure to have a better time next weekend Michael," Vicky said before giving me a kiss as well.

"Sounds like a plan to me, but I did have fun this weekend you know," I told them.

"Good, we enjoyed having you around too," she replied as she got up.

Amy spoke up, "Ok, you're flight leaves at eight so you better leave here in a taxi at five, there is always one by the front door. Here is your ticket and your boarding pass, Steph will be there to pick you up. Keep your cardkey for next weekend."

"Thanks Amy for everything," I told her, giving her a hug. "Take care of the girls Big Sis."

"Always do, Little Bro," she replied and stepped back.

They put on their shoes and I grabbed my cardkey before walking them to the elevator. I gave them all hugs and kisses and waved as the door shut. I walked back and printed out two copies of a couple different pictures from the team site on the web. I addressed one set to Kristen and one to Rob and signed and dated them.

I had free time on my hands until they came up to exchange photos, so I packed up my suits into the garment bag and then the rest of my clothes into the suitcase. After putting them by the door, I studied for a while until there was a knock on the door.

"Hey Rob, come on in," I said, when I opened the door.

"Hey Mike, I hear you got abandoned this morning," Rob said with a grin. "Tough luck there man."

"Yeah, but it's a great opportunity for them so I don't mind," I told him. "I'm heading back to Michigan in a few hours anyway."

"I have to head out soon as well," Rob responded. "So here are a few autographed pictures that you can use to score some points with your friends. I've put in a few for the girls here as well."

"Thanks a lot Rob, here's a couple of signed pictures of each of them for you as well as a couple of mine." I replied as we exchanged envelopes.

I looked at his and saw that he had just signed them at the bottom.

"Can you do me a huge favour and make one out to Sammi and one to Steph?" I asked. "They will flip out if they see that."

"Sure thing," he said with a laugh.

He pulled out a marker and quickly addressed two of them.

"That's great Rob, thanks for taking time to do this," I said.

"No problem Mike, it's been good to hang out with you this weekend, we'll have to get together again soon," he said as he put out his hand.

"For sure, good luck with the career and hopefully we'll hook up again soon," I replied as I shook his hand.

"Kristen said she would be up later, she's heading out later tonight," Rob informed me as he opened the door.

"Alright, have a safe flight," I responded as he headed down the hallway.

"You too," he said over his shoulder.

I shut the door behind him and looked over the pictures. I left the twins' and Amy's on the table and put the ones for the Merks sisters into my suitcase.

Ten minutes later there was another knock on the door and I opened to find Kristen in a hoodie and sunglasses looking back and forth down the halls.

"Hey Kristen, everything ok?" I asked as I took a step out to look down the halls.

"Hi Mike," she said as she squeezed by me. "I just need to be incognito when I'm out or there will be a scene. Neither of us need that type of publicity."

"True enough," I replied as I shut the door quickly. "Come on in, can I get you something to drink or eat?"

"Sure, Vicky said you'd be alone for lunch so I thought we could eat together?" she asked as she took off her hoodie and sunglasses.

She was wearing a simple tee shirt and low rider jeans with red coloured sneakers.

"Glad to have the company," I said with a smile. "What are you in the mood for?"

"Oh something small, soup and sandwiches are fine," she replied as she took off her sneakers. "Have to watch the figure you know."

"Ah, no, I don't know actually," I said. "I've always been skinny and you don't look like you have anything to worry about either."

"Like they say, the camera adds ten pounds so I always have to be careful," she replied ruefully.

"Well from here you look on the skinny side so don't worry about it," I said with a grin. "Come on to the kitchen and we'll see what they have in the cupboards for soup."

We settled on some tomato soup and toasted tuna sandwiches and we both helped getting it ready. I poured a couple glasses of diet coke and we carried our plates to the dining room table.

"It's nice to eat with a guy who doesn't either want something from me or is trying to pick me up," Kristen said after a while.

"Well, I do want you to help with the dishes, but I don't feel any need to lift you up for any reason," I said, looking over at her with a puzzled look.

"Now I know why she said you would probably act like a doofus," she said, shaking her head. "She did say you had a bad sense of humour."

"It must be a girl thing," I remarked. "The guys would be just howling at these gems."

"It's a maturity thing," she told me.

"Yeah, I'm usually the youngest in the room," I agreed. "So, don't you have people to keep away those types of guys? Rob should be able to make guys like that go away; he's pretty big."

"Rob helps a bit, but he's one of the guys who wants to go out with me," she said.

"Oh, I thought you two were a pair, sorry," I responded. "You looked so comfortable together."

"We're good friends and we're together a lot, but I have, or had, I should say, a boyfriend until recently," she told me. "All this travel, celebrity and publicity kind of screwed that up."

"Sorry to hear that, I know how that goes," I sympathized. "Vicky broke up with me when they first moved to New York, a couple months ago. Luckily she wanted to get back together."

"You are lucky, relationships are hard to keep in this industry," she said, bitterly.

"Ok, so you must have people that can arrange some security for you to stop them from getting to you," I stated.

"I do have some security but the studio doesn't want it to be obvious so they get by at functions or at meet and greets," she responded. "It gets tiring."

"Well, relax here as long as you want and I promise I won't hit on you and ask you for anything," I said. "Except for autographed pictures and help with the dishes.

I grinned as she stuck her tongue out at me. We finished up our lunch and cleaned up together. We then did the exchange of photos and I got her to address them to the two sisters with a minimum of fuss.

"Ok, now that I've got what I wanted from you, you can leave now," I said with a straight face.

"Again with the failed attempt at humour Mike," she shook her head. "We both know you're by yourself until five and I'm heading out about then, so you're stuck with me until at least four thirty."

"Damn, I'll never be free from you meddling women," I responded with a tortured look.

"Ok, don't give up your day job, you're acting sucks," Kristen replied.

"This coming from the person who acted in Zathura," I stated dryly.

"Hey, don't diss the performance just because the movie wasn't that good," she replied.

"Uh huh," I said. "So, what does Kristen Stewart like to do on her own time?" I asked, changing the subject.

We got into a nice conversation about her life away from acting as we spread out on the two couches in the living room. Around two o'clock her phone rang and she answered it.

"Hi there, how's it going?" she asked.

"Just relaxing and chatting with a friend," she said, giving me a wink.

"Yeah, I fly out at seven thirty tonight," she informed the person.

"No, Rob took an earlier flight, he's got something he has to do today out there," Kristen said.

"Really, they got them out already?" she said. "That was quick."

"Oh, he's Vicky Waters' boyfriend," she told the person. "Yes the supermodel."

"Yeah, he's bigger than Rob by a fair bit." Kristen agreed. "I don't know that."

"How am I supposed to know that either?" she said exasperated. "The twins are gorgeous, there's no upgrade from them silly."

I arched my eyebrow at that and she just shook her head and waved me off.

"Look, I have to go, I'm being rude to my friend," she said. "I'll see you tomorrow. Bye."

She looked over at me and said, "You're causing me trouble Mike, they got a picture of the two of us dancing together and some paper published it already."

"Hey, you dragged me out there, I didn't want to dance if you remember," I told her. "And you danced pretty close to me if I recall."

"Humph, I see you're going to be no help," she said, sitting up. "So, how attached are you to Vicky?"

"Very, why?" I responded, sitting up as well.

"You have admirers," was her reply.

"Sorry, don't need admirers," I stated. "Who was that?"

"Just a girlfriend of mine," she replied absently, as she looked over at me.

"Ok, why are you looking at me like that?" I asked.

"You aren't all that bad looking for a hockey player," she said.

"Thanks I think," I replied.

"You're going to be in the spotlight soon Mike, are you ready for all that that entails?" she asked.

"We're taking precautions to minimize my exposure to the media," I told her. "But I've had a taste of it this weekend."

"Do you have your phone with you?" she asked.

I reached for it and she took it from me as she moved to sit down beside me. She worked the phone and added her contact information to it and handed it back.

"Call me anytime if you need to talk or need some help with anything," she said. "You're a nice guy and I have some pull now so I might as well use it if needed. Those pictures of us might cause both of us a bit of grief so let me know if you need my help."

"Ok, thanks Kristen, that is nice of you to offer, you're not such a bad girl either," I said with a grin.

"Thanks for that stirring endorsement," she said dryly before yawning. "I did not get enough sleep last night."

"Feel free to bunk out on a couch for a while," I offered.

"No, I better get back to my apartment, I would be too tempted with you here," she said, standing up.

"What do you mean? You're perfectly safe here with me," I said.

"Never mind," she waved it off. "Ok, set an alarm for four thirty so you're ready to go by five. I'll see you soon, maybe next week Mike."

"Ok Kristen, have a safe flight back to LA," I responded as we walked to the door.

"Thanks, you have a good trip back to Michigan Michael," she said.

She grabbed the handle but stopped and held still for a couple of seconds. I was about to ask what was wrong when she turned around and, before I could react, reached up with her hands and pulled my head down and planted a big kiss on my lips while hugging me tightly. Her hands slipped down to pull my body close to mine and she increased the passion of her kiss. I put my hands on her hips and gently pushed her away to disengage from her.

"Kristen, I'm flattered but I'm with Vicky, this isn't right," I said, with a small smile to ease the rejection."

"I know, I know," she said with an apologetic tone. "I'm sorry but I had to know how it felt. You're driving me a bit crazy Mike, I hope you know that."

"I'm sorry, but why?" I asked, definitely puzzled.

"Something about you is pushing all my buttons," she replied. "I better get out of here before I make more of an embarrassment of myself."

"Ok Kristen, I'm sorry I can't help you, you're a wonderful, sexy woman who could have any guy she wanted; you can do much better than me," I responded.

"You sell yourself short Michael, Vicky is very lucky to have a guy like you," she said. "And don't worry, I'll drop in on her shoot and talk to her about this, you don't have to feel guilty about hiding anything from her."

"Thanks for doing that and thank you for your opinion of me, misguided as it is," I told her.

She smiled and opened the door before walking out. I watched to make sure she got in the elevator ok and then shut the door. I flopped down on the couch and thought about what she had said. Why a big celebrity would want me was beyond me I thought to myself. Why she didn't want to be with Rob was beyond me, every other woman in the world seemed to want him.

I did have a nap before I headed out to the airport in a taxi. I waited in line for an hour before getting through to the security gates. When we finally boarded, I had an empty seat beside me in first class, so I stretched out and fell asleep after we took off. A couple hours later the stewardess woke me up for the landing with a nice smile and I was quickly out of the plane after we taxied to the terminal. I found my luggage and Steph was waiting for me on the other side of the railing.

"Hey Princess, you're a sight for sore eyes," I said as I walked through the gate.

"Hey Mikey, I'm so glad you're back, it's been a long weekend without you," she replied with a smile.

We walked out to the car and, after looking around, had a nice kiss and hug in the car before taking off. An hour later, just after eleven, we made it to our apartment and lugged my luggage down the steps and into the room. After hanging up my good clothes, I had a quick shower and slid into bed with my lovely Princess.



-------

Chapter 35


Steph and I got up early Monday morning so she could review for her exam that morning. After a quick breakfast, I dropped her at the main campus and made sure she got into the nearby cafeteria safely before heading to the arena.

After getting changed, I found Patrick, our steel goalie, already on the far goal for me to shoot at. I stretched and then had a longer than normal warm up skate as I had missed almost a week of practice. Then I shot on Patrick from the blue line and then from various spots along the right hand side of the ice farther in, simulating a right forward shooting position. After a short break for some water, I moved on to close in shots while skating in from the blueline, the side and even from behind the red line in the corner or behind the net.

I looked up at the clock and saw it was already eight o'clock and realized that nobody from the team would be joining me. I did some of the skating drills that the forwards had to do and then called it quits at eight thirty. I got into my workout sweats after a quick shower and headed to the weight room. I did a full workout over the next hour and then had a longer shower and got dressed.

Coach Benson suggested that Steph and I come back after lunch when I found him in his office, and we could meet with the athletic department spokeswoman and the NCAA rules expert. I was ok with that and left to go pick her up.

I found a parking spot fairly close to the building she was writing her exam in and walked to it in the light snow that started to fall. After stomping my feet clean, I walked down to the room and leaned on the opposite wall of the doorway to wait for her. I opened my programming textbook to review for tomorrow afternoon's exam.

I looked up every time the doors opened but she took another twenty minutes to finish the exam. She smiled when she saw me leaning there and came over to lean her head on my chest.

"I am so glad that is over," she said.

"Was it a tough one Princess?" I asked as I took her book bag.

"It wasn't real bad, I just hate long essay type questions where there's no defined right answer," she responded. "I'm a more empirical type of person than a philosophical one I guess."

"Well I like you just the way you are Princess," I said as we headed out. "We have a one o'clock appointment with the department spokeswoman and the NCAA exert at the arena, so we better go have some lunch and get all of the receipts at home."

"Ok, I have them all ready to go, and we can make a copy of the two checks after you sign them," Steph informed me.

We quickly drove home and had some soup and sandwiches and then got out the file of expenses. We reviewed all of them and decided to be up front with everything and let them sort it out. We hadn't moved in yet to the condo so there wasn't much else that was an issue since I had paid for everything else.

Steph's phone rang around noon and she answered it and mouthed Amy to me before starting a conversation. I cleaned up the dishes while they talked for a bit. I finished up and remembered that I had the autographs for her and her sister so I got them from the bedroom and returned to find her sitting with her arms crossed with a frown on her face as she looked at me.

"Ok, what did I do wrong now?" I asked with a grin.

"You let Kristen Stewart kiss and hug you and didn't think to tell us?" she asked with a frosty tone.

"One, I didn't let her, she took me by surprise and I got her pushed away as quickly as I could," I told her. "Secondly, she said she would tell the girls so I thought it better to let her take the heat on her own time. I didn't pursue her or lead her on, promise."

"Humph, we just can't leave you alone with any woman, you're like chocolate to them," she said, shaking her head. "I can't believe you've got one of the biggest celebrities all hot and bothered for you."

"I didn't do anything to encourage her," I responded. "Here are some autographed pictures for you and Sammi I got from her and a friend."

She took the envelopes and opened up hers to see Kristen's and Rob's pictures. She got a big grin on her face when she saw Rob's autograph with her name on it.

"Wow, thanks Mikey, this is so cool, he's such a hunk isn't he?" she asked.

"Well, he's a nice guy and all but I don't think of him as a hunk," I replied with a grin.

"And I see you got one from the trollop as well," she commented cattily.

"Hey now, she was a very nice girl, but I think she's lonely with all the people around her bugging her for something," I told her. "You would really like her I think."

"Well, I guess we'll find out, she might be with us this weekend in New York, the girls are all gaga about her," she said in disgust. "They're talking about ways for her to join in somehow."

"What! I can't believe that!" I said. "Did they tell her about us?"

"I don't know, I think they're just talking amongst ourselves for now," she replied. "The two lovebirds probably want her more than Vicky does of course, but all of them are thinking about what the benefits are for their careers."

"Their careers are doing just fine without her help," I said dryly. "I think our group is big enough now. She's too high profile to keep our relationship hidden."

We headed back to the arena and met with Angie Dawson, the Athletic department spokeswoman, a pretty late twenties former athlete from the college, and Craig Little, the department's NCAA rules expert.

Fred started off the meeting, being held in one of the conference rooms, by explaining the history of how I got on the team and the fact that I'm on an academic scholarship rather that an athletic one.

"So you know the initial situation, I'll let Mike explain what's going on now," Fred said.

"Ok, my girlfriend from the start of the year has an identical twin sister and in September they both got discovered by The BT Modelling agency," I started off. "They've become quite popular in a very short timeframe, culminating in this weekend's Victoria's Secrets fashion show in New York where they both wore five million dollar bras."

"Are you telling me that your girlfriend is one of the Waters twins?" Angie asked.

"Yes, Victoria, or Vicky," I replied.

"I see why we needed to meet," Angie said dryly.

"Right, so this weekend we went out to a night club, a NHL game and the fashion show after party and there was media at every event, so our picture and video was in the paper and on TV," I continued. "We didn't tell anyone who I was but with the fight video out there, a couple people knew me, including the GM and Director of scouting for the New Jersey Devils."

"You didn't take anything from them or talk about joining their team, did you?" Craig asked.

"Nope, it was just a meet and greet and he asked me my hockey experience before the Wolverines," I told him.

"Good, no harm there," he replied. "We'll talk about how you paid for everything after Angie is done."

"So, the twins' career is booming and will only get bigger," I resumed. "Several TV commercials come on line for the NFL playoffs and the Super bowl, and they are the new face of The Gap and other hair products. January and February will be huge for them and consequently I'm going to get way more media attention than we will all want. It could happen any day now once the media finds out who I am. So this is us warning you now."

"Ok, I appreciate the upfront warning, and I'll pass it up the ranks in the department," Angie said. "We haven't dealt with something on this level before but our policy is to not comment on the players' social life so I'm sure everyone will get tired of me saying no comment."

"And if the paparazzi make a nuisance of themselves?" I asked.

"Campus security can escort them off the campus if they become a pain in the butt," Angie replied.

"Ok, sounds good," I said.

"Alright, I'll leave you with Craig and he can let me know if there might be an issue I will have to address," Angie said, getting up.

We thanked her for her time and then moved on. We explained what the twins had set up with Steph, the car and the apartment and then told them about the trip and how it was all paid for.

"Ok, you're still paying for the apartment you're in now correct?" Craig asked.

"Yes, but I can get out with a month's notice," I told him.

"I suggest you stay there for a few days while I run this through a couple of people before I go to the NCAA people," Craig said. "So far you've paid for everything so the issue is everything with Steph, her as a paid assistant, her Escape and the condo and furniture all being provided by a company, even though it's your girlfriend's company. I'm not sure on how they will react to it; it's a pretty unique situation."

"That's ok for now, but if the media gets wind of who I am, they will hound me at the apartment," I said. "The only reason I'm moving is for the extra security."

"I'll make sure that is stated as the reason," Craig said.

"Ok, so can the girls pay for anything for him?" Steph asked.

"Not sure on that one either, because it's a personal relationship, but from their company," Craig said. "Mike's case is a bit different in that he's not on a scholarship so he can work as much as he wants with no limit on how much he earns, but we have to check on stuff given by his girlfriend."

"Ok, please let us know so we can go forward one way or another," I asked.

"I'll give you a call and let Coach Benson know as well," Craig agreed. "You better pay for anything you do for now and email me whenever you have even a little doubt about something. I think we're good for now and we'll get clearance on Steph, the condo and car thing before you go forward with it."

"Thanks Craig, Steph and I will keep you both in the loop from now on," I told them.

Steph and I left the arena and made a stop at the realtor's to get the keys for the condo before heading back home, planning to study for tomorrow afternoon's programming exam. Steph talked with Amy on the way home and told her that we got the keys. Amy had a few things to say and then Steph hung up as we arrived at the apartment.

"Amy let me know that the Times printed a story about who you are," Steph told me. "I'll email Angie and Coach to let them know."

"Wonderful," I said dryly.

She handled that while I put a load of laundry in. We met back in the kitchen and decided to study for a bit. I felt well prepared so I helped her go through the more difficult concepts introduced at the end of the course. We did a few programs together and we made sure of our syntax and indenting so we wouldn't get penalized for some stupid mistake.

After a late dinner, Steph studied for her art history exam that was on Wednesday afternoon, while I did some cleaning and played on my computer. We called it a night around ten and I gave her a massage that put her to sleep. I followed her soon after.

Tuesday morning had me waking Steph up so she could study while I went to the arena for practice. A couple of guys joined me, including Josh, our freshman goalie, so we gave him a good workout. We shot from the blueline, from the boards and practiced shoot-outs. The two other guys were rookie forwards so we did some practice being a forward line and also some two on one, with me as the defenceman.

After we called it quits, I did a quick work-out in the weight room before heading home. Steph was just finishing up her review so I made us some lunch and sat down to eat with her.

After lunch we packed up our books and headed over to the college write the exam. We had some difficulty finding a parking spot so we arrived just in time to enter the room and find a seat.

"Good luck Princess, but you don't need it; you're going to do great!" I told her with a smile.

"Thanks Mikey, good luck to you, Mr. Genius," she said with a grin.

We turned over our exams at exactly one o'clock and I read it through before starting at the beginning. Most of the questions we had seen before, in one form or another, so I breezed through the exam until the last couple of pages. The second last page was to write an entire program that seemed well beyond what we had done before. I knew it would separate the men from the boys as I broke it down into manageable pieces. I finally finished that one about twenty minutes later and checked my syntax and format. It seemed to be all correct so I turned to the last page and read the question.

Then I re-read the question.

'What the hell is this?' I asked myself.

I sat for five minutes trying to figure out what he wanted. I looked up to find Professor Albert looking at me with a grin. I shook my head at him and looked at the question again and then it clicked. I knew what he wanted and I knew how to do it. I rushed through the solution furiously, using the back of the paper when it didn't fit on one page. I finished the program and checked it from the top for errors and mismatched end statements.

After I finished checking it over, I went through the entire exam one more time before closing it up and packing up my stuff. I got up and walked up to the front and handed my booklet to Professor Albert.

"That last question was a doozy Professor Albert," I said with a grin. "Leave it to you to put a real hard one to challenge us."

"I thought I would get you with that one Mr. Stewart," he replied with a chuckle.

"Oh, it was a tough one, but I think I got the answer," I told him with a smile. "I'm not sure many of the other students will though, it definitely wasn't in our textbook or in the class work."

"You solved that?" he asked, looking shocked as he flipped open my booklet and read through my solution.

"How did you do that?" he asked.

"It took me almost ten minutes to understand what you wanted and then it just became clear how to solve it," I told him.

"That question was put on the exam specifically for you Mr. Stewart, as a bonus question really, just to see how far you could go with it," Professor Albert said. "It's been put on the graduate AI class's final exam for the past five years and no one has ever solved it. Now you, a freshman in introductory programming, have solved it with half an hour to spare."

"Well, it was a difficult problem and the question is a bit ambiguous, so it took me longer to understand what you wanted," I said. "I wonder if I can get into that class early, that's the kind of challenge I'm looking for here."

"I think that I can arrange that Mr. Stewart, you seem to be wasting your talent in these lower classes," the professor stated. "I'll talk with the department head and get back to you soon."

"Thanks Professor Albert, it's been good to have you as a professor this term," I told him. "Have a Merry Christmas and happy holidays Sir!"

"You too Mr. Stewart," He replied as we shook hands.

"Can I tell Miss Merks that the last question is a bonus one?" I asked. "She'll be so angry that she didn't get it."

"Maybe she'll surprise you, she has a great tutor," he said.

"You know you're right, I'm being a bit conceited to think that she wouldn't get it," I said. "She's very smart in her own right."

"You can let her know it's a bonus if you want," he agreed. "I don't tell people before hand so they try their hardest at it. I'll see you in the new year."

I walked to the door while looking at Steph. She was writing away furiously so maybe she got the last one after all. I leaned on the wall out in the hall and waited for her to finish. Almost the entire class came out at the end of the allotted time, talking about the exam. Steph came out and stopped in front of me.

"I hate you Michael Stewart," she said in a toneless voice. "You're the reason that the professor makes such hard exams. That last question was for you wasn't it?"

"Yep, how'd ya do on it?" I asked with a grin.

"It took me fifteen minutes to even figure out what he was asking," she said in disgust. "I think I got a working solution but I didn't have time to check it out."

"Fantastic Princess!" I told her with a big smile. "The professor told me that it was from a graduate AI course and hasn't been answered in five years. It was a bonus question anyway."

"Then I better get perfect on that exam," she growled. "Let's go home."

"Yes dear," I said with a grin as I followed her out of the building.

We got home and collapsed on the bed to relax for a bit.

"So one more for you and we're done for a couple of weeks," I said.

"Don't remind me, I have no idea why I took art history, it's so boring," she responded. "I can't wait for it to be over."

"So I'm not going to move this bed to the condo tomorrow like we had planned," I told her. The two new beds will be enough for now."

"I'm glad we didn't give up this apartment early," she said.

"Tell me about it," I agreed. "Thursday is the big day of furniture deliveries."

"I better sign for all of that," Steph said. "We don't need something as simple as that to screw up things."

"For sure," I agreed. "We fly out Friday morning right?"

"And come back with the girls on Sunday night," Steph replied. "The Calvin Klein photo shoot is Friday afternoon. The girls have the morning show Saturday morning, the Christmas party at the agency Saturday night and the awards brunch Sunday at noon."

"Another full weekend," I said.

"You don't sound too enthused about it," she commented.

"I would rather spend more time with the girls and you rather than at all these events," I told her. "I know I'm going to be seen but some time with them would be nice."

"I'll see what I can do Mikey," she replied.

I eventually got up and started supper while Steph got out her art history books to study. I made a stir fry over rice and she took a quick break to eat. I cleaned up while she went back to studying and then I checked my emails.

The twins sent a couple of emails on the media coverage of me and the twins, including a link to a video from an entertainment show. I clicked on it and watched as they first showed me with the twins last weekend before telling everyone who I was. They showed some file footage of me playing as well as some of the fight. I was made out to be possibly a bad boy but it wasn't too negative yet. The others were just articles with the same information, mostly gotten from the team website.

I showed Steph all the coverage when she took a break and she sent it to her email address and then passed it on to Angie so she knew what was up.

After a bit, she went back to studying and I watched some TV. I must have fallen asleep because the next thing I knew, my Princess was snuggling up to me in the dark.

"Good night Sweetie," she whispered.

"Good night Princess," I replied.

We were asleep soon after.

Wednesday I shook Steph awake before I headed to the arena. I was the only one around that early as I did my usual routine; stretch, skate and shoot. After finishing on the ice I did another full workout in the exercise room before showering and heading back to the apartment.

"Mom, I can't, I'm going to New York on Friday morning for the weekend," Steph said into her cell phone as I entered the apartment.

She waved at me with a frown and mouthed Mom to me. I nodded and grabbed a water bottle and sat down.

"Make her go Mom, you're the boss," she said.

"No, because I'm an adult now, but you can still boss her," she replied after listening.

"Take her to New York! Do you know how much of a pain she would be?" Steph asked.

I arched my eyebrow at her.

"Hang on Mom, Mike just walked in and wants to know what's up," Steph said to her before looking at me. "Mom and Dad wanted to take the family to Disney World starting tomorrow but Sammi refuses to go. Mom wants me to come home and babysit her but we have the New York trip this weekend. She just suggested taking her to New York with us."

"I see," I remarked intelligently. "Maybe the twins won't mind her coming."

"I would mind her coming Michael, she would be such a bitch and a whiner," Steph said.

"Steph!" we both heard her mother in the phone.

"Yes?" Steph asked and then listened.

"Mom, that would last until she was out of the door," Steph responded. "She's been acting up for the last few months now, thinking she's an adult woman ready for romance and a relationship. I can't have her acting up around my bosses. This is serious stuff that will be on camera and the slightest tantrum from her will be caught on film for the country to see."

"And how am I supposed to make her listen and obey me?" she asked.

"Neither you or I can do that to her anymore Mom, she's too big," Steph said. "I would have Michael do it but she would probably like that."

"You didn't know she has a crush on him?" Steph asked surprised. "Mom, you need to pay more attention to her, she needs supervision or you're going to be a grandma in a year."

"Mom, you don't have to bribe me, I make more than you do," she said.

"Steph let me call the twins and see what they say," I interrupted her. "If your parents read her the riot act and give us full power to discipline her, we can handle her. Vicky won't put up with her and you know how tough she is. Sammi needs her big sister too."

She looked at me for a few seconds and then relented.

"Fine, call them," she said with a sigh. "Mom, we'll check with the twins and call you back."

"No, I have an exam in just over an hour, Mike will have to come get her while I write it," she said. "That's if the twins say yes. I'll call you back in ten."

"Mike, are you sure about this?" she asked. "She'll be a handful."

"Hey, your parents and your sister need you," I told her. "We'll have five adults to look after her so we should be fine. Vicky will put her over her knee if she has to."

"Yeah, she will won't she?" Steph said with a smile. "I'd love to see that!"

I called Vicky and she picked up with a cheery, "Hello lover!"

"Hey Darling, how are you this morning?" I asked.

"Just dandy, we're just about to sit down for lunch," Vicky said. "How are you?

"Good, our Princess has our last exam this afternoon and then we're done," I told her.

"Wish her luck from us," she told me.

"I will," I replied. "Listen, we have a slight hiccup in our plans for the weekend. Steph's sister, Sammi, is refusing to go to Disney World with her family and her parents want us to look after her. She's a sixteen year old who thinks she's twenty so she can't be left alone. Any chance we can bring her with us?"

"Sure, we have lots of room and people to watch her," Vicky agreed. "I'll have Amy arrange for the extra ticket with Steph since we can't buy yours."

"Thanks Vicky, I'll let Steph know," I said. "I can't wait to see you on Friday."

"Me either, I want you so bad," she said.

"I want you too, Michael," Becky yelled into the phone.

"I can't wait to see you both, I love you," I told them.

"We love you too!" Bye!" they said in unison before hanging up.

"Amy will call you with the information on the extra ticket," I told Steph.

"They took it well?" she asked.

"No issue at all Steph, you mean too much to all of us not to help you out," I told her with a smile.

"Thanks Mikey, I love you too you know," she said, returning the smile.

"Of course I know that, I love you too Princess," I answered. "So give your mom a call and I'll go get her after I drop you off for your exam."

"Shit where are we going to let her sleep?" she asked.

"Does she know about us?" I asked.

"She suspects but I haven't told her," she replied.

"You two can sleep on the bed and I'll take the couch," I said. "We'll tell her it's just for tonight until the furniture is delivered to the condo. You two can sleep there tomorrow night. She can help there tomorrow as well."

"I guess that will work," she said, picking up her cell.

She let her mom know but told her to make sure Sammi knew she had to listen to everyone or so Mike would hold her down and Steph would paddle her ass. Her mom agreed and Steph told her I should be there for two. They discussed what Sammi should bring and then hung up.

"Ok, all settled," Steph said. "Now I need to eat and get over to the college."

I made her some sandwiches while she quickly showered. She came out in a towel and sat down to quickly eat before she got dressed. I ogled her bare legs and shoulders and she grinned at me.

"You are so good for my ego Mikey," she said. "I know at a moment's glance that you still want me."

"I'll always want you Princess, that's something you can take to the bank," I told her.

"That's nice to know Sweetie, I think I'll always feel the same way about you," she said with a smile.

She got up and gave me a kiss before going to get dressed. She gathered her stuff and we headed out to the car.

"Ok, I'll call you when I'm done, hopefully you should be back as long as she's ready," Steph said. "Don't let her get the upper hand and you should be fine."

I dropped her off at the art building and wished her luck. I headed to Pontiac and got to their house an hour later. The door opened and the teenaged beauty gave me a big smile as she let me in. She slipped up close and gave me a hug and a kiss before I could stop her.

"Hi Mikey, thanks for taking me to New York with Steph this weekend, it should be so much fun," she said.

"You're welcome Sammi," I said. "Where's your mother?"

"She's upstairs packing the boys' stuff for their trip," she said. "Come on up and you can see my room and help me with my suitcases."

I followed her up the stairs and tried not to check out her ass in her short skirt but couldn't help myself. Of course she turned around and caught me but just smiled and continued.

"Mom, Mikey is here," she shouted.

She came out of one of the bedrooms at the other end of the hall and smiled. She walked down and looked up at me.

"Thanks Michael for taking Sammi with you and Steph," Mrs. Merks said. "She's looking so forward to it."

"No problem Mrs. Merks, we're glad to have her," I told her. "I'm up here to get her suitcase."

Sammi led the way to her bedroom and showed me three suitcases plus a carryon.

"Sammi, you can't take all of those to New York," her mother said.

"I know, but I'll be with Steph tomorrow and for a couple of days next week so I need some bumming around clothes," she said.

"Ok, but only one on the plane," she told her daughter.

"Yes mom," she said contritely.

I grabbed the three suitcases and carried them downstairs. I put my shoes back on and put them in my truck while they hugged. I came back in and her mom was talking to her.

"Sammi, listen to me closely, you listen and do whatever Steph, Michael or the girls in New York tell you to do, do you understand?" Mrs. Merks asked.

"Yes mom, I'll be good, I promise," she said with a smile.

It was almost comical as the five foot two mom tried to lecture her five foot nine teenage daughter. I fought hard to keep a straight face.

"Steph and Mike have my permission to paddle your butt if they have to young lady, so don't get cocky because you're bigger than me or Steph," her mom said with a frown. "Mike can put you over his knee pretty easily if he can handle those giants on the ice, so don't think you're going to behave like you have here for the past month. If I hear that you were even pouting once, you'll be grounded for a month and no internet, phone or friends. Am I making myself clear young lady?"

"Yes mom, I promise I'll be good," she said more seriously.

"Please do, this trip is important to them all, and they even paid for you ticket," Mrs. Merks pleaded. "I would be so disappointed to hear you didn't respect the girls, your sister or Michael. Your dad will be furious, and he's still big enough to paddle your butt as well."

"Mom, I'm a grown woman now, you guys can't still spank me like a child," she objected.

"Misbehave and you'll find out young lady; behave and you'll don't have to wonder," Mrs. Merks said with a grin. "Just because you're bigger than us, doesn't mean you're a woman yet."

"Fine, I promise to behave mother," Sammi said. "Can we go now?"

"Go wait in the car, I need to talk to Mike for a minute," she instructed her daughter.

Her daughter started to head out when her mother stopped her.

"Hey, how about a hug for your mother?" she asked.

Sammi blushed at me but bent down and gave her a hug.

"I love you Sammi, please be safe and we'll see you in a week," Mrs. Merks told her daughter with a smile.

"I love you to Mom, you have fun with Dad and the boys, and be safe too," she smiled back.

"Ok, honey, Mike will be out in a minute," she said.

We watched as she walked out to the car and got in the passenger side.

"Thanks so much for taking her and thank your girlfriend for the ticket," she said. Here's some money for food and spending cash for her."

"No need for food but I'll give this to Steph to dole out for spending money for her," I said.

"Please be firm with her, she'll try and get away with things if you let her," she said.

"Don't worry, your older daughter is serious about the spanking if she gets out of line," I grinned. "Vicky and Steph are much tougher than she can imagine."

"Ok, one last thing, Sammi is having a rough time of it with Steph gone," she started. "She's right between a girl and a woman and she's, let say, very interested in the opposite sex. I agree with Steph that Sammi's got a crush on you so be careful of her, she'll probably try and seduce you. Warn Steph and the girls in New York so they can watch out for her in case she goes after you or another guy."

"I'll be careful and let everyone know, Mrs. Merks," I said. "We'll do our best to keep her safe."

"She can be so sweet but teenage hormones can make any girl a handful," she said ruefully. "I wish she would find a nice boy like Steph did but you don't have a brother do you?"

"I'm an only child Mrs. Merks," I said. "You have a safe trip and don't worry about your daughter; four women will be making sure she's ok. I just follow orders."

"Steph said you were a genius," she said dryly. "I'm intrusting you with both my daughters Michael; keep them safe for me please."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied.

I gave her a smile and headed out to the car. We waved to her mom and headed back to Ann Arbor.

"Sorry about that Mikey, my mom was overdoing it back there," Sammi said. "I'm not a teenage brat anymore, I'll be good."

"I'm glad to hear it, the places we'll be going aren't for girls so I expect you to act like a lady and take your queues from your sister and the other women," I told her. "You want to be treated like a grown-up then act like one and everything will be fine. They will all treat you like you want to be if you behave like a lady from the get go, starting with your sister when you see her. Get childish and bitchy and she'll never let you get the chance. Do you understand what I'm saying?"

"I think so, play the part of a woman and they won't get the chance to treat me as a girl," she said.

"You got it, now can you do it?" I asked.

"I can try but Steph will try and be a bitch as soon as she sees me," Sammi said bitterly.

"And it sounds like she had reasons," I rebutted. "You have to be the bigger adult and suck it up. Don't retaliate and answer politely and agree to whatever she says. I'll try and run interference if she gets too bad. Remember she just wrote a difficult exam and she'll be stressed and pissed off."

"Ok Michael, I'll try my best," she said. "Thank you for helping me out with this."

"You're welcome, do your best and I'll have your back, act like a girl and I'll hold you down for each of them to paddle your bare butt," I told her.

She was quiet for a few miles but I caught her looking at me a few times.

"You look like you want to say something, I promise not to bite," I told her.

"I wore this outfit to entice you, to make you stare at me," she said. "You've hardly looked at me, except going up the stairs. Why is that? Aren't I attractive to you?"

"That was a very maturely posed question, Sammi" I responded. "My answer is that I'm trying to be an adult and not stare at a sixteen year old girl wearing a mini-skirt. You're very attractive, as beautiful as your sister, just with extra height. I couldn't avoid looking at you going up the stairs, but I can in the car. A gentleman, with a girlfriend, tries not to stare at other women. Just like a lady doesn't try and seduce a man with a girlfriend who just paid for her ticket to New York and is putting her up in her condo."

She was quiet for a bit and she made sure her legs were together and the skirt was down as far as it could go.

"I'm sorry for dressing to seduce you, I was acting like a school girl," she said.

"Apology accepted," I told her. "I'll tell you a secret; it's hard to be a gentleman or a lady when hormones are involved. Men and women, guys and girls, are attracted to the opposite sex. Emotions are what screw everything up. You're a beautiful young lady and I like you and enjoy looking at you. Maybe you have some feelings for me, whether they are physical or emotional, but both of us need to control them as we would hurt other people that we care about or should care about. Do you understand?"

"I think so," she replied. "You're not like the guys at school."

"No, probably not," I replied. "I'm not like guys at college either. Can you believe I was a nerd in high school?"

"Steph says you're a genius but you're such a hunk," she replied, before blushing.

"Thanks," I said. "Your height growth changed things for you just like mine did after high school. I bet you get lots of guys coming up to you now."

"Yeah, I could have a different guy take me out every weekend," she said.

"Do you go on dates?" I asked.

"No, I might not be a genius like you and Steph, but I know what all of them want," she replied. "I've heard enough stories from the girls and read enough books to know how those dates will turn out. The trouble is my body wants that to happen and my mind is starting to want to go along. I want someone special like Steph has."

"There are special guys out there, but maybe you have to ask them," I told her. "You have to have patience. Sometimes I think being an adult is just having the ability to control yourself when you would rather act on your physical or mental desires."

"I could ask you but you would say no, wouldn't you?" she asked. "Even if I unbuttoned my blouse and showed you more of my legs."

"I would say no, but I would stare as long as you let me" I told her with a grin. "I have too many women in my life that I respect too much to do that. That includes your sister and mother by the way. It wouldn't be easy to do though, let me tell you."

"Thanks for being honest," she said, looking out the window.

"Promise me you won't give in to your hormones and let just anyone in," I said. "Just because I can't take your wonderful offer, doesn't mean you shouldn't wait for someone more deserving of you."

"Oh, I haven't given up on my first choice Michael, just like my sister didn't," she said with a small grin.

"Don't embarrass anyone or be underhanded Sammi, you'll hurt a lot of people," I told her.

"I'm going to be an adult and be upfront with everything Michael, just like I'm being with you," she said.

I groaned and shook my head and stared out the windshield as I dreaded picking up Steph.

She put her hand lightly on mine where our arms were on the rest between us. I looked over at her and she actually gave me a sweet tentative smile. I pulled my hand from underneath hers.

"Am I that hideous physically or emotionally Michael?" she asked softly.

"No Sammi, of course not, you're beautiful inside and out, but it's not about you I'm afraid," I told her. "One, you're sixteen, and two I'm involved with someone already who is very high profile. Please don't mess things up."

"Thank you for that compliment Michael, it makes me happy that you think of me that way," she said. "I think everything will work out just fine."

Steph called us about fifteen minutes later and we met her outside the building. I grabbed her bag and to both of our surprises, Sammi gave her a hug.

"Thanks Steph for letting me stay with you rather than go with the boys," she said with a smile. "I'll be eternally grateful to you for this. I promise you won't be embarrassed of me for anything and I'll be as adult as I can be the entire time."

"Ok Michael, who is this person, she can't be my immature sister after a speech like that!" Steph said with a laugh.

"We had an interesting chat on the way here and I think you should give her a chance to prove herself on this trip," I told her.

She looked at both of us and I arched an eyebrow back at her, causing her to laugh.

"If you actually got her to change her ways, our family will owe you big time, Mikey," she told me. "Ok Sammi, I'll reserve judgement on you. This trip is important to everyone, if you act like a girl I'll treat you like one and so will everyone else. No whining, no tantrums or going off like a spoiled brat. You want to be treated like an adult, act like one and we'll treat you like one."

"I promise to if you promise me that you'll treat me as an equal and not boss me around," Sammi requested. "You can ask or suggest and I'll listen but please don't order me about like a child."

"Fine, I'll try my best but you haven't made it easy to treat you like an equal lately," Steph said. "Don't get all bitchy if I forget."

"Deal!" Sammi said. "Now, on to important stuff, can we go shopping in New York?"

Steph grinned and replied, "God I hope so, I'd love to go into some of the Fifth Avenue boutiques! I don't know if we'll have time but we'll try, ok?"

We got back into the car and we headed back to the apartment.

"Ok, since you're trying to be an adult now, that skirt is inappropriate around here," Steph said. "I suggest you get into something more comfortable."

"I agree, this was my pre-adult seduction ploy," Sammi said. "It didn't work at all. Michael is very loyal to twins and you."

Steph looked at her and then at me. I shook my head at her unspoken inquiry and she looked back at Sammi.

Sammi spoke up, "Steph, I'm not stupid, you're with Michael, as are the twins. You don't have to admit it or deny it. I'm ok with it, he's a special guy and you deserve him like he deserves you."

"You're growing up Sammi, last week you would have gone blabbing something like that to everyone you knew, including the rents," Steph said. "I'm not going to say if your suspicions are correct or not, it's not my place to say. Keep them too yourself if you want to live."

"Of course, Steph," Sammi said as we pulled up to the apartment. "This is your apartment Michael?"

"Yep, you two are staying here for the night and tomorrow we're all going to the twin's new condo and get the furniture organized as it's delivered. You two can stay there tomorrow night and we'll head out to airport Friday morning."

"Sounds good to me, I hope the couch is comfortable," she said with a grin as we opened the trunk.

"Sammi, you brought three suitcases?" Steph said, looking in.

"Remember I'm staying here tomorrow and a couple of days next week Steph," Sammi said quickly. "Also, it was pre-adult packing ok?"

Steph shook her head and grabbed the smallest one and headed downstairs. Sammi grinned and grabbed the next smallest one and followed. I followed with the last one and watched Sammi's ass as she walked down the stairs.

Sammi didn't say much as she looked around but Steph knew what she was thinking.

"It's not much, but it's cheap and that's what he needed at the time," Steph defended the place. "You'll love the condo Sammi."

"It's neat and tidy and it's cosy," Sammi replied. "I'm not stuck up Steph, we're not rich or anything."

"Ok, just letting you know," Steph said. "Let's go see what you brought and we can hang up some stuff and squeeze some stuff in my drawers."

"Thanks Steph, I appreciate it," Sammi said as they moved into the bedroom. I stayed in the kitchen and booted up my computer.

Twenty minutes later they came out in shorts and tee shirts. Sammi was wearing a pair of Steph's that was a little short on her but she looked great.

"I didn't bring shorts and Steph's a wee bit shorter than I am," Sammi apologized.

"I'm sure Mikey doesn't mind," Steph said with a grin.

"You two look gorgeous," I said. "You're probably going to have to change as I'm taking out my favourite Merks sisters to dinner, but I'll admire the view for a while first."

"Oh, where are you taking us Mikey?" Steph asked.

"Where ever you to decide ladies," I said. "Italian, Mexican, seafood, steak, whatever."

Steph smiled up at her sister and said, "Sammi loves Italian, maybe she would like to go to an authentic Italian restaurant?"

"I would love that, but only if you two want to go as well," Sammi replied with a grin.

"I'm happy with that," Steph said.

"Then Italian it is; say we leave in an hour?" I said. "It shouldn't be busy on a Wednesday night."

"Sounds good Mikey, thanks," Steph said. "I'm going to have a quick shower. Sammi, you can turn on the TV if you like or boot up my computer. Just don't erase anything; it has my school stuff on it."

"Thanks Steph, I'll be careful," she said.

They both turned and went back into the bedroom, giving me an opportunity to see their delectable asses.

Steph came out with some clothes while Sammi brought her sister's computer to the table and booted it up. Steph closed the door to the washroom and we heard the shower start up.

"My sister suspects something but she's not sure what's going on," Sammi whispered. "I figure she'll be out in a minute to check up on us."

I just shook my head and continued to check my email and then went onto the web. Steph didn't come out like Sammi predicted though she was in there for a much shorter time than usual. She came back out dressed in some slacks and a blouse.

"Sammi, do you want to shower?" she asked.

"I suppose I could use one," Sammi said, getting up.

She got some bath supplies and an outfit and went in while Steph sat down at the table.

"So how did you get her to change and how long will it last?" she asked.

"I just told to start acting like an adult if she wanted to be treated like one," I told her. "She seemed to agree so I told her not to react if you got on her case at the beginning. It was all her at the college."

"God, I hope she's being sincere, we really could use a break from her tantrums," Steph said. "So how blatant was her seduction?"

"Other than a hug and kiss at the beginning, she didn't do anything before we talked," I said. "After we talked, she asked if I would consider being with her but didn't get upset when I turned her down. She tried to hold my hand in the car so she's not given up. She said she would be up front and honest if she continued."

"She must want you bad if she's resorting to playing the adult," Steph said, shaking her head.

"She knows she can't get me any other way and she knows she has to go through all of you," I told her. "She's no dummy."

"No, she's as smart as a tack, just lazy at schoolwork," Steph acknowledged. "Why didn't you be a bit more forceful in your rejection?"

"Because she was being very adult about it," I said. "She's trying so don't go all postal on her. You'll make her do something we'll all regret."

"Fine, but you keep your hands off my sister," she said.

"Of course, I have enough trouble with the three of you already," I told her.

Sammi came out soon after; luckily for me she was dressed. She had on some nice slacks and a tight blouse that showed off her slim but sexy figure. She looked twenty years old and tried to act like it.

"Sammi, you look very grown up in that outfit," I told her. "And you both look wonderful."

"Thank you Michael, I feel grown up," she said with a smile.

Steph went up to her and gave her a hug before holding her hands and saying, "I'm proud of you, you look very mature; sexy yet not trampy."

"Thanks sis, I'm trying," she replied. "I do try and take your advice when you give it you know."

"Good, because I'm almost as smart as genius over there," Steph said with a smirk. "And I know you're just as smart as I am. Just keep thinking before you act and we should be fine."

"Deal," Sammi said. "As long as I get some food soon, I'm starving."

"Michael, we have to leave immediately," Steph said. "She goes wacko if she doesn't eat regularly."

"Steph! Don't tell him that," Sammi said. "I'll be a proper lady."

"Let's go you clowns," I said.

"Um, Michael, we dressed up for our date with you," Steph said.

"Yes, you two look marvellous," I agreed.

"Maybe you could slip into something a bit fancier?" Sammi asked with a tentative voice.

I looked down at my jeans and tee shirt and replied, "What, this doesn't suit the occasion?"

The sisters stomped their feet in identical actions and, in unison said, "Michael!"

I groaned when I heard that and replied, "Not you two as well! One pair of sisters that does that is enough!"

I stomped by them as they giggled at me and shut the door behind me. I quickly got into some dress pants and a collared shirt before slipping into good shoes. I opened the door to find them sitting at the table having a quiet conversation. They looked up and I saw how they both looked at me and I had to smile back at them.

"Better ladies?" I asked.

"You look very handsome, Michael," Sammi said.

"I second that emotion," Steph added.

"Let's go before Sammi starts eating the furniture," I said with a grin.

We went and had an excellent meal with great conversation at a fancy Italian restaurant we had heard about. It was busier that we thought it would be but we still got a table without a reservation.

The girls got plenty of looks and they told me I did as well. Sammi kept on impressing both Steph and I with her maturity and how she held her end of the conversation up on several adult topics. We all had some dessert before heading back home.

"Ladies, that was a very pleasant dining experience with two brilliant, funny and beautiful women," I told them. "I'm a very lucky guy to have you two as my dining companions this evening."

"Thank you for your kind words Sir," Sammi said. "My sister and I enjoyed your company tonight immensely."

"Yes, we must do this again sometime soon," Steph added.

We stood there for a few seconds and then Sammi said, "This is the time the gentlemanly caller usually leaves for the evening. The poor boy doesn't seem to get the hint, sister mine."

We looked at her and burst out laughing as she got the tone, and the wording, just right. She said it without a flicker of a smile, grin or smirk.

"Sammi honey, you should go into acting, that was brilliant," I said.

"That was so funny Sammi, and you said it without laughing," Steph told her.

"It just seemed to fit," she replied with a grin. "So, shall we slip into something more comfortable Steph?"

"Yes we shall, Sammi honey," Steph said, looking at me with a smirk.

"Oh, Mikey called me Sammi honey," Sammi responded. "Is that going to be my nickname you think?"

"Maybe," Steph replied. "It's not as good as Princess, but it's still pretty good."

"Princess is very good, you know how much he thinks of you when he says it," Sammi acknowledged.

"Sammi honey is a nice term of endearment too," Steph told her. "If you don't like it I'm sure he'll think of something else. He probably just said it without thinking about it."

I groaned again and sat down on the sofa as they kept talking to each other as they went into the bedroom. They didn't shut the door all the way this time and I caught glimpses of both of them as they undressed and then slipped on long tees to wear.

"Your turn Mikey," Steph said. "We'll wait out here for you."

I got up and gave them a smile as I went past. I shut the door and got undressed and hung up my good clothes before getting into some shorts and a tee shirt.

"So, shall we watch some TV, ladies?" I asked after I opened the door.

"Sounds good," Steph said, getting up and helping up her sister. They came in and lay down on their stomachs as Steph turned on the TV and started flipping channels. I stood by the doorway and looked at them as they alternately had their legs out straight on the bed or bent up at the knees and their feet moving around randomly. They were very cute and their tight butts were just covered by the long shirts.

"Hey quit staring at us and get over here," Steph commanded.

"Was he checking us out?" Sammi asked.

"For sure, baby sister," Steph said. "He really likes our butts."

"Well, they are world class, he better like them," Sammi remarked loftily.

"Sammi, you are so correct in that statement," I agreed.

"Well get over here and let us scope yours out," Sammi told me.

I moved to the bed and scooted Steph over to the middle.

"Hey, you were supposed to get in the middle," Sammi said, looking over top her sister.

"Not a chance Missy," I replied with a smirk. "You're staying as far away as possible."

"I won't bite," Sammi said with a smirk.

"It's not biting I'm afraid of," I replied.

"Hush now, you two, I'm watching TV here," Steph interrupted us.

"Sorry Sis," Sammi apologized.

We watched a couple comedies and then Sammi got up to go to the bathroom. I watched her as she went by in front of us and sashayed out of the room.

"She getting to you isn't she," Steph said quietly.

"A bit," I replied, looking at her. "She's a minx like her sister."

"You scoped her out pretty good," Steph remarked.

"I'm a guy, of course I looked you both over," I said. "You could have put her in some sweats and a sweater you know. I think you wanted me to."

"Maybe I did," she replied. "It makes me hot thinking about you two together. She's just a kid, so I know it's wrong. I'm a bit screwed up about this so you better just head out to the couch when she gets back in so she doesn't get any ideas."

"Ok Princess, that's for the best," I said. "I don't plan on touching her but it's better to avoid temptation, for her and for me."

I got up and grabbed one of the pillows and headed out to the couch. I found an extra blanket and got it ready. I heard Sammi get out and ask where I was and Steph told her I was out on the couch.

"Isn't it a bit early to go to sleep?" she asked.

"We have a busy day tomorrow Sammi; we have to be over at the condo at eight so that means up at six," Steph explained. "Mikey will be in a minute to tuck us in, so get in bed while I use the washroom first."

"Ok Steph," Sammi said as Steph got up.

I listened for Steph to get out of the bathroom and then got up when she did. I went in and used the washroom and brushed my teeth and then went into the bedroom.

"Ladies, I had a wonderful time tonight," I told them with a smile. "You two have a good sleep and try not to giggle all night."

"I had a great day with you and Steph, Mikey," Sammi said. "Thanks for letting me stay with you and for letting me come with you to New York."

"You're welcome Sammi honey," I told her. "I enjoyed spending time with you; you were a very lovely lady the whole time.

Sammi beamed a big smile at me and looked at Steph who was also smiling.

"You were very much an adult all day Sammi, I'm proud of you," Steph agreed. "So for a reward, Mikey can give you a hug and kiss, if you can stand having an old guy kiss you."

Sammi didn't wait for me, she jumped out of bed and almost tackled me with a big hug as she wrapped her arms around my neck and proceeded to kiss me enthusiastically. She kept on kissing me until Steph came up behind her and tapped her on the shoulder.

Sammi stopped and looked down at her sister who was taping her foot while her arms were folded under her breasts.

"You were supposed to let him hug and kiss you in bed Sammi," she said. "Now let him go and get into bed."

"Oh, was that how it was supposed to go?" she asked. "My bad."

She grinned and hopped back into bed.

"Just for that, you don't get kisses in bed," Steph said as she walked around and got into bed.

Sammi pouted as I moved over and gave Steph a nice kiss and hug.

I stood up and said, "Good night Princess. Have a good sleep."

"Good night Mikey, have a good sleep too," Steph replied with a smile.

I smiled at them both as I moved away from Steph.

"Ok, no late night giggling you two, we have to wake up early tomorrow," I told them. "Goodnight."

Good night Michael," they said in unison as I shut the light off and went out to the couch.

I got settled down and heard them whispering in the room. Sammi hadn't turned up the heat until that scorcher of a kiss just now. Damn, she was hot, too hot for a sixteen year old.

I had a hard time settling in as I thought about the two of them in the next room. From time to time I heard them talking and then I thought I heard some moaning. I wasn't sure if I was imagining it, or fantasizing about it, but I didn't get up to check. Finally I fell asleep but woke up from time to time, thinking I heard something but never was able to confirm anything. I eventually drifted off to sleep for the night.

I woke up Thursday morning before the alarm went off and almost rolled off the couch before I remembered where I was. I started a pot of coffee for the girls and then slipped quietly into the shower. I shook Steph awake when I was done and grabbed some old clothes from my drawers to dress in for work day at the condo. I told her that there was coffee ready and she got herself a cup before heading to the shower.

Sammi was stirring from the commotion and finally sat up in bed. She had bed head and was still looking half asleep, but she still looked so cute. I was watching as she realized where she was and saw me looking at her. At first she smiled as she was happy to see me, but then she panicked as her hands went to her hair to try and fix it.

"Hey Sammi, don't worry about it, you still look gorgeous," I told her. "Good morning Honey."

"Good morning Mikey," she replied. "I must look a mess."

"No, you look delectable and very cute," I told her. "Now, do you drink coffee in the morning?"

"Yeah, when the rents aren't looking," she said.

"How do you take it?" I asked.

"Double — Double," she told me.

"Alrighty, I'll be back in a second," I told her and got up.

When I got back, she had brushed her hair and straightened out the bed.

"Voila, Mademoiselle," I said grandly, as I handed her the cup.

"Merci Monsieur," she replied.

She sniffed the aroma and took a tentative sip before smiling at me.

"That's heavenly," she told me with a smile.

"So, how did you sleep?" I asked.

"It was a bit weird trying to get to sleep in a strange place, but it was ok with Steph here and knowing you were just outside the bedroom," she said.

"Did you two get a chance to talk some more?" I asked. "I thought I heard some whispering in here after I left."

She blushed a bit and just nodded.

"Good," I responded. "You two getting along better?"

"Yeah, she's being so much nicer since I decided not to be a bitchy brat," Sammi replied and took another sip of coffee.

"That's good to hear Sammi," I told her.

Steph came out and asked what was good to hear.

"Just that you two are getting along better," I said.

"Yes, she's been fantastic so far," Steph said, with a smile towards Sammi.

"And so have you Steph," Sammi said, beaming back at her. "We had a great time after you left for the couch Mikey."

"Good, I'm happy you two can be friends as well as sisters," I said. "Ok, Sammi, you better get in there so we can grab some breakfast on the way."

"Ok, now does anyone want to wash my back?" she asked with a grin.

"Get in there Missy or I'll paddle your bum," Steph said.

Sammi giggled and wiggled her way into the bathroom and shut the door. We heard the shower starting up and we looked at each other with a grin.

"She is a minx, isn't she?" Steph said, looking up at me.

"Yeah, she is," I replied. "I thought I heard you guys talking for a while in here after I left last night."

"Yeah, we talked about a lot of things, boys, girls, the twins, you, us; a whole bunch of stuff," she replied. "She promised me she would back off of you for a bit."

"Wow, how did you manage that?" I asked.

"I gave her something else in return," she blushed.

"Oh?" I asked.

"She likes me as much as I like her," Steph said. "She knew how I felt about her because she feels the same way."

"I thought I heard something last night," I stated. "Did you two enjoy each other?"

"Yes we did," Steph said, beet red now. "I'm so sorry Mikey, I couldn't stop it, I've fantasized about her for two years now, every since she's grown taller than me."

"It's ok, it's not like the twins don't enjoy Amy the same way," I told her. "I might actually get to watch some girl on girl action sometime."

"Oh you, I thought you would be mad or grossed out because she's my sister," Steph said, a bit relieved.

"The twins are sisters you know," I reminded her.

"I know that goof," she responded. "So, keep it quiet until Sammi says something, she didn't want you to know."

"Fine, I'll try and not give it away," I agreed.

Sammi came out in a towel and I couldn't help but stare at her.

"Sammi, you promised not to tease Michael," Steph admonished her.

"Well, he's in the bedroom Steph, you better shoo him out unless you want him to see all of me," Sammi said with a smirk as she started fiddling with her towel top.

"You stop right now," Steph said to Sammi before turning to me. "And you, out this instant."

I grinned and went out to the kitchen as she pushed me out the door and shut it. I grabbed some drinks and snacks and put them in a cooler while I waited.

After a few minutes I moved over to the door and heard moans.

"That's it Steph, you've got me so hot," Sammi said. "No, don't stop until I cum little sister. You're mine now."

I listened as Steph took Sammi over the top and made her shriek and then gasp for air as she came down.

I tiptoed away and then walked back loudly.

"Everything ok in there?" I asked. "I thought I heard a shriek?"

"Sammi just stubbed her toe Mikey," Steph said.

"Ok, let's get going, it's almost eight," I said.

"Fine, we'll be out in a minute," Steph said, sounding not happy at all

They came out a minute later, in jeans and tee shirts. Sammi looked happy while Steph looked grouchy. I ignored both of them and grabbed the cooler and my coat before leading the way. We drove over to the condo and made it with enough time to get the manager to lock out the freight elevator for us, before the first truck came.

The driver and his assistant had the two of the three bedroom sets on their truck and quickly filled the elevator with the two bed frames, head and footboards and a couple night stands. Steph got the door open and directed us to the right bedroom and we all helped get stuff in. I set up the beds while the guys went down for another load. They brought up some dressers and the two sets of single box springs that made up the bottom of each king sized bed.

Two more trips were needed to bring up the king sized mattresses, one at a time. Steph signed for the furniture and they took the cardboard and plastic wrapping with them, along with twenty bucks each as a tip.

A second truck came with the last bedroom set, the dining room set and the kitchen table and we helped where we could. After that truck was finished, the two sisters went to a nearby bedding store and got sheets and covers for the three beds. They stopped on the way back and got some chicken for our lunch. We sat down around the new kitchen table and ate a quick meal and then they dressed up the beds while I helped the next delivery guys bring in the living room furniture.

We were finally done around two and the movers were all gone. We flopped on the couches and relaxed for a bit.

"We're going to need all sorts of kitchen stuff as well bathroom towels, washcloths and supplies when we get back." Steph said.

"And a good grocery shopping and patio furniture," I added.

"We can do that on Monday when we get back right?" Sammi asked.

"Sure, no use starting it now, we can sleep at Mikey's one more night," Steph agreed.

We locked up the condo and headed back to the apartment. Steph let Amy know of the delivery and setup and then we went out to get a couple of DVDs to watch.

The girls were still full from our big lunch so we just made some soup and had a light dinner. We watched our movies and then the girls kicked me out of the bedroom again. Again I heard them moaning and I definitely heard a small scream as one of them came. I was rock hard for half the night thinking about what they were doing behind the closed door.

Friday morning was hectic as we had to be at the airport for seven to fly out at eight to New York. We all had quick showers and got into good casual clothes. Steph and Sammi took special care in Sammi's attire. She wore a skirt, short but not micro-short, and an expensive blouse. Semi high heels and sheer stockings finished off the ensemble and they made up her hair and make-up so she looked twenty.

We parked my old car in long term parking and checked in. Sammi's ticket was also in first class so we got on and were sitting when the rest of the passengers came on. I let the girls sit together. The seat beside me stayed empty this time, much to my relief. The girls chatted away the whole time and were well taken care of by the one male steward, while the female one spent extra time with me.

We landed by nine thirty and Barry was waiting for us at the baggage check out.

"Hey Barry, you alone?" I asked.

"Yeah, the girls had to get ready for the shoot, they pulled it ahead so they're already over there, with Marcel," he said as we shook hands.

"Barry, this is Stephanie Merks or Steph, and this is her sister Samantha or Sammi Merks," I said. Ladies, this is Barry, one of a pair of very big guys that look after our lady friends."

"Michael, I shouldn't be surprised, but you keep surrounding yourself with gorgeous women every time I see you man," Barry said. "Steph and Sammi, it's my sincere pleasure to meet both of you. Welcome to New York."

They both said hi and then we all grabbed some suitcases and followed Barry out to the waiting limo.

"I'm going to take you right to the photo and commercial shoot guys," Barry told us. "They might have started by the time we get there, but they'll let us in. Vicky and Becky told me they will make a big production of your arrival so Samson will have to be introduced to you. Vicky said to feel free to break his hand when you shake it. The guy is a slimeball so don't feel sorry for him. Marcel is watching him and the director, who also likes to get after the models."

Barry continued, "Ladies, you stick close to me or Marcel if Mike is occupied. You two are too beautiful to be left alone around there."

"Ok Barry, we'll stick close," Steph said.

We arrived at the private studio and were let in the parking lot by quarter after ten. Barry helped the ladies out and then led the way. He got badges for all three of us at reception and a cute intern came and got us. She led the way and whispered to be quiet as she let us into the photo studio.

There were about fifteen people watching the photo shoot, mostly guys in suits. There were a dozen lights illuminating the stage where the twins and a well muscled dark haired guy were being posed. The twins had on matching bra and high cut underwear in grey while the model had on tight boxers in dark blue.

The director was positioning the girls to be draped on either side of the model, who sat on a stool, well posed to show off the underwear and his naked chest. Barry moved us up to where Amy and Marcel stood, just off the stage.

Amy and Marcel made a big deal about our arrival, attracting attention of the audience and the people on stage.

"Michael!" shouted the twins in unison and broke away from the model and director.

"Give us a minute Sergio and Samson, our Michael just showed up," Vicky said before running over to us and jumping into the air and letting me catch her with my left arm.

She gave me a big kiss and hug and then Becky jumped on my other side and I held her up with my right arm and kissed her too.

"Hello ladies, it's been too long," I said as I finally let them down.

"Michael, you look delicious and all healed up from that huge fight," Vicky said loudly.

"Yep, good as gold," I said. "You two look a bit underdressed but very sexy. I leave you for a week and the first time I see you again you're in the arms of another man?"

"Oh, don't be so jealous, it's just a photo shoot silly," Becky said. "We'll introduce you in a second, after you tell us why you have two gorgeous blondes with you when you should have one plus a teenager?"

"Ladies, this is Samantha, or Sammi, Steph's younger sister," I said. "Sammi, these two gorgeous ladies are Vicky and Becky Waters and the beautiful red head is Amy. Oh, the big ugly guy is Marcel."

"Hi everyone, it's nice to meet you all, and thank you for letting me come visit you," Sammi said with a smile.

"Sammi, you are absolutely heavenly," Becky said, moving to give her a hug. "You are welcome any time."

"Steph, you've been hiding this gorgeous creature from us," Vicky said. "Sammi, you are making us jealous, are you sure you're the younger sister?"

"She's just sixteen ladies," Steph said proudly.

"You are simply stunning Sammi," Amy added. "She's going to be a hit tomorrow night and again at the awards show."

"We'll have to dress her up right of course," Becky said.

"Get her in to see Pepper and get her hair and make-up done," Vicky added.

"Then she'll dazzle them all," Amy stated.

"What are you talking about ladies?" Steph asked.

"Your sister will be offered a modelling contract Saturday night or Sunday afternoon," Vicky explained. "She's too young and beautiful not too."

"We'll talk more after the shoot ok?" Becky said. "Here comes Sergio."

"Sorry to interrupt the festivities ladies, but we have a tight schedule," Sergio said.

"We're all done Sergio, come meet Michael and we'll get right back to work," Vicky said. "You too Samson."

"Sergio, Samson, this is our boyfriend Michael Stewart," Vicky said as they came up to us. "Mike, this is the director Sergio, and the model for this shoot, Samson."

"It's good to meet you Sergio," I said, shaking his hand.

"Likewise, Michael," he replied politely.

I moved to Samson and offered my hand and said, "It's good to meet you too Samson."

"You too Michael, you're a lucky guy having these two as your babes, though I'm not sure you deserve both of them, being such a youngster," he said with a laugh. "A young guy like you probably doesn't have the strength or the endurance to keep these two fillies satisfied."

The crowd in suits laughed at that as he grasped my hand and tried to squeeze it to a pulp. I was expecting it and was more than ready to squeeze back. I kept my expression mild as I gave no indication of the little drama going on.

"Oh, being young and fit has its advantages and they seem to want to keep me around," I said with a grin. "You ok there Samson, you're looking a bit flushed?"

Samson was trying hard to put any pressure on my hand and consequently forgot to keep his face and expression calm. He sneered at me as he leaned into the handshake. It was pretty obvious to everyone watching that he was trying to belittle me in a handshake battle.

"Samson, are you trying to hurt our Michael?" Vicky asked sweetly. "He's not like your typical model, he's a real athlete."

"Fuck you bitch," Samson said as he gritted his teeth.

"Now, that's not nice," I said as I decided to end the farce.

I squeezed his hand hard and he gasped in pain before going to his knees.

"Samson, don't ever talk to a lady like that again," I said calmly. "Apologize quickly or you won't have the use of that hand anymore."

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, please let go," he shouted.

I released his and he grabbed it with the other one to cradle it to his chest.

"Sorry Sergio, I was being polite, but no one talks to a lady like that in my presence," I said mildly.

"Not your fault Mike, I don't know what got into him," Sergio said.

"I would appreciate if you would monitor the models that work with the twins more closely," I said. "That behaviour is extremely inappropriate around lovely ladies such as these. We have a sixteen year old with us that just had to witness that. That was most unfortunate."

One of suits spoke up, "I agree Sergio, this isn't who we want representing Calvin Klein if he reacts like that. And to speak to these ladies like that is atrocious. Ladies, I apologise on behalf of Calvin Klein and we will remove him from this shoot."

"Thank you Mr. Carroll," Vicky said demurely.

"If you would like to take your guests to the green room, we'll see if we can find a replacement model," he suggested.

"Ok, we'll do that," Vicky said.

We all entered the green room and shut the door behind us.

"Dude, you rock," Marcel said. "I didn't see you move a muscle until he swore at Vicky."

"You were great Michael," Vicky said. "You got rid of that cretin and made it look like it was his fault."

"Are anyone else's panties wet?" Becky asked.

Steph and Sammi nodded and Vicky grinned as well.

"Not mine, I like you Mike, but not that way," Barry said.

Everyone laughed at that, even Amy.

"We're going to need wardrobe before the next shoot, that's for sure," Vicky said.

"So who are they going to get on short notice?" Becky asked.

"Mark or Kellan if they're in town," Amy suggested. "Not many other models popular enough to be with you two and not disappear into the background."

"I've got a wicked idea," Becky said. "We suggest Michael. He's certainly built for it and he'll fill out the underwear well enough."

"I'm not a model, nor do I want to be," I pointed out.

"I know that Sweetie, we'll get them to put a sport's theme on it and you will be the manly guy who gets the girls," Becky suggested.

"Not a bad idea Bec, they might go for it if they don't find someone," Vicky said. "Amy, can you scribble something down so you can be his agent and he works for our company?"

"Sure, I can work something up in about ten minutes," she said as she pulled out a laptop case. "Steph, call the college NCAA guy and let him know what's up and find out if it's ok."

"Sure, I'll get right on it," Steph said, pulling out her phone and walking to the corner.

"I don't want to be an underwear model," I stated again.

"Would you do it for fifty grand, for a day's work?" Amy asked. "That's what they were going to pay Samson."

"I'll do it for twenty grand," Marcel said.

"The object is to sell underwear, not sickness bags buddy," Barry said.

Amy had a small printer that she hooked up and soon a standard employment contract and an agent contract was in front of me. I looked it over while Amy printed out a modelling contract for the Calvin Klein folks. I had just signed the two for me when Mr. Carroll knocked on the door and came in.

"Vicky and Becky, we can't get a suitable model here, I'm afraid we're going to have to reschedule at a later date," Mr. Carroll said.

"Mr. Carroll, we may have a solution," Becky said. "It's a little out there but it might save the shoot."

"I'm certainly willing to listen, since I'm paying you for the day anyway," he said.

"Michael isn't a model, but he's a collegiate athlete, and has a suitable body for what is needed," Becky said. "You could go with a sport's theme or a more rugged manly look rather than pretty boy. Try him out and if you like it, pay him what you would have paid Samson and everyone is happy."

Mr. Carroll looked at me for a minute and asked me to stand up. I did and he looked me over.

"Can you take your shirt off Michael?" he asked.

I undid my buttons and pulled it out of my pants before getting out of it.

"Damn Michael, what do you do, work out in your sleep?" Marcel said.

The girls all whistled.

"Michael, you've gotten bigger in the last couple of weeks Sweetie," Becky said.

She walked over and got out of her robe and plastered herself to my side.

"Mr. Carroll, I guarantee you'll love our performance with Michael much more than with any other model," she said. "Michael gets to touch us any place you need him to, in order to get the best shot."

"I see that Miss Waters," he replied with a grin. "I believe you may be on to something. One last thing, I need to see Michael without the pants. Sorry Michael, just need to see the whole effect."

"Anyone laughs or makes a comment, I'm not going to be a happy camper," I looked around.

No one said a thing.

"I can't believe I'm doing this," I muttered as I undid my belt.

I pulled off my shoes and then slid my pants off and stood back up.

"Sorry they're not your brand," I said.

"No problem," Mr. Carroll said. "Ok, you should do fine if we can get the right poses. We'll see about the commercial after the photo shoot."

Steph came over and said, "I spoke with Craig Little and he says it's ok as Michael isn't on an athletic scholarship. He can earn as much as he wants."

"Good, so let's get a contract signed Mr. Carroll and we're back in business," Amy said. "I printed out a generic one that should do the trick."

He looked it over and signed it.

"Ok, let's get Michael and you two back in make-up and wardrobe and I'll get Sergio and the rest in the loop," Mr. Carroll said.

"Make-up?" I looked around with a glare.

"Just a bit to hide blemishes and imperfections, Michael, Vicky said quickly. "No one will notice it, I promise."

"I'm holding you two responsible if I look like a pansy in this," I growled.

"Michael, I guarantee you'll be more than satisfied," Mr. Carroll said. "Your two ladies will make you look like an Adonis and you'll be the envy of every man in the country."

"Mr. Carroll, I don't mean to be rude, but I have one of the Waters twins as my girlfriend, I don't need to be the envy of any man in the country," I told him.

"I see your point," Mr. Carroll said with a smile. "Let's just say that no one will have a thing to ridicule you about, I promise."

"Ok, let's do this before I come to my senses," I told them. "Steph and Sammi, stick close to Amy, Barry and Marcel ok?"

"Yes Michael and you'll do great," Steph said.

"Good luck Michael, you look real good," Sammi said.

"Thanks," I said.

I pulled on my pants and put my shoes on before slipping on my shirt. I followed the girls back to wardrobe and was handed over to a Cecile who asked me my size and handed me a pair of underwear.

"Tough job on this one," I said. "You're really breaking a sweat there Cecile."

She laughed and pointed to a change room. I undressed and put on the underwear and came out.

"Wow, I can see why Samson didn't stand a chance Michael," Cecile said.

"He was very rude to the ladies; that's why he didn't stand a chance," I said. "Do you have a robe so I can pretend to have some dignity left?"

She handed me a big robe and I slipped it on.

"Ok, my job is done, let's get you to make-up and hair," she told me.

I followed her and she handed me off to Barbara.

"Hi Barbara, I'm Mike," I introduced myself.

"Hi Mike, I hear you're a newbie," she said.

"Yep, and not planning to make a career of it, just doing this for the ladies," I said. "So do me a favour and don't make me pretty or I'll be in a fight every game."

"What game do you play?" she asked as she sat me down.

"Hockey, college hockey," I told her.

"That's right, I recognize you from the fight video, my boyfriend showed it to me," she said. "I can see why you don't want to look like a pretty boy. Ok, let me get to work and I'll let you see the finished result before you go on."

"Ok, thanks Barbara," I replied.

She styled my hair a bit and then put a fair bit of crap on my face, rubbing it in. She straightened out my eyebrows and actually darkened my stubble a bit.

"Ok, off with the robe, I need to see if anything needs to be emphasized or hidden," Barb said. "You're probably in good shape so I'm sure it won't be much."

I stood up and took off the robe.

"Damn Mike, you're ripped," she exclaimed, walking around me. "No need for body make-up here. And no enhancements necessary either. The twins are lucky girls."

"I'm the luck guy actually," I replied.

"I guess so," she said. "They are beautiful girls. Ok, back on with the robe and I'll walk you out."

Marcel was outside the girls' dressing room when we got out in the hallway.

"Hey Mike, looks cool man, can't tell a thing," he said.

"Thanks Marcel, the girls still inside?" I asked.

"Yeah, but I'll tell them you're ready," he said.

He knocked and stuck his head in and told them I was ready.

"Two minutes Mike and I'll bring them out, no worries," he said.

"Thanks Marcel, I'll see you in a few," I said and followed Barb to the set.

Everyone was waiting for us and Sergio came over quickly.

"Hey Mike, Mr. Carroll and I have worked things out, we know you're new at this and probably nervous," he said. "We're going to start with the posed shots so I'll get you in a position and then the girls will do several poses on you. We'll move you and then they'll to their stuff again. As you get more comfortable, we'll try some more physically demanding poses where you show your physique and your strength holding them up. Ok so far?"

"Sounds easy enough Sergio," I replied. "I'm sure I can muddle through it with everyone's help."

"Good, if things go well, we'll try the commercial shoot, which Mr. Carroll is revamping for your particular assets and relationship with the twins," he said.

"Alright Sergio, just do me a favour and don't make me look like a pretty boy or an idiot," I asked. "I'm going to get teased enough as it is by the guys on the ice, I don't need them calling me a pansy or worse."

"Mike, when we're done, you're going to look more macho than Clint Eastwood and John Wayne, count on it," Sergio said.

He walked away for a minute and I waved to the Merks sisters and Amy, who all waved back and gave me big smiles. The twins came out and gave me a kiss on each cheek.

"You ok Michael?" Vicky asked.

"Not really but it's too late to back out now," I said.

"Mike, you will look fantastic and we're going to make sure no one will say anything but what a man you are," Becky said.

"We are going to thank you so good tonight you're going to beg us to stop," Vicky added.

"Ok, check please," I said.

"Alright people, let's see what we have to work with" Sergio said.

We took the robes off and handed them to the intern.

I was wearing tight boxers that went down the thigh just a bit. They were comfortable but tight and showed everything. I had nothing to be ashamed about but I felt kind of exposed. The girls looked gorgeous and had changed into a lighter white set against my black pair of underwear.

"Excellent, three more perfect specimens of the human species couldn't be found," Sergio said with a smile.

"Ok, first Mike standing, legs apart about a foot, arms at the side until the girls come in," he directed me. "Good, keep that expressionless face for the first set. Girls, lean in on him, show the camera your profile, faces first looking at each other on his chest, hands on his stomach, leg curled over his. Mike, curl your arms around them, above the underwear, nope hands farther back, good. Hair behind the ears girls, smouldering look and ... hold. Jerry, take a roll from the front and from the ladder."

"Girls look up at Mike, Jerry take a few ... Mike, look down and keep that expression, Jerry a few more ... Mike think passionate, fantastic, Jerry quick a dozen of those, some from below too."

"Ok rest for a minute kids," Sergio said and the girls unwrapped themselves and I stretched for a second.

"Ok Mike?" Bec asked.

"Yeah, not bad so far," I said. "Nice to have you close."

"Yeah, this is a treat," Vicky said.

Sergio came back and sat me on a stool and had the girls on either side again. This time I had to smile and hold it. The girls were put in all sorts of positions and dozens of pictures were taken. Then I leaned in a doorway, on a wall, sat in a chair, laid on a low wall, laid on a bed — all with the girls surrounding me. The girls put their hands all over my body, chest, abdomen, back, legs, hair, arms, and face.

We took a quick break for lunch and we joined the girls, Barry and Marcel in the green room.

"How does it look?" Vicky asked Amy.

She got a wicked grin on her face and said, "I'm seriously thinking of converting at least to bi-sexuality to get a chance at our stud here. It is looking seriously hot from here."

Becky grinned and said, "I'm sure we can convince Michael to join us one night, right Sweetie?"

"If Red wants me to join I would be more than happy too." I said.

"So, what did you think Sammi?" Vicky asked her.

"You three looked so beautiful, so passionate; I don't know how any of us could compete," she said.

"You would look great up there too you know," Vicky told her.

"Steph, everything look good from your view?" Becky asked.

"Oh yeah, Michael looks very manly without looking over the top, while you two beauties enhance rather than stand out," Steph replied. "The ones on the bed were almost erotic, you should get some copied and hang them up."

"Guys, any comments other than our butts look fat?" Vicky asked with a smirk.

"You can't look big next to our boy here, you girls look smoking hot and are making the dude look like every woman's desire," Marcel replied.

"What can I say after that? Barry asked. "It's the best thing I've seen you do. You three look great together."

"Thanks everyone, we wanted Mike to feel comfortable and reassured," Vicky told them.

We got back to it and now they wanted to see some strength poses. They had me hold the girls off the ground as they curled their bodies around me. Then I had to hold them in each arm and then even on each shoulder. I sat on a chair and held them up by one arm each.

They wanted some showing some stretching so I did the best approximation of the splits I could do and the girls did the splits in front and behind me.

Finally they called it quits on the photo shoot and gave us a rest.

"How are you holding up Michael?" Amy asked.

"Not bad, it's a bit boring after a while," I told her.

"Well, they want to do the commercial and they have a couple of idea, a bedroom scene with the three of you in bed making lovey-dovey, a locker room scene with the twins sneaking in after your shower, or a business scene with you three acting like you have clothes on, and the narrator saying at the end, 'if you looked this good in our underwear, why would you put anything else on?' Do any of those choices appeal to you guys?"

"It doesn't matter to me; I can probably do the locker room the best," I told her.

"That's what I thought, though the bed scene would be so hot," Amy said, looking at the three of us.

"Which one are they leaning towards?" Vicky asked.

"It's fifty — fifty between the locker room and the bed," Amy informed us.

"Vicky turned to the Merks sisters and asked, "How are you two holding up?"

"It's still exciting to see the process and the how decisions are made," Steph said. "You three look great out there."

"How about you Sammi, could you see yourself doing some modeling?" Becky asked.

"I would love to try it, it would be so cool," Sammi replied. "It's hard work, much more time consuming and repetitive than I thought, but the results should be spectacular."

"Well, I think we can make that happen for you, we'll talk afterwards ok?" Becky told her.

"Sure," Sammi said with a grin, looking at everyone.

Sergio and Mr. Carroll came over to our group.

"Things are going great so far," Mr. Carroll informed us. "We're having an argument about which commercial to shoot so we'll start with the locker room scene and if we have time, we'll do a bedroom scene as a second one. So, we shoot the girls getting into their underwear and then sneaking into the boy's locker room to peek in on Michael. We'll get a few shots of Michael working out while wearing our active wear, then in the shower, from the waist up of course; you can wear some swim trunks Mike. We'll get a shot of you pulling on the underwear; don't worry, you'll never be nude. Finally, we'll to the locker room scene where you catch them peeking in and everyone's happy and hugging. How does that sound?"

"I'm not an actor Mr. Carroll," I told him.

"No problem Mike, you won't have to speak and you'll be doing things you do all the time," he replied. "Sergio doesn't think you'll have a problem."

"Ok, I'll give it a shot," I told him.

"Excellent," Mr. Carroll replied. "Ok, we have to split you guys up to get this done on time. Mike goes to the nearby gym and does a few bench presses, curls, squats, while the girls do their locker room scene. We'll then get you into the locker room, do a few seconds of you in the shower, and putting on your underwear and then the final scene together, surprise, hugs and kisses and then a final scene with the three of you clothed and heading out the gym."

I was hustled to wardrobe and Barb gave me a muscle shirt and tight shorts to put over top of the underwear. She handed me a water bottle and a spray bottle to simulate sweat.

I was led to the gym actually in the studio for the staff and Sergio was there with a trainer.

"Mike this is Carl, he'll be setting up the weight lifting shots," Sergio said. "We'll get the cameras set up and just film from different angles while you do the exercise. We'll need about four positions so about thirty reps for four sets on each exercise should do."

"Ok, sounds good, it's nice to meet you Carl," I said.

"You too," Carl said politely. "We'll start on the bench press."

We discussed amount of weight to use to be able to do thirty reps four times and still look like I was straining at the end. We got the bar ready and I lay on the bench. Carl would be off camera unless I needed help at the end and he would step in to spot.

"All ready when you are Mike," Sergio said.

"I'm ready," I told him.

"Ok, lights, camera rolling, and ... action," Sergio shouted.

I did the set at an even pace and took a minute to finish the thirty reps. The bar banged on the rests as I let it down and sat up. I grabbed a towel and wiped my face and then had a drink of the bottle and then rested.

"And cut!" Sergio shouted. "Excellent Mike. Ok, camera to the ladder, move the lights around. Give us five minutes Mike."

I nodded to him and relaxed.

We did it three more times with the last one getting tougher as they did close-ups with a handheld camera while I did the reps.

They had me move on to the leg squats and the process was done over and then the arm curls, both with a single bar and some dumbbells. At the end I had an audience as the twins were watching from the doorway. Sergio saw them and had a camera film them watching without them knowing.

"Great stuff Mike, you're all sweaty so we'll film you with you towelling off a bit as you walk to the locker room and get undressed," Sergio said. "Girls, we're going to film you following him and watching from the doorway down the hall."

They got the cameras moved quickly and had me walk from the gym to the doorway, and another take down the hall. A third had the camera catching the girls looking at me and smiling behind me as I went down the hall.

"Great, now to the locker room," Sergio said. "Quickly people before Mike cools off."

Barbara was there and helped me look sweaty. Cameras and lights were already set up so Sergio explained where I should walk to and get undressed to my underwear.

I practiced the scene once and he let me know what to change and then they filmed it twice, from different angles.

"Ok girls, let's get one with you peeking in from the doorway as he takes off his clothes," Sergio said.

I went through it one more time and they got the twins looking in on me.

"Great!" Sergio said. "Ok, swimsuit for Mike and then into the shower he goes. Girls, come in and peek around a bank of lockers and we'll get that. Look to each other and smile. We'll just keep shooting while he washes his front and his back, turning around slowly. Mike, I'll shout directions to you and just go smoothly from what you're doing to the next thing I tell you. Start with water in your face and then work down your body with the soap in your hands. Ok?"

I got into a brief swimsuit, one of the Speedo ones that I had never worn before, and came out in my robe.

"Ok Mike, we're all set; just get the water running at the temp you like and we'll film from the beginning," Sergio told me.

I nodded and took my position at the locker and paused until Sergio yelled action. I followed his instructions and walked over with a towel, hung it up on the hook and turned on the water. I checked it until it was warm and got in. There wasn't a shower curtain so I just let the water hit my face and then started washing slowly.

Sergio told me when to move to my chest and arms and so on. He told me to get my hair wet and they filmed that.

"Ok Mike, time to shut the water off, wipe your eyes and dry off, keeping the towel in front of you swim trunks to hid them. Once you're dry, wrap the towel around your waist and walk back to the locker and we'll film you pulling up the underwear up to your thighs underneath the towel. I'll shout action in a second, ok?"

I nodded and finished rinsing and then heard him yell action. I did what he told me to do and he stopped me when I had my back to the camera at the locker.

"Great work Mike," he said. "Ok, go get out of the wet swimsuit and put a fresh towel around your waist. When you get back we'll film you grabbing your underwear and putting them on underneath the towel. Then you can take the towel off and pretend to finish drying. We'll stop there and then we'll talk about the scene with the girls."

We filmed that scene quickly and the girls whistled as I pulled them up. I gave them a look and they grinned.

"Looking sexy there Mike" Vicky said.

"Very hot in here all of a sudden," Becky added.

"Hush you two," I said.

"Hushing," they said in unison, still grinning.

"Ok, we've got a few scenarios to film people," Sergio explained. "One, the girls come up as demure shy girls that you don't know and you smile gently and it's sweet and cuddly. The second is they surprise you and you know them and it's happy hug and kisses time. The third is a scene where you act like James Bond and it's perfectly natural that two beautiful women are in the locker room and you passionately kiss them one after another as they drape themselves over you. The final one is where the girls are sexy and kiss and hug you before pulling you behind the lockers as their bra strap falls down their shoulders and their hands are on you back and just touch the underwear."

"So sweet, playful, mysterious sexy, and very sexy," I said.

Everyone laughed and Sergio said, "Exactly."

So we filmed each scene, doing a few takes of each. The girls carried the scenes, going from sweet innocence, happy friendship, sexy Bond girls and then women who wanted to drag me behind the lockers and have their way with me. I did my best to follow their lead and react naturally to their actions. We finished that scene around four.

"Ok, we'll get you dressed in some clothes and film you coming out the building and walking with them in your arms," Sergio said.

We went into wardrobe and they had me into black slacks and a snug collared grey shirt. The girls were put in purple mini dresses and high heels and had their hair all made up. They looked like the super models they actually were.

"Damn, you're looking so hot ladies," I told them.

"Thank you Michael, you're damn sexy yourself," Vicky said.

"If they shoot the bed scene right after this, I'm not sure we'll be able to keep from attacking you Sweetie," Becky said, in a very sexy voice.

Luckily we were led outside before I took her back into wardrobe and caused a malfunction with her dress.

We shot several takes of walking out the doors and walking away from the building. A couple were of us walking to a car with me helping them get in while showing off lots of leg.

"Ok quickly to the bedroom set people," Sergio said, leading the way.

Sergio continued once we were on set, "We don't have much time so let's film it with three cameras at the same time. They're already mounted so we're ready on the set. You three come in hand in hand, back from the gym and you girls pull him in. We'll do four takes, sweet shy seduction, playful seduction, Bond girl seduction and downright sexy seduction. The sweet shy seduction you let him take your dress off and he undresses himself, the others, you take off your clothes and then his. Obviously underwear stays on and we fade away before they come off. The final sexy one the bra's can be undone in the bed and the straps down the shoulders, but not off. Get on the bed quickly and lie beside, showing your bums and his front but both kissing and hugging his chest. Everyone ok with all that?

The twins nodded and looked at me.

"I don't know about this, it's getting pretty racy," I said. "The college might not like it or the NCAA if it goes too far."

Vicky looked around and saw Amy, Steph and Sammi and motioned them over.

"Steph, I need you to get with the Athletic department staff and explain the situation," she began. "See what the rules and how far things can go."

"On it," Steph said, opening her phone.

"Amy, get with Mr. Carroll and explain the situation and make sure we have full control of final content due to Mike's school issues," Vicky instructed her.

"Ok," Amy said and walked away.

"Sammi, stand around and look beautiful," Becky said.

"Uh, ok," Sammi replied.

"I had to boss someone around," Becky explained with a grin. "She always does the bossing."

"But there's no one left for me to boss around," Sammi said, looking around, "except for Michael here. Mikey, stand there and look handsome and sexy and have erotic thoughts of all of us girls."

I looked down at her with an arched eyebrow.

"What, I just did what Becky did?" Sammi asked, looking up at me and then at the girls.

"Good try Sammi, but we don't boss Michael around, especially in public," Becky told her. "We guide in more subtle ways."

"Yeah right," I said dryly, looking at her. "You girls tell me what to do all the damn time."

"No, we suggest, advise, ask, but we don't tell you what to do, Michael," Vicky said. "We're very careful with things like that."

"You're just talking semantics, Vicky," I said. "A request, a suggestion or saying that you advise me to do something is still telling me to do something. If I don't follow any of them, it's at my own peril."

"Granted it's a fine distinction, but one that we follow," Vicky said with a smile.

"Ok, let me try again," Sammi requested. "Mikey, could you stand there and thing erotic thoughts about us please?"

I looked her over and thought about her naked on the bed with Steph between her legs. She began blushing as I stared at her.

"Oh my, I think you got your request Sammi," Becky said with a smile. "It looks he's only thinking about you right now though."

"Oh my," Sammi said, taking a half step back.

"The second rule about men is never tease a man, boys and guys you can get away with that, but not a man," Vicky stated. "You're lucky we're in public or you'd be on the receiving end of what he's thinking."

Steph and Amy came back just in time.

"We're good with Mr. Carroll, he knows the situation and ok with it," Amy announced.

"I talked with Craig, Alice and the coach," Steph said. "No nudity and no sexual situations are allowed. It's kind of a grey situation. When I explained what was up they couldn't agree on what constituted a sexual situation."

Mr. Carroll and Sergio came over and heard Steph.

"I have a solution, we film all four and keep them under lock and key," Mr. Carroll said. "We decide what we would like and edit the commercial accordingly. Before any print ad or commercial with Mike in it airs, we all sit down with both the college and NCAA and get their approval. We don't pay Michael until we all agree. We could also make a donation to the school and the NCAA if it helps grease the approval process."

"That sounds reasonable to me," I said. "Let's get filming and Steph and Amy can put that proposal back to them in the meantime. At worst we waste a couple hours of time and film if we can't use any of these scenes."

"Agreed," Vicky and Becky said in unison.

"Good enough for me," Sergio said. Let's get you on set and get shooting."

So we did the four scenes, with many takes as I floundered with the stupid acting. The girls were naturals and led me along as best as they could, but it seemed contrived to me and Sergio.

"Ok, let's try this, everyone off the set, except the actors and the camera men," Sergio said. "Girls, seduce your man. Mike, don't think, just react to them and do what feels natural. We'll edit out anything inappropriate later."

We tried it and it worked much better. The girls were more natural, within the confines of the scene and I just reacted like I wanted too. If I wanted to touch them I did. They were more touchy feely as well. We kept our underwear on but I caressed the girls through them at times, mostly at the end of each scene as we got carried away. Sergio had to stop us when he thought he had enough of each scene.

"Ok, we're done," Sergio said finally. "Thank you all for staying late. Vicky, Becky and Mike, you were fantastic today. I would work with you again in a heartbeat. We'll have something special to show you in a couple of weeks."

"Thanks Sergio, you were great to work with as well," Vicky said, with Becky nodding.

I shook his hand and thanked him for his patience.

We all thanked Mr. Carroll and then got changed.

"Barry, take us home, we'll get room service," Vicky said.

"Yeah, you guys look beat and you have to be in the Morning Show studios by seven and go on air at eight," he said.

We got in the limo and headed to the Plaza. Sammi and Steph were talking softly as were Becky and Amy. Vicky and I sat beside each other and held hands as she leaned her head on my shoulder.

We were in the apartment half an hour later and Amy was getting dinner ordered while Steph and Sammi got us drinks. The three of us lay on the couches and loveseat relaxing. Eventually we sat up as the other ladies joined us.

"Sorry everything took so long ladies, I'm not much of an actor," I told everyone. "You were all so patient with me, thank you."

They all protested and told me I did great but I just smiled and they eventually stopped.

"It's ok ladies, I'm not upset, I don't have plans to do that again," I said.

"Sweetie, you helped us immensely today and we got to spend a whole day with you, in your underwear," Vicky said. "We enjoyed it, especially when you let go and really got into the last scenes."

"I was ready to jump you at the end," Becky said with a grin.

The girls all nodded in agreement.

"Well, it was all because of how you two were acting," I told them. "I got a bit carried away because you made it so real."

"Silly boy, it was real," Vicky said. "I was just about to grab you and pull you between my legs when Sergio yelled cut."

"Oh my," Sammi said. "You three looked so hot; it looked real because it was real."

"Ah ha, our gorgeous teenager has spoken," Becky said. "So Sammi, do you think you would like to model?"

"Sure, I think I would love it!" she said. "I found it fascinating. It was hard work but I know I could do it."

"Well we'll talk more about later, but we think you have the looks and the personality to make it," Vicky said.

"Really?" Sammi asked. "Do you think someone would hire me?"

"Oh, we're pretty sure you'll get noticed tomorrow night," Becky said.

There was a knock on the door and we all jumped a bit and then laughed. I got up and opened the door and let the waiter bring the trolley in and set up our dinners. Amy gave him a tip and signed the bill before I let him out.

"Ok, we'll put that discussion on hold for dinner, agreed?" Vicky asked.

We all agreed and hungrily dug in. I kept up appearances and ate my large porterhouse steak slowly in feminine company. The girls all chatted about things to do tomorrow afternoon, especially shopping. They would be done the morning show by nine and could hit Fifth Avenue as soon as the shops opened.

I bowed out the shopping and the girls all looked sad.

"Well we can do some sightseeing instead," Vicky suggested.

"No you girls go shopping, I'll do some sightseeing by myself and meet you back at the hotel in time to get ready for the party," I corrected their thinking.

"No, we can't have you all alone in New York, Michael," Becky said.

"I'll be fine, I'll go see the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty and other safe things," I told them. "Steph and Sammi need to go shopping and you three should be proper hosts and take them around to all the cool places you know."

"Ok Michael, if you insist," Vicky stated. "We could split up and one of us could join you."

"No, you girls need some time together to get to know each other better," I insisted. "What better way than shopping and then lunch at a nice cafe or bistro. Please, you all deserve some girl fun for a few hours."

"Let the man have some alone time Vicky," Amy stuck up for me. "He can take care of himself and we can all get in touch by phone."

"Alright, it's settled, shopping trip tomorrow ladies!" Vicky said, and the girls cheered.

We all pitched into clean up and put the dishes back on the trolley and put it out in the hall. The twins wanted a shower and then so did I after our long day. I found them already asleep in the bed and, after getting into a tee shirt and shorts, told the others the twins had crashed and I was going to do the same.

"The girls can join me in the other room for the night and we can talk the night away and watch movies and get to know each other better," Amy said with a smile.

"That's sounds great Amy," Sammi said. "Thanks!"

"Ok, have a good night ladies, I'll see you in the morning," I replied, before heading back down the hall.

I crawled into bed between the twins and fell into a restless sleep. An hour later, I got up and went to go get a drink of water from the kitchen. As I passed the slightly open door of the other bedroom, I could hear moans coming from within. I looked in to see the two blondes having their way with the redhead. One was kissing her while caressing her breasts while the other was between her legs. Amy was in full passion mode as she French kissed Sammi and caressed her breasts as well.

I stood there watching until they made Amy cum in convulsions, her scream muffled by Sammi's mouth. I was rock hard as I moved to the kitchen and got a couple bottles of water and walked softly back. Sammi was on her back and Steph was now pleasing her. Amy was stirring and I watched as she started licking and sucking Sammi's breasts, causing her to moan.

Eventually I left them to it and got back into bed with the twins, still lightly snoring away. I fell asleep thinking about the action next door.

I woke up early as usual and got changed into my sweats before heading downstairs. I used my cardkey to get inside the weight room and had a good workout. I used the elliptical for my aerobic exercise and then did a full cycle around the machines. I grabbed a paper and headed upstairs. After making sure the coffee machine was started, I headed to the shower with my clothes.

I was all dressed and ready to go when I opened the door and went out to the dining room. All five girls were sitting at the table with coffee cups in their hand and smiles on their faces.

"Good morning ladies, did you all have a good sleep?" I asked cheerfully.

"Too good, we fell asleep before we could have any fun with you," Vicky said.

"But these three seem to be getting along," Becky added, looking at Amy and the Merks sisters.

"Yeah, we had fun," Sammi said. "It was good to get to know Amy better, right Steph?"

"Yes," Steph answered, blushing fiercely.

Amy also blushed and looked a bit embarrassed but Sammi gave her a hug anyway.

"Well, I think we need to play some musical chairs then for tonight's sleeping arrangements," Becky stated.

"Yeah, we need to see what all the fuss is about with these Merks sisters," Vicky said.

"We'll have to talk about that later, it's time to get ready," Amy said, reminding everyone of the early morning appointment.

The girls all got up and the twins showered and got into some matching sexy short dresses and the others dressed fancily as well as they would be going into high end boutiques after the show. The twins loaned Sammi a similar short and sexy dress as they made her a project. Steph helped with her hair while Amy helped the twins with theirs.

We all got our coats on and met Barry in the lobby. The girls stopped traffic in the lobby again as they passed through and Steph and Sammi were in awe.

Soon we were pulling in front of the studio for the Morning Show and Marcel and Barry got out followed by me. I helped each of the girls out and we entered the studio. Amy took charge and the producer came out and greeted us.

"Good morning everyone, I'm Diane, one of the producers of the show," she said. "My you have quite a few people in your entourage ladies."

Amy explained who everyone was and asked if the Merks sisters, Barry and I could sit in the audience for at least the portion that the girls were on live. Marcel would join the twins and Amy in the back for security.

"Sure, we always could use audience members, especially such beautiful and handsome ones," Diane said. "Lisa here will find them seats and will get them when you're done."

We all wished the twins good luck and they insisted on giving me a kiss and hug before they left with Diane and Marcel.

Lisa led us to the studio doors and, when a commercial break occurred, entered the studio and found us seats in the middle.

The hosts were reading the scripts for the next portion of the show while sipping some coffee. One was a young cute blonde woman, the second was a slightly older brunette and the final member was a handsome dark haired man. They were all well dressed in fashionable dresses and a suit.

A man came out and said thirty seconds and the hosts all put away their notes and put the coffee cups out of sight.

"Welcome back to the Morning show, I'm Chad alongside Cyndi and Marcie. It is seven fifteen on Saturday December twentieth and we're live in our New York Times Square studio," Chad said.

"We have some great guests joining us this morning," Cyndi, the young blonde, announced. "Manny Bloom, from the upcoming movie 'Corsair' will be here shortly."

The audience, mostly women, cheered and clapped loudly.

"'Solid Colour' will perform their new single 'Blue' and then new modelling sensations, the Waters Twins, will join us, much to Chad's delight." Marcie added.

"They are taking the modelling profession by storm and we'll get a chance to talk to the two new supermodels," Chad said.

The audience clapped dutifully and then Marcie read some news of the morning. Cyndi did the local weather and Chad did some sports. After a commercial break where we could talk, they continued with the show, bringing out the actor Manny Bloom. He waved to the audience and the girls all shrieked and clapped for him. He was a thin pretty boy but the sisters beside me cheered loudly for him as well.

They had a nice chat with him, discussing his new movie and his love life. The girls hung on every word he said and were happy he was single. I looked at them with a raised eyebrow and they had the decency to blush. They played a clip of the new movie and then he was done. He went backstage and the band took the second stage while they were on commercial break.

The band did their song and their singer sat with the hosts for a minute and talked about their new CD.

"Next, after the break, it's the Waters Twins," Chad said.

We clapped loudly and then it was break time again.

"Finally," I said.

"They are going to rock," Steph said.

"This is so cool, we know someone that's going to be on TV, right now!" Sammi said.

"Yep, it's cool, I guess," I said.

"Oh, you've been on TV I suppose?" Sammi said.

"Sammi, he plays Michigan hockey, he's on TV every week," Steph said.

"Oh yeah, but it's not really the same," Sammi replied.

I smiled at her as they got ready to come back to commercial.

"Please welcome supermodels Vicky and Becky Waters!" Chad said with a big smile.

The twins came out with their hair done up fancy and they looked every bit the supermodels Chad had called them.

"Hello and welcome ladies, it's great to have you with us," Chad said as they all shook hands.

"Thanks for having us Chad," one of them said. "We love your show; we watch it all the time."

"So ladies, you've shot up the ranks of the modelling community like a rocket and just last week you wore the multi-million dollar bras at the Victoria's Secret fashion show, an honour usually reserved for more established models under contract with them," Marcie said. "Here are some of the magazine covers you've been on as well as the fashion shows you've been in."

They played a two minute piece on their big screen and the twins discussed each different shoot or show.

"It's been a fantastic ride so far and we're hoping to continue it in the new year, Marcie," one twin said after it was done.

"Can you tell how you got your start just a couple of months ago?" Cyndi asked.

"Sure Cyndi, we were watching my boyfriend's hockey game back at the University of Michigan when a representative of the BT Modelling Agency discovered us," Vicky said. "We had some pictures taken did a couple modeling jobs in Detroit and they had us come to New York and we started in some fall fashion shows."

"Is this the same Michael that we've seen pictures and video of from last week? Marcie asked.

"Yes, I'm sure it is," Vicky agreed.

"He's certainly a tall drink of water," Cyndi said with a grin.

"I like to think so," Vicky agreed.

"There was a video of a fight he had with another player from Michigan State circulating last week, wasn't there?" Chad asked.

"Correct, he doesn't fight often, but he can take care of himself," Vicky replied.

"What about you Becky, you're single right?" Chad asked.

"Yes, but I'm too busy for a significant other so I just borrow Michael from time to time, when I need a escort," Becky said with a grin.

Everyone laughed at her joke.

"So what is in the immediate future for you two?" Marcie asked.

"We just did a shoot for Calvin Klein and we have some commercials ready to air in the new year," Becky said. "We have several new commercials to film and we've just signed on with The Gap. It's an exciting time for us in the next year."

"Have you done your Christmas shopping yet?" Cyndi asked.

"No, we've been too busy, but we're getting together with some girlfriends today for a marathon shopping expedition so we should be all set soon," Vicky said.

"Well, thank you for joining us today and have a happy holiday!" Chad said.

"You too, and thanks for having us!" Becky said. "Merry Christmas everyone!"

The crowd clapped and said Merry Christmas back to them.

"When we come back, we'll wrap up the show," Cyndi said. "So stick around!"

The show went to commercial and the twins shook the hands of everyone and left the set through the back. Lisa eventually came and got the three of us after the show was done and guided us backstage to a room where Marcel was standing guard.

"About time you got here dude, that actor was just visiting the twins," he said before letting us in.

"Manny Bloom was here?" Sammi asked the twins excitedly.

"Yes, he was," Vicky said.

Becky was blushing and Vicky seemed a bit flustered. Amy avoided looking at me.

"How was he?" Sammi asked.

"He was ok," Vicky said. "Go ahead and tell him Bec."

"He asked me out," Bec said. "He wanted to join Mike and Vicky as a fourth for dinner tonight."

"Oh wow, what did you say?" Sammi asked as Bec looked worriedly at me.

"I told him no, of course," she said. "You know I'm with Michael, Sammi."

"Oh, that's too bad, I bet you he would be so nice," Sammi said. "He could join us as my date anytime."

"Sammi!" Steph exclaimed. "That's not the way to Michael's heart."

"It's ok Steph, she can date anyone she wants," I replied.

"See Steph; and it's not as if you don't like him either," Sammi told Steph with a grin. "You always go nuts when you see him. Bec looks like she would like to see what he's like too."

"Oh, I admit I had a schoolgirl crush on him, but I'm happy with Michael," Bec said. "I'm sure we could get you a date with him if you like Sammi."

"Really?" Sammi asked.

"But then you can't be with us," Bec said.

"Oh, well, he's too old for me anyway," Sammi said with a grin.

"Let's get into the car everyone," Amy directed us and took the lead out of the studio.

We followed her to the limo and we drove back to the Plaza, Sammi still talking about the actor and the other three being strangely quiet.

"Ok Michael, keep to the main streets and in the public eye," Vicky told me. "We should be done by five so we can meet for dinner and then go to the party for nine."

"Sounds good to me," I responded, looking at her keenly

She ignored my look as did Becky.

We pulled up to the Plaza and let me out.

"Ladies, have a fun time shopping today and I'll see you at five."

"Goodbye Michael," the girls all said before I shut the door.

I waited until the car pulled away and went inside. I went up to the condo to change into jeans and a sweater and pulled on my winter coat and headed out. I grabbed a taxi and we drove down Park Avenue, past the Waldorf Astoria Hotel and the Grand Central Station, before it dropped me in front of the Empire State building.

I took the elevator up and took some pictures using a disposable camera I bought at the store in the lobby. I could see for miles as it was a clear, but cold day. I headed back down about a half an hour later and walked down 34th street, past the famous Macy's department store I remembered from the Christmas film. I turned left at Eighth Avenue and a block later I was in front of the Madison Square Garden. I entered the lobby and paid a fee to do a tour with some other tourists. We were shown the locker room, the ice from down close as well as the luxury boxes.

When the tour was done, I found a restaurant and had a quick bite to eat before catching another cab. We took 34th street over to Twelfth Avenue and drove beside the Hudson River down to the bottom of Manhattan Island to the Battery Park Area. I paid the driver and walked to the Statue of Liberty ferry docks and got a ticket over to Liberty Island. I took pictures of the city as we went by on the boat and then of the actual statue as the passengers went up the walkway.

I waited in line to take the elevator and stairway up to the head of the statue and looked out the windows to see the torch arm and the book she was holding. I took some pictures from each window.

I went back down and went through the museum before getting back on the ferry and heading back to Manhattan. I walked out of the Battery Park area and caught a cab up to Times Square. I got out and looked around at all the billboards, flashing neon signs and famous buildings. I walked the few blocks considered part of Times Square up to 48th street and then went over to the Rockefeller Plaza and watched people skating and looked at the huge Christmas tree.

It was getting dark and close to five so I headed up Fifth Avenue back to the Plaza Hotel when a car horn honked.

"Hey there big fella, want a ride?" Steph said out the window.

"I don't know, my girlfriend wouldn't want to go off with strange women," I said, moving towards the car.

"Don't worry about her, you won't remember her after we're done with you," she replied.

"Oh all right, you look like fun," I said as I opened the door and got in.

I sat beside Steph who gave me a quick hug and kiss. I looked at the other girls and they smiled and said hi.

"So how was the shopping, ladies?" I asked.

"Good, we filled the trunk," Vicky said with a laugh.

"Everyone had a great time," Steph told me. "We got some gifts for our parents and some new clothes."

"I'm glad you all had fun, and that I didn't have to lug your parcels around all day!" I replied.

"But you get to help carry them up to the condo," Becky said with a grin.

We pulled up to the Plaza after a short drive and everyone grabbed handfuls of bags from the trunk. We told Barry and Marcel we would see them at quarter to nine and took the elevator up. We piled the bags on the dining room table and the girls all got freshened up. As they came out of the bedrooms they all gave me a kiss, even Red and Sammi.

I slipped into one of the bedroom and got into a suit before we headed downstairs with our coats. We walked a block to a trendy restaurant and were let inside immediately.

"Reservation for Waters, party of six," Amy said to the hostess.

"Yes, your table is ready if you'll follow me," She said with a smile.

We followed her shapely derriere and were led to a prime table by the front bay window, looking out over Fifth Avenue. The girls all sat down and then I took the chair at the head of the table.

The older ladies ordered drinks while the Merks sisters and I had diet coke. A pretty waitress took our dinner orders and then I was asked to tell them about my day. The girls were all surprised that I fit so much into one day. Our appetizers came and they regaled me with their day of shopping prowess.

Our meals were delivered and our conversation continued, though a bit slower as everyone was hungry. We declined dessert and walked back to the Hotel and the condo.

We had about forty five minutes until we had to meet Barry and Marcel and the girls all went into the bedrooms to change for the party. I heard the shower go on and doors open and close while I watched a hockey game on TV. Eventually they all came out and showed me the results.

They all had on similar mini dresses and high heels, their hair all done like a saloon did it and their make-up made them look like they didn't have any on. The dresses were all tight to their fantastic bodies and came down to mid thigh. The colours of the dresses went with their hair, the twins decided on purple, the Merks sisters went with black and red, while Amy went with green.

"Wow, you ladies look way to gorgeous to be let out of this apartment," I said. "I'm afraid you'll have to stay locked up here with armed guards at the doors and windows."

I stood up and they glided over to me, giving me a kiss and a hug.

"You keep that up and we won't want to leave," Steph said.

I took a step towards her and she hid behind Sammi while saying, "Get back you beast, we have to go to this party!"

"Ok, enough fooling around, it's time to go," Amy said. "Especially when I'm not part of it!"

I opened the door as the girls got their coats on. I smiled and let them all by before pulling the door shut.

We crowded into the elevator and the girls were all talking amongst themselves.

"Ok, everyone stick together; no drugs and moderate drinking only," Amy said. "Sammi, pay attention, you're going to get offers to become a model tonight. Tell everyone to talk to me or the twins about that. Don't sign anything, agree to anything, don't go off to talk about it with anyone. Do you understand?"

"Yep, relay everyone to you guys," Sammi said. "Do you really think someone will want me to be a model?"

"Of course, you're just as beautiful as the twins," Amy said. "Why do you think we're dressing you up like us?"

"Just to be nice," she said.

"Sammi, by tomorrow, you'll have multiple offers on the table," Becky said. "Just let us sort through everything and help you out. Steph, stay with her tonight."

"Sure, I was planning on it," she said.

We picked up Barry in the lobby and got into the limo. A short drive to the party being held at the Trump Towers and we got out and walked into the building. The signs pointed the way to a bank of elevators and we got out on the thirtieth floor. We followed the signs past various rooms until we entered a huge banquet room that had at least two hundred people in it already.

Our arrival generated interest and a couple came over. I recognized Steve, the twins' controller and he had a beautiful woman on his arm.

"Hi everyone, I'm glad you could all make it," Steve said. "This is my wife Darlene."

Hi Steve and Darlene," Vicky said. "Darlene, you are one lucky woman, you husband here is one of the few men at the agency that has never tried to pick us up or make rude remarks. He is a perfect gentleman and very loyal to you."

"Thank you for confirming what I already knew," Darlene said. "I know he must be tempted by all the women he deals with, but I'm glad my trust in him is warranted. He tells me good things about you two; the roof is getting set to blow on your careers. Congratulations."

"Thanks," Becky said. "It's in large part due to Steve and Diane's efforts. I would like you both to meet friends of ours, Stephanie and Samantha Merks."

"Two more gorgeous women to surround yourself with," Steve said. "I'm very pleased to meet you both."

"It's nice to meet you Steve and Darlene," Steph said.

"Yes, it's a pleasure to meet you both," Sammi said.

"Samantha Merks, I haven't heard of you as one of the models?" Darlene asked.

"She's not a model Darlene," Amy said. "Not yet anyway."

Steve was looking her over and Darlene caught him at it.

"If I was at all jealous that would bother me a lot," Darlene said with a chuckle. "He must be one of the few husbands in the world that can get away with scoping out beautiful young ladies and not get his balls squeezed in a vice."

"Sorry dear; Samantha, professional curiosity only, how old are you?" Steve asked.

"Sixteen," she replied.

Both Steve and Darlene were a bit shocked at that but then smiled at her.

"You are a vision Samantha, for such a young lady," Darlene said. "You will have this room all aflutter when they find that out. Ladies, keep her close and for God's sake, don't let the vultures get her."

"We're on it Darlene," Amy said. "Steve, we're going to rep her so you are our first choice. Get your people behind you and keep them away from her or we'll walk. You are the only one we trust enough to deal with."

"Got it Amy, and thanks," Steve said. "You guys are at a table with us, let's get you there now and I'll make sure Bob collars the Jackals and the Hyenas before they descend. Barry, Marcel, don't let anyone, no matter how high in the company disturb any these ladies. Mike, nice to see you, we'll talk more in a bit ok?"

"Sounds good Steve and thanks for looking after everyone," I said.

"Steve, are you afraid to introduce your young beautiful wife to this handsome man?" Darlene asked with a smile.

"Sorry, Darlene, this is Vicky's boyfriend Michael; Michael this young lady is my beautiful wife, Darlene," Steve said. "Please don't add her to your growing harem; I would be lost without her."

"I'll try Steve, but you have to worry about the women stealing her, they decide who should be in their group, not me," I told him. "Darlene, it is a pleasure to meet you, I'm pleased as much as you are on how dedicated Steve is to you so I know he's the right person to watch over them."

"Well, I can see why the twins are so enthralled with you Michael, and we heard how well you did at the shoot yesterday, saving the day," Darlene said. "Girls, we'll have to talk about getting me a set of prints from yesterday."

"Listen, if I leave Darlene with you, promise not to steal her away from me while I get things rolling?" Steve asked, looking at the twins and me.

"No promises Steve, you better hurry back!" Becky said, grabbing Darlene's arm. "We like her already so you've half lost her already."

"Well Steve, you do owe me for that one night of indiscretion," Darlene said lightly. "Maybe I'll collect on that tonight with these folks."

A real look of pain crossed his face after she said that so I let him off the hook.

"Darlene is safe with us Steve, now you make it safe for Sammi," I told him.

"Yes, all kidding aside, you don't want Mike, Barry or Marcel to have to get rough in here," Vicky said.

Steve gave Darlene a kiss and then took off. Darlene led us to the table and sat with us while Barry and Marcel took standing positions, one behind Sammi and one behind the twins.

"What's going on?" Sammi asked.

Darlene answered, "Sammi, you're gorgeous, beautiful, tall and only sixteen. Every man in here will want you, first as a woman, next as his signing. If you look around in a minute, you'll catch them, along with some women, looking at you. You're in a unique position to get a lot of money for just signing a one year contract, just because of your looks and age. You could be a multi-millionaire's mistress by the end of the night if that was your desire. You could be his wife by next weekend if you wanted."

"Really?" Sammi squeaked as she looked around.

I looked as well and saw the looks of lust and calculation on many of the men's faces as well as on some of the women.

"Boy, they do look like a pack of hyenas," I said.

"And they act like one too," Darlene said. "I've seen what they've done to young innocent girls when they get together."

"You should put your arm around her Mike, and we'll see how they react," Becky said with an evil grin.

"I wouldn't mind that a bit right now," Sammi said. "It's not a good feeling to be the prey."

A waitress interrupted asking for our drink order and we give it to her. I watched her all the way to the bar and made sure nothing untoward happened while mixing the drinks.

"Oh shit, it the fucking worse one, Martin Trasker, coming over," Darlene said. "Sammi, you stay between me and Mike, and don't get up."

"Hi Darlene, you're with a fine looking bunch of young people," he said.

"Martin," Darlene said coolly.

"Hello everyone, I'm Martin Trasker, Senior VP of model development," he introduced himself to us. "I of course know our famous Waters twins and our recently departed Amy, but who are these two delightful young ladies?"

"Just some friends from out of town Martin," Darlene told him shortly.

"Well, I think BT modelling agency needs to know more about these two beautiful ladies," he said. "We always have openings for gorgeous women."

Another couple joined him at the table.

"Martin, I see you're just as interested in the new ladies as the rest of us," the smaller chunky man said. "Hi, I'm Dale Douglas, Senior VP of Finance and my wife Trudy."

Everyone said hi as they sat down uninvited. Trudy, a trophy wife, if there ever was one, struck up a conversation with Darlene while her husband squeezed in between her and Sammi.

Martin sat down beside Steph and they both tried to strike up a conversation with the two beautiful blondes.

"So what are your names?" Trasker asked.

"Stephanie,"

"Samantha,"

"Wonderful names for gorgeous young ladies," Douglas said. "And you're sisters, I can see the resemblance."

"Yes," Steph answered.

"So, you're friends of Darlene's?" he asked.

"And the twins," Steph replied.

"And you're just as beautiful as them," Trasker said. "So, would you two like to be models?"

"I'm too short to be a model, and my sister is too young, so no thank you," Steph said.

"Nonsense," Trasker said, patting her hand. "With today's cameras we can make any model look as tall as we need her to be. Maybe you can't be on the runway, but you can certainly be in print ads."

"And being young and beautiful in this industry is a benefit," Douglas added, taking hold of Sammi's hand.

The girls pulled their hands out from underneath of the men's and put them in their laps. The men's attempt was hampered as three gorgeous models came over to talk to the twins and the Merk's sisters just had to go over and meet them. The models wanted to meet me too but I did that sitting down. The two men got left to their own devices and, when it was clear that the sisters were staying over on the other side of the table to talk with the rest of the girls, they said their goodbyes to Darlene and left the table with Trudy in tow.

"Fucking assholes, and she's either a real dumb blonde or in on it," Darlene said. "Good job ladies."

"Darlene, go get Steve and tell him he's got ten minutes or we're leaving," Vicky said. Mike was about to pummel two senior VPs and Barry and Marcel were going to help. I, for one, don't want blood on our new dresses or his suit."

Darlene smiled and said, "Don't leave without exchanging numbers; I really want those pictures of you and Mike."

"Oh, not just of Mike?" Becky asked with a grin.

"I used to have lady friends before Steve and I got married," Darlene said. "I would at least like to look at you two, since I can't touch any of you."

"Ok, we'll make sure you get a copy Darlene, but we might want some from you," Becky replied. "You are very beautiful yourself."

Darlene blushed and walked off quickly.

"You are so bad," Amy said. "You shouldn't seduce Steve's wife like that! We need him."

"She wants it bad, you can tell," Becky said. "And she'll want Mike when she sees those pictures. But you're right, Steve would be unhappy if we did anything with her."

The three models wanted to know what was up and then agreed to watch out and come over again when it looked bad or on Amy's signal. They gave hugs and kisses all around and then continued on their rounds.

"Don't get any ideas Michael, you have enough," Steph said, when she saw me following them with my eyes.

"They were after you and Sammi, not me," I said. "I saw her hand on your ass."

Sammi and Steph sat beside the twins and I was on the outside this time. Becky tickled Sammi's thigh and Vicky patted Steph's hand. The girls all whispered amongst themselves while I looked around at the pretty models and the men that lusted after them.

A deejay started up some music and soon the dance floor had dozens of young beauties dancing up a storm. A few more athletic men joined them and it got crowded in no time.

We stayed put and waited for Steve and Darlene to come back. Eventually they did and sat down at the table.

"Ok, I talked to Bob and he wants to meet Sammi, so we have a room down the hall," he said. "He won't give her a contract sight unseen."

"Why doesn't he just come over?" Vicky asked, her suspicions aroused.

"He wants to meet with her alone," Steve said softly.

"And you agreed to that?" Darlene asked, looking at her husband in shock.

"No, but he's the boss and he's just as taken with her as the rest of them," Steve responded. "I'm sorry, but I think you should leave."

"Steve, we're not mad at you, we know you did your best," Vicky said as we all stood up.

"Darlene, Steve has our contact information if you want to get a hold of us," Becky said, giving her a hug.

We walked out quickly and went to the elevators. We stayed quiet as Barry and Marcel were in with us. They had the car pulled up in front and we had a silent trip back. It was only ten fifteen when we got back in to the condo.

We sat down in the living room and I got a chance to stare at five pairs of very sexy legs.

"I'm sorry that we had to leave because of me," Sammi said softly. "I never wanted any of this to happen, this was just supposed to be a nice little visit."

Becky and Amy went over and sat beside her and put their arms around her.

"Sammi honey, this is not your fault at all, we pushed this a bit and those assholes got to horny and greedy," Amy said.

"It is a bit your fault, you're so damn gorgeous, everyone wants you," Becky said with a grin.

Sammi smiled and gave her a big hug.

"You guys make me feel so welcome and special," Sammi said. "Thank you all for looking out for me. I will always remember you three for your kindness as well as your beauty."

"Thank you Sammi, that is so sweet of you to say," Vicky said, from beside me. "It sounds like you won't be seeing us anymore."

"Well, we'll be going back tomorrow and who knows when we will see each other again," Sammi replied.

"That was just the first agency, we felt duty bound to offer them the chance," Vicky told her. "We have two more agencies to try that girls have good things to say about, or we can just handle you ourselves, though our company."

"Why didn't you say that earlier," Sammi asked. "I would have just gone with you guys right away."

"You would get more money up front from an agency but would make more with us in the long term," Becky told her. "We wanted you to get and offer and then listen to our proposal."

"Why don't you give us your proposal now," Steph said.

"We were going to not only rep you, we would act as the agency for you," Amy told the sisters. "I would book all your jobs and schedule you and the twins would fund your apartment, clothes, food and travel expenses the clients didn't pick up."

"And what would you get in return?" Sammi asked.

"We would take twenty five percent of your earning plus only five percent to be your agent," Vicky said. "Normal agents charge ten percent and agencies get anywhere from forty to fifty percent of your gross earning, especially in the beginning."

"So for thirty percent you provide an apartment, food, clothes and travel expenses and book and schedule all my photo shoots and fashion shows," Sammi said.

"That's correct," Becky said.

"Who comes with me to the shows like Amy does for you?" Sammi asked. "The agency usually provides that for their models right?"

"Usually, but we would have to take more of a percentage to pay an assistant," Vicky said. "We can do that, say add five percent, or you can pay someone from your earnings."

"Who would we get to help me out here, I don't know anybody or know anything about modeling," Sammi asked.

"We can find someone who has experience to look after you," Amy said. "Or, you could see if Steph would come and take care of you. A relative would be best for a younger model. The twins would help with the modeling training while I would help Steph with organizing and scheduling and the caretaking while on the job. Steph would then be there for all other times as the older sister."

I felt like I just got a kick in the gut. Losing Steph would be hard to take back home. I didn't need her to take care of me, but I would miss her companionship as well as her love every day. But Steph was the best choice to take care of her younger sister. I knew it, the twins and Amy knew it, but the Merks sisters needed to be convinced of it.

"I can't ask her to give up College and Mikey to come to New York for me to have a possible career in modeling," Sammi said.

"She would make double what she's making now, at least one hundred grand a year, to watch over you, and all her expenses would be paid because she would live with you," Vicky said. "You could make five hundred thousand to a million dollars we figure, after our thirty percent and Steph's salary taken out."

"That much?" Sammi asked. "Wow, that's something to think about."

"It all depends on how hard you work and what breaks we catch," Amy told her. "We could probably guarantee at least three hundred thousand for you plus Steph's one hundred thousand for the first year contract and then go up from there as things get going."

"What about Mikey?" Steph asked. "Who's going to take care of him?"

"You know Michael never needed taking care of," Vicky said. "You were his friend, his lover, his companion. We'll have to make sure we all get back to Michigan more frequently or he can come to us."

"I would miss you Steph, but we both know you're the best one to take care of her, she's only sixteen in a strange city," I told her. "I'm used to being alone for long stretches so it's not as hard on me as it would be Sammi. Besides, your parents wouldn't let her go if you didn't go."

"And what about my education?" Steph asked bitterly. "I come for a couple of years and then Sammi is eighteen and goes on her own. What happens to me then?"

"You would have saved two hundred thousand dollars, minus taxes, and can go to back to school then," Amy said. "You can take classes via correspondence and the internet. You could find another model to assist. That's only if Sammi kicks you to the street. Sammi will always need an assistant, and she'll be a model for years. The twins are twenty and they would still be lost without me."

"Steph, if you sacrificed for me, I wouldn't just kick you to the street," Sammi said. "Maybe out of the apartment, but not out to the street."

"Sammi, I love you like a sister, but looking after you wasn't what I had in mind for a career," Steph said. "I wouldn't be challenged enough mentally compared to what I'll be able to do after college. I'm almost able to keep up with Genius here in a couple of classes."

"I know you're brilliant Steph, I don't want you to give up your aspirations," Sammi agreed.

"Well we could hire an assistant that has experience," Amy said. "I know a couple that would do a competent job."

"Her parents would be a hard sell," I said.

"Maybe we need to let her get to eighteen and then start it," Becky said. "Or she could start locally in Michigan with Steph helping out there."

"She would be missing out on possibly millions in the meantime," Amy said.

"Let's sleep on it and talk again in the morning," I suggested.

The girls all thought that was a good idea so we tabled that discussion for now. Amy and Becky were sitting right next to Sammi and Amy leaned over and kissed Sammi.

"Don't worry Sammi, we'll get it all straightened out soon enough," she said.

Becky leaned over on the other side and kissed her too, before saying, "Yes Sammi, we want you to be happy and close by."

Vicky hugged Steph sitting close by and said, "We would love you to be with us too Steph, I think we'll all get along great."

Steph returned the hug and then gave Vicky a kiss. Soon the five women were enjoying themselves while I watched them. Sammi concentrated on Bec while Amy concentrated on Sammi. Steph and Vicky were in a tight embrace as well. Soon hands were exploring each other's bodies.

Sammi pulled Bec to her feet and said, "Let's take this to the bedroom. Steph, why don't you bring Vicky too."

Steph broke off her kiss and helped Vicky stand up.

"What about Michael?" Vicky asked, looking over at me.

"It's ok, you ladies enjoy yourself, I'll bunk out here tonight," I said.

"But," she started to say.

"It's ok Vicky, it's been a long day, go enjoy the girls tonight, I'll be fine," I interrupted her.

Steph pulled her down the hall after the other three and I saw them all enter one bedroom. I went down to the other one and got changed quickly into shorts and a tee shirt and then headed back to the living room. I peeked into the bedroom and saw that the Merks sisters, with Amy's help, had the Waters twins naked and squirming on the bed.

I closed the door and bunked down on the couch and fell asleep to the moans of the girls.

Sunday morning I got up at my usual early time and did a full workout in the weight room before having a long swim. I showered in the locker room and then grabbed a couple papers before going back upstairs.

Of course the girls were still asleep, so I read the papers and then watched a sports show on TV. The coffee machine turned on at the appropriate time for the ladies but they didn't emerge from their cocoons. The awards brunch started at noon so there was no rush.

Eventually Vicky got up and grabbed a cup of coffee before taking advantage of being up first and grabbing the bathroom. When she was done she woke up the other four who walked like the dead to the coffee machine and then flopped down on the couches and drank in silence, looking at each other.

"How is everyone after your get together?" I asked.

They looked at each other and grins appeared on the four of the five women's faces.

"It was fun," Becky said.

"Very nice," Sammi added.

Amy and Steph nodded vigorously in agreement while Vicky just nodded.

"Good to hear it," I said and went and got a diet coke from the fridge.

Vicky started up when I came back, "So we have a couple of hours to get ready for the awards brunch. That lasts just under three hours and then back here to pack for home. Amy is going to visit her parents in Maine, while the rest of us go back to Michigan. The girls will stay at the new condo while Mike stays in his apartment."

"Not with the rents in Dearborn?" Becky asked.

"When Sammi and Steph go to Pontiac, we can go to Dearborn," Vicky said to Becky before looking at Steph. "Your parents get back Wednesday right?"

"I don't really know," she replied. "Sammi?"

"Yep, Christmas Eve day so Santa comes for the boys," she said.

"Maybe we can get together with them on Wednesday or Friday to talk about you modelling," Vicky suggested.

"Sounds good to me," Sammi said.

The ladies eventually got motivated to get cleaned up and get ready for the brunch. I was getting hungry when we finally met Barry in the lobby. The girls were all wearing more ladylike dresses for the awards brunch but still got lots of stares as we walked through the lobby.

The brunch was being held at the Waldorf Astoria and it was a very quick drive over there. We walked into the elegant hotel and were directed to the ballroom that the brunch was being held in.

At the door Amy gave our tickets to the women sitting at the table and she gave us our table number. We entered the large room and found our table near a side wall. I took the seat against the wall so I could watch everyone. The twins sat on one side with Amy while Sammi and then Steph sat on the other, with Barry and Marcel as the bookends. Two open chairs were left at the table.

As this was an awards banquet for the Modeling association, there were plenty of beautiful people in the room. Several of the models from the fashion show last week came over and said hi to the twins and Amy. We were introduced to them and they introduced their companions when they brought them to the table.

Steve and Darlene showed up for the agency and took the last two seats just before the ceremony started. A famous comedian and his equally famous ex-model wife were the hosts for the show. They said a few words thanking everyone for showing up and then started off with the presentations before brunch was served. The twins were nominated as best newcomers and they won the award. We quickly gave them hugs and they both went up on stage and accepted the statue. They thanked their agent Claudia, Steve and Diane from the agency, Amy, me and their parents before leaving the stage. They came back to the table after having pictures taken back stage.

The presentations finally ended and the food came out. They set up two complete brunch lines and we got in line at the closest one. The models didn't eat much and were very picky about what they did eat. That left lots for their dates and the male models to eat. I went up a couple of times, but wasn't a pig about it.

Steve spoke up, "This will certainly help your careers ladies, especially just in time for our build up to the Super Bowl."

"Thanks Steve, this goes to you and Diane just as much as us," Vicky said. "Between you two and Amy, you've helped us so much. Thank you."

"Oh, we just got you started, you two and Amy did all the hard work," Steve said. "It's going to be hard scheduling for all the stuff that's coming in now."

"Well, it should be an interesting new year," Becky said.

"Yes it should," Steve said in reply before getting serious. "Bob was not happy about last night. You better keep Sammi away from the agency; and yourselves as well."

"Oh? Do tell," Vicky said.

"He wanted to come here and make another play for her but there weren't any extra tickets," Steve told us. "He would have offered her a huge contract if she became his mistress; I guess he and his third wife liked how she looked."

"That is so gross; they're like in their thirties!" Sammi said, shivering in disgust.

We all laughed at her display.

"He's mad at the twins too, but he can't touch you so just stay away from him," Steve said.

The twins put their arms on top of mine as I got angry.

"It's not Steve's fault Mike, calm down," Vicky said. "Is there anyone besides you and Diane we can trust at the agency?"

"No one important enough to help," he said. "Marcel and Barry, you two work for me, not anyone else, so don't ever get talked out of being loyal to the twins and Amy."

"Would never happen, Steve," Barry said. "Our loyalties are to the girls first, period."

"Thanks guys, we all appreciate it," I said. "Girls, how long are your contracts for with the agency?"

"One year from the beginning of October," Vicky said. "Why?"

"Since you wouldn't be re-signing with them, maybe Steve would like to join your company at that time," I suggested. "And you would take over the contract for Barry and Marcel at that time as well."

"That sounds very interesting," Vicky said. "We'll have to discuss this in a more private venue after the holidays, if all parties are interested."

"He's interested," Darlene said for Steve. "I hate being around those slimeballs, and I'm always leery of what they might make him do."

Vicky looked at Steve with a raised eyebrow and, after he looked at his wife, nodded.

"Ok, start thinking about an exit plan people and keep it to just us ok?" Vicky said. "Barry and Marcel, you're on board working directly for us then correct?"

"Damn straight," Marcel said.

"Yep, I'm in," Barry said.

"Let us know if anyone comes to you with an offer you can't refuse and we'll match it," Becky said.

"No need for that Bec," Barry said. "We'll warn you but we're not for sale."

"Watch out for bribes of young women," Darlene said. "All of you watch out for something out of the ordinary; they'll try and get you under their thumb by any method they can. Girls or guys, drugs and alcohol, money; all have been used."

"Ok, enough of this out in public," Vicky said. "Let's keep this real quiet. Don't talk about this on any of our phones; we'll meet somewhere clean to discuss this stuff. Ok?"

We all nodded and dropped the subject. The brunch was winding down so we wished Steve and Darlene a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and then left the party. We kept quiet during the ride.

"Ok, we'll leave for the airport in a couple of hours, guys" Vicky said.

"Sounds good, see you at five," Marcel said.

We headed up and got changed and then packed for home. We had a snack and then headed to the airport. Amy gave Marcel and Barry Christmas bonus envelopes and then we all hugged and shook hands.

We got our tickets and then we all gave Amy hugs as she split off to catch her flight up to Maine. We found our gate and waited in the first class lounge to board the plane. The twins got drinks and the Merks sisters and I had a pop. Finally we boarded and after the usual delays, were on our way back to Michigan.

We landed safely an hour and a half later and quickly got our luggage onto a big cart. The limo driver had a sign for Waters and we followed him outside. The girls got in while I helped him get the luggage into the trunk. I followed them in my car that I got from long term parking. An hour later the limo dropped the girls off at the new condo while I parked out front. I helped them get the luggage into the elevator and then the condo.

Steph and Sammi gave the twins a tour of the place.

"Damn, this is great!" Becky said. "You guys did a fantastic job picking this condo out and furnishing it. Thanks!"

"It was fun," Steph said. "Just remember, we need to get kitchen stuff and food tomorrow morning. Towels and bathroom stuff too."

"Shopping trip!" the girls all shouted and laughed.

"Ok, I'm going to head over to the apartment before I fall asleep," I said. "You ladies have fun tonight and tomorrow. I'll have practice in the morning and the afternoon from four to six, so I'll see you for dinner afterwards."

They all pouted but gave me hugs and kisses before I left. I carried my suitcase back down and put it in my car before driving to the apartment. I unpacked when I got there and started a load of laundry before making a couple of sandwiches.

I checked my email and found one from my Aunt Nancy, asking me to confirm my visit after New Year's Day. I replied that so far we were still a go but I would confirm with the girls in the coming week. I told her about some of the twins' latest endeavours and then wished them a Merry Christmas.

I switched the laundry around and then watched a movie until it was done. After folding it I put it away and got ready for bed. I was asleep five minutes after my head hit the pillow.



-------

Chapter 36


I woke up alone for the first time since before Thanksgiving. Last night's sleep was restless at best but I felt a bit lonely this morning, even though the girls never got up with me this early anyway.

I got dressed and grabbed a diet coke for the road. I was there early as usual and had a good stretch before going out to skate. I got into the skating as it had been a few days since I had last laced up the skates. Shooting came next from the point, the right side boards and close in on Patrick. It took time to get my eye back but eventually the pucks started going in more frequently. Finally I did the various skating exercises that defencemen and forwards did as a way to develop their skill set.

I went back to the bench and took a seat to rest as I waited for the rest of the team to join me on the ice. They trickled in and we didn't have a full compliment when the coaches appeared.

"A few of the team took the opportunity to go back home over the weekend and were given today off," Fred told us. "No matter, we have plenty enough for what we need to do."

The coaches had us practicing all aspects of the game, offence, defence and special teams. I was still on the fourth line and surprisingly kept up with my linemates as we played offence or defence. We played pretty aggressively in the offensive zone as we tried to outwork the line playing against us. I loved being able to hit people but didn't set out to hurt anyone. Once I got the puck away from a defender, I was looking for a linemate in front of the net or I took it hard to the net if there was any opening. The third option was back to the point and then I provided screen in front if I could get there in time.

We worked on carrying in the puck as well, rather than dumping it and chasing it. Peter would carry it up and hit either Victor or myself with a pass just as we crossed the blueline. Either we would try and beat the defenceman wide or pass the puck, either in front of the net or behind it. Once and a while we would drop pass it to Peter who had ducked behind us or the trailing defenceman. We got to practice each move during our turns. I felt good after the end of offensive practice for our line.

Next we went on defence, switching with the first line. Now we had to defend against the same things we had just practiced on them. I had to learn, over and over it seemed, who my responsibility was, as they came in on us. In most cases it was the left defenceman or the late man coming in for a pass back to him. The defencemen and the centre had responsibility for the three forwards in deep. Sometimes it was ok to cheat and slide down deeper into our zone to help, but me or Victor would have to rush out to block a shot from the point if we went too far in.

That was the normal responsibilities if the team was in the zone set up. I had to learn what to do when it was an odd man rush, taking the trailer in most cases. The situations were too numerous to be able to plan for them all, but when in doubt, Sam told me to pick a man and stick with him.

One thing I did like was to hurry the defenceman at the point. If I could fluster him into making a mistake, the puck sometimes came loose and I had a free path to the other goal. After I delivered a couple of hard hits, they either learned to get rid of the puck faster or got run over. I hit John once as the puck came back too slow to him from his forward. He went flying backwards onto his butt and I went in alone on Mark. I faked a close in slap shot and then did a double move that had him down and out on one side while I calmly slipped it into the other side.

"I'm glad you're on our side," Mark said as he got up.

"Lucky break," I said and skated back.

"Quit making me look bad Stewart!" John said, skating by.

"Quit making it so easy to!" I said with a laugh.

We took half an hour practicing the special teams. Fred and Frank wanted to use me on first power play unit at the point, and on the second penalty killing unit on defence. That would give the normal defencemen a bit of rest while giving me more ice time.

I was paired with John for both the power play and the penalty kill, which didn't sit well with Samuels, but made John happy. I soon had everyone ducking as I took shots from the point. I actually broke two sticks in about ten minutes and I made a note to get with Chris, the equipment manager and trainer, to see what he thought.

The final fifteen minutes was a scrimmage with two sets of lines on each side and two pair of defencemen on each. Some of the players were the scout team rookies but they had been with their lines or defence pairing all practice, so they knew what to do.

I really got into the game and loved the up tempo pace we were getting into. I kept my head and didn't hit anyone too hard, but they knew I wasn't giving them a free ride either. About five minutes in Peter hit me with a pass as I was going full speed crossing their blueline and I was between the two defencemen before they could do anything but try to hook me down. I was pulled a bit off balance by the stick on my arm but I shook it off, got my stick down on the ice just in time to pull the puck away from Mark's poke check attempt and flip it into the net above him as I skated by.

I gave Peter a glove for the great pass and we changed with the other line at the bench.

"Did you practice every day the last couple of weeks with the Red Wings or something?" Victor asked.

"I wish," I replied. "I got in several practices but by myself. I worked out a lot though."

"Well, you seem to have caught on pretty quickly," Peter put his two cents in.

"Thanks, but it's mostly because of you two guys helping out," I told him. "I appreciate all that you have done to make things easier for me."

"No problem but we didn't do much," Peter replied.

We got out a couple more times and this time I set up Victor in front of the net and he beat Mark on his glove side. I had out hustled Samuels for the puck behind the net and he slammed his stick into the wall afterwards. I loved making him look bad but I didn't let it show.

The coaches called it a practice soon after and gathered us together.

"So, we have the Great Lakes Invitational down in Detroit at the Joe Louis Arena this weekend. We play the first game Saturday afternoon and if we win against the Michigan Tech Huskies, we play the winner of the second game, which is Michigan State versus North Dakota, on Sunday night. We're going to practice every day, normal times morning and afternoon, except Christmas. Those who need an extra day to get home and back to be with family let the coaches know today. I would rather have you miss the twenty fourth than the twenty sixth if you can arrange it. Ok see you at four this afternoon."

I found Chris in the equipment room and we talked about the sticks.

"You've gotten stronger Mike, it was bound to happen," Chris said. "I'll talk to my suppliers and see what they can send me. They must have the same problem with their pro players. I'll make sure to have more sticks ready on the bench for you during the game."

I thanked him and went to shower. After getting dressed, I grabbed some food and then headed out to the nearest mall. I still had to Christmas shop for the girls and their parents. I also wanted to get something for the Merks boys.

I went to a jewellery store and looked at their selection of necklaces and pendants along with their matching earrings. I picked out sets that would look good with each of the girls' colouring, both hair and eyes; emeralds for Red, rubies for Steph, diamonds for Vicky and Becky. I chose the best gold necklaces and settings I could find for each of them. I paid extra to have their names and I love you engraved on the back of the pendants. I got Sammi a smaller set of pink sapphires on a necklace pendant and matching earring but just got her name engraved.

I went into an electronics store and got all of us the latest and greatest iPods and then carried my packages to my car and locked them in the trunk. I went back into the mall and hit a toy store. I wasn't sure what to get the boys so I called Steph.

"Hey Princess, how are you today?" I asked.

"Hi Mikey, I'm doing fine, we're having fun shopping," she said. "How was practice?"

"Good, need a favour though, I'm shopping for the boys and don't know what to get them. What are they into?" I asked.

"Mikey, you don't have to get them anything," she protested.

"I would look like the Grinch if I showed up with nothing for them," I said. "I'm at the toy store, just lead me in the right direction; Lego, Star Wars figurines, cars, trucks. Do you have a Wii system yet?"

"Ok, we don't have a Wii system and don't get one," Steph said. "They like Lego, Star Wars Lego is good. Any type of action figures are good, they love dinosaurs and lizards. Hockey stuff is good, they love the Red Wings. Don't get them your jersey; we're going to give them that. Try and get them one educational thing so my parents don't freak."

"Ok, Lego, Star Wars, dinosaurs, lizards, Red Wing stuff and educational stuff," I recited. "Do they have a good telescope?"

"Nope, or a globe either," Steph informed me.

"Great, now what would your parents like?" I asked. "Dinner and a movie or maybe concert tickets, some type of show?"

"Boy, you're really going all out to impress our family Michael, what gives?" she asked in a happy voice.

"I can't just come over and not have something for them Princess," I said. "Your mother knows we're together, I would look like Scrooge if I didn't get them something."

"Dinner and a movie would be fine, if we provided babysitting service as well," she told me. "Just go to a Star theatre and get a booklet and it will get used. They love Red Lobster, so get them a gift certificate from there."

"Thanks Steph, you're the best," I told her.

"I know, I know," she said with a giggle. "So what are you getting me?"

"I thought I would get you some high heel boots so you would feel tall," I said.

"I hate you Michael Stewart," she said.

"What, too much?" I asked.

"You're getting coal dumped down your shorts Mister," she said. "I'm hanging up now."

"I love you Princess," I told her.

"I hate you Mikey," she replied.

"Hey, put Vicky or Becky on the phone will you?" I asked.

"Why are you such a meany, Michael?" Vicky asked.

"Like I was going to tell her what I got her," I said. "So, how about your parents; dinner and a movie, concert tickets, sports tickets, show tickets?"

"We're getting them a vacation down south, do you want to go in with us?" she asked.

"Thanks, but I'll let you two mega super models buy your parents affection," I said glibly. "I just want to spend a couple hundred."

"Oh, you're real mean today Michael," Vicky said. "Ok, you would have to go to Dearborn and get a gift certificate from Bondy's for the dinner. You could do that and get some Star Theatres certificates. Or you can get them a pair of Red Wing tickets online if you like. They haven't gone to a game in a while so they would like that as well."

"Ok Darling, thanks for the advice," I replied. "Say hi to everyone else and I'll see you ladies after six. Where shall we meet?"

"Come on over here, we're going to cook with all our new stuff we're in the midst of buying," she said.

"Ok, have fun, I love you Darling," I said.

"I love you to Michael," she replied. "Here's Steph."

"I don't hate you anymore Mikey," Steph told me. "See you tonight."

"I still love you Princess," I said and then hung up with a smile.

I picked out two big Lego sets, one for each boy in their age group and put them in my cart. I went to the figurine aisle and picked out two similar but different dinosaur sets and then a package of rubber lizards. I found a nice telescope and a globe and then went to the checkout and paid for the lot.

I stashed the packages in the car and went in to a sports store. I grabbed two Redwing caps and jerseys in kid's sizes and paid for them. The mall had a Star Theatre so I got two family booklets.

I was done at the mall so I drove to a Red Lobster and got a hundred dollar gift certificate for the Merks. After a quick stop at a drug store for tape and wrapping paper, I drove home and brought all my packages in.

I ate a late lunch and then quickly went online and bought two tickets to a Red Wings game in January. Then I headed back over to arena and got changed. I was early and watched the figure skaters. My favourite ballerina on ice was on the ice. I had found out her name was Casey Simmons, and that she was a fellow freshman. I leaned on the wall and followed her every move. She was graceful as a swan, even though taller than her teammates. She made everything look easy as she glided through her routine.

They finally finished up and walked by me to their dressing room. I kept a smile on my face as some of the ladies smiled back up at me. Casey was always the last one off the ice, still doing a twirl or a spin until the end. She seemed in a really good mood and she even flashed me a smile as she moved past me. I looked back at her and admired her lovely figure until she looked back as she turned the corner. She blushed and continued walking.

I went out on the ice and helped Rolf move the nets onto the ice after he had cleaned it. He had Patrick on one net already so we were ready to go soon as he shut the Zamboni doors. My teammates joined me shortly thereafter as I stretched.

Practice was a copy of the mornings as we fit in role players into our lines. I made a few mistakes, passing behind Victor, missing a defensive assignment, going offside more than once. But I was gradually gaining a little confidence in playing the forward position.

I caught a glimpse of Casey sitting high in the stands, wrapped up in her Michigan winter jacket, watching the practice. Her hands were in her pockets and her feet were on the back of the seat in front of her, causing her knees to bend in front of her.

I made sure not to stare at her when I was on the ice and she was sitting behind the benches so I couldn't watch her on the bench either. When the practice was over, I looked up to see her walking up the stairs to the top exit, her fabulous legs encased in a pair of black tights. I nearly ran into the guy in front of me as I stared at her before she disappeared out of sight.

I shook my head as I thought about my fascination with her. Here I was with five gorgeous women in my life and I couldn't keep my eyes off of Casey. I was going to hell, no doubt about it. Hopefully Casey had a boyfriend and he was on the team so I wouldn't be tempted.

I got dressed and headed out to the parking lot. I looked around for her but she wasn't in sight. I drove to the condo so I could stare at other women's gorgeous legs and bodies, ones that I might be able to touch. I parked out in front of the building and made a note to get the code for the garage so I could take advantage of the extra parking spot. I buzzed up to the condo and, after teasing me for a minute, Sammi let in.

I took the elevator up to the eighth floor and found Sammi leaning sexily on the door frame. She was in a short black mini-skirt and a form fitting white tee-shirt and she looked at me with a sultry stare.

"Sammi honey, you look positively stunning," I said. "What a sight to be greeted by after a long day of practice."

"I thought you would like it," Sammi replied with a smile. "I love it when you look at me like you want to eat me up."

"Girl, you are a minx," I said, avoiding her as she tried to pin me against the wall.

I shut the door behind us and found the other three women standing there all dressed just as sexily as Sammi, in short skirts and clingy tops.

"Wow ladies, you are a fantastic sight to see after a long day," I remarked.

They came over and the twins and Steph gave me nice kisses and hugs, before they guided me over to the dining room table.

"Dinner is ready so we'll bring it out now Sweetie," Vicky said. "You sit down and we'll serve you."

I smiled and sat down, wondering what was up. They were dressed way too sexily and serving me dinner never happened like this before. Not that I minded their dress or the special service, but I knew them too well to know they were trying to get me to do something I probably didn't want to do or had bad news.

The girls came out platters of pork chops, chicken, mashed potatoes, vegetables and hot buns. They poured wine in all the glasses except diet coke in mine. Finally they all sat down.

"Ladies, this looks fantastic and with all of you here, dressed like that, I'm just overwhelmed," I said. "Thank you for taking so much time and energy tonight."

"You're worth it Mikey," Steph said. "We missed having you around last night and today."

"I missed you all too," I responded.

We all dug in and filled our plates, helping each other get food from the too far to reach platters. The food was excellent and I let them all know it, getting pleased smiles back in return. For dessert, a cherry pie was brought out and divided into five slices and topped with ice cream.

The girls wouldn't let me help with the cleanup so I sat in the living room by myself until they all came out to join me. They took seats around me and brought their drinks with them.

"So, now that you have me fed and visually stimulated, why don't you tell me the bad news or ask me what it is you want me to do?" I asked.

"I told you guys you couldn't fool him," Steph said.

"I don't pretend to be brilliant when it comes to women, but I'm not an idiot, ladies," I said exasperated. "Why not just come out and say what's up?"

Vicky looked around and sighed, "Steve called and wants us back in New York tomorrow morning. Bob wants to make an offer to Sammi, supposedly an up and up offer and no funny stuff."

"What did Steve say about it? Could he talk honestly?" I asked.

"Not the first time, but he called later from a pay phone and told us that it would almost match our individual ones and there were no hidden clauses," Becky said. "It's an unheard of deal for an unknown girl, but everyone who sees her knows she's going to be big."

"I thought you guys were going to talk about your proposal with their parents?" I asked.

"This is a huge opportunity for her, and Steve and Diane would work with her as well," Amy said. "We've got Steve to modify it to go until our contract is up so we can all go our way at the same time. This will make her a supermodel and then we can all make out like bandits afterwards."

"So do you trust this Bob and the others?" I asked.

"No, but we also had Steve put in sexual harassment clauses and security for her," Vicky said.

"Have you talked to your parents?" I asked Steph.

"Yes, and they're going to meet us there tomorrow afternoon," Steph said.

"Why do none of you seem excited about it if it is such a great deal for her?" I asked.

"Her parents will only agree if Steph or the three of us would be there for Sammi all the time," Becky replied. "We will be there some of the time but couldn't guarantee all the time."

"So Steph would have to give up on college for a while," I stated, looking over at her.

"The agency offered one hundred and fifty thousand for me to be her personal assistant, and Sammi said she would give me another one hundred thousand," Steph said. "We would have our own two bedroom apartment down the hall from these three and would have limo service and one security guy when we're out and on shoots. Barry gets to pick him so we know he'll be ok. They made an offer that covered all our issues. I guess Bob told Steve to write a contract that we couldn't refuse."

"So you go back tomorrow and sign it with your parents if everyone agrees," I said. "Then what happens?"

"We come back here for Christmas and then leave for New York Monday morning, December twenty ninth," Sammi said. "The first shoot would be Monday afternoon morning and the twins and Amy said they would be there to help."

"Damn that's quick," I said. "It's an opportunity that you can't pass up but I hardly got to know you before you have to leave Sammi. And Steph is leaving as well, that really sucks. Now I have five women to worry about working for those slimeballs when I can't be there to protect you."

"We have security as well as Steve, Darlene and Diane to help watch over us," Steph said. "We'll be careful and come back here as often as we can."

"What about this place?" I asked.

"We could keep it for when we visit or just sell it to you cheap," Vicky said.

"Anything else happen?" I asked, looking around at them.

"We want to hire you someone else to take care of you here," Becky said.

"No, I'll be fine," I said flatly.

"Michael," Vicky started.

"I said no," I repeated firmly.

"Ok Sweetie," she responded. "I'm sorry about all this; you keep getting left behind while we get the benefits of knowing you."

"Yeah it sucks," I said, getting up. "Thanks for dinner ladies; I'm going to head back to the apartment. Have a good trip and I'll see you when you get back."

"Don't go Michael, at least stay the night with us," Steph said.

"You have to get up early to get to the airport and I have to get up early for practice, so let's call it a night," I said. "Be safe tomorrow ok?"

"Michael, you can't run from this, we need to talk about it," Vicky said. "You're obviously upset."

"What's there to talk about?" I asked. "Have a good trip."

They all got up and followed me to the door. I got on my boots and coat and wished them a good night and then out of there as fast as I could. Instead of going home, I went to the arena and did a full workout, until I tired myself out. I showered in the locker room and then headed home.

I knew I acted poorly but I was tired of everyone leaving me, my parents, the twins and now the Merks sisters. It was again an opportunity too good to pass up. I knew that but I didn't have to act like I was happy about it. I would act better when they got back.

I got into the apartment and spent some time wrapping my gifts to the girls and their brothers before heading to bed. I had a hard time falling asleep and made sure the alarm was on.

Tuesday morning I got up groggily and had to have a diet coke right away to wake up. I took another one for the road and drove over to the arena. After getting changed, I called and left a message on Steph's phone and then Vicky's phone, apologizing for being such an ass last night. I wished them a safe trip and said I would see them when they got back.

I left the phone in the locker room as always and left for the ice. I took my feelings out on the pucks and Patrick after the usual stretch and warm-up skate. It felt good to take out my anger on inanimate objects as my teammates wouldn't appreciate it if I took it out on them.

The team straggled onto the ice and I stopped shooting while they skated and warmed up. Eventually the coaches got the practice going and tailored our offence and defensive schemes to Michigan Tech's game, our opponent on Saturday afternoon. They were a fast smaller team, so we would dump the puck in and punish their defenceman with hits as we chased the puck in. Then we would take the puck hard to the net and hopefully overpower their defence and forwards for chances in front of the net.

On defence we had to slow them down with a trap in the neutral zone and hit him hard as they came in. It would be a physical game and I hoped I would get a chance to prove I could contribute on offence.

Practice was very physical on both sides of the puck as we battled like the coaches wanted to see. No one got into a fight or anything, but everyone knew to keep an eye out for a hit. Our scrimmage at the end of the practice was chippy as players remembered numbers from earlier hits and got their payback. Everyone always took an opportunity to hit me but kept it clean, which was all I wanted.

I got showered and dressed before having breakfast in the cafeteria. I checked my phone and listened to the message back from Vicky. She said I had acted immaturely and I couldn't keep running from every problem. She ended it by saying we needed to sit down and talk when they got back.

I went back to the apartment and did some cleaning and laundry. I checked my email and then relaxed by playing some computer games until lunch. After lunch I lay down on the bed and had a nap.

I got up around three and, after a quick shower, headed to the arena. I was really early so I watched the figure skaters from the windows in the lobby overlooking the rink while eating a sausage. Casey was her usual graceful self but looked even more beautiful as she wore a figure skater's dress instead of the usual tights. She looked very sexy in the short dress, her long, thin but muscular legs and derriere looking especially tight and firm.

I got up and went and got changed for practice and still was early. The ladies took their turns with some jump sequences until it was time to leave the ice. I received smiles and greeting from some the ladies as they walked by; even Casey said hi, which I returned. I had to look at her as she walked away and she looked back as well, this time with a smile.

After Rolf cleaned the ice, we all got on and did the usual warm-up stuff and then shot on the goalies. We worked on special teams first today and then had a longer scrimmage. The coaches would stop the play more often to point out things as they happened, rather than waiting until the end or on the bench.

I got showered and changed after practice was done and grabbed some dinner in the cafeteria before heading home. I watched some TV and checked email and basically lazed around.

Finally my phone rang around eight and I saw it was Steph before I picked it up.

"Hey Steph, how did it go?" I asked.

"Hey Mikey, things took longer than anticipated, but we got a deal done just a little while ago," Steph said.

"Congratulations Steph and let Sammi know the same," I said.

"Thanks. I'll let her know," Steph replied. "As you can imagine, we're all bushed so we're staying the night at the Plaza and flying home tomorrow. It's hectic with the boys here as you can imagine, so I can't talk long."

"That's ok, thanks for keeping me in the loop," I told her. "You get back in the morning or afternoon?"

"Just after noon and we'll be driving straight to Pontiac with the rents," she informed me. "The twins are coming back on the same flight. I think the twins are going directly to Dearborn and want you to meet them there after practice. We would like you to come to Pontiac for Christmas dinner but you won't be able to stay over and you have practice on Friday morning anyway. Vicky will call you later to confirm."

"Is everyone still leaving Monday morning?" I asked.

"No, we have to leave Sunday, so we won't see your Sunday night game," she said. "They want the three of them in the studio first thing Monday, they have plans to use Sammi as a contrast between the twins on a few ad campaigns and they want to see how they look together. It gives the twins a chance to work with Sammi and show her the ropes and Amy can work with me at the same time."

"It sounds like you ladies have it all planned out," I said.

"I'm so sorry about this Mikey, I don't want to leave you or school, but she's my baby sister and she still needs me," Steph said. "It's not about the money for me, it's about her; you know that right?"

"I know Steph, and I agree, she needs you more than I do right now," I assured her. "You need to keep her safe and on track. Don't let her boss you around either. I know she's been trying to."

"Don't worry, the rents are letting her know who's the boss and they control the money because she's only sixteen," she replied. "We talked a lot last night after you left and the twins and the twins made sure Sammi knew how to act properly and not turn into a spoiled rich bitch. For now I think we have her under control, though she's lusting after you and wants you before we head back."

"That's not going to happen," I said. "She better get that out of her head."

"Boy, she is not going to like that idea, let me tell you," Steph replied. "You better have a good reason and extreme willpower."

"I'm not going to give in, she's too young and she's leaving after this weekend," I told her. "I'm not going to just jump into bed with her one time, just to remove her virginity."

"I can see your point but she's pretty adamant Mikey," Steph told me.

"Contradictory to popular opinion, I can say no to a woman," I rebutted.

"She's part of the group now Mikey," Steph reminded me.

"She's not in the group yet, not in that way; and neither is Amy really," I said. "I'm thinking that it might be better to let you five be together and try and keep things less complicated."

"It sounds like you're getting ready to break up with us," Steph said.

"I don't know what will happen, I just know that all of you will be very busy and so will I and I don't want you to be tied down to me, especially Sammi," I said. "Amy is with the twins so she really doesn't count but Sammi shouldn't have to wait two years for me. Maybe it would be best for ladies to stay as a group but also see if you would be happier each with your own guys in New York."

"Michael Stewart, get that out of your head right now, none of us want any other guy," Steph said fiercely.

"Not now, but in time as we're apart more and more, and you interact with more people, you're going to start to wonder and desire other guys, it's human nature," I said. "You're all young, beautiful, healthy women with normal urges. Who knows what will happen but you all deserve the opportunity to be free to explore, rather than be tied to a university student in Michigan."

"Mikey, don't do this," Steph said. "We're not abandoning you and we don't want any other guys. Sammi only talks about you. Don't worry about other guys and us, none of us has even talked about other guys, except to say how much better you are than the asses that try and push their way in. Our only problem, yours and ours, is to find enough time to be together and that is what we need to work on."

I thought about what she said and I must have taken too long because she spoke again.

"Sweetie, are you there?" she asked worriedly.

"Yeah, sorry I just thinking," I replied.

"Do you love me Mikey?" she asked.

"Yes," I answered. "I love you."

"Then everything else can be worked out, because all of us love you," Steph said. "Maybe we need to get you a cuddle buddy, I know a few girls in the dorm who would love to apply for the job. Or maybe you could go after that skater you love to look at."

"I have enough women thank you very much," I retorted. "And John has a big mouth; I just like to watch her skate."

"It doesn't hurt that she's gorgeous though," Steph said with a giggle. "I looked her up and I must say you have wonderful taste."

"You know I would never cheat on you, and I don't need any more women in my life!" I said.

"We know that silly, but we also know that you're a normal guy who has needs," Steph said. "The worst thing that could happen is that you succumb to them and let some tramp get to you. If you met a nice girl that we liked, it would be ok with us, provided Sammi got taken care of first. She would never agree to have some else going before her."

"Would you listen to yourself?" I said angrily. "What normal woman happily gives her permission for her boyfriend to go find a nice girl to boff, but only after taking her sixteen year old sister's virginity first."

"Don't you think I know it's not normal Michael!" she shouted. "I have to share you with tall beautiful models and probably my sister. Now I'm actually considering finding you another woman to take care of you. It's fucked up but I would rather be in this relationship than not be with you at all."

"You should find a nice guy and just be happy Steph, this can't be good for you or the other girls," I said. "I'm not that special of a guy that you need to put yourself through this. Now more than ever I think we need to dissolve this mess."

"Damn-it! Quit feeling sorry for yourself and think about us for a bit," she yelled. "We're all sacrificing something to be with you and we're making it work. If we didn't want to be in this fucked up relationship we would just walk away. So, pull up your big boy pants, make my sister a woman and do your best to please two supermodels, another model and a pissed off short minx that all think you walk on water. We'll be back tomorrow afternoon and we'll all be there tomorrow after six to get it through your thick skull. Goodnight!"

She hung up the phone on me, and I almost threw it against the wall. Then I almost hit the wall with my fist. I grabbed my keys and coat and drove over to the arena and let myself in with my card. I quickly got changed and hit the weight room.

I spent the next hour doing my workout using extra weight on each exercise. My anger dimmed as my energy was used up. I had an exhausted shower and got dressed. Fred was waiting outside the locker room when I came out.

"Want to talk about it Mike?" he asked.

"Personal problems Coach, nothing for you to worry about," I said.

"Those are the ones I worry about the most Mike, because I can do the least about them," he said. "Let's sit down out in the arena for a sec."

"So it's about the ladies?" he asked as we sat down in the dim lighted arena.

"Yeah, Steph's sister just signed a big modelling contract today in New York and Steph has to go with her to New York."

"So now the twins and Steph will be in New York, leaving you here, alone again," Fred said, catching on quick. "That's too bad; I really liked Steph. So you got angry about them leaving and came here to work it off."

"That and other stuff that was said," I told him. "They're back tomorrow so we'll talk but they're all gone by Sunday and who knows when we'll see each other again."

"That's gotta be tough on them and on you," he sympathized.

"Yeah, mostly we're angry about the situation, but what can you do?" I asked.

"Well, sometimes talking about it helps," he replied.

"Sometimes, and other times it's good just to take it out on something, like the weights," I replied. "Not much is going to change talking about it. Anyway, sorry for dumping on you coach, I'm sure you have much bigger problems than my love life."

"No bother Mike, I was here anyway, I just heard you in there and wanted to make sure you were ok," Coach said. "I'm here to listen and give an old man's advice any time you need to unload."

"Thanks, I'll take you up on that if I need to," I responded.

"Please do," he said as he got up.

We walked to the lobby and exited the arena. I made sure his car started and then pulled out behind him as we went our separate ways. Back at the apartment I found a couple of messages from the girls on the phone I had left behind.

"Call me when you get back from slamming weights or pucks around, which I'm sure that's where you are right now," Vicky said before hanging up.

"Mikey, don't take this out of Steph, it's not her fault it's mine," Sammi pleaded. "She doesn't want to leave you, but she's a protective big sister. Be mad at me if you want."

I didn't bother calling either one of them back, it was late and I didn't have anything good to say to either one of them. I got into my shorts and flopped onto the bed and went around in circles inside my head, thinking about the situation. I fell asleep eventually but who knew when.

Wednesday I woke up in a bad mood, both tired and cranky. I had a diet coke and hit the road. I was again the first one there and I broke the glass behind the net on my third shot. After swearing for a good minute, I went and found Rolf. I helped him from the ice side as we cleaned up the old one and put in the new sheet of Plexiglas.

The guys were all out by the end of that chore so I cooled it with the hard shots and took it easy. I shut off my emotions for the rest of the practice and played calmly and coolly but without any passion. At the end of practice Fred came up to me.

"Rolf told me about the Plexiglas and then you played without any emotion at all," Fred said. "Just try to remember that too much or too little emotion is not good when playing hockey Mike. You play best with more emotion, so you can't shut it off. Just try and channel it the right way."

"I'll try coach, just had a bad night," I said.

"Go take a nap and come back this afternoon well rested," he instructed me.

I did just that; after showering getting changed, I headed home and flopped down on the bed again, this time falling asleep quickly. I slept four hours straight, waking up in time to do a quick clean-up of the apartment and grab a bite to eat before heading over to the arena. I was later than usual so I got changed quickly and got out onto the ice just in time to join the others in their warm-up.

Practice was brutal as the coaches decided to focus on conditioning for a while. I guess they thought we would pig out on Christmas Day and wanted to be prepared. After all the skating and stick handling, they went over the game plans, offensively and defensively. A short scrimmage and then they let us go, wishing us a Merry Christmas.

After the usual shower, I got dressed and drove back to the apartment to face the music. I opened the apartment door, expecting them to be there but it was empty. There were no messages on the machine or my cell, so who knew what they were up to. I relaxed for a bit and then ate some leftovers as I was starving.

It was after seven when my cell phone rang. It was Vicky.

"Hello?" I said.

"Michael, where the hell are you?" Vicky asked angrily. "You were supposed to be here just after six!"

"I'm in my apartment, where else would I be?" I asked.

"At the condo, we have supper ready," Vicky said.

"It might have been nice to have been told about it, I just ate leftovers here," I told her.

"Steph said we would be here at six, we were going to surprise you with supper," Vicky retorted.

"No, Steph said you would be here at six, and when you didn't show I assumed you made other plans," I said.

"Hold on," she said angrily and then I heard muffled voices as they discussed it.

"Are you still there Michael?" Vicky asked, a minute later.

"Yes," I replied.

"There was obviously a mix-up in where we were going to meet up," Vicky said. "Why don't you come over and we can talk."

"Listen, practice was hell, and I didn't get much sleep last night," I told her. "I'm in no mood to talk to you tonight so I'm going to bed early. You ladies have a good night."

"Michael, we need to talk about this!" Vicky said loudly.

"Maybe tomorrow," I replied. "Good night Vicky."

I hung up the phone, turned down the ringer on it and on the apartment phone. I'm sure they thought I was acting like a child, and I probably was, but I was tired of dealing with bossy women. I took off my tee shirt and lay down on the bed and closed my eyes. I was tired, physically and mentally, so I actually drifted off to sleep.

I was woken up abruptly by banging on the door and shouting.

"Michael Stewart, open this door now!" Vicky shouted through the partially opened door.

I had put the chain on by habit so she couldn't get in.

"I thought I told you I was going to bed," I said as I opened the door. "What the hell are you doing here yelling so the whole neighbourhood can hear?"

They pushed past me, all four of them, and then turned around and glared at me.

"Michael, we need to talk about all of this; you're upset, understandably so, but we need to get everything straightened out," Vicky started.

"I said we would talk, just not tonight," I replied. "Why does everything have to be done right away with you girls?"

"We're here now, so let's talk," Vicky said as she sat down at the table.

The others sat down at the other three chairs so I leaned back on the counter.

"So why do you want to dissolve this relationship Michael?" Vicky asked. "Do you really want us to find other men?"

"No, but you should all have that freedom to do that rather than be tied down to me back here," I said. "We're going to be apart a lot the next six months or more, busy with your careers and me with school and hockey. It's going to be so difficult to find time to be in the same state, let alone in the same room."

"Is it so you can find someone here to be with?" Becky asked. "Maybe that figure skater that you're infatuated with perhaps?"

"I'm not looking for anyone here, that's not why I said that," I responded. "I'm not infatuated with her; I've seen her on the ice maybe three times and said hi to her once or twice in the hallway as we passed, after she said it first. There is nothing going on."

"And Sammi?" Steph asked.

"What about Sammi?" I returned the question.

"Why don't you want to be with her for her first time?" she asked the question.

"One, she's too young; two, you're all leaving for a while, I'm not going to make love to her for her first time and then she's gone," I said. "That should be a special moment for her and it shouldn't be a onetime event. She should save herself for someone that she might have a chance to be with for a long time."

"Why don't you want to have a companion here?" Becky asked.

"We have enough women in this screwed up relationship already," I replied. "You two seem to be drifting away from me, the five of you seem to be bonding very nicely, and I don't want to bring anyone else into that equation."

"Would you be happier if we broke up this relationship before we left?" Vicky asked.

"I would if I knew you would be getting on with your lives, in a more normal way," I said. "I'm not going to be happy either way, whether we say we're still together or we say we're broken up; either way, I'm here and you're there. I know you all have to go, I'm not trying to stop you, really, but I don't have to be happy about it."

They sat there for a minute looking at each other and at me.

"Michael, can you give us a few minutes, we need to talk for a little bit," Vicky said. "Maybe just go into the bedroom while we talk in here for a bit."

"Ok," I said and went into the bedroom and shut the door behind me.

I grabbed my tee shirt and pulled it over my head. I lay down on the bed and waited for them to come get me.

About ten minutes passed and I heard them still arguing in the kitchen. Eventually there was a knock on the door. I got up and opened it and they came in and sat on the bed while I stood up.

"Michael, we're sorry that you feel we're drifting apart," Vicky started. "We've used you to keep off the vultures and in response we didn't take care of you for the last two weekends. Instead we spent time with the girls and got to know them better. While that isn't a bad thing, it shouldn't be at your expense. You are very important to all of us and we've been neglecting you."

Becky jumped in, "We know we could get other guys and you could get another woman here in a heartbeat, but we would like to try and keep this group together instead. Sammi and Steph bring a new aspect to our group; we find ourselves all attracted to each other and have spent the last few days exploring our feelings. Unfortunately, we did it without you being involved. That will continue when they move to New York, we think, and it will take the edge off us needing other men in our lives. That doesn't help you, except to know that we're not looking to replace you."

"We don't have a good solution on how to keep you satisfied yet Michael," Steph said. "Our schedules are just so busy for the next two months that we can't even free up any of the five of us to come see you for more than one night at a time. The twins think that some of their friends that you have met would be very happy to spend a bit of time with you in a secluded private condo for a few days but they can't speak on their behalf yet."

"Or we can talk to your figure skater for you if you like," Becky said. "We would keep her out of the rest of the group but you could spend time with her so you weren't so lonely."

"And on the subject of Sammi, we understand why you're reluctant to be with her right now," Vicky added. "As women, it might not be so bad if something leaked out about us with her, but you would be charged because of her age. She's very unhappy about it and has tried to sway us to convince you to be with her, but we have to respect your decision on that."

They looked at Sammi, but she just glared at me. The three looked back at me and Vicky continued.

"Bottom line, we don't want to split up with you, but don't have any superglue to fix our problems," Vicky stated. "We want you to be as happy as you can be, so if you really want to break up with us we would understand, but we would rather you stayed with us through this busy time and let us find you some company. Or you find some if you like."

They looked at me, three of them with hope in their eyes, and the fourth with a glare. I thought for a bit and then had to find out about a couple of things before I could make a decision.

"I have a couple of questions," I stated. "The first one is what really happened with Manny Bloom? Don't tell me nothing happened, because you two and Amy were not acting normally after he left."

Becky blushed and looked at Vicky, who sighed and nodded to her.

"He came on to me pretty strong and I got turned on," Becky admitted. "I'm sorry Michael, but I've had a bit of a crush on him for a couple of years and I let him kiss me and hold me for a bit. Luckily Vicky interrupted us and got him out of there."

"Why don't you want to explore a relationship with him Becky?" I asked. "If you both like each other, maybe you should try and see if you connect?"

"He's called every day since, but I know he just wants to have sex with me and then go on to the next girl," Becky said. "He's not looking for a long time relationship and I'm not looking for a roll in the hay."

"Ok, second question, Sammi is very mad at me right now, and she seems to have a great deal of influence over Steph and Amy, and perhaps over you two as well," I stated. "How long before she finds someone else to be with or convinces all of you to leave me? I saw how her eyes gleamed when Becky was talking about Manny."

The girls all looked at her as she glared at me.

"Why couldn't you just be with me Michael?" she shouted. "I'm not some hideous monster and I wouldn't have ever told a soul. All I was doing was trying to make sure the girls would be ok with it. Would you all rather I called up Manny Bloom and let him wham bam thank you Ma'am me instead? I'm sure he would come right over and take care of me."

"Of course we don't want you to do that Sammi!" Vicky said. "But you can't force Michael either and we can only give our blessing, not make him be with you. What have you been doing with Steph and Amy?"

"Nothing, just being with them," Sammi replied.

"Sammi, don't lie to us," Becky said firmly before turning to Steph. "What's been going on?"

"Sammi and I are lovers, we all are," Steph said.

"And?" Vicky asked.

Steph looked at Sammi who was frowning at her and then said, "Nothing else is going on."

Becky pulled out her phone and quickly found a number and then held the phone up to her ear.

"Amy, it's Bec, we're having some serious discussions here, the four of us and Michael, and Michael seems to think Sammi has some influence over you," she said into the phone. "Care to enlighten us about what's been going on?"

Becky listened for a bit, looking at me and at Sammi and Steph. Sammi was looking a bit worried the longer Amy was talking to Becky.

"Ok, we'll be calling you back later about this and other things," Bec said. "Keep your phone near you for a bit please."

"Ok, bye," Amy said, before hanging up.

"Well?" Vicky asked.

"Sammi likes to be the dominant person when she makes love to both of them," Bec said. "She has them both working to convince us to let her be with Michael, which isn't a real surprise, but she's been trying to use them to get us under her influence as well."

"And you thought you would what — be the head of the group or something, boss us around?" Vicky said angrily. "Be Michael's number one girlfriend or something?"

"No, it's not like that, Steph likes me to be dominant and so does Amy," Sammi said quickly. "I just wanted their help to get you to agree to let me be with Michael, I don't want to take over the group."

"You had our agreement on that by Saturday night, why are you still telling them what to do with us?" Becky asked.

"I don't know, I just got into the habit of telling them what to do," she said. "I like that they do things I say."

"I can't believe you tried to take Amy away from us, or boss Steph around," Becky said angrily.

"Ok, I've heard enough," I said. "All of you are acting like spoiled, rich prima donnas; lying to me, lying to each other, kissing guys, kissing girls, playing dominant/submissive games. Frankly, I don't know who the hell you women are right now. You've let your success change you and I'm not sure I like where any of you are right now. So, you four can go and decide who and what you want to be and give me a call before you leave for New York and let me know where you think we stand."

I walked over to a pile of gifts and handed the two piles to the two pair of sisters as they looked on in shock.

"Give these to your parents and your brothers," I said. "If you don't want mine, give them to charity or something."

They stood there looking at each other for at least a minute and then Vicky took control after looking at her sister.

"I'm sorry Michael, you're right, we've become something that isn't what we were," she said. "I don't know if we can go back to how it was before but I for one don't like what we've become. So, we're going to go have a talk back at the condo, with Amy on the phone and see where we go from here. I think we need to separate for Christmas and then we'll get together on Friday, with our mothers and have another long discussion. How about we call you Friday after practice and see where things are?"

"Fine, I should be back here by six thirty," I said.

They quietly walked out of the bedroom and got on their coats and boots. Vicky indicated that Steph go first.

"I'm sorry Michael, I still love you and try and have a Merry Christmas," Steph said, before kissing me on the cheek and walking out of the apartment.

Sammi was next as she came close and said, "I'm sorry Michael, I only ever wanted to be with you, not to cause all this trouble. Try and have a Merry Christmas."

She joined her sister outside and Bec came up to me.

"I'm sorry for allowing him to kiss me and then lying about it," Bec said. "It was an infatuation only; I never would have cheated on you. Try and have a Merry Christmas Michael. I do love you very much."

She gave me a kiss on the lips and then joined the Merks sisters outside while Vicky came up to me last.

"I'm sorry for letting this get so out of hand Michael, we'll get it straightened out," she said. "Don't give up on us yet please and try and have a Merry Christmas. Call me if you want to talk tomorrow, if not, we'll call you Friday at six thirty. I do love you very much."

She kissed me hard on the mouth and then left the apartment. I followed her up and watched as the girls drove off in the Escape. I walked back into the apartment and spent the rest of Christmas Eve night alone. After watching a Miracle on 34th Street, I turned off the TV and fell asleep, thinking about the girls.

Christmas day sucked. I called my Aunt and wished them a Merry Christmas but other than that, I spent it alone. All five girls, even Amy from Maine, sent me an email wishing me a Merry Christmas and apologizing for their actions. I responded to each wishing them a Merry Christmas as well. Surprisingly, I also got emails from Emmy and Leighton in New York, Kristen in LA and Rob from London. I replied to them all with Christmas greetings and wished them well. I ate a roasted chicken meal and then watched a movie before hitting the hay.

I attended morning practice on Boxing Day, or the twenty sixth for the Americans. We had intense scrimmages which suited me just fine as I could hit with a little more oomph than normal and not get yelled at. Both teams, mine and the opposition, learned to clear out of the way when I shot the puck, or risk getting hurt.

After a workout in the weight room, I headed back home and had some lunch. I played some computer games and had a nap before going to the arena for afternoon practice. The figure skaters were on the ice when I got out and I admired Casey. We exchanged smiles as she passed but I fought the urge to follow her with my eyes.

Afternoon practice was a bit tamer and more focused on special teams than on scrimmage. It was snowing when we got out and I drove carefully home to the apartment. I was disappointed when I didn't find the girls in the apartment, I had hoped they would have solved their problems and would have wanted to be here with me. I waited on supper just in case they wanted to join me and just had an apple while waiting for their call.

Right on the dot of six thirty the phone rang and I picked it up quickly.

"Hello?" I said.

"Hey Michael, its Vicky and the rest of us on speaker phone," she replied. "How are you doing?"

"I'm ok, how are all of you?" I asked.

"We've been better," Vicky admitted. "It hasn't been a pleasant couple of days for any of us; just like I'm sure it was a terrible Christmas for you."

"No, it wasn't a great Christmas for any of us, and I'm sorry for making the scene on Wednesday night that caused all of this," I apologized.

"It certainly woke us up on how you felt," Becky said.

"And got a lot of things out in the open so we could talk about them as a group and even with our mothers," Steph added.

"Which may or may not have been a good thing," I replied.

"It had its moments," Steph agreed.

"So did you come to any conclusions yet?" I asked.

"The only thing so far is that Sammi will be backing off, both in regards to her dominant ways and with her attempts to get you to take care of her problem," Vicky stated.

"I'm really sorry Michael, I got caught up in trying to get you to want me that I used anything I could to obtain my goal," Sammi said. "I never meant to hurt anyone or break up you and the group. I just wanted to be in the group."

"I know, but you went about it with such tunnel vision and almost viciousness, that I wonder if you can ever be trusted," I remarked.

"We're going to scale back her involvement with the rest of us, including Steph," Becky informed me. "Steph needs to be in charge and if she can't be, then their parents will have to bring them back to Michigan. We'll be keeping a close eye on the situation."

"Ok, that sounds good so far," I said.

"On the rest, we're still talking about you and us and other women or men in the mix," Vicky admitted. "We're comfortable without other guys and I'm sure you're ok without any women, but we don't know how long all of us can last. We're not even sure why we ignored you so much the last couple of weeks; we should have been all over you but we were more interested in Sammi and Steph instead."

"So where does that leave us?" I asked.

"Let's leave it as is for now, we're heading out Sunday afternoon and will be busy for a bit," Vicky said. "Neither of us are looking for members of the opposite sex, so there is no need to break up, unofficially or officially. Let's see how each side feels in a couple of weeks. If we can't live without each other, then we make a better effort to get together. If we find that both sides aren't missing each other that much, then maybe we take a break and explore other options. How does that sound?"

"What happens when not everyone feels the same way at that time?" I asked.

"I'm not sure," Vicky admitted. "I guess we explore that as it happens."

"Ok, I guess that's a good a plan as any," I remarked.

There was silence as no one had anymore to say.

"Alright ladies, have a good night and a good trip back to New York," I said. "Sammi and Steph, good luck with your new careers. Vicky and Becky, good luck with the ramp up. Try and keep in touch, at least via email if you can."

"Thanks Michael, good luck with playing forward this weekend and with your new classes," Vicky responded. "We'll keep in touch as much as we can."

"I'll do the same," I answered.

"Good night Michael," Becky said, soon echoed by the other three.

"Good night ladies and take care of each other," I said and then hung up.

Well that was a fine how do you do, I told myself. They definitely weren't all that heartbroken about our potential split. I knew I would miss at least the twins and Steph, but they seemed to be a bit blasé about the whole thing.

I got up and heated up some leftovers and then watched a movie while eating. I fell asleep earlier than usual and dreamed about them all with new guys holding their hands as they attended some function.

Saturday I went for a morning skate and some shooting before heading back home for breakfast. I bunkered down with a textbook for a bit before heading back to the arena.

I sat with John for lunch before we were to go downtown to Joe Louis Arena.

John asked, "Nervous about playing forward today?"

"A bit, I'm afraid I'll screw up some defensive assignment and cost the team a goal," I answered.

"Just take a man in your area if there is no one open in front of the net, if someone is open close in, try and cover him as he's the more dangerous guy," John advised. "Stick to your side and don't come down too deep. Coming back, pick up the odd man or the trailer and you should be fine. No one expects miracles from you. Just hit everyone hard, retrieve the puck and get it out of the zone. We know to back you up in the offensive zone and cover a bit better on your side when you're on the ice."

"Ok, thanks John, I appreciate your help as always," I said.

"No problem, giving advice is easy, getting most people to listen is the hard part," he replied.

We finished up lunch and were bussed to downtown Detroit where the Joe Louis Arena sat next to the Detroit River, looking over at Windsor, Ontario. We were hustled into the arena and into one of the dressing rooms. We sat and listened to the coaches for a bit as they discussed the game and the atmosphere playing at such a historical arena. The Detroit Red Wings had won the cup four times in the last eleven years, and were the current Stanley Cup Champions. I was in awe of the surroundings and nervous about playing here, especially with the larger crowds.

The coaches made a point to talk to all the first timers and told us to treat it like any other arena, but to use the extra energy to play a hard physical game. We got dressed and had a short skate and then they cleaned the ice and we went out for the game. I was on the fourth lines so I would see the least action, except for the additional special teams play. I sat on the bench and watched as the game started.

The Huskies were a fast team so we played physical following the game plan to a tee. Our neutral zone trap slowed them down and allowed us to hit them as they came into our zone carrying the puck. The fourth line changed on the fly as the puck was dumped into their zone and I was quickly over the boards and skating over to my wing. I got to my position in the trap and skated backwards as the puck went up the other side. They dumped it in and I parked on the half boards waiting for a pass from our defence.

The puck came around the boards to me and I quickly moved it to Peter, the centre, before taking a hit from a forward. I raced up to get into the play as the puck was dumped in the opposite corner, so Victor could go after it. He tied up the defenceman in the corner and they battled for possession of the puck. Peter was in front of the net and I skated around to the back of the net, hoping for a pass. The puck squirted free and their other defenceman and I battled for it. He kept shoving me from behind, but I kept him away from the puck and finally got my stick on it. I looked left at Victor and then out of the corner of my eye saw Peter waiting in front of the net. I backhanded the puck through both mine and the defenceman's legs out to Peter.

Peter one timed the puck at the net but the goalie was ready and stopped the point blank shot, robbing Peter of a goal as he held onto the puck for a whistle.

The Huskies changed up their fourth line, hoping for a miss-match against us, and surprisingly Fred kept us on. Peter lost the face-off but the puck went into the corner past their defender. I raced in and we hit each other hard. He went to his knees and I whipped a pass out front, where Victor just deflected it wide of the net. The puck went around the boards where Chris stopped it and wound up for a shot. I was already racing to the front of the net and got there just before he let the shot go. I stood in front of the goalie and provided a screen as the puck came in on net. The goalie didn't see it coming but he got lucky as it hit the post. A defenceman cleared the rebound and we changed up the lines as our defence went back to retrieve the puck.

"Great work out there guys, keep up the intensity," Sam told us. "Let Mike handle the battles in there and make sure one of you is out in front for his pass."

We nodded while taking deep breaths and watching the game. The game was fast paced and our physical play was starting to make them wary. They would pass quicker than they had to, so they could avoid a hit. A pass went astray and was picked off by Brad Eddings, right winger of the third line and he had a two on one with Shawn, the centre. The Huskies defenceman took away the pass across and Brad had to shoot on the goalie. The goalie made a fantastic save with his glove and held on for another face-off.

Sam sent us out along with John and Samuels on defence. Pete won the face-off back to Samuels who shot from the point. It deflected off a leg into my corner so I went after it. Their biggest defenceman, still smaller than me, came at me as I recovered the puck. I faked a pass back to the point and went around him as he tried to block the pass. The other defenceman was caught in no man's land as he had Pete to cover out in front. He opted to stay with Pete and defend against the pass, so I had a clear path to the net along the red line even with the goal.

The goalie was hugging the near post and his stick was turned out to defend against the cross the crease pass. I skated in hard towards the net, brought the puck to my backhand as if to shoot the puck in front of the net, and then pulled it back behind the net. I quickly skated around the net and wrapped the puck into the far corner before the goalie could get across. The partisan Michigan crowd cheered as my teammates congratulated me.

We lined back up at centre ice and they came hard into our zone. I crushed a forward to the boards but the puck squirted deeper into the zone. Samuels tried to get it out of the zone but their defenceman on my side made a good play to stop it. He took a second to corral it and tried to shoot it, but I was on him by then and slammed him into the boards.

The puck squirted out of zone as I tripped over the sprawling defenceman. I managed to push the puck forward and Pete raced the other defenceman for it. Pete won the race and tried to pull away but was hauled down by the Husky. The ref called a penalty and the first power play unit came on to join John and I.

The face-off was won by them and they shot the puck down the ice. I went back to get it and carried it up quickly. The Husky penalty killers were stacked up at their blue line so I flipped it into the corner and chased after it. As I was going fast, I got there first and skated around the back of the net with the puck. The goalie got over quicker than last time so I drop-passed the puck for Daniel, the left winger, as we crisscrossed behind the net. He came out from behind the net on the other side and slipped a pass to Gary in front of the net. A quick one timer made it two to nothing as the crowd cheered. I congratulated Gary and went to the bench.

I got on twice more in the first period and blasted a shot on goal that the goalie saved. The game was still two to nothing at the end of the period. We were in high spirits as we got into the locker room and relaxed. While we were drinking, the coaches talked to some individuals, advising them of some play or opportunity for improvement.

Sam told me just to keep up the good work and keep hitting anything with the puck.

The second period was more of the same. They tried to use their speed and carry the puck into our zone, but we lined them up and hit them every chance we could. Fred and Sam decided to use the fourth line defensively against their first line so we got more playing time. I loved getting into scrums along the boards on the right wing or behind their net, where I could use my size and strength. The more we tied up the first line in their zone, the less time they had in our zone.

I must have been getting under their left wingers skin because, after I knocked him down while we were battling for the puck — legally I might add, he swung his stick at the back of my leg, hard. I fell down hard as the leg buckled and the ref immediately called a major penalty plus a game misconduct. I got back up mad all the way through and was going to go after the ass, but Pete and Victor got in between the two of us and steered me to the bench.

I could barely put any weight on the leg for the next couple minutes as our power play worked them over for at the start of the five minute power play. Chris had me walking in the hallway and flexing the leg. Luckily, he had hit me on the calf and, though bruised, nothing seemed broken.

I returned to the bench and Chris told the coaches that I was ok. At the next whistle, I stood up and Frank put me and John at the point of the power play along with the second unit forwards. The face-off was in the Huskies' zone and Henry won the draw back to John. He faked a shot and set me up for a blast. I put all my anger into the shot and my teammates in front moved out of the way in self preservation.

The shot went slightly high as I had to avoid a Husky defenceman who went down to block the shot. It grazed the crossbar and smashed the Plexiglas behind the goal, causing a spider web effect. We skated back to the bench to rest as the maintenance crew worked on replacing the panel. Chris came over and massaged my calf during the time-out and it felt a bit looser.

The staff had the panel replaced in about ten minutes and Fred sent out the first power play unit with John and me at the points again. The Huskies won the draw but Chris, the right winger, tied up the defenceman in the corner. The puck squirted free up the boards towards me and I raced in to retrieve it, just beating their centre to it. I slipped by him along the boards and then turned towards the net. I fired a quick shot for the far post, or so the goalie thought, as he went down in a butterfly to try and stop it. I had deliberately shot wide and put it right on Daniel's stick for an easy tap in the open net behind the goalie.

We congratulated Daniel and then lined back up at centre as the major penalty would go the whole five minutes, no matter how many goals we scored. They won the draw and dumped it into our zone. I went back and took the puck from John holding it behind the net and gave him the codeword for our special play. I came up with slowly and faked a slap dump in, which started their defencemen back. I followed through but passed it to a now streaking John, who took it stride as he crossed their blue line.

He avoided a forward, deked an out of position defenceman and put the puck in the back of the net with a nifty move that got the goalie sliding one way as he went the other and slid the puck over the line. The crowd cheered for the play and we congratulated him before going to the bench.

"Wow, that was a sweet move John," I told him as we sat down.

"Thanks, can't be having you freshmen hog the spotlight," He replied with a grin.

The period ended with the score four to nothing and we continued with our good moods in the locker room. Chris and Wendy had me up on the trainer's table and had my shin pad and hockey sock off, looking at my calf. There was an ugly bruise right across the upper back part of it, already turning purple. It was sore to the touch but my foot flexed fine and I told them I was ok. Wendy gave me an ice pack to hold on it until the start of the third period.

We didn't let up on them in the final period, hitting them every chance that we could. The third line made the score five to nothing on a cute tic tac toe passing play and we shut them down the rest of period. The game ended in a five nothing shutout and we all congratulated Mark in net.

I got showered and was just finished dressing back in my suit when Fred came in.

"Good game everyone, we followed the game plan to the letter and they couldn't adapt," Fred said. "Tomorrow's game will be much harder so no partying tonight. We'll meet at the arena in Ann Arbor at three for a six thirty five game start. Captains, we need to be at the press conference shortly."

I got on the bus with the rest of the team and we waited for the coaches and captains. They gave me some disgusted looks as they got on the bus fifteen minutes later. Better them than me I thought with a chuckle. We drove back to Ann Arbor and I headed home. I watched a movie and then hit the hay.

Sunday I went into the arena for a workout and a light skate and shooting practice in the morning. I relaxed at home after lunch until I got into my suit and drove to the arena. I got on the bus and started reading a textbook. John sat down beside me fifteen minutes later and was surprised I was studying.

"Geez Mike, do you ever just take it easy?" he asked.

"Yeah, it's been a pretty relaxing week so far," I said. "I need to get ahead; I've got a full load of courses this semester."

"You're nuts, you're supposed to take a light one this semester," John told me.

"Oh well, I'm going to have plenty of free time so why not take advantage of it," I replied.

He just shook his head and struck up a conversation with another guy across the aisle, while I continued to read.

We finally got going and arrived downtown at around four thirty. Cameras filmed us walking into the building as the game was going to be on Fox sports. This was a great historic rivalry and, with the fight last game, it was proving to be that way again this year.

The staff had box dinners waiting for us and we ate in a room across the hallway. After that we got dressed and had a brief warm-up skate and then sat down to wait. We finally got on the ice to warm up again and then our first line got ready for the face-off. I was sitting on the bench with the fourth line.

The Spartans decided to take a page out of our game plan from yesterday and tried to hit everyone who touched the puck. The difference was that we were ready for their tactic and played a more up-tempo, puck possession type of game. The puck was off our sticks quickly and moving up the ice while their forwards were still trying to hit the players left behind.

The first line got two good scoring chances that only good saves by the goalie prevented goals. The next two lines also had chances in their end and the puck was frozen by the goalie for a face-off. We went over the boards and they replied with their fourth line. A hulking left winger, two inches taller than me, lined up against the boards beside me and immediately tried to tie up my stick. I moved it on top of his just before the puck dropped and we skated into the circle. The puck went back to the point and their winger went out to cover the point. I set up on the half boards and Samuels flipped it over the winger's stick and stepped out of the way of his charge.

In the meantime, I took the pass and headed directly for the net. Their left defenceman came at me, fully intending to send me into the stands without my head attached. I deked the slow moving blueliner by faking going inside, and cut hard around him to the outside. The goalie came out to cut the angle as I was coming in on him from the side, so I passed it across the ice as the second defenceman came over to stop me. Victor was wide open at the side of the net and slipped it in easily for our first goal as I brushed off the defenceman's hit.

We lined up at centre ice after congratulating Victor and the Spartans put out their first line against us. They won the face-off and tried to bully their way into our zone, but we stopped them at the blueline and counter attacked. Pete grabbed up a loose puck and I shot past their left winger down the ice. Pete lobbed a pass over the one defenceman back and I took it at full speed just before their blueline. The defenceman was trying to hook me, slash me and generally distract me as I went in on net. It worked a bit as I put a deke on the goalie, because he got his stick on my hand at the last second as I tried to flip it up over the sprawled goalie. Instead, it slipped along the ice and into his pads as I couldn't lift my stick. The goalie covered it up and the whistle was blown, not for a penalty, but for a face-off.

I was mad and was going to say something to the ref when Pete came up and pulled me away. The Wolverine fans were booing at the no call while the Spartan's fans were cheering the save.

We changed up and the coaches were giving it to the refs as we sat down. Fred and Sam came over and had me turn around.

"Tough break, you had the goalie beat," Sam said. "Shake it off and keep using your speed against them."

"Mike, their fourth line left winger is a goon, just sent out to make you fight or take your head off with a cheap hit," Fred said. "No matter what, don't fight him, it doesn't gain you a thing, and you'll probably hurt your hands on his thick skull. Keep your eye out for him at all times and use his lack of speed against him. Don't go into the corner too much against him; let's make this a finesse game, not a brawl."

"Ok coach, will do," I said, before turning around.

Sure enough, their fourth line came out again when we did, but this time we came out on the fly. I got over to my wing as Steve carried the puck up from behind the net. He passed it over to his defence partner, Albert, who got it to Pete at centre ice. I straddled their blue line as Pete carried it in and then took off down the wing, the slower winger trying to keep up with me. Pete passed it to Victor as I cut for the front of the net and tried to deflect his one timer past the goalie. Their goalie stopped the deflection and the puck followed me to the left wing corner. I got it out of the corner and back to the left point where Albert one timed it back at the net.

We all crashed the net as the goalie left a juicy rebound after saving the initial shot. Their left winger, with singular purpose, hit me as I came in full bore. We bounced off each other and he flew into the pile where the puck was and knocked everyone there on their ass. I went down on one knee but got up and swung at the puck before getting hit from behind by a forward and falling down again. I was on my stomach looking at the puck as it slid towards the goal.

Their goalie had gone down with the rest of the pile and, as the puck was going over the goal line, he reached back and pulled it out using his goalie glove. The goal judge put on the light as he thought the puck had crossed the line fully. The ref was waving off the goal as he thought the goalie got it time. I pulled myself up off the ice and helped Pete and Victor get untangled from the bodies in front of the net.

The coaches on our bench were asking for a video replay and the off ice officials took a look at the video from above and the goal camera, as well as a couple other angles.

In the end, the goalie's glove hid whether the puck finished crossing the line, though it probably did. So no goal and the score was still one to nothing for us.

We stayed on the bench while the other three lines had their turn. Not much happened on our next turn on the ice, though the hulkster tried his best to paste me in the boards. I avoided his attempts fairly easily and enjoyed the open space he graciously provided me when he was left behind.

The first period ended with the score one to nothing as they tightened up their defence to hold us to the one goal.

"Ok, we're up a goal, but we should be up at least two more," Fred said after we got our drinks. "Keep up the pressure and the pucks will go in. Keep your head on a swivel or you'll get it knocked off and don't get suckered into a fight. They're not a good team this year so they're trying to win by intimidation and rough physical play."

We rested for a while and then went out for the second period. Fred switched things up to try and get them from their matchups, going with the second line first. They had a good shift and the first line followed it up with another one. They drew a penalty as their second line couldn't keep with our first line and tripped Gary.

The first line stayed out and John and I joined them in the Spartan's zone. Gary won the face-off but to the Daniel on the wing. He took the puck deep and passed it around the boards to Chris on the right wing. He kept it for a few seconds and then when the defenceman came out to get him, Chris passed it up the boards to me at the point. I had a forward come out to me quickly so I couldn't shoot, but passed it back to Chris on the side boards.

Chris pulled the defenceman out to him and I shot past the forward in to the area that opened up. Chris hit me with a pass as I wound up and let it fly from the top of the circle. I shot for the low outside post so Daniel could tip it if he got there in time. It turned out he didn't have to as the other defenceman blocked it with his stick up into the netting.

We lost the resulting face-off and John went back to get the puck. I faked one of our special plays and they all back pedalled quickly in response. John was able to carry the puck into the zone and we set up the power play again. We passed the puck around the outside of their penalty killing box and they stayed more passive than usual. Gary moved into the middle and Daniel tried to get him the puck. All four collapsed on Gary so Daniel quickly passed it out to John at the point and he shot it hard on net.

Gary was causing all kinds of trouble in front and the puck seemed to have eyes as it got by the goalie before he could see it. The crowd roared as we all congratulated John and then went to the bench.

A couple of shifts later I got back on the ice with the fourth line and faced their fourth line. They won the face-off and we back pedaled out of their zone as their defence brought up the puck slowly. They got to centre and dumped it in the corner behind Samuels. Their left winger, the hulkster that lined up against me, lumbered in on Samuels and tried to paste him to the boards. I gave Samuels a passing option on the half boards, but he thought he could deke the behemoth. Unfortunately, they both zagged and Samuels ended up planted in the boards while the puck squirted in front of the net. An opportunistic centre bounced on the loose puck and picked off the top corner before Mark could react.

The Spartan fans roared as their team congratulated the goal scorer. Frank pulled Samuels and John off and put on Steve and Albert and we forwards stayed on. The Spartans also kept their fourth line on. As we lined up at centre ice, I caught Frank tearing a strip out of Samuel's hide for his mistake. If it hadn't cost us a goal, I would have chuckled, but I was pissed off as well.

As Pete won the face-off, my nemesis tried to slew foot me by putting his leg behind mine and trying to take my feet out from underneath me. I lifted my skate up and spun around behind him, leaving him to hit air and nearly trip himself as I continued forward to their blueline. Steve got the puck from the face-off win and bank-passed it off the boards to me as I approached their zone. I crossed their line with the puck and passed it to Victor breaking for the net. He took the pass between the circles and wound up for a shot as the two defencemen collapsed in on him. He faked the shot and drop-passed the puck to me as he collided with both defencemen. I shot the puck low through the resulting screen and blew it by the goalie before he could pick it up through the crowd. We changed up after I got congratulated by my teammates.

The score stayed three to one for a while, the play going back and forth without anything major happening. Samuels and John's time on the ice was limited because of his gaffe on the ice. My fourth line got more ice time as we took the play to them, avoiding the physical play while keeping the puck to ourselves. The period ended with the same score as we walked down the hallway to the dressing room.

Fred just cautioned us on taking any unnecessary chances in the third period and to watch out for more blatant checks and other questionable tactics. We rested and hydrated as the coaches moved among us as necessary.

The fourth line got to start the third period as a reward for our good play. We were up against their first line but it didn't matter. Pete won the face-off and Albert carried it up the ice and hit Victor with a pass just past the centre line. Victor dumped it in to his opposite corner so I rushed in and hit the defenceman trying to corral the puck. We battled along the boards, pushing each other with one arm while trying to hold the puck in our feet. I received a check from the other side as their forward came down the boards to help out.

I used the momentum from the check to push the defenceman away on the other side of me. He fell down and I quickly gained possession of the puck with the forward still beside me. I pushed away from the boards and the forward followed me closely. I stick-handled the puck past the sprawled defenceman and then held off the forward who was draped on my left shoulder. I held the stick in my right hand as my left was out straight to stop the forward from getting his stick on the puck. We moved towards the goal from the corner and the second defenceman decided to come over and help the guy on my back.

As he came over to hit me, I slid the puck past him to Pete, now open in front of the net, and then braced myself for the hit from the blueliner. I turned a bit and got the forward on my side to help take the oncoming hit and then leaned in and drove into both of them. We collided into each other and I kept my feet going and pushed through them as they went flying backwards. I staggered but kept on towards the net and batted the rebound back at the net as I fell to my knees. The goalie couldn't react fast enough and it went in over his shoulder.

I shouted, "Yeah!" as I got up and clenched my fist.

It felt great to battle through three guys to get the goal and my teammates were all smiling as they congratulated me. The crowd's roar felt good after that goal as we skated back to the bench. Sam patted me on the shoulder and Fred came over a bit later as well.

"Great hustle out there; that is what I thought you could do Mike," he said. "Keep up the intensity and good things will happen."

I nodded as I gulped in air and took a drink. I watched the other lines take over the game as the life seemed to go out of the Spartans after the quick goal. We kept control of the puck for most of the period and the third line scored one more goal before the game ended with the score five to one.

After getting showered and dressed, Fred told me to come to the press conference.

"Coach, any chance we could restrict the questions to hockey somehow?" I asked as we walked to the conference room. "Maybe state that before we go up or something?"

"Yeah, I could do that," he said. "A lot of them only came for your personal stuff but it's their tough luck."

"Thanks, I'm not up to it tonight," I told him.

I hung back with the captains while he answered a few questions and then announced only hockey questions and received groans in reply.

We went up and I let the captains answer any question not specifically addressed to me.

"Two more goals and an assist tonight Mike, added to your goal and three assist game yesterday, it seems you've found your calling," A reporter stated.

"Just happened to be in the right place at the right time I guess," I said. "My linemates deserve most of the credit."

"Do you like one position more than the other?" another reporter asked.

"I just like playing hockey and learning each position that they want me to play," I replied. "It's all so new to me I can't help having fun whatever position I'm in."

"They were trying to be physical with you out there, how did you find it?" a third one asked.

"They certainly were trying and succeeding sometimes," I answered. "We just tried to use some speed and puck possession to counteract their physical play. I don't mind it as long as it's clean and legal."

I could tell that the non hockey questions were out there but surprisingly they didn't try and slip them in. No one had any more for us so we wished them a happy New Year and left the room. We joined the team on the bus and I sat beside John who had saved me a seat.

"That last one was a hell of a goal Mike," he said quietly. "You really wanted that one bad."

"I just kept going to the net," I replied. "I got lucky on the shot though."

"You keep this up and they won't be able to put you back on defence," he warned.

"I'm just glad I haven't embarrassed myself yet, but I'm sure I will," I told him. "I'll let them decide where to put me."

We got back to Ann Arbor around eleven and before we left the bus Fred got up to say a few words.

"Gentlemen, we had a great weekend, congratulations on winning the invitational," Fred started. "Everyone played very well and we played as a team. We now have almost two weeks before we play Miami here a week from next Friday. So this week's practices are optional, if you want to go home for the week be our guest, just tell us tomorrow if you are. Finally, I want everyone to be safe on New Year's Eve. No drinking and driving, take a cab. Don't drink if you're not of age. Don't drive with someone who's been drinking. Common sense stuff but not easily followed. Use your brains, it's not worth your careers, life or someone else's just to feel good for one night. Have fun but do it responsibly."

He stood there looking at everyone for a few seconds and then added, "You're all young and feel invincible, but I've seen a few more years than you, so believe me when I say, it's hell to have to go to a young man's funeral or worse, visit a young man in prison for killing someone because he was drunk. Use your brains and call a cab or use a designated driver. Please."

He let us out and wished us Happy New Year as we passed. I wished John the same and he returned it.

"What are you doing for New Year's Eve?" I asked him.

"We'll probably go back to her parent's place or mine, now that we don't have to practice," I said.

"Alright, have fun and be safe," I said before we went our separate ways.

I got home and hit the hay, alone.



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Chapter 37


Waking up alone is not fun, but then again neither is sleeping alone. Looking up at the ceiling, I thought about being alone for the next few weeks. It sucked to say the least but I knew I had to keep busy. Turning onto my side, I pushed myself up and went and had a shower to wake up. I grabbed a diet coke after dressing and left the apartment dressed in full winter gear as it looked cold outside. It took a while to get old Bessie warmed up, but finally she was ready and got me to the arena.

I found a bundle of new sticks for me to try out leaning on my locker when I first got in. I carried some of new ones out to the ice along with a couple of my current versions to compare their qualities. Rolf had Patrick set up as usual; he knew I would probably be here just like Chris did.

After a warm up skate, I ran through my usual routine from the point and then from the right wing position using both sticks. The new sticks were graphite sticks and were lighter but still seemed to hold up fine so far under normal shooting conditions. I put them through the full power shots from the point and all three new ones I tried held up. I was impressed and hoped they would stand up to game conditions when I would have to block shots as well.

A few guys trickled in for practice, mostly the rookies and non-starters, and then the coaches came out on time. They surveyed who came and then broke us into two teams, with enough on each team for one line, one pair of defence and three subs. They had us practice set plays against each other for a bit and then we had a scrimmage. It basically gave the coaches time to work with the rookies more closely while giving the non-starters more ice time. The coaches stopped the game more than usual as they pointed things out to individual players.

The thing I liked was that we substituted for the player's position as they came off the ice. I got to play every position at least once and enjoyed the challenge of playing centre. It was cool to distribute the puck to the wingers after carrying it through the neutral zone. Lining up in front of the net was challenging as I got to battle with the defence for position.

They let us go around nine and I headed back to the apartment after showering and having breakfast at the cafeteria. I was at a loss at what to do; there was nothing I had to do really so I powered up my laptop and checked emails before playing some games.

After lunch, I gave Aunt Nancy a call and left a message telling her I would be visiting on my own and asked her when a good time to visit this week was. I read some more of my programming textbook and then started on the calculus text.

I left early for practice and first stopped by the college bookstore and picked up the textbooks I needed for Philosophy and database programming. A quick drive to the arena and I was suited up, still early. I went out to the hall and took up my usual position watching the figure skaters. There weren't as many out on the ice as usual, but Casey was there, practicing her routine. She looked beautiful as always as she glided through her program, without a mistake that I could pick up.

Eventually they were done and they filed past me, the girls giving me less than friendly looks. The coach glared at me as she walked by with Casey. Casey avoided looking at me and didn't look back as I followed her with my eyes as she continued down the tunnel. They turned the corner and only the coach turned to look. She shook her head at me and disappeared down the hall.

I wondered what that was all about as I waited for Rolf to clean the ice. It looked like something had displeased the whole team. I wondered what I had done this time. Well, when I pissed off women, I pissed off all of them it seemed. I went out and helped Rolf with the nets and with putting Patrick on the closest one. Using the new sticks for this practice exclusively, I warmed up with some skating and then shooting on Patrick and then Josh, our third goalie.

The coaches came out and had us working on special teams for awhile before we had another scrimmage. It was fun as we continued to switch positions every time we replaced a skater. There wasn't any hitting so we had to poke check the puck off opposing players. It let everyone take chances with the puck as they came in on net as they knew they couldn't get hit. Don, a rookie defenceman, whooped it up after rushing in on Bob from the side and scoring on a soft shot. We all razed him for taking advantage of the no hitting rule.

"What? That was a great goal!" Don said in surprise.

"Mr. Farr, you would have been put on your butt before you had gotten half way to the net," Fred told him. "Let's not develop bad habits gentlemen."

We played for a bit longer and then called it a day. I was quickly showered and dressed and headed out to my car. I drove home and found a message from Aunt Nancy telling me I could come up any time, and she would love it if I was at their New Year's Eve party at their house. I thought about it and decided to take her up on her invitation and head up Wednesday after morning practice. It would be about a five hour trip from Ann Arbor including customs at the bridge.

I grabbed some leftovers for supper and found a game on TV. During the first intermission I called back Aunt Nancy and she answered this time.

"Hello?"

"Hi Aunt Nancy, it's Mike," I said. "How are you?"

"I'm good thanks, and you?" she responded.

"Doing fine, thanks" I replied. "I'm good to come up Wednesday, New Year's Eve day if that's ok? I should be out of here by nine thirty and get there by two thirty at the latest, unless the weather gets bad."

"That's terrific Mike, the girls and I can't wait the see you," she replied cheerfully. "We'll have a room ready for you. Are you bringing a guest?"

"Nope, everyone is in New York so no guest," I responded.

"Well, I'm sorry to hear that but glad that you're coming here then so you're not alone," she said. "We're having a party here that night so you should have some fun, they'll be lots of people, a bunch in your age group."

"Good to hear it," I said. "Is there a gym nearby? I need to work out while I'm there if at all possible."

"Oh we have a bike and one of those universal machines you can use if that's good enough?" she told me.

"That should be fine Aunt Nancy," I responded. "Ok, I'll let you know when I'm leaving and call if I'm delayed."

"Ok Mike, have a safe trip and we'll see you Wednesday afternoon," she replied.

We hung up and I finished watching the game before heading to bed. I fell asleep thinking about the how things had changed so quickly.

Tuesday's morning practice was more of the same, scrimmaging and advice from the coaches. After practice I did a full workout in the weight room before showering. I had lunch in the cafeteria and then hunkered down in the corner with my new textbooks. I read the first couple of chapters of the database programming book and then the Philosophy textbook.

I noticed some of the figure skaters come in during lunch while I was studying but didn't ogle them. Every time I looked at them they were frowning at me so I kept my head down, reading a textbook. Finally I had enough of reading and went into the locker room to get ready. I thought I had stayed in the locker room long enough to avoid the figure skaters but they started turning the corner as I came out.

They looked at me with the same frowns as yesterday and I almost ran into Casey as I rounded the corner. She was walking with her coach and we had to stop suddenly.

"Does your girlfriend know you like to ogle other women?" the coach asked in disgust.

"It's a very bad habit of mine and I'm sorry to be so rude," I told them while looking at Casey. "You're a very graceful skater and I get caught up watching your routine. I apologize for staring and it won't happen again."

I stepped aside and continued down the tunnel without looking back. I guess not everyone likes to be looked at like Steph did. They must have seen some media thing lately to know about Vicky.

I went out to practice with most of my mind on what just happened. Luckily practice was more scrimmaging, so I didn't need my head in the game. After a bit I tried to put her out of my mind; at least I didn't have to worry about her becoming a friend, let alone a friend with benefits.

After practice I told Fred about my trip to Toronto after tomorrow's practice and he wished me luck. I had a quick shower and got dressed before heading up to the lobby carrying my book bag on my shoulder. I exited the arena and started my car before getting out to chisel off the windows.

A short Japanese girl left the arena and started walking through the parking lot. I kept an eye on her just out of normal concern. She was bundled up in a winter coat with hat and gloves so I wasn't staring at her because of her body. She made it to a Honda Civic parked out in a darker area of the parking lot and had just got the door open when a guy came out of the darkness and grabbed her from behind.

I of course went into save the girl mode and ran over. The girl was lifted off her feet as she kicked and struggled. The guy had a hand over her mouth and was trying to push her into the open door. She got her feet on the door frame and pushed back as she tried to get free. The tall, bulky black guy had his other arm around her waist and pulled her back, dropping her feet from the doorway. He bent her over with his weight and let her mouth go so he could push her in with both hands.

She screamed as he lifted and pushed her in just as I arrived. The look on his face was almost comical as he turned to look at me as my fist came at his head. He was fast in reacting and the blow hit his cheek rather than his nose. He staggered back against the car and took another right to the face before he could get his arms up. Then he started fighting back and he knew what he was doing. I quickly took a couple of shots to the face before I put up any guard.

"You stuck your nose in something you shouldn't have white boy," he said as he slipped another jab past my guard and hit my jaw. "Now you pay the price before I take the little Jap girl and her car."

I saw stars for a second and then lost it. I moved in and, ignoring another punch, drove my shoulder into him and started pounding him through his raised arms. It didn't matter if my fists or his own hit his face as I pummelled him. I switched to his stomach and swung an uppercut into his exposed gut and that did it. He dropped his arms and my next punch connected with his jaw and I felt it give as he dropped to the ground. I staggered back a step as he rolled onto my feet and lay still.

I looked into the car and saw that she had her legs ready to kick out and made sure she knew I was not going to hurt her.

"It's ok, he's down," I assured her. "I think I broke his jaw. Are you ok? Did he hurt you?"

"I hit my head on the door frame and I think I cut my forehead," she said. "I'm a little dizzy actually. Who are you?"

"It's Mike Stewart," I told her. "You're safe now. Can you stand up?"

I held my hand for her and she grabbed it with both of hers and pulled herself up and out of the car. She was dizzy and I had to hold her steady as she grabbed for my arms.

"Easy now, just stay still for a minute," I told her.

"Wow, everything is spinning around and a bit blurry," she said.

"Ok, I'm going to call for help," I said, holding her with one hand while pulling out my phone.

I punched in 911 and had an operator answer in seconds.

"What is the nature of your emergency?" she asked.

"Aborted car hijacking and assault on a girl at the U of M hockey arena parking lot," I said. "The guy is down but the girl needs to go to the emergency, she has a cut and a bruise on her forehead and she's dizzy and her vision is blurred."

"We're sending an ambulance and a patrol car immediately," she said. "Stay on the line for a minute while I get that going."

I heard her through the phone talking to someone else and took a second to look at the attacker, but he was still out. The girl was still wobbly so I lowered her back to the driver's seat and had her sit down.

"Ok, I'm back," the operator said. "They're on their way. Who is this?"

"Mike Stewart," I replied. "I was scrapping my car windows when I saw her get attacked from behind and came over to help."

"Ok Mike, who is the girl?"

"She's one of the figure skaters on the University team, but I don't know her name," I told her. "Hang on a sec, I'll ask her."

I kneeled and asked her what her name was.

"Mitsuko Matsuda, but I go by Mitsy," she said.

"Her name is Mitsuko Matsuda, or Mitsy," I told the operator.

I heard sirens approaching and the hijacker stirred. I moved to him and said, "Don't even think about getting up punk."

He groaned but kept on the ground.

"Is the attacker still unconscious?" she asked in my ear.

"He's stirring and groaning, I think I broke his jaw," I said.

"With what?" she asked.

"My fist," I said. "He put up a pretty good fight. Ok, the patrol car is pulling in. Can you tell him in the far end where it's pretty dark. And tell him the big guy holding the phone is a good guy ok?"

"Just a sec," she replied and I heard her talking on another line.

The patrol car pulled in fast and turned towards us with all of their spotlights on. I was blinded and had to put one hand up to shade my eyes. They came out with their hands on their guns in the holster but didn't draw them as they came over.

"Hi, I'm Mike Stewart, I called it in," I told them. "This guy attacked Mitsy here and she needs to get to the hospital, she's hit her head pretty hard."

"Ok, Mike, I'm Officer Peterson and this is Officer Carlson," the driver said. "An ambulance is on its way and we'll get you both there. Let us take care of your attacker first ok?"

"Sure Officer, be my guest," I said. "I think I broke his jaw."

They both approached the hijacker and expertly had his arms behind him and handcuffed before they turned him over. His jaw sagged a bit when he lay on his back and he screamed in pain.

"Yeah, I guess you did break his jaw," the other guy said. "You took this guy out on your own? What did you hit him with?"

"My fist," I told him. "I hit him pretty hard in the stomach too, so you better check that out too."

"I guess so," he said, looking at his partner. "You better call for a second ambulance, he's not going to lock-up like that."

The driver got on his radio and requested a second ambulance.

"Mike, I'm going to sign off now, you're in good hands," the operator said into my ear.

"Ok, thanks for all of your help," I told her.

"You're welcome, and thank you for helping out Mitsy," she said.

"Like I could just stand around and see her get hurt," I said. "Anyone would have done the same."

"No, not everyone I'm afraid," she said. "Ok, good bye Mike and good luck."

"Good bye," I replied and hung up my phone.

A second police car roared up and soon spectators came over from the arena.

"Mike, I don't feel so good," Mitsy said.

"Hang on Mitsy, the ambulance is on its way, I think I hear it now," I reassured her as I knelt down.

"Ok, but I'm going to be sick," she said and promptly threw up on my legs.

I tried to scramble out of the way but it hit my lower legs.

"Sorry," she said as she finished up.

"It's ok, you couldn't help it," I said.

She sat back up and the ambulance came roaring up.

The police had them look at Mitsy and then at the attacker, explaining what I had said. The split apart and attended to both until the second ambulance came for the criminal. The first set of attendants quickly had Mitsy on a stretcher as her coach came up to see what had happened.

"She was attacked by that guy and she hit her head pretty hard. I think she might have a concussion, Coach," I told her.

She took over handling the personal information stuff with the ambulance attendants and got in the ambulance to go with her to the hospital. The second set of attendants had a brace on the neck of the hijacker and they were in the process of getting him on the stretcher.

Fred and Frank came over to me and asked what happened. I gave them the rundown and they thanked me and then suggested that I visit the hospital as well.

"What for, I didn't get hurt bad?" I asked. "I got one in the cheek and another one up by my eye but I feel ok."

"Mike, it looks like you took a few to the face, you're cut on your cheek and it's bruising pretty badly," Fred said. "From the size of that guy, I bet he didn't go quietly."

"Yeah, he surprised me, he knew how to box and got a few through before I went a little crazy," I told him.

"You better get it looked at officially," Fred suggested. "I'll drive you over when you're done here."

"I'm ok to drive myself Coach, no need for you to hang out all night in a waiting room for a scratch," I replied.

The first set of officers came over and asked to get a statement of what happened. Coach suggested we move to the lobby where it was warmer and they agreed. We walked through the small crowd and sat in the lobby.

Chris had come up and handed me a towel to wipe of my pants and shoes and then took a quick look at my face.

"You need stitches and x-rays Mike, that eye looks a little off to me," he told me.

"Mike, we'll just take a brief statement and then you can get your face and head looked at over at the hospital," Officer Peterson said. "So just tell us what happened from the time you exited the arena to when we got there."

I gave them a quick rundown of what happened and they asked only a couple of questions before they stopped.

"Ok, either us or another officer will come to the hospital and get a full statement from you and Mitsy in a bit, Mike," he said. "Do you want us to get an ambulance for you?"

"No, I'm ok, I'll drive myself over there," I said.

"I'll drive him officer," Chris said. "I'm the trainer and I need to know how he is."

"Ok, they took the girl to the University hospital and you should go there too," the officer said.

"I was planning to take him there," Chris agreed.

"Ok Mike, we'll see you later, and good work out there, you did a brave thing," he said.

"Thanks," I said. "And thanks for getting here so quickly."

"That's our job," he replied before they walked out the doors.

"Ok Mike, let's get going," Chris said, giving me a smaller towel to hold to my face.

"I'll call ahead and let them know you're coming in," Fred said.

"Thanks Coach and sorry again," I replied.

I padded my coat for my keys and remembered that they were in my car, which was still running.

"Shit, my car is probably still running out there, with the door wide open," I said as I started walking to the doors.

Luckily the car was still there and the book bag was still inside on the seat. Chris hopped in and drove me to the hospital and we parked in the lot before walking into emergency. It wasn't too packed and we didn't see Mitsy so she was in getting treatment.

Chris walked me up to the admitting desk and explained the situation. The old battle axe didn't see the urgency and made us sit in the lobby with the other students, even with the blood soaked towel obvious. Chris got out his phone and made a couple of phone calls and five minutes later a doctor and a nurse came out to get me.

"Mike, I'm Doctor Ferriday and this is Nurse Betts," he introduced himself. "Let's get you in and look at your head. Stacey, why don't you get him into a room while I discuss this with Chris for a second?"

"Yes Doctor," she said and then gave me a smile as she lightly took my elbow. "Come on in Mike, we'll get you looked after in no time."

"Thanks," I said.

She was a pretty blonde, about twenty five or so, and about five foot six. She took me through the door and into one of the many rooms lining the hallway.

"Ok, let's get your jacket off and see what's up," Stacey said.

She helped me with the jacket and hung it up.

"Ok, let's clean up those cuts first and then the Doctor will check them out," she said. "How are you feeling? Do you have any dizziness or blurred vision?"

"Nope, I'm fine," I said, wincing as she cleaned the cut with alcohol swabs.

"Sorry, it's a nasty cut, and we have to get it clean before we stitch it up," she said. "I think we'll need to do a cat scan on you as well, the hit to your eye has it looking a bit off."

I put my hand up to my eye and felt the puffiness around it.

"I really need to learn how to duck," I said as I winced again.

"Well, from the size of the guy they brought in, I'd say you were lucky to get away with only relatively minor injuries," Stacey replied. "You certainly did a number on him."

"How is Mitsy, the girl he attacked?" I asked her.

"She has a severe concussion, he hit her head on the door frame very hard," Stacey told me. "They're taking x-rays and doing a CAT scan on her and will take good care of her."

"I hope she'll be alright, she was such a tiny thing compared to him," I said.

"You did good getting her here quickly, she could have gone into a coma if she didn't get treatment," Stacey said, while still working on my face.

After a few minutes, she looked at my hands; but though they were a bit swollen, they weren't cut as I had my new gloves on which protected them.

The doctor came in and said, "Ok, I see Stacey has you cleaned up, let's look at that eye and then we'll stitch you up."

He spent a couple minutes looking at it and then used a light to inspect it closer. It started watering and I felt a bit queasy as it blurred up.

"Wow, I just got queasy and it's blurring up Doc," I said.

Stacey grabbed a steel spit container and held it up to me. I grabbed it and kept it close.

"Ok Stacey, get him lying down and I'll get the CAT scan and x-ray scheduled. We'll stitch him up quickly and get him upstairs," the doctor instructed.

"Yes Doctor," she said and started getting me lying down. That was a mistake as I started to get sick. I moved the spit tray over and threw up into it; luckily I hadn't eaten supper so there wasn't much in there.

"Shit, sorry about that, I'm not feeling so hot," I said.

"Luckily it all went where it was supposed to," Stacey said, grabbing the full one and quickly handing me another one.

I lay down on my side for a bit and closed my eyes.

Stacey shook me a couple minutes later and said, "No Mike, you have to stay awake."

I groaned and opened my eyes and shut them quickly as I got dizzy again.

"Damn, I get dizzy when I open my eyes," I said. "It's all fuzzy and wacked up."

"It's ok Mike, keep them closed, just don't go to sleep," she said, sounding more worried.

I couldn't believe how a simple hit to the side of the eye could throw me for such a loop. I held on to the tray and closed my eyes. I heard more people come in and someone took the tray from me and then everything went black.

When I woke up again, I was in a bed lying with my head up on a bit of an angle. My damaged eye was covered and I was in a hospital gown with a blanket up to my stomach. I looked around and saw it was daytime as the sun was shining into the room. I had a headache, my eye was throbbing and my throat was dry.

I reached over and grabbed the Styrofoam cup and sipped on some water. I found a call button attached to the blanket and pressed the button. Soon a nurse came in and saw I was awake.

"Mike, you're awake!" she said with a smile. "You had a lot people worried about you."

"What happened?" I asked her quietly.

"You passed out when your eye damage made you sick," she said. "They did CAT scans and x-rays and there's no damage but we have an eye doctor on standby to check out what's wrong internally with your eye."

"I have a splitting headache; can I get some aspirin or something?" I asked.

"I'll get the doctor up here right away and we'll get you all taken care of," she said.

She walked out and I felt so bad I didn't even scope her out, much. I closed my eyes and just listened to the sounds. Eventually I heard people coming into the room and opened my good eye to see four people in white coats plus the nurse looking down at me.

"Ok, is there a convention in town or am I hurt more than I was told?" I asked.

"Hi Mike, I'm Doctor Langlois, and these are student Doctors that make rounds with me," the older woman informed me.

"Hi everyone, I'm glad to be your guinea pig for today," I said quietly. "Can I get an aspirin for my headache Doc, I can't think straight."

"As soon as Doctor Patel takes a look at your eye we'll get you on some painkillers Mike," she replied. "We have to be careful not to damage it further with the wrong medication. He's on his way and should be here in a minute."

I nodded, which was the wrong move as I got another sharp pain near my eye.

"Ok, we're just going to take your vitals until he gets here," she said and I shut my eye and let the team work on me.

A few minutes later an East Indian voice greeted the other doctor and they discussed my case.

"Mike, Dr. Patel is here, we're going to check out your eye now," Dr. Langlois said, causing me to open my good eye.

"Hey Doc, you better have a bucket ready, it really causes some weird stuff to happen," I told him.

"Certainly Mr. Stewart, we'll be prepared," he replied formally.

The nurse had a tray ready as they pulled the bandage off my eye.

"Ok, open it up and we'll take a quick look," Doctor Patel instructed.

I did and blinked it a few times until I could see out of it and tried to focus on him with both eyes. He let me get steady and then came in close and looked without a light but with a scope of some kind.

"Ok, I'm going to shine a light in for a few seconds Mr. Stewart," he warned me.

The light was turned on and I blinked a few times and then tried not to stare at it. He moved it around while he looked through the scope and the eye started to hurt and water.

"Ok, I've seen enough," he said, standing up and shutting off the light. "You have traumatic iritus, which is in layman's terms, trauma to your iris; it's what is causing your pain when subjected to bright light, your headaches and nausea. The iris controls the amount of light that goes into your eye and it contracts when there is too much. So you have damaged it and we need to keep strong light out of both eyes as the pupils will both contract at the same time which will cause more pain."

"We'll give you some drops for the pain and to get your iris to relax and get the swelling down," the Doctor continued. "It should be better in a week or so as long as you keep it relaxed and don't let in a lot of bright light."

"Thanks Doc, it doesn't sound as bad as it could have been," I told him.

"No, you got lucky Mr. Stewart," he said. "I will need to see you in a week to evaluate you but no major physical activity in the meantime and wear sunglasses unless you're in a low light room. I'll leave instructions in the chart on the medicinal drops needed and how often."

I thanked him again and he left.

"Ok, these three will do a quick look at your cut while I will consult with the doctor and see if you can get out of here today Mike," Dr. Langlois said before following him out the door.

"Ok Mike, let's get a look at that cut," a statuesque brunette said as she leaned over.

She pulled the bandage off slowly and the other two male doctors moved around to peer down at my face.

"Ok, it seems to be healing fine, Doctor Ferriday did a nice job on it," she said. "You shouldn't have much of a scar; you're modeling career shouldn't be affected."

She grinned down at me and the other two laughed.

"What a relief," I said dryly.

"Your fan club will be relieved to hear you're ok," she teased. "You have a bunch of people waiting to see you if you're up to it?"

"Let's wait until the Doctor comes back and see what she says," I replied. "Maybe I can get out of here and see them all at once."

"Ok, let's bandage it back up and get you a pair of sunglasses for now," she said.

They all helped with the re-bandaging and were just finishing when the good Doctor came back in.

"Ok, we're going to give you the first set of drops now and then another in four hours and then we can let you go home," she told me. "Cathy can stay here and wait for the drops and administer the first dose."

"Ok Doctor and thanks," I said. "Do you know how Mitsy is?"

"She has a concussion, but no other major injuries," she replied. "We stitched up her cut and she's resting comfortably."

"I'm glad she's ok," I said before closing my eyes to rest.

"Ok, rest those eyes and Cathy will put some drops in them when they come up," she said. "After that we better let in some of the people to see him or they will cause a riot."

I must have dozed off as Cathy had to shake me to get me to wake up.

"Ok Mike, open those eyes so I can put some drops in" she said. "I've dimmed the room lights and closed the curtains so it shouldn't be too bad."

I opened them both up and focused on her face. She smiled and then showed me the drops.

"Five of these and you'll feel better and then we'll make you look like a rock star for your fans," she told me, holding up a pair of sunglasses.

"Ok, Cathy, do your worst," I said. "I'll try not to faint and weep like a little girl."

She laughed as did the nurse. They moved in close and the nurse held my eye open while the good doctor dispensed the drops right onto the pupil. They smarted and my eye blinked a few times but then felt better.

"That's better," I told them.

"Good, now we'll let in a couple people at a time to see you," Cathy said. Keep the glasses on, they've all been told what's up so you don't have to tell them about it or take them off to show them."

"Ok, thanks you two, I appreciate the excellent care," I told them.

"Well, we appreciate you saving that girl so don't mention it," Cathy replied.

They left with smiles and a couple minutes later the coaches came in and made sure I was ok and I assured them. After they left some of my rookie teammates came in as well. Finally the well-wishers were all done and I slept for a bit.

Around five Cathy and a new nurse came in and gave me some more drops and then let me get dressed. I asked if I could see Mitsy before I left and Cathy walked me down the hall and we peeked into a room.

Mitsy was sleeping and her parents looked up from their books. Cathy explained who I was and they immediately got up and thanked me for saving their daughter.

"You're welcome but I'm just glad I was in time," I replied. "How is she doing?"

"She's has a concussion but she's improving," Mrs. Matsuda said. "She'll need to rest but eventually she should make a full recovery."

"That's good news," I remarked.

"How are you doing Michael?" Mr. Matsuda asked. "We were told you passed out yesterday."

"I have an eye injury that is affecting me a bit, light is really bothering me so I have to wear sunglasses and keep in dim light for a week or so, but it should heal in about a week," I said.

"I'm glad you're going to be ok as well," Mrs. Matsuda said. "If there is anything we can do for you, please don't hesitate to call."

"Yes, here is my card, we are in your debt," Mr. Matsuda added, handing me a card.

"Thank you for your kind offer, but you don't owe me a thing," I said. "Just knowing Mitsy is going to be ok is payment enough."

I shook their hands and left them before they got uncomfortable. The nurse wheeled me in the obligatory wheelchair to the elevator and then helped me get checked out.

There were some press and a camera crew waiting for me in the lobby but the nurse let me out of another door close to the parking lot. I avoided the lot of them and got into my car. I drove home slowly and got into the condo about six thirty. After a nice hot shower I got into some comfortable shorts and a tee shirt and then called Aunt Nancy, getting her machine.

"Hey Aunt Nancy, I'm sorry I can't make your party, but I sustained an injury to my eye and can't drive for a week," I left a message. "I'll talk to you later."

I heated up some leftovers and ate a little bit. After that I lied down on the bed in the dark bedroom and fell asleep.

Thursday, January first, two thousand and nine was a pretty boring day for me. I woke up alone, was alone all day and went to bed alone. I did talk to a few people on the phone; Aunt Nancy and her girls, John and Amanda, and Coach called. I tried to read through sunglasses and gave that up quickly as I did the laptop soon after.

So I watched, through sunglasses, some of the New Year's Day college football games. Our football team sucked this year so I watched the Michigan State game before shutting it off and falling asleep on the couch.

I woke up in time to heat up some chilli and put in the eye drops and then watched a movie before hitting the hay.

Friday I went to the arena early and did some light skating before the few guys that showed up came onto the ice. Fred wouldn't let me practice with them so I got changed and worked out until Chris stopped that. He told me no working out until the doctor cleared me next week.

So I grabbed some movies on the way home and vegged out on the couch for the afternoon, watching all three Lord of the Rings movies back to back ... to back. I ordered some pizza to be delivered and then ate it while watching another football game. I went to bed and fell asleep, feeling sorry for myself.

Saturday my eye was better as I could survive in dim lighting without the sunglasses. I played a bit on the computer and read my textbooks until my eyes got tired. The rest of Saturday was more lazing around, eating supper and watching a movie before hitting the hay.

Sunday my eye felt much better so I took a walk to the rink and skated a bit in the morning but didn't do any shooting. After a quick shower I walked back to the condo and had some lunch. I did some reading in the afternoon before watching a hockey game. After some leftover pizza for supper I watched a movie and went to bed, glad the week was finally over. I realized that the girls hadn't called or emailed all week, and they didn't know about the incident. So much for keeping in touch I thought. I guess we really were taking a break. I fell asleep feeling sorry for myself until I remembered I still had it pretty good.



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Chapter 38


I was up and out the door early Monday morning, raring to go to practice and get back to classes. I had a full day with two math classes after practice and then Philosophy after lunch. I was going to head over to the University hospital after that and see the eye doctor to get his medical clearance to resume practicing before heading back for afternoon practice.

I knew the coaches wouldn't let me practice this morning so I got there early and just skated with a stick and puck, practicing stick-handling before the guys got here. I felt a bit sluggish but warmed up nicely before the team trickled onto the ice. I left the ice as they started shooting at the nets and sat down on the bench.

"So, I hear you played hero again last week" John said as he stopped in front of me on the ice.

"Just helped out a girl," I said.

"You make it sound like you carried her books up the stairs," he remarked with a frown. "How's the eye?"

"Healing nicely, I'm going to see the eye doc this afternoon to get his approval to get back to practicing," I told him.

"Why the hell are you here then?" he asked.

"Just what I was going to ask," Fred said, walking up behind me.

"Just getting in some non-contact skating," I said. "The eye feels great and no issues with the lights in here, so I'm sure I'll get at least non-contact permission this afternoon."

"Until then, you shouldn't be on the ice at all Mike," Fred said with a frown. "There are rules about all of this, for your and our protection."

"Well, I skated Friday and yesterday with no issues so don't worry," I said. "I'll go get changed and hang about to hear the game plan for this weekend."

Fred just shook his head as I got up and headed down the tunnel. I quickly had a shower and then got dressed and grabbed my book bag before heading back out to at least listen to the coaches. The team gathered close to the benches so I stood nearby to hear what they had to say.

"I hope you all had a nice holiday because now we get down to business," Fred began. "We have Miami in on Friday and in case anyone doesn't remember, we lost both games to them in Oxford Ohio in late November. They are coming in here ranked eighth in the nation while we are eleventh. I find that most unacceptable and all of you should as well."

"We played decent games in Oxford but couldn't score while they got lucky with their goals," Fred continued. "We've made some changes that have increased our scoring so hopefully we will solve their goaltender this time. So, we will be playing an up-tempo game with high pressure defence with a one-two-two neutral zone trap. Let's get started."

I stood by the bench as the coaches walked everyone through the offensive and defensive plans for the weekend. I paid close attention to what I needed to do as a right winger as well as a defenceman just in case.

I left the practice after the scrimmage started and headed up to the main campus. After grabbing a diet coke and a muffin, I made my way to the math building and found the new classroom for algebra. It was empty so I grabbed a seat and pulled out the textbook to read the next chapter while I waited. Slowly the room filled up as the students trickled in with their coffee and book bags.

Eventually, the professor came in and introduced himself as Doctor Milan. He was a short Italian with a balding head who wore a shirt and slacks. After handing out the course outline, he started a quick review of the first semester. After that, he began the new material with the next chapter in the textbook and finished that up as the class ended at ten twenty. He assigned some questions from the end of the chapter as the first assignment, to be handed in next Monday.

I quickly packed up and headed down a floor to find my calculus room and found a seat. A professor Hiller came in and had us come down and grab a syllabus. She was a fairly young - probably mid to late twenties, a blonde woman with an English accent. She was quite attractive, dressed in a skirt and blouse outfit and stood about five foot six or so.

She went over the course outline and then did a review of what we were expected to know already as a prerequisite to the course. After that she went through the first two chapters and assigned some questions for the weekly assignment, again due next Monday.

I walked to the nearby cafeteria and got in line for lunch. I got a few looks from people in line, but I figured it was from the bandage on my face until a couple girls said 'Hi Mike' and giggled as they walked by. I wasn't sure why I was popular all of a sudden.

I ate by myself at a far table while reading ahead in the Philosophy textbook. I ignored the looks from some of the tables around me and concentrated on Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, the Greek philosophers in the first few chapters.

Finally it was time to head over to the nearby social studies building to find the classroom. As this was an introductory class that lots of people took, it was held in a huge two storey room that looked more like a theatre than a classroom. It sat at least five hundred people and it was getting filled up quickly. I walked up the right side and found an aisle seat about half way up. I pulled out my notepad and my textbook and continued reading where I left off.

Soon most seats were taken but no one had sat beside me yet. The noise level dropped and I looked up, thinking it was the professor coming into the room. It was instead a stunning blonde walking across the front of the room that had caught the attention of all the guys and most of the women in the room. Her short leather jacket was open to show her impressive chest and her painted on jeans were stuffed into fashionable leather boots that clicked on the floor. As she was set to climb the stairs, I could see a tiny knowing smile on her face, indicating to me anyway that she knew she was attracting everyone's attention.

I resumed reading as she wasn't my cup of tea. She was a little too aware of her beauty and seemed to be enjoying being the centre of attention. Of course, the clicking of her heels stopped beside me.

"Is that seat taken?" she asked.

I looked up and replied, "Nope."

I stood up and let her past before returning to my seat and continued to read as she got settled. She took her coat off and put on the back of her seat and then sat down and put her notepad on the small table.

The professor came in shortly thereafter and was a tall good looking man in his mid-thirties. He introduced himself as Professor Rehnquist as he handed out stacks of course outlines to the bottom row and had them pass them up. I got handed a pile, so took one and handed it off to the blonde beside me. She thanked me with a smile and passed the stack along after putting one on her desk.

The professor went over the outline and what was expected of us this semester.

"Shit, I lost my pen; would you happen to have one I can borrow?" the girl asked me.

"Yeah, give me a sec," I replied and pulled one out of my book bag.

"Thanks, I'm Nora by the way," she said.

"Mike," I replied, trying to be quiet.

The prof got started on the lesson and I was busy writing down notes as were the rest of the class. He covered most of two chapters before letting us go at two twenty.

"Thanks Mike for the pen," Nora said with a smile as she handed it back.

"You're welcome," I replied, taking it as I packed up and stood up.

"Wow, you're a tall one," Nora exclaimed with a grin. "Care to join me for a coffee Mike?"

"Thanks, but I have an appointment," I replied. "See you later."

"That's too bad, I was hoping to get to know you better Mike," Nora remarked with a fake pout. "I'll see you Wednesday."

I nodded to her and took off down the steps to get away as fast as I could. It took a couple of minutes to get out of the room as the masses all tried to squeeze out of the doors at the same time. Finally I got out and left the building, heading north to the W. K. Kellogg Eye Center, where Dr. Patel had his office.

About twenty minutes later I was sitting in his waiting room, tackling my Algebra assignment while a couple of kids ran around the room. I finally got in to see the good doctor about three fifteen.

"How's the eye feeling Mr. Stewart?" he asked as I sat down in the big chair.

"Much better Doctor," I replied. "Light doesn't bother it anymore, including bright sunshine walking here just now."

"Good, let's get a look at it to be sure everything is back to normal," he replied as he brought his wheeled stool close in.

He looked at my eye through a scope he pulled down on a bracket attached to the ceiling, without any additional light to start. He switched lenses and filters and continued to look at the eye, asking me to look one way and then the next.

"Looking good so far Mr. Stewart; now let's see how it reacts to different levels of light," Dr. Patel warned me.

He started with a low level light and observed the eye's reaction. He continued to increase the brightness until I had to squint from the glare.

"How does the eye feel now?" he asked as he shut it off.

"Wow, that was bright," I said as I blinked a few times. "It's ok, doesn't hurt and no dizziness."

"Good, everything looks back to normal, so I think you can get back to practice," he responded. "I would keep from major contact for a few days, but you should be fine for a game by Friday."

"Great news Doc, thanks!" I replied. "Can I get that in a note for the coaches and trainer please?"

"Sure, let me handle that now," he answered.

Soon I was on my way back to the main campus and on to the arena, trusty note in my pocket. The team was all changing as I got into the locker room and quickly joined them getting ready. I carried the note to the rink and handed it to Fred with a grin before stepping out onto the ice.

I skated around the ice to get warmed up and then joined the team shooting at the goalies. I stepped into a puck and blasted it in on Mark and broke his stick.

"Damn it Mike, I liked that stick!" Mark shouted. "Go save another girl or something!"

The guys all laughed as I shot a weak wrister at his butt as he skated to the bench to get another stick. Fred handed me a red mesh jersey and reminded everyone of my delicate disposition for the next few days which generated more laughter.

Practice was more offensively minded with a high speed puck possession type of offence being worked out. We carried the puck in rather than dump and chase it into the corner. If we were stopped at the blueline from carrying the puck in we would make small passes to the wingers or use a soft bank off the boards and try and retrieve the puck just past the forwards and before the defence.

It felt great to back on the ice and I loved the high speed offence. Pete, Victor and I soon jelled as a unit again after having a week off. Pete was a master of faking which way he was going to pass or carry the puck in and we had to be ready at any time to take a pass.

We switched to defence and I learned my position in the one-two-two neutral zone trap, covering the right side, hoping to intercept a bad pass to the winger or hit the recipient of that pass. I had to just lightly run into him of course, at least for the next couple of days.

Finally we had a scrimmage and I had a couple of good chances to score, putting one of them through Josh as he tried to sprawl to cover more of the net. I was pretty bushed when we were done and took my time grabbing a shower and getting dressed.

With my book bag over my shoulder, I headed out of the locker room as Frank was headed in.

"Mike, Angie is in Fred's office looking for you," he said.

"Thanks Frank, I'll head the other way then," I said with a grin.

"Probably the better decision, but unfortunately not the right one," he admitted with a laugh.

I turned left and went down to enter Coach's office.

"Hi Coach, Miss Dawson," I said. "Frank said you wanted to see me?"

"Yeah Mike, Angie tells me that the security cameras caught your escapade last week and the video got leaked to the web on the weekend," Fred said. "Angie, why don't you take over?"

"Ok Coach," she agreed. "Mike, we've been bombarded with calls and email requests to discuss the incident with Miss. Matsuda and yourself. Mitsy is still recovering at home from her injuries and obviously is in no shape to deal with the press. Since it's an assault case, we haven't broadcast the incident at all, but someone here did."

"I certainly didn't and the twins don't know yet," I told her. "I avoided the media at the hospital on Wednesday evening by sneaking out another door. I don't have a clue who leaked it."

"Oh, I wasn't blaming you Mike, I meant someone from the security staff," Angie replied. "So far we haven't addressed it other than to admit there was an incident. The police report and the 911 call is public access so they know who was involved. Expect to get ambushed as soon as you hit the lobby."

"Shit, maybe I can slip out the side door or something," I suggested.

"They'll get to you eventually Mike," Angie replied. "You might just want to answer some questions while I'm here to control them."

I looked at Coach and he said, "I agree, get it over with in one shot. You didn't do anything wrong, you saved that girl and the attacker is in jail."

I sighed and then agreed, "Ok, but just questions about the attack. How is Mitsy anyway?"

"She's recovering slowly but it was a severe concussion, so she needs to rest another week before returning to school, and another week before she can start skating casually," Angie replied. "Alright, let's get this over with. Thanks Coach."

"Yeah, thanks Coach," I said dryly.

"Next time, make sure there aren't any cameras around superhero," he replied with a grin.

I shook my head as I followed her out the door. We walked side by side for a bit until we hit the set of doors and I let her go first through the doors and up the stairs to the lobby.

As we came into view, a bunch of reporters crowded close and cameramen turned on their lights and video cameras. Angie moved to an area in front of a big Wolverine logo and held up her hand.

"I will be reading a short statement and then Mike Stewart will answer a few questions about the incident only," Angie said. "No questions on Mike's personal life or hockey at this time. Ok?"

There were some nods, a couple of groans and a few yes Ma'am.

She paused and then started, "Last Tuesday evening there was an incident in the arena parking lot. A young lady was getting into her car when she became a victim of an attempted carjacking and kidnapping. She struggled and was injured when her head hit the doorjamb hard. Another student, Mr. Mike Stewart, a member of the University of Michigan Wolverine's men's hockey team, witnessed the attempt and rushed over to help. He fought with the attacker and managed to subdue him, sustaining injuries to his face and eye. Mr. Stewart called 911 and police and ambulance arrived to detain the attacker and provide medical assistance to the young lady and the attacker. Mr. Stewart also went to the hospital for the night for treatment to his face and eye."

"On behalf of the University Athletic Department, we thank Mr. Stewart for his timely rescue of the young lady. The University will be increasing the lighting in the parking lot and providing more visible security in the area. Mr. Stewart will now answer some questions about the incident for the only time."

"Mike, can you tell us in more detail what happened?" asked a reporter.

"There's not much more to say; I was scraping my windows and saw the young lady get grabbed and ran over," I started. "I got there just after he shoved her into the car and got the jump on him. We traded a couple of punches and I got in a lucky shot and he went down. I called 911 and waited with the lady until the police and ambulance got here."

"What were your injuries?" another one asked.

"I had a cut stitched up and a bruise to my iris that caused me some pain and nausea when exposed to light," I said.

"How are you now?" a reporter shouted out.

"The stitches come out tomorrow and the eye is healed," I replied.

"How is the young lady?" a woman reporter asked.

I looked to Angie and she replied, "The young lady has a severe concussion and is resting at home. She should make a full recovery but concussions are tricky things and she needs peace and quiet."

"How does it feel to be a hero on top of a star hockey player?" I was asked.

"I don't feel I'm a hero, I just did what anyone would have done in the same situation," I answered. "I'm happy that she will recover but sad that I couldn't get there fast enough to stop her from getting hurt. I will say she put up a heck of a fight before I got there so she's more of a hero than I am."

"The attacker's lawyer is saying you brutally beat up his client, attacking from behind and were excessive in your assault on him," a slimeball reporter asked. "What do you have to say in your defence?"

"I was just informed that the video has been leaked of the incident and you all probably have seen it," I replied. "I'll leave it up to you to decide the answer to that question."

"What does your girlfriend have to say about your rescue of a beautiful young lady?" another woman asked.

"No personal questions," Angie said.

"Will you be playing this weekend?" a reporter asked.

I looked at Angie and she said, "No hockey questions. If there are no more questions about the incident, then this interview is over. Thank you for attending."

She took my arm and we marched back to the doors we came out of as the reporters shouted questions about the twins.

"Geez, they're like a pack of hyenas," Angie said angrily. "You handled yourself well back there. Just give the minimum answer and don't be afraid to leave stuff out. I never lie to the press but I don't have to tell them everything either."

"Thanks for going out there with me, I would have handled that badly if I was alone," I told her.

"That's my job," she replied. "So Coach tells me that Steph has gone to New York with her younger sister and you're alone here. That must be tough."

"Yeah, it was nice to have someone to study with and hang out with, but her sister is only sixteen and needs her a lot worse than I do," I told her. "The twins are getting super busy as well so we're kind of on a break."

"Well give me a call if you need some help or just need to talk to someone," Angie offered. "I know what you're going through so I can relate if you need some advice."

Thanks, I'll be sure to call if I need to," I replied.

"And I'll need a copy of those Calvin Klein photos and commercials so I know what all the fuss is about," she said with a grin.

"They have to come here to get approval, so you should be in the meeting so you can comment on them," I told her. "I haven't seen anything yet so you're out of luck."

"Well, I'm reserving a copy of them right now," she said. "Ok, you better wait a few minutes and slip out the side door and walk around to get to your car."

"Ok, thanks Miss Dawson, have a good night," I said.

"It's Angie, I'm not that much older than you, Mister," she growled. "If you weren't already attached I'd be after you myself."

"Wow, I'm flattered that a beautiful lady would be interested in me," I told her. "And I think you look young enough to be a freshman so I'm just being respectful calling you Miss Dawson. I'll call you Angie in private if you like."

"You keep up that charm and I'll forget my rules about students and attached men, Mike," she said with a grin. "Let me know if you become unattached and we maybe we can get together."

"Um, sure," I said with a blush.

"You are so cute when you blush," she said as she walked away with a wiggle.

I turned away quickly so I wouldn't get caught gawking and headed out to a side door and walked around the rink. I slipped into my car quickly and got it started before any of the straggling media caught me alone. I was back safe and sound in the apartment fifteen minutes later.

After some supper, I tackled my assignments in both math classes before finishing the reading on the Philosophy chapters the professor had covered. The midterms were going to be written papers instead in that class but I hadn't gotten far enough to start those yet.

I settled down with the database textbook to read ahead before tomorrow's class. I fell asleep with the book on my stomach and dreamed of Nora and Angie fighting each other trying to get a piece of me.

Tuesday morning I woke up to see snow piling up on the basement window. I had a quick shower and some breakfast before heading to the arena. I parked up close and headed into the building, brushing away the snow that stuck to me when I got into the lobby. After stomping my boots on the mats, I headed down and got dressed for the ice.

Rolf was just finishing cleaning the ice so I helped with the nets and Patrick. I had the ice to myself for half an hour and then the team trickled in. Practice was more of the same so I was tired when I got off the ice. I had to get dressed quickly though as the weather would make the walk up to the main campus a bit slower.

I slugged through the blowing snow and the two inches already accumulated on the ground and arrived just as the professor did at the building.

"Hey Mike, good work at the tournament and helping out that girl," Dr. Albert said as we brushed ourselves off and stamped our boots.

"Thanks. How were your holidays?" I asked.

"Too short but ok," he replied. "So are you ready for second semester?"

"Yep, hopefully you're going to make the exams a little harder," I said with a grin. "Are the marks coming out soon?"

"You should have already gotten them in the mail Mike," he replied. "But you got perfect on everything so no worries on for at least one class. Even Miss Merks got enough bonus marks to get perfect on the exam."

"She'll be glad to hear it, but she had to take off this semester to be with her younger sister," I told him as we walked to the classroom.

"That's too bad, she was a very intelligent young woman," he said. "We need more of them in this field."

I nodded and we split up as we entered the room. I found a seat in the back and got out my books. Dr. Albert handed out the outline and then did a quick review before starting the next chapters. He handed out the assignment at the end of class before we headed out into the snow storm. I had some time to kill so I started the assignment in the nearby cafeteria while having an early lunch. I had a working solution done before heading to the database classroom, back in the same building.

Professor Delany was a short stout older man with a good sense of humour. He kept us in stitches as he explained the course before starting the first chapter. It was all about storing and manipulating data and I enjoyed it immensely.

After class I braved the storm and walked back to the arena and got into my workout clothes. I headed to the weight room and got in a great workout before practice. I then had a shower and slowly got into my hockey equipment as the guys came in to the locker room.

"Hey Mike, you're not out scoping out the figure skating babe?" John asked.

"Nope, they didn't appreciate it last week so I'm turning over a new leaf," I replied. "No more scoping out women."

"I'll believe when I see you walk by some lovelies and don't look back," John responded with a laugh.

"Alright, you'll see," I told him.

We went out together and did our stretches before skating around to warm up. We split up to shot from different points on Josh and Bob before the coaches got the practice going. They decided to concentrate on special teams this practice so John and I paired as defence partners on both the penalty kill and power play. I was a little rusty on the penalty kill so it was good to get in some practise. I couldn't hit anyone yet so I had to just use my stick to poke check pucks away from the forwards down deep rather than pin them to the boards.

On the power play, I took a few more chances by going in deep a few times with the puck or into the slot hoping for a pass. I got burnt once as the pass to me was intercepted and the forward was sent on a breakaway and scored on Mark.

We ended as usual with a scrimmage and I played as a forward. I was starting to feel comfortable in that role more and more as time went on. Pete and Victor seemed to get open every time I had the puck and we had several scoring opportunities against the top lines. It felt just as good to set up a goal as it did to score one.

After practice was over I had Chris take out the stitches in the cut and then headed home and found my report card in the mail box. I started some macaroni and cheese and then opened the envelope. I ended up with a 3.9 grade point average for the first semester, getting a perfect 4.0 in programming, 3.9 in logic, 3.9 in algebra and 3.8 in creative writing. I was pleased to say the least.

After eating, I checked my messages and emails and found messages and emails from the five women.

"Michael, you didn't think to let us know about the incident last week?" Vicky asked. "I know we're busy, but we would have liked to know about it and how you are. Please let us know how you are doing."

The others were more of the same. Steph and Sammi were now in Jamaica doing a swimsuit shoot after being in LA with the twins filming a commercial. Becky let me know they were off to London England for a fashion show and then had to fly to Arizona to attend a playoff game on the weekend.

I sent all of them the same email, describing the incident and subsequent week of inactivity. I let them know I was all healed up and back on the ice. I told them that the professors were already piling on the work so I was keeping busy. I also let them know about the Angie and Nora incidents, telling them how I had to come up with ways to avoid them now. I wished them luck and hoped to hear from them a little more regularly.

After I sent the email, I got to my homework and finished the first year comp programming assignment and then tackled the db programming one before hitting the hay.

Wednesday was a similar day as Monday except for the addition of four inches of snow before the system finally moved on. I had a few more girls that I didn't know say hi to me in the cafeteria at lunch but I just nodded or smiled and kept going. I played the coward and sat in the middle of a row where Nora couldn't get to me in Philosophy. I saw her looking around and she took a seat beside another handsome guy when she couldn't find me. After class I hoofed it up the stairs and out the second floor exit and made my way out the building through another exit.

Both morning and afternoon practices were split into three to practice all facets of the game before a short scrimmage. After the afternoon scrimmage, I headed home and had some supper. I checked my emails and found one from Steph.

Steph told me to stay away from the Nora bitch and not to encourage Angie. They couldn't get away to come help me out but the twins were going to see what they could do to make sure I didn't stray from approved female companionship. She did say that Casey was still an option.

I wrote her back that I hadn't seen the figure skaters all week and wasn't planning on seeing them. I told her what I had done to avoid them this week and Nora today. I also let her know that Angie was in fact too old for me, contrary to what I had said to her at the arena to make her feel better. Finally I let Steph know I missed them all and hoped to talk to them soon.

The twins called an hour later.

"Hey Michael, I'm glad you're avoiding the blonde bitch in class," Vicky said as a greeting.

"Hello to you Vicky, I'm glad to hear your voice," I replied.

"Sorry Michael, let me start over," Vicky said. "Hi Sweetie, I'm glad to hear your voice."

"Hi Michael," Becky added.

"Hey Bec, It's nice to hear from both of you," I responded. "So, you're not in London are you?"

"Nope, we flew back to New York when the S sisters went to Jamaica yesterday," Bec replied. "We're heading over to London in the morning."

"That should be fun for you three," I said. "Going to do some sight-seeing?

"We'll try to, we have a few hours on each day free, so we might take in some of the castles and thing," Vicky replied. "So, your eye is ok?"

"Yep, good as new," I told them.

"And the girl?" Vicky asked.

"She had to stay home at least another week to rest, she had a pretty severe concussion," I answered. "She'll be ok in a couple of weeks from what I hear."

"That's good to hear," Vicky said. "So, maybe you can use her to get to Casey."

"I'm afraid not, all the skaters seem to be mad at me for some reason, maybe because I was staring at her while still having a girlfriend," I told them. "I haven't seen them since the incident but even the coach and Casey were angry before that."

"I bet they change their tune the next time they see you," Becky replied testily.

"They might be friendlier, but they know I'm with Vicky so nothing is going to happen," I responded. "It's ok; I'm not looking for anyone else remember?"

"So, how about we get one of the actresses to visit you, Michael?" Vicky said. "They all found out about your rescue and they are most impressed. Any of them would love to be with you."

"That's ok, I'm good," I replied.

There was a silence then for a bit.

"Ok, I guess I should let you go then," I said. "Have a good trip and let me know how it goes."

"Michael, Kristen really wants to visit you, we said she could, so she might pop in," Becky said. "She really was insistent."

"Call her back and tell her not to come," I responded. "The media could still be around and I'm not interested in another woman in the group right now."

"She wouldn't be in the group, we promise not to get her involved with any of us women, she would just be for you," Vicky stated.

"Why the big change all of a sudden?" I asked.

"We're all feeling guilty about how we left things and how we ignored you for almost two weeks afterwards," Vicky said.

"So guilty that instead of calling or emailing at all, you only decide to send someone else to be with me after I tell you that a couple of girls are interested in me?" I asked. "Out of sight seems to be out of mind with you ladies lately."

"You weren't exactly ringing the phone off the hook either Michael," Becky replied angrily.

"No I didn't, on purpose, to see how you ladies were going to act," I said. "I guess I got my answer."

"I think it's time to end this relationship Michael, it's obviously not working out," Becky said all of a sudden.

"What! How do we go from talking about lack of communication to breaking up?" I asked.

"Yeah, I would like to know that as well," Vicky said. "You don't get to unilaterally decide if we're breaking up."

"No, but I can decide for myself," Becky said. "Michael, it was fun while we were together, but we're going to be apart for a while and I don't like the rules of the group anymore. I'm sorry to do it this way, but I'm no longer part of your group. Good luck in school and in hockey. Goodbye Michael."

"If that's what you want Becky then ok; goodbye Becky, and good luck in your career and life," I replied angrily. "Just know that I loved you very much and I'll always have feelings for you."

It was quiet for a bit and then Vicky said, "She's left the room Michael."

"So, who else is leaving?" I asked. "I would assume Amy and Sammi at least, with the last two of you soon after."

"You're right about Amy and Sammi, they've been with Becky any chance they get," Vicky said. "Steph and I spend time together when they do, but I think Sammi has Steph back under her thrall."

"I figured as much," I responded. "Have them make it somewhat official by calling me or emailing me when they can. How about you? I don't think you should try and go it alone, you need them too."

"It's such a big mess Michael, I feel like just coming home and forgetting all of this sometimes," she said. "If we weren't under contract I would leave them all to their little games and go on my own."

"Listen, if it helps, tell them we've broken up and just go with the flow for a bit," I suggested. "We're not going to be seeing much of each other anyway, so just try and keep them from doing too many stupid things. You can always give me a call or email me in private once and a while."

"I don't want to abandon you like this," she responded. "I still have feelings for you."

"As do I for you, but you have four other women to look out for and they're moving on without me," I told her. "So should you. We can hook back up when it makes more sense, if we're both in the same place and unattached."

She was silent for a bit and then said, "I'm so sorry Michael; we've really treated you horribly. Try not to think too badly of us and go after that nice figure skater after she hears we're broken up, ok?"

"Ok Vicky, you take care of all of the girls and if you find someone else, try and keep him from the rest of them next time," I told her. "I love you Victoria Waters, and I'll always have feelings for you."

"I love you too Michael Stewart and I'll be thinking about you too," she responded. "Goodbye Michael, for now."

"Goodbye Vicky, for now, and be safe," I responded and then hung up after she did.

I sat down on the bed and just shook my head. I had a feeling that this would happen sooner or later, but it still came as a shock. It happened so quickly after Sammi got involved, but the signs had started the week before in New York. They just didn't have time for me anymore after they used me to scare off a few guys. Vicky seemed pretty broken up about it, but not the rest of them.

An hour later, I got emails from Sammi and Amy telling me that they were obviously no longer part of the group and wishing me well. Steph sent one a bit later, telling me how sorry she was but since everyone else was breaking up with me, she had no choice but to do so as well. She said she was sorry and hoped I wouldn't be sad for too long.

I stayed up late thinking what I could have done differently but eventually fell asleep dreaming of them laughing at me while hugging Manny Bloom.

Thursday was a start to a new chapter in my life. They took off the red no-hit jersey in the morning practice and a few guys groaned as I grinned. I took full advantage of the situation and hit a few defencemen as well as my opposing wingers. It felt great to participate fully again and I took a few pucks to the net — hard. I ran over Samuel once and undressed Mark before lightly tapping the puck past the goal line.

"Coach, I liked him better when he was wearing the red jersey," Mark yelled.

"Just think how the Redhawks will feel about him tomorrow night," Fred replied with a grin.

"True, I guess better on our team than theirs," Mark said. "Maybe just get him a darkened visor so we don't have to look at him though."

The team laughed but I got him back a few minutes later when he bit on a second deke and slid across the goal mouth on his knees while I went the other way and used the end of the stick to nudge the puck over the goal line slowly, inch by inch.

"Mark, you seem to have lost an important piece of equipment there," Fred shouted from the bench. "Why don't you let Josh take a turn why you get dressed again?"

The team laughed at Mark as he shook his head while skating to the bench.

After practice I walked up to the main campus through another snow flurry. They were calling for light snow for most of the day and then increasing overnight into a real storm. There was only a half inch of new snow so far so no big deal yet.

Programming class was busy, covering the material in two chapters. The professor assigned more questions, also due on Monday. I got to work on them in the cafeteria after class and then read ahead for db programming class while having some lasagne for lunch.

In database programming class we were shown various search techniques that would speed up searching for a specific item in a record. It was fascinating to me to learn the algorithms and theory behind the different methods. The professor also assigned more questions to the assignment due Monday.

I trudged back to the arena and worked out hard again before afternoon practice. I added weight and reps and took my frustrations out on the machines.

Practice was a long scrimmage after special teams and defensive reviews. I got showered and dressed quickly before heading out to the parking lot. It was snowing again and another inch had accumulated on the pavement. I brushed off my car and headed home.

After eating some chilli and toast, I worked on some homework and did some reading before watching a hockey game and falling asleep.

I woke up early on Friday morning and looked out the small window to see nothing but white everywhere. The buildings were all coated with snow as well as the trees, cars and streets. It was still dark but the snow let me see much better than usual. I used the washroom and then went to the living room and turned on the TV to check out the situation. The local Ann Arbor station let me know that over two feet had fallen and more to come today.

Roads were drifted over, up to four feet in some places, so all public schools were closed as well as day care centres and other private schools. The station hadn't gotten word yet on the college. I got my laptop out and booted it up to check my email and then the college website. After getting dressed in sweats, I checked the laptop but didn't have anything yet and then sat in front of the TV as it was about six twenty and about time to go to practice.

The TV announcer came on and told us that the University of Michigan had cancelled classes and all unessential activities for the day. I guessed that meant practice was off for this morning anyway. The laptop beeped, indicating a new email, and I opened it up to see that the coaches had cancelled this morning's practice and the status of the game tonight was up in the air. We were supposed to stay home for now and wait for a call or email the game by three pm.

I acknowledged the receipt of the email and then put the laptop in sleep mode while I got a diet coke and some cookies from the kitchen. I decided to get some work done and started a load of laundry and then did the dishes. After that, I got busy on my db programming and then the additional questions. After finishing all my homework due Monday an hour later, I packed it away and lounged on the couch for a bit, reading ahead in my Philosophy textbook.

I turned on the TV and was flipping through the channels when I saw the twins on an entertainment show.

'The Waters twins are in London England today for the first fashion show of the new year. Rob Pattinson, of Harry Potter and Twilight fame, has been attached to the hip of Becky and Vicky Waters all day, showing them the sights. When asked about her boyfriend, hockey player Michael Stewart, Vicky informed us that they had recently parted ways. We'll have more to follow on this breaking story.'

Damn, they didn't waste any time, I thought to myself, both in announcing we were split up and hooking up with Rob. I wondered if they had this already in the cards before we talked Wednesday night. Who knew and I guessed it really didn't matter in the long run. I don't suppose I would be seeing Rob again in the near future to tear his head off.

I need to burn off my anger so I got dressed and cleaned off my car before digging out around it enough to get in. The street had been ploughed recently so I drove to the arena and went inside. It was deserted but I got changed and went into the weight room and worked out. I took my anger out on the machines, upping the weights again from two days ago.

After an hour I had a shower and got dressed and went looking for the coaches.

"Mike, what are you doing here?" Fred asked.

"Just working out," I said. "What's the verdict on the game?"

"Postponed, we'll play tomorrow night and Sunday late afternoon instead," he answered.

"Ok, I'll see you in the morning then, normal time?" I asked.

"Yeah, for now, let's go with that, we'll call or email if anything changes," he said.

"Ok, have a good night Coach," I said before heading out.

I drove home and fried up some grilled cheese sandwiches and ate them in front of the TV. I decided to torture myself and tuned in another celebrity show. The twins and Rob were the talk of all the shows it appeared.

'Rob Pattinson and the Waters twins had dinner at the Waldorf Hilton in London last night and then attended a show together before retiring to the twin's hotel for the night. Tomorrow the twins will be in the Londontown fashion show and we'll be there to capture the highlights and all the Rob-H2O drama.'

I shut off the TV off and threw the remote on the bed. It looked like they couldn't wait a fucking day before hooking up with a new guy. I could see it from Becky but Vicky surprised me. I really wished I had a punching bag or a hockey game to play this evening so I could hit something or someone, but I got no relief from my anger.

It took me a long time to cool off and try and put them out of my mind. My phone rang and I picked it up and saw it was Kristen calling.

"Hey Kristen," I said.

"Hey Michael, I assume you've seen the shows today?" she asked.

"Yeah, the twins are with Rob right now," I said. "Did you help set that up?"

"God no, I wouldn't do that to you Mike, they did it own their own," she replied.

"They said you wanted to come see me, I thought you were all together in it," I told her.

"No, they suggested I visit you this weekend and then called it off after they broke up with you," Kristen corrected me. "I'm sorry this happened to you, I'm not happy with them, the twins or Rob."

"Well, we were broken up so they can see anyone they want, I just didn't think it would be so fast," I said. "I'm sure the timing of the break-up was so they could hook up with him in London."

"Yeah, I would think so," Kristen replied. "So, care for a bit of revenge?"

"Thanks, but if we get together, it wouldn't be to spite someone else but that we really liked each other," I said. "But I'm going to stay clear of women for a bit I think."

"Thank you for that Michael, but I was thinking more of saying something about it when I'm asked about it," she corrected me.

"Don't do anything on my account Kristen, you need to work with him and I would rather just fade away out of the public eye after this mess," I told her.

"Alright, but I'm not giving up on you Mike," she responded. "If you're still single in a month I coming after you and I won't take no for an answer."

"We'll see Kristen, thanks for calling," I replied. "Talk to you in a month."

"Oh, I'll be calling a lot more than that Mike, you can count on that," she said with a laugh. "I'll talk to you next week, so good luck on your hockey games this weekend."

"Alright Kris, I'll look forward to your call," I replied.

"That's better Mike," she said. "Bye for now."

I felt a bit better after her call and fired up my laptop and shot up some bad guys for a while before cooking some hamburger helper for supper. I watched a martial arts movie which reminded me to look into some classes. I finally hit the hay around eleven but it was still a long time before I fell asleep.

Saturday I woke up at my usual time but felt like I had just gotten to sleep. I downed a diet coke and brought another for the road. After cleaning off my car again, I drove to the arena and found Rolf plowing the parking lot. I parked in a clear out spot and he pulled his tractor up beside me.

"Hey Mike, I knew you would be in early, with the news that I saw yesterday," He remarked. "Patrick is all set for you so go on in and take it out on him. Try and aim low for the first half hour until I'm done here."

"Thanks Rolf, I'll be good," I responded.

I headed in while he continued to plow the lot. After getting changed, I skated for a bit and then took out my frustrations on poor Patrick. He didn't complain too much and he stayed in one piece, despite my attempts to make him a eunuch. I shot from all over the offensive zone, but mostly from the point and the right wing. I finally got tired and sat on the bench for a bit.

"Get it out of your system?" Fred asked.

"Nope, I'm saving a good bunch of it for both games," I replied with a joyless grin. "The Redhawks picked a bad weekend to visit."

"Can you keep it controlled enough not to draw penalties?" Fred inquired.

"Yeah, I'll be cool and collected, but there won't be any need for a crowd in front of the net when I'm shooting," I told him. "Our guys would just get hurt."

"Ok Mike, but no fighting, we need you on the ice, not looking down from the box," he reminded me.

"Don't worry, this is all I have left, I'm not going to miss out on playing," I assured him.

Some of the guys showed up and we had a makeshift scrimmage for a half hour and then Fred sent us home to relax and come back around four thirty for team supper. I decided not to work out to save my strength for tonight, so I had a shower and went to a Denny's for breakfast.

While eating a big plate of eggs, bacon, hash browns and toast, I grabbed a newspaper and scanned the rental properties. I needed a change of scenery and I could afford some better digs now. I didn't need a house just yet as they needed more upkeep and time than I had at the moment. After circling a few likely candidates, I pulled out a map and drove around to see them from the outside, checking out the neighbourhood at the same time.

The first two buildings weren't impressive and the next three were in bad neighbourhoods. I finally found a couple that were close by the college, in good neighbourhoods and looked modern and secure. I parked by the second one and called the number in the ad. I got the manager and after talking price and the amenities, asked if I could see it as I was just outside. He met me at the front door.

Mark was a student who also took care of the twelve unit building for his parents, who owned it. There were four units per floor and the unit that was open was on the top floor in the back. He showed me through the two bedroom apartment and I was impressed. The only issue was that the washer and dryer were in the basement. I told him I had one more place to look at and I would call him one way or the other by Monday.

I drove over to the condominium that was my other choice. I called the real estate broker who agreed to come over right away. I met her in the lobby and her face dropped a bit when she saw me.

"Don't worry, I can afford to buy the condo outright, so renting it won't be an issue Miss Dawkins," I assured her.

"That's good to hear," she replied with relief showing on her face.

She led the way to the elevator and started her spiel on the building and the condo itself. I liked the fact that the building had a weight room and told her I would like to see it before we left. We got off on the fifteenth floor and she guided me down the right hallway to an end condo.

The two bedroom condo had a nicely sized living room with an area for a dining room table next to the kitchen. The kitchen was nicely done in oak and had a small room off of it for a pantry and utility room. There was a washer and dryer in there as well. After showing me the washroom, which contained a separate shower as well as a bathtub, she led me into the bedrooms. They were big enough for king sized beds plus furniture and the main one had a balcony off of it that overlooked the University.

All and all, the condo made more sense; it was closer to the college, had a parking lot in back with reserved spots, the washer and dryer was in the condo and I could sell it in a couple of years and probably make a profit if the economy picked up. We went back down and I toured the weight room, and attached sauna. The machines were better than home quality, more like decent public gym machines. I could get a decent workout whenever I felt like it. The sauna was a bonus that I would be taking advantage of.

Miss Dawkins showed me around the rest of the main floor and then we sat in the lobby and discussed the particulars.

"So, how long has it been empty?" I asked.

"Since June actually, the economy has hit condo sales pretty hard," she admitted.

"And the rent is two thousand?" I asked.

"Yes, that includes the monthly maintenance fee of two fifty," she added. "You pay the electricity and water bills though."

"Ok, I'll think about it over the weekend and let you know next week," I told.

"Thanks, call me anytime," she replied.

I drove back to the apartment and had to hurry in to avoid a camera crew that ran up the driveway. Shit, I wonder how they found out where I lived. I checked my email when I had my laptop on and found a couple from Vicky and Steph. I opened Vicky's first.

'I'm sorry I didn't warn you Michael, it must have been hard for you to see us with Rob so quickly after we broke up. I never planned on this, but Becky really wanted to be with him and I got roped into the media circus. Try not to hate us too much, and find a nice normal girl when you get over this.'

Steph's was apologetic as well.

'Mikey, I'm so sorry about what we've done to you. You never deserved any of this. Sammi loves it obviously, she really hated that you turned her down. I'm trying to keep her from becoming a spoiled bitch but it won't be easy. I hope you can get through this and forget what we did to you if not forgive. You deserve a nice girl to settle down with. I wish it could have been me.'

I had some soup for a late lunch and then had a nap after setting the alarm. I actually slept for a bit, I guess the crappy sleep of the last few days caught up with me.

I had a shower when I woke up and got dressed in my suit for the walk into the arena as there was national coverage of the game tonight. I took a quick look outside and didn't see the camera crew around, so I started up the car before scraping the windows. The vultures didn't descend so I drove over to the arena and found the circus there. Five camera crews were waiting for me as I got out of the car.

"Mike, how did you find out about the twins' new relationship?" a lady asked.

"Mike, how do you feel about them and Rob getting together so quickly?" asked a man.

"Did you know Rob stayed overnight with them last night again?" a lady with a vicious grin asked.

I ignored them all and pushed my way through to the stairs leading up to the lobby. A bunch of photographers took my picture and shouted out things to get a reaction from me. I kept my cool and entered the lobby, the film crews and paparazzi hot on my heels.

Luckily security was ready as was Angie Dawson. Three beefy guards stepped in front of the press and forced them to stop while Angie led me down the steps into the lower level that was off limits.

"Hey Angie, fancy meeting you today," I said lightly.

"Hi Mike, how ya doing?" she asked.

"I'll survive," I replied. "A little surprised about the vultures; I would have thought they would have all been covering the twins and Rob, not me."

"They're looking for a reaction from you that they can use as an accompanying piece," Angie told me. "You'll be big news for a few days until it becomes old news."

"Fantastic, more crap to deal with," I said angrily. "Sorry to put you through all of this."

"Oh, I love this stuff, it's a little more exciting than dealing with arranging for interviews with athletes and the local paper," she admitted. "Not that I wished this on you Mike, I know you must be hurting and angry at them."

"Well you're happy to it," I said. "I'll let you deal with all of them if you like."

"We'll see what we do at the press conference tonight," Angie responded. "I'll talk things over with the coaches and the AD before then."

"Alright, I'll see you later," I said, before heading to the locker room to get out of my suit.

After I got into some sweats, I walked upstairs to the cafeteria and got into line behind a couple of teammates. They turned around and said hi and told me they were sorry about Vicky.

"Thanks guys," I replied, keeping it short and sweet.

I grabbed some spaghetti and garlic bread and found an empty table to sit at. John came over to sit opposite of me and asked me how I was doing.

"It was getting a bit weird the last few weeks with them but it took me a bit by surprise when they split with me," I told him. "This Pattinson thing came out of left field, we met him in New York that first weekend and he seemed like a nice guy but I guess you never know."

"They've been ignoring Amanda's emails the last couple of weeks too," John told me. "You ok to play tonight?"

"Yeah, I'll be fine, better than fine," I assured him. "I feel sorry for the Redhawks tonight."

"Oh?" John asked.

"They are going to have some sore players after tonight," I replied. "It's going to feel good to put some of them onto their backs or into the boards. I'm planning on putting the puck through the goalie tonight."

"I can't wait to see it," John grinned. "I'll back you up so feel free to go in whenever you want."

"I might take you up on it a couple times, but I'll get enough of that playing forward," I told him.

We ate in silence for the rest of the meal and then joined the rest of the team in the locker room. We all got dressed and waited for our turn out on the ice. When we got out there we heard more cheers than we were used to for the warm-up skate. I ignored the crowd and got down to business, stretching for a bit and then getting warmed up by skating. I took a few shots at both Mark and Bob at either end but kept them pretty mild.

We ran though our usual drills and then left the ice so Rolf could clean it for the game. I grabbed a Gatorade and rested while the coaches made their pre-game rounds.

"Mike, keep the checks clean, the refs will be watching," Sam advised. "Watch the boarding especially, make sure you see their faces rather than their backs when you hit them."

"No problem Sam, I'm in complete control," I told him.

"Yeah right, you're not fooling me," he said with a laugh. "Just try not to hit one of our players in front of the net with one of your shots tonight."

"Just keep them away from the front when I'm at the point," I told him. "It won't be a healthy place to be."

"Alright, I'll let the forwards know," he replied before moving off.

Fred got up on a bench and started his speech, "Ok, we need this game to get back into the hunt, so let's pick it up a notch. We couldn't get much in the way of scoring the last two games in their house, but I have a feeling we can do better tonight. I think we all have something to prove, so get out there and show the nation we should be ranked higher than these guys. I'm putting out the fourth line out first; I want the three of you to cause terror out there from the start."

I nodded as he was looking at me when he said it. We got up and followed Mark out to the ice and the cheers of the crowd washed over us. Since we were starting, the fourth line got to skate for a couple minutes and then stand at the blue line for the National Anthem.

After it was done, we lined up at centre ice. The left winger lining up against me had to say something to try and get under my skin.

"Must really suck to lose your woman to a skinny wimp actor," he said with a grin. "You must really be a pencil dick for her to dump you that fast, dude."

I looked over at him with a stone face and then back at Peter in the face-off circle. Peter lost the face-off and I rushed forward after the puck. The defenceman was a bit slow passing the puck and sent him flying just as the puck left his stick. I chased it over to the other defenceman and he quickly got rid of it before I could hit him. I followed it into centre ice and got back into position covering my winger. They dumped it into the far corner in our zone and Steve retrieved it and got it to Victor on the half boards before taking a hit. Victor passed it to Peter and he carried it up ice slow. I rushed up at full speed and Peter dumped into the corner on my side just as I hit their blueline.

The defenceman who I had hit earlier in the shift, started back to get the puck and tried to lean into me as I hit him when he got his stick on the puck. I rushed after the puck while he fell into the boards. The forward with the mouth came back and tried to hit me into the boards as I got a hold of the puck. My leaning was more effective than their defenceman's was, as the smaller forward bounced off of me and staggered to one knee. I took off towards the net from the corner and looked for Peter in front of the net. Their other defenceman had him well covered as was Victor behind the net by their other forward.

I saw Steve sneaking in from the point and hit him with a pass while I kept going to the front of the net to cause more havoc. Unfortunately, Steve's shot hit a leg and bounced to the corner where Victor and their forward tied it up in their feet. I moved to the back of the net and Victor kicked it over to me. I tried to surprise the goalie and put it in the corner from behind the net with my long reach. He got his leg over to the post and stopped the shot and held on as Peter banged away at the rebound until the ref finally blew the whistle.

We changed up for the first line and Sam gave us slaps on our shoulders and told us to keep it up. Each line took the play to the Redhawks, hitting them any chance they could, causing them to rush their passes and take a couple of icings.

We got back on the ice, changing on the fly as they dumped the puck deep into our zone before peeling off for a change as well. This time we were paired up with their fourth line, and they had a big forward to match up with me. John was carrying the puck up the ice and hit Victor with a pass near their blue line and he carried it in down the boards. Peter rushed to the net while I continued down my wing to the corner and then behind the net as Victor went into his corner.

Their winger followed me behind the net so I continued around and Victor started the cycle with me as I skated by and he dropped the puck to me while continuing behind the net. I carried it in a circle and Peter skated by and took my pass while the winger tried to catch up to me. Victor had circled the net and was ready for a pass at the other side of the net while I was ended my circle between the face-off circles in front of the net. Peter came out of his cycle and had either of us to pass it to. He faked a pass to Victor to draw the defence back to the net and then hit me with a nice pass as I wound up for a close in slapshot.

I put everything into the shot and blew it by the goaltender over his stick side shoulder before he could react. The puck went through the netting and slammed into the glass, causing it to break. The refs blew the play dead but the goal judge didn't put on the goal light.

I skated to the ref and said, "You better go check the replay, the puck went through the netting, it was a goal."

"Bullshit Stewart, no way it went through the net and broke the glass," he replied.

"Seriously, check it out, I know where I put my shots," I replied. "You got time while they fix the panel."

"Get away from me before I call a misconduct," he replied.

I skated away from him over to the bench.

"Coach that went in, but the ref won't review it," I told him.

"You sure?" Fred asked.

"Positive, it went through the netting and then hit the glass as it went up," I told him.

"Ok, I'll get it checked out," he assured me.

He called the ref over and after arguing for a minute, got the ref to check the video replay of the shot. After a couple of minutes, he had to shake his head and go to centre ice.

"After review, the shot went in the net, through the netting before hitting the glass; it's a Wolverine goal," the Ref said, pointing to centre ice to confirm it.

The crowd cheered and I got slaps on my shoulders as I leaned on the bench. Eventually Rolf and his team got the Plexiglas changed out and play continued. I sat on the bench while the other three lines kept up the pressure. The first line scored a goal when a shot got through a screen.

We got on a couple more times in the period and the big left winger and I crashed into each other in the neutral zone and we both went flying backwards. I got up and continued towards their zone as he struggled to get up on his feet. Victor got the puck back to John who saw me coming down the middle of the ice into the zone and feathered a pass over to me. The players in front parted like the Red sea as I reared back to slap it to the left of the goalie's head, copying where I had previously shot it.

The goalie was moving out to cut down the angle and the puck hit him square in the steel face cage and knocked him on his back, the puck bouncing back out to me to shoot again. I flipped it into the open net just before the ref blew the whistle to get the goalie looked at.

The ref didn't know how to call the goal as it was in before he blew his whistle, but whether it was in before he intended to blow the whistle was the question. While the Redhawk's trainer attended to their goalie, the refs and linesmen huddled up while we went back to the bench.

"Jesus Mike, you're a one man wrecking crew tonight," Peter said.

"Yeah, it feels good to relieve some stress," I replied deadpan.

Pete and Victor laughed and Victor said, "Let me know when you're real mad and I'll stay on the bench."

It took five minutes for the training staff to sit the goalie up and have a couple of guys help him to his feet. Their backup goalie had already come onto the ice as soon as the first one went down so he was ready to go. The crowd gave the goalie an ovation as his teammates carried him off the ice.

In the meantime the refs had made a decision and disallowed the goal, citing the intent to blow the whistle before the puck went in the net. The crowd booed the ref as he called for a face-off in their zone. Fred sent us out against their fourth line and the big winger looked at me like I was his lunch.

Pete gave us the sign that he was going forward with the puck and I slipped by the Goliath and wiped out their defenceman as he touched the puck. Pete followed me and whipped the puck out front to Victor who got a stick on the pass and deflected it over the surprised goalie's shoulder into the net. Just like that we were up three to nothing. We congratulated Victor and skated back to the bench as the defenceman was helped off the ice.

The period ended mercifully soon after with the score three to nothing and the Redhawks down two players. The crowd cheered as we left the ice and headed down to the locker room. I grabbed a drink and leaned back on my locker with my eyes closed. My teammates left me alone and I relaxed for a few minutes until Fred started talking.

"Ok, the coaches and I have decided to let Mike go out by himself for the next period and take care of a few more of them so they have to forfeit tomorrow's game," Fred started off to much laughter.

I opened my eyes and grinned a bit as John tried to push me off my seat.

"Ok, maybe we'll let some of the other guys have some fun," Fred said. "Let's keep the pressure on them, they're going to try and get back in the game, after they try to take Mike's head off with that Brutus character. So, let's keep them looking over their shoulder and put this thing out of reach in the second period."

He came over to me after he was done and said, "Their fourth line left winger will try and get you to fight and if he can't, he'll be lining you up to take you out. So, keep an eye out for him at all times."

"No problem Coach, I'll watch out for him," I told him.

"No fighting Mike, just skate away from him," he instructed.

"Alright Coach, I won't fight him," I agreed.

He walked away and John whispered, "How are you going to avoid that gorilla?"

"Oh that will be easy, he's slower than molasses," I replied. "It's what he'll do to the other guys is what I would be worrying about."

"Shit, he'll be another Randall won't he?" John wised up.

"It's a good possibility so watch yourself," I told him. "Just dump it out to centre ice if he's near and avoid the hit."

"I'm blaming you if I get hit," he said.

"Hey, you wanted to be a big NHL star, now's your chance," I told him. "This is playing live across the country, show how you can avoid him and make him look silly."

"Yeah right, like there will be any time left over after they show all your highlights," John said with a grin.

"Maybe that's why I get so many; I don't care about them at all, I just love playing the game," I said. "You worry too about the future, just enjoy the game and play as hard as you can every chance you can. It could be the last game you every play."

"Shit, one week of philosophy class and you've become a Zen master on me," he replied with a groan.

"Yes Grasshopper, I am now one with the puck," I responded. "One hopes you will learn to control your fears and avoid the primate using the lotus flower technique."

"Bite me," he replied.

"Such disrespect for your betters; tsk, tsk," I replied, shaking my head.

We finally got up to hit the ice for the second period. The fourth line started against their first line and this time the left winger was silent when I looked over at him. We lost the draw and set up the trap with Victor going in to pester their defence. I backed up and gave the winger on my side just enough open ice to receive a pass from the harried defenceman. I broke towards him as the defenceman started his pass and got to him just after he got his head up and turned towards our zone with the puck. His eyes widened and I saw him say 'Oh sh... ' as I put a shoulder into his chest and sent him flying. I kept skating and took the puck into their zone. The two defencemen were in front of me and I wound up for a slap shot as I skated full bore towards them. They split apart to let the goalie see the shot, and get out of the way, so I faked the shot and went in between them with the puck. I got in on the goalie in two strides, faked another shot to his glove side and then pulled the puck across the crease and flipped it up into the top of the net with a backhand. I continued around in a half circle and skated back to centre ice as the mouthy forward was just getting helped off his back.

The crowd cheered as my linemates gave me a glove for the good play. The Redhawks put out their fourth line and the behemoth lined up beside me with a growl.

"You and me, right now!" he said.

"Sorry, no can do, coach's orders bud," I said.

I avoided his slash as the puck dropped and backed off as the puck went into our zone. I gave Samuel a target on the half boards and he actually passed it to me. I bounced passed it to myself off the boards as I avoided the check from the big winger, meant to plaster me through the boards. I hit Peter with a pass up the middle and followed up as he and Victor went in against the two defencemen. The goalie stopped the shot and kept the play alive by passing it off to the defenceman at the side of the net. He got it up to his forward on the other side and I headed back to pick up my winger who was behind everyone, just getting out of our zone and onside.

He took a pass at our blueline and lumbered into our zone. I caught him at the top of the right circle and lifted his stick from behind as he was winding up for a shot. I stole the puck from him and continued around the net with it and passed it out of the zone to Victor. The gorilla cut in front of the net to hit me so I channelled all my anger from the last week and drove my shoulder into him as I thrust up with my legs and arm.

It felt like I hit a freight train as we both staggered from the collision. He spun around and slammed to the ice while I did a three sixty and just kept on my feet as I flailed my arms to keep my balance. I looked back to see him holding his shoulder as he lay on the ice and then I kept on going up ice. The play was called as the goalie held the puck for a face-off and I headed to the bench.

Chris came over and asked, "You ok Mike? That looked like a wicked hit."

I rotated my right shoulder and flexed my arm and then told him, "Feels ok Chris, no damage."

"Ok then, great game so far Mike," he responded with a grin.

"Thanks Chris," I replied and looked out as the big guy was helped off the ice, the trainer holding his arm to his abdomen.

Fred came over and asked, "Had enough yet?"

"I could try and see how well the backup goalie ducks if you like," I said without a grin. "Other than that, I'm good for tonight."

"No need for that I think," Fred said dryly. "Take a rest for a bit and the other three lines can play for a while."

So Peter, Victor and I rested on the bench for most of the second period. We got on once more just to keep warm and I whistled one near the goalie's head but he ducked out of the way and it hit the crossbar and deflected out of play. Fred took us off after that and the period ended with the score four to nothing.

I grabbed another drink and headed to see Chris as my shoulder started tightening up. We got off my jersey and shoulder pads and he moved my arm around, rotating the shoulder in different angles. He felt the joint and everything seemed ok with it.

"It was a big collision, you might have just bruised the muscles a bit Mike," he said. "You don't seem to be in much pain when I move it around so just rest it for the third period and during the day tomorrow and we'll look at it before the game."

"Ok, I'll let Coach know I'll sit on the bench but I don't have to go on unless he really needs me too," I said.

"Sounds good, no sense letting them know what's up," Chris agreed.

He helped me put on the shoulder pads and got my jersey over top and I headed back to the locker room. I got coach off to the side and let him know what was up.

"Good, I was looking for an excuse to sit you down for the third period anyway," he told me.

"You were going to spoil my therapy?" I asked mildly.

He laughed and told me to go take a seat.

The third period was a lot milder without me out there. They scored a goal and I winked at Fred as I asked him loudly to put me in. He just shook his head and I sat back down, scowling over at their bench.

The third line scored one more goal and the game ended five to one in our favour. I got changed with John's help with my jersey and shoulder pads. I quickly showered and got into my suit as Fred came in.

"Great game everyone, we showed them that they can't win on luck alone," Fred said. "We have one more tomorrow to show that this wasn't a fluke so head home rather than out to party and we'll see you at one for team lunch. Captains and Mike, come on down, you're the next contestants on Mike's world."

Angie was waiting for us and led us to the larger conference room but stopped us before we went in.

"Ok, as you can imagine, Mike's breakup and the twin's subsequent actions have created a ton of interest in Mike," Angie said. "I will tell them all to save all of those questions for Mike at the end and the rest of you can leave if you wish. Just answer the hockey questions and leave the rest to me. Mike, this will be a onetime deal ok?"

The captains and I nodded and Angie and Coach led us in. There had to be close to a hundred people waiting for us. Angie walked to the podium and waited until everyone quieted down.

"For those here to ask Mr. Stewart questions not pertaining to hockey, please leave them to after the hockey questions have been answered by Coach Benson and the captions," she started. "Any questions asked of his personal life before then will not be answered at all and Mr. Stewart will leave the room. Is that understood?"

She waited for a few seconds and then said, "Coach Benson will now take the podium."

He answered a few questions and then the captains answered a few about the game. Angie then asked for hockey questions for me.

"Mike, you looked like a man on a mission out there tonight, were you trying to hurt those players?" a reporter from the Hockey Digest asked.

"No, I made sure every hit was clean and legal, and as you know, no penalties were called on any of them," I replied. "I never hit someone to hurt them or shoot at a goalie to hit him in the mask. The area over a goalie's shoulder is a goalie's weakness, so that's one of the places I shoot for."

"Why didn't you play the third period?" I was asked.

"Coach wanted others to get more ice time, I guess," I replied.

"Are you comfortable with playing forward now?" another reporter asked.

"Not yet, but I'm getting less nervous, so it's a start," I said.

After a couple more hockey questions the crowd of reporters was silent.

"Ok, it seem the hockey questions are done, we'll let everyone else go and then let you ask your personal questions of Mr. Stewart," Angie announced. "This will be the only time we will be allowing this to happen."

The guys wished me luck and then left the room. Coach stood at the back of the room to watch the show.

Angie stepped back up to the podium and said, I remind you that Mr. Stewart is just eighteen and, while he is a U of M hockey player, he is not a public figure or a celebrity. Please keep the questions appropriate, or we will stop the press conference at once."

Angie pointed to a lady in the first row and she asked, "When did you break up with Vicky Waters and how was it done?"

"We broke up Wednesday night by phone," I replied.

Angie pointed to another reporter who asked," Why did you break up?"

"I guess we grew apart and our schedules were so busy we wouldn't see each other much over the next few months," I said.

"How could she dump you right after you saved that girl from the carjacker?" a woman reporter asked.

"One has nothing to do with the other," I replied.

"How do you feel about the twins hooking up with Robert Pattinson?" another reporter asked.

"It was a bit quick but it's none of my business now," I replied.

"Don't you have any anger toward Rob or the twins?" I was asked.

"I'm sad that Vicky and I broke up obviously, but what her and her sister do now is no longer my concern," I answered.

"What about the reports that Rob has spent the last two nights with them in their hotel?" asked a reporter that I recognized as one of the more sleazy ones.

"As I said earlier, it's no longer my concern," I told him.

"What will happen with the Calvin Klein photo shoot and commercials that you shot before Christmas?" a female reporter inquired.

"I'm not sure, I know they have to be approved by the University, NCAA and myself before they can be used," I responded.

"How did a unknown hockey player like yourself land a coveted Calvin Klein modeling gig?" asked another female.

"I was an emergency fill in," I said. "I have no plans to continue modeling."

"Do you have a new girlfriend?" I was asked by a good looking female reporter.

"No I don't," I replied.

"There were pictures of you and Kristen Stewart dancing a few weeks ago, the same night that the twins were photographed with Rob for the first time," a reporter stated. "Do you and Kristen have plans to get together now that Rob is sleeping with your ex?"

"We met both Rob and Kristen at the Victoria's Secret fashion show after party, where all of us danced with each other," I replied. "Kristen is just a friend."

"You played tonight like you were very angry about the situation," a guy asked. "How can you sit there and tell us that you have no feelings about the twins sleeping with him?"

"I believe I answered that question; what the twins do now is not my business and how I feel about my breakup with Vicky is none of yours," I replied, still keeping my cool.

"Your fifteen minutes of fame seem to be about over, how do you feel about that?" asked another guy snidely.

"Relieved actually, I have no designs on being any type of celebrity or famous," I replied. "I will be very happy when you people decide that I'm no longer newsworthy and I can study and play hockey in relative obscurity. I'm sure my coaches and teammates feel the same way. Hopefully this will be the end of my dip into your world."

Angie stepped in and said, "On that note, we'll be ending this press conference. Thank you for attending and please do not bother Mr. Stewart with any further questions."

I got up and followed Angie and Coach out of the room.

"That went well Mike, hopefully they will leave you alone after that," Angie said. "You handled yourself with poise and professionalism."

"I tried not to give them anything that would reflect badly on the school, the team, me or the twins," I said. "There really won't be much that will be usable for them I think."

"It depends how they want to play things," she remarked. "If they want to make the twins look bad, they would use some of it, or if someone wants you to become a celebrity, they could play some of it."

"Here's hoping they let me fade away," I wished.

We stopped in front of the locker room and I thanked them both for their support and apologized for all the fuss. I went in and grabbed my stuff and put my coat on. The coach was waiting for me and we walked down the hall together.

"So, how are you really doing Mike?" he asked.

"I was feeling pretty bad about the breakup but after seeing them with him so quickly, I got mad," I admitted. "I'll use if for tomorrow's game and for motivation from time to time but I won't let it get me down. I'm too busy with school and hockey to sit around and sulk about it."

"So no plans to hook up with another girl?" he asked.

"I wouldn't bring another girl into this mess right now, and I'm not ready to move on anyway," I said. "I'll let things die down for a bit before I even start looking."

"Probably a smart move for a few weeks," Fred agreed.

"I'm thinking of moving into another apartment or condo, I had a film crew harassing me at the apartment so they know where I live," I told him. "I looked at a couple and I'm leaning to renting a condo nearby."

"I can probably get you in a dorm room if you like," he offered.

"No thanks, I like my peace and quiet," I turned him down. "I'm really more of a loner, despite all the fuss lately."

"Suit yourself, just let me know your new address and phone number when you do move," he said.

"I will," I replied as we entered the lobby.

There were still some of the film crews and reporters leaving the arena as we walked through the lobby to the doors. Luckily they left us alone and we split up after we walked down the steps. I was almost to my car when the good looking lady reporter came up to me, luckily without her camera crew.

"Hi Mike, I'm Evelyn Grayson," she said with a big smile. "I'm a reporter for Entertainment Nightly, but I'm here now for personal reasons."

"What can I do for you Miss Grayson?" I asked.

"It's Evelyn please Mike, I'm not that old that you need to call me Miss," she said with a laugh. "Anyway, I would like to get to know you better, maybe over a drink perhaps?"

"Thank you for the offer Miss Grayson, but one, I'm only eighteen and can't drink; two, I have a game tomorrow so I have to go home for curfew; and three, I'm taking a break from women for a bit," I told her. "I'm flattered in your interest of me, but I'm afraid I'm not going to be good company for a while."

"I understand Mike, and I'm willing to wait until you're ready," she said. "Here's my card with my personal cell on it. Please give me a call when you're back in the dating scene and we can meet up wherever you feel comfortable."

"Thanks," I said, accepting her card. "Why would an attractive reporter like yourself have any personal interest in me?"

"Mike, you're a handsome guy, in fantastic shape and obviously intelligent and well spoken," she replied. "I'm sure I'm not the first woman to express interest in you and won't be the last. Just so you know, I'm not interested in a quick roll in the hay and you don't strike me as that type either. So, if you find me attractive and interesting, give me a call when the media attention fades and your heart mends."

"Ok Miss Grayson, I'll definitely keep you in mind if and when I decide to join the dating scene again," I told her. "Have a good night and a good trip back to?"

"I'm local here in Southern Michigan, so we can meet up anywhere you like," she replied with a smile. "I'll be waiting for your call Mike, so I hope you don't take too long to mend."

I shook her hand and watched her walk off. She had a fashionable winter coat on but I remembered how slim and attractive her body was. Her face was gorgeous obviously to be a TV reporter, and her blonde hair was done up in the latest style.

I shook my head and continued on to my car. After scrapping my windows I pulled out of the parking lot and headed to a Wendy's to grab a late night snack. I noticed a van following me so, after grabbing some food, took off quickly and drove around Ann Arbor until I felt secure enough to head home without a tail. It was getting late when I parked the car in the back and got into my apartment.

After getting out of my suit, I chowed down on the meal while watching a rerun of Saturday Night Live. I hit the hay after Frank called to check on me.

I had a fairly lazy Sunday; after a leisurely skate and a light workout at the arena in the morning, I had a nice breakfast at a greasy spoon before heading back home to read ahead in my textbooks. I took a break and turned on my laptop to check my emails. After getting rid of the usual spam, I opened up a short one from Vicky.

'Thanks for being nicer in your interview than we deserved. I saw how you played so I know how you really felt. Try not to get hurt playing like that.'

I didn't know why she felt like she had to keep in touch with me. I wasn't sure if I appreciated it or resented it but for now I decided to keep reading them.

I opened another email, this one from Aunt Nancy.

'Michael, you play like your father when he got mad. Don't let the anger make you vicious or you'll be branded a goon. We would like to come down soon to see you. Please let us know when we can visit for a couple of days. We can watch you play live and spend a bit of time getting to know each other. Hope to hear from you soon.'

I responded by emailing her our schedule and letting her pick when they would come down on a weekend we were in Ann Arbor. I told her I would love to see them anytime they could make it.

Finally it was time to head to the arena for the team lunch, scheduled for one. I packed up my suit and got changed into some casual clothes for the trip over. Luckily, there was no one waiting for me out front, so I hung up my suit in my locker before heading up to the cafeteria to join the rest of the team.

After I got some food, I sat down and started chowing down on the fish and rice dinner that I had selected. Fred got up when we were mostly done and gave his usual speech.

"Ok, we showed that we can dominate this team last night, I want to see that happen again, this time without Stewart taking out half the team. The other lines will get more ice time this afternoon so let's see you put some pucks by the back-up. Look for them to try and come out hard early, so weather the storm and take it to them instead."

We went and got dressed for our time on the ice and John gave me a shot on the arm.

"You had your own highlight minute on the sports shows today, did you get see it?" he asked.

"Nope, I worked out and did some studying," I replied.

"Figures," John said, shaking his head. "You're moving up the draft boards, you're a solid number three overall pick now, just behind the kid from the OHL and the other defenseman from Sweden. Doesn't mean you'll get picked there, that's where the so called experts have you rated. It just depends on what the teams need, a forward or defenceman, though in your case I guess it doesn't matter."

"Well, since I don't get a choice, I don't plan to worry about it until after the pick is made," I told him. "You can worry for me if you like."

"Fine, I'll keep you abreast of the situation, but you will have to attend the combine where they do interviews with the clubs and fitness testing to earn your spot," he told me.

"We'll see if it fits into my schedule, I'm going to be taking classes in both the early and late summer semesters so I don't know if I can get away," I informed him.

"Oh shit, that could really screw things up if you can't go to their combine," he let me know. "You could really drop down on draft day. The NCAA players can only attend for 48 hours anyway so you could fly in for Wednesday or Thursday, do your interviews and then do your fitness testing Friday or Saturday. I think the combine is in late May this year up in Toronto, May 25th to the 30th."

"I'll see how that fits with my schedule and let you know," I replied.

"The draft is June 26th and 27th in Montreal, you should plan to attend at least the first day as well," he advised me.

"I'll look that up as well," I said, continuing to get dressed.

"I can see I'm going to have to babysit you through this the entire way," John responded, shaking his head.

I grinned at him and replied, "I'm sure you'll do a fine job worrying about it for me."

"Hey, on another note, Amanda wanted me to let you know that if you want some female companionship, without the hassles of a girlfriend, she can hook you up with some of her friends," he said. "They're really good looking and not looking for a serious relationship if you're interested."

"I'll keep it in mind for later, but right now I'm trying to keep things low key while the media is around," I replied.

"Ok, but we can double date with one of them and let you use one of our rooms to keep it low key," he let me know.

"Thanks John, but it's really not my style," I told him.

He dropped the subject as we headed out for our warm-up skate. There were a few fans already in the rink when we stepped on the ice and they cheered loudly as we skated around. Eventually we got to shooting so I could ignore the cheers for a bit. After that were the drills, so I got my head into the game and focussed on them until we were done.

We relaxed while the ice was getting cleaned and the Redhawks had their turn on the ice. Finally we headed back to the ice after Fred's pregame speech. We arrived on the ice to big cheers and we headed to the bench while the first line had a quick warm-up skate. After the national anthem, the game started.

Their lines and defence pairings had to be redone as the guys injured yesterday couldn't return to play today. The backup goalie was in net and a new goalie was his backup.

The Redhawks tried to sustain some pressure against us, using an up-tempo game, but our lines kept up the physical play from yesterday and stopped them from getting a good scoring chance. The fourth line got on when it was our turn and took our positions in the faceoff circle to the right of Mark. Peter lost the draw and the puck went back to their defenceman at the point. I rushed out to block the shot and got my stick on it as he let it go. It deflected out of the zone over to the far side of the ice and I chased it as the other defenceman rushed back to retrieve it.

He got to it first and, just as he shot it back into our zone, I checked him over the boards into his bench. He went flailing into his teammates as I skated back to our zone, the crowd cheering. I circled at our blueline as Albert got control of the puck and passed it to Victor. We had a two on one developing as the other defenceman was still trying to get out of his bench. Victor passed over to me and I carried it down my side over the blue line. I wound up for a slap shot and, when the defenceman went down to block the shot rather than the pass, slipped it over for the easy one timer into the net by Vic.

We congratulated Victor and went back to the bench as their coach tried to get the ref to call a penalty on me for interference on his other defenceman. The ref wasn't buying it and blew the whistle to get the face-off started at centre ice.

Fred looked at me and I just said, "He jumped up a bit so it made it easy to put him over the boards. Really!"

He just shook his head as the guys laughed around us.

The game continued along and we got on a couple more times without much happening. The fourth shift we went on for a face-off in their zone and a new left winger, a replacement for one of the two I knocked out of the game last night, started to yap at me.

"Stewart, you're not so tough, losing your girlfriend to a pansy actor," he said pretty loud. "You must be such a flaming queer."

We were on the left faceoff circle, meaning I was lined up near the centre of the ice rather than by the boards. As per usual, they had another defenceman lined up on that side to cover the front of the net. I heard him groan and whisper to the new guy.

"Shut the hell up kid, don't make him mad," I heard him say as I looked over with a frosty look.

The puck was dropped and Peter pushed it forward and I went after it as it went behind the net. I crushed the first defenceman back there into the boards and chased the puck as it went to the right side. The mouthy winger thought he would be a big man and take me out as I reached the puck in the corner. We collided hard and then fought for the puck along the boards. He cross checked me a couple times in the side with his stick and then tried to pry the puck out from between my feet. I kicked it to the other side and held him off with my left hand as I went behind the net again.

I stopped suddenly and leaned hard into him as he tried to check me. He went down flailing and I quickly passed it out front to Peter while everyone was watching the guy go down. Peter got a stick on the puck while battling the defenceman, but the goalie was able to stop the weak shot with his stick. Victor and I crashed to the front of the net and swatted at the loose puck. Unfortunately, the goalie got his mitt on it and the ref quickly blew the whistle as the new left winger came into the mix and tried to push me away from the goalie. I didn't budge and instead pushed him off of me. The linesmen stepped in between us and I skated to the right faceoff circle.

He lined up beside me and tried to tie up my stick for the ensuing faceoff. Peter won it back to Steve at the point and I ran some interference with the left winger so he couldn't get out to block the shot. After I got my stick untangled from his, I gave Steve an option at the half boards to pass to. He elected to shoot and the rebound bounced out back towards the blueline on our side of the ice. I raced the left winger for it and let him touch it before I slammed into him and sent him flying. The puck dribbled out past the blueline and we all had to clear the zone.

Steve dumped it back in and we did a quick one eighty to get out past the line and then chased the puck into the corner. Victor hit the defenceman with the puck and Peter retrieved the bouncing disk and fed it to Albert at the other point. I got in front of the net and bumped into the left winger as Albert's shot whistled by and snuck in the corner. The goalie never saw it as the winger had blocked his view as he sprawled along the ice in front of him.

We skated over to congratulate Albert and left the goalie and the winger to argue with the ref. The winger was so mad he swore at the ref and received a ten minute misconduct penalty for it.

The period ended with the score two to nothing and we exited the ice to cheers. We relaxed and it was light hearted in the dressing room for the first intermission. Fred cautioned us to keep up the tempo and the physical play so we wouldn't let them back in the game.

The second period was similar to the first, in terms of physical play from us. I made sure to hit someone each shift and irritated the new left winger so much that he took a swing at me with his stick. The ref called him for a penalty and I got to load up a couple of times and shot at the backup goalie from the point. One hit a leg in front and put the defenceman down for a bit, while the other hit the crossbar when the goalie ducked down to avoid the shot.

Ron Zonk, the second line winger, scored a goal near the end of the second period by tipping John's shot from the point. The second period ended with the score three to nothing.

After the second intermission, the third period got chippy as the Redhawks decided to try some payback of their own. They tried to hit anything that moved, sometimes at the expense of ignoring the puck. It really didn't work that well as we avoided most of the hits and dished out some of our own. I had a target on my back obviously and took a couple to make a play. I even had two Redhawks hit me in their zone as I went for a puck in the corner. One of their defenceman and the mouthy left winger hit me from either side as I corralled the puck. I blind passed the puck out to the front of the net and pushed away from the boards. The goalie gobbled up the pass and held it for a whistle.

We got on a few more times and I made sure to hit the winger every chance I could. With about five minutes left, we got on as the puck was behind our net with John. I circled behind to grab it as John indicated that he wanted to change. I built up a head of steam rounding the net and took off for centre ice. I avoided the first forechecker with a simple deke and continued up ice. The mouthy winger tried to line me up for a big hit on the other side of centre, but I passed it off to Pete and ducked around him, leaving him trying to hit air. Pete completed the give and go and passed it back to me as I crossed the blue line going full out. I was past the blueliner before he could do anything but swipe at the puck.

The other defenceman came over to intercept me so I looked over to Victor as if to pass it to him. The defenceman went down on one knee to stop the pass so I took a quick snapshot for the short side of the net as the goalie cheated to cover the pass. The puck went into the top corner of the net over his glove shoulder as I skated around the net. Victor congratulated me as we skated back to the bench.

The game ended with the score four to nothing and we all skated out to congratulate Mark on his shutout. After Victor, Mark and I went out for the three stars of the game, we headed to the dressing room and had a shower before getting into our suits. Fred spared me from the press conference, so I got out of there with the rest of the team. I scraped my windows and headed home after my car heated up.

After heating up some soup and making a couple of sandwiches, I read some more in my textbooks before going to bed early. It had been a hell of a week, I thought as I fell asleep.



-------

Chapter 39


I hadn't slept well last night and groaned as I hit the alarm off. I took my time getting dressed and grabbed a diet coke to bring along for the ride to the arena. I was still the first one there but some guys joined me soon after I had warmed up. When all of us had skated and had shot for a while, Fred came out for his normal speech for the week.

"We had a good weekend against Miami, and our ranking this morning is now sixth in the country, congratulations," he said to cheers. "We need to build on this weekend's results as we play the Bowling Green Falcons in a home and home series. We're here Friday night and in Bowling Green, Ohio for an evening game on Saturday. Bowling Green is unranked but doesn't mean we can take them lightly. They are another fast, puck possession team so we have to be careful with them."

The coaches had us practicing various neutral zone traps as well as a man to man defence for a good while before switching to offence. We practiced bump-ins and chases for a bit and then had a scrimmage.

I left the arena, after showering and getting dressed, and walked up to the main campus and found a seat in the algebra classroom. Doctor Milan had just arrived and started his lecture after collecting the assignments. He quickly went through two chapters and assigned questions from the back of each chapter for this week's assignment.

Professor Hiller was already in the classroom and smiled as a bunch of us came in at the same time. She really was very pretty and I enjoyed looking at her for the entire lecture. She dressed quite smartly in a snug skirt and blouse combo, the matching jacket draped over the back of the chair in the corner. She had her hair up in a bun and looked very sexy to me.

She had us bring our assignments down to her and was very pleasant to everyone as they put them on the pile. After we were settled, she began her lecture on the next two chapters in her lovely English accent. I had to shake my head a couple of times to stop daydreaming about her as she was explaining derivatives to the class. She ended the lecture by assigning most of the questions in the back of the two chapters for the next assignment. I took my time gathering up my stuff and was one of the last ones out of the room as she walked out.

"My, you are a tall one Mr.?" she asked with a smile.

"Stewart, Mike Stewart, Professor Hiller," I replied.

"Ah yes, our resident hockey player extraordinaire," she remarked with a grin. "I must say I haven't a clue as to the rules of the game, I'm more into football, or soccer as you Yanks call it."

"Actually I'm Canadian, but I guess we call it that as well," I corrected her. "So what brought you over the pond to mid-west America?"

"The lack of positions at the British Universities, it's still a male dominated profession, especially in the math and sciences faculties," she said. "This job offer was the best one of the bunch so I moved here last semester. Did you come down from the Great White North to play hockey?"

"Actually, I earned a scholarship in Computer Science, the hockey just sort of happened," I informed her.

"Well, an intelligent athlete, most impressive Mr. Stewart," she said with a grin. "I'll have to keep an eye on you, and maybe take in a game to see what all the fuss is about."

"Let me know if you need help with the rules, I'd be happy to explain the game to someone from the old country," I replied with my own grin.

She laughed and had me hold her case as she put on her coat.

"Can I interest you in some lunch at our famous student cafeteria?" I asked her.

"Cheeky, aren't you, Mr. Stewart?" she asked. "Professors, especially new young women professors, shouldn't be seen associating with students, let alone having lunch in a public place with them. So while I might like to get to know a fellow Commonwealth citizen better, I must decline your invitation Mr. Stewart."

"Well, I wouldn't want a fellow Commonwealth citizen to get in any trouble, so I will just admire her from the cheap seats of the classroom," I told her. "You have a good day Professor Hiller and I'll see you on Wednesday."

"You have a good day as well Mr. Stewart, I look forward to seeing you next class," she replied with a smile.

We parted ways after I held the door to outside open for her. She nodded her head and walked off in another direction as I headed to the cafeteria across at the next building. It felt good to be able to talk to a beautiful woman without stuttering or being nervous. Maybe it was because I knew nothing could happen between us, but I felt more self confident than ever before. I had to make sure that I wasn't getting a big head but some harmless flirting should be ok.

I got into line in the cafeteria and choose some shepherd's pie for lunch. I sat at an empty table and started eating while looking around at all the people coming and going. I enjoyed glancing at all the beautiful women as they walked to and fro.

After finishing the pie, I worked on the algebra assignment until it was time to head to philosophy. I left a bit early and got an aisle seat on the near side. My legs just didn't fit well between the rows of seats, so I at least could put one of them out on the aisle.

The seats filled up quickly and I had to get up a few times to let people in the small row. A pair of girls sat in the two seats beside me to fill up the row, giving me a smile as I let them in. Nora made her entrance a minute before the buzzer rang and I heard the two girls whispering about her as she walked across the front of the room.

"She is so full of herself," the one girl sitting beside me said to her friend.

"And she treats the guys like dirt after she's had her way with them," her friend added. "Poor Doug was a wreck for weeks after she dumped him."

"She's gone through three roommates since the start of the year and I hear she screwed her sociology professor to get her mark up," the first girl gossiped.

Luckily the professor started the lecture. We went through another chapter and assigned some questions for the first assignment. He also told us that our first major paper could be started; it was to be on one of the ancient Greek philosophers of our choice, and was to encompass their viewpoints, philosophies and how it related to modern times.

After class finished, I checked my voice messages as I walked to the arena. A Miss Melanie Roseburg had left a message that she was at the university to get the authorizations required to allow Calvin Klein to use the photographs and the commercials. She required that I attend a four o'clock meeting that she had set up with the Athletic Director, the local NCAA representative and the Dean's office rep to get the signatures all done at once. She left her number for me to call her back to confirm.

I punched in the number and heard it ring.

"Hello?" I heard a haughty voice say.

"Hi, this is Mike Stewart, returning your call," I responded.

"Yes, Mr. Stewart, I was beginning to think you would be standing me up," she said. "The meeting will be at the dean's office at four pm. Please be on time."

"I won't be attending Ms. Roseburg, I'm busy at that time," I told her.

"What could be more important than this?" she asked angrily.

"I have practice that I won't miss," I said.

"Fine, I'll bring your papers to the arena after we're done here," she said. "I can't believe I have to traipse across half of Michigan to get this done."

"Listen, don't bother, I don't have any reason to sign them anymore," I told her. "Goodbye."

I hung up and shut the phone off as I walked into the arena. After getting changed, I did a partial workout, deciding to work out every day on different body parts rather than doing everything at once. That way I wouldn't be so tired for practice or during the games.

I had a quick shower as the guys came into the locker room to get changed for practice. I was one of the last ones out on the ice to avoid the skaters but one of them was waiting for me as I left the locker room.

"Michael Stewart, I'm Mitsuko Matsuda," the tiny Japanese skater introduced herself to me. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for saving my life two weeks ago. I owe you my life and will forever be in your debt. My family would like to show you their appreciation by taking you out for dinner to an authentic Japanese restaurant, tomorrow after your practice."

"Mitsuko, it's a pleasure to finally meet you and you are certainly very welcome for helping you out, but just seeing you all healed up and smiling is reward enough," I told her. "You and your family has no further debt to me, your thanks is all the payment I will accept."

"Michael, my family is very traditional and in the Japanese culture, honour is everything," Mitsuko informed me. "We cannot just say thank you and be done with it. It would bring much shame on our family if we could not show or express our gratitude to you tomorrow night."

"In my culture, accepting anything other than thanks for doing something like that would not be gentlemanly," I told her.

Just then Casey Simmons rounded the corner and I watched her as she approached. She was in black tights and had a sweater layered over a tee shirt and she smiled when she saw me talking with Mitsuko.

Mitsuko turned slightly to see who I was looking at and she smiled at Casey and then back at me. Casey was set to walk by without interrupting our conversation when Mitsuko stopped her.

"Casey, come here and meet my hero, Michael Stewart," she said, lightly putting her hand on her arm.

"Hi Mike, it's nice to meet you, and thank you for saving Mitsy from that horrible man," Casey said.

"Hi Casey, it's very nice to meet you officially," I replied. "I have to apologize to you for my rude ogling of you the past few weeks; I meant no harm, I just enjoy watching you skate."

"All is forgiven Mike," she said with a shy smile. "When you saved my and roommate, we all realized you were a good guy, not a creep. We've missed seeing you waiting for us."

"I'm trying to turn a new leaf and not creep you ladies out anymore," I told her.

"Casey, I need your help with something," Mitsy inserted herself back into the conversation. "My family would like to have Michael out for dinner tomorrow night, but he doesn't want to go. He thinks our thanks are payment enough, but you know how my family is. Can you help convince him to go?"

"I can try," Casey replied before turning to me. "Mitsy's family is very traditional and she would be so ashamed if you didn't attend the dinner. I know you probably don't want to have a fuss over it, but think about it from their perspective, wouldn't you want to meet and thank the person who saved a loved one from such a horrible fate?"

"I do realize that, but I already met them at the hospital, and they thanked me there," I told her. "Nothing else is necessary or wanted."

Mitsy whispered in Casey's ear and Casey blushed but nodded to her.

"Casey has agreed to come if you will," Mitsy told me. "You can sit between us and we'll make sure you're not embarrassed in any way."

"Wow, that is some enticement," I said with a smile. "Two beautiful women to sit between is almost enough for me to agree."

They whispered amongst themselves for a minute and then Mitsy said, "We would take you out for dinner another time, just the three of us if you would agree to come tomorrow night."

"I guess every guy has his price," I said wryly. "How could I turn that down? When and where and what is the dress code?"

"A suit would be appropriate and it's the Japanese Gardens, on University drive, a few blocks west of Main," Mitsy replied with a smile. "Seven o'clock tomorrow if that gives you enough time after practice?"

"Ok, that should be fine," I agreed.

Casey smiled shyly and said, "I'll see you tomorrow night then Michael."

"Ok Casey, have a good night," I replied as she walked away.

"She is such a kind, wonderful person, Michael," Mitsy said as I watched Casey walk to the girl's dressing room and wave back at us before going in. "She visited me every day while I was in the hospital and looked after me like an older sister. I know she likes you and, now that you're single, I think the two of you would make a wonderful couple."

"It's not a good time to be seen with me, there are too many media people around trying to get something on me," I told her. "Both of you should stay away from me for at least a month."

"I will make sure that Casey is aware of the issue and let her make up her mind," Mitsy said. "Now, you should head to practice before you are late."

She stepped around me and walked down the hall and entered her locker room after looking back at me for a few seconds. I shook my head and joined the team on the ice, just finishing their warm-ups. John came over and saw my look on my face and laughed.

"She got to you didn't she?" he asked with a grin.

"She is very stubborn for such a short person," I said in disgust. "She's bringing Casey into it as well."

"Nice, two new beautiful women in your life," John responded.

I just frowned and shot a puck that blew by Mark and turned back to John.

"Mitsuko wants to take me to go with her to dinner tomorrow with her family," I told him. "Her family is very traditional so they're going to go overboard with the thanks and the obligation stuff."

He grinned and I turned and shot another puck by Mark, this time low corner as he was moving out to challenge my shot.

"They wouldn't wait even a month," I turned back to him. "I warned her that it's not a good time with all the media but she doesn't care."

"Maybe they want to get their hooks in you before someone else does," he reasoned.

"No, it wasn't anything like that, Casey was brought into it by Mitsy on the fly," I said.

I turned back to the goal, waited until Mark was ready, and shot it past his ear into the net again.

"And to make matters worse, some lady is here to get my approval of the Calvin Klein stuff," I told him. "She didn't call ahead, just showed up and expected me to be at a meeting this afternoon, all Miss Hoity-toity. I told her I was busy and didn't have a reason to approve them anymore and hung up on her."

"Jesus Mike, won't you lose like fifty grand?" he said.

"The money isn't the point; I don't have to do them any favours anymore, do I?" I asked.

"I guess not, but fifty K?" he asked.

I turned once more and saw that everyone was waiting for me to shoot, so I picked off the top corner over his stick shoulder.

"I don't know why I just can't go to school and play hockey and that's it?" I asked him.

"I don't know, but you can't seem to be able to be normal at all," John said, egging me on.

I took one more shot and put it in Mark's five hole before he could shut his legs. He slammed his stick down and moved to the bench, muttering all the way.

"What's his problem?" I asked.

Everyone laughed at me as I wondered what was up. The coached came on and started us off on special teams practice. I shot harder than usual from the point and both the power play and the penalty kill guys got out of the way as soon as they saw me wind up for the shot. After a few of them either got by Mark or had him wincing, Fred stepped in.

"Ok, Mark doesn't need to get a complex because of Mike's shooting, let's move on to defence," Fred said, trying to hide a grin as the team laughed.

After some time on defence and then offence, we had a scrimmage and then were let go. I grabbed a quick shower and got dressed, knowing I had to go to the apartment to change before dinner with the skaters. I left the locker room and walked up to the lobby.

A raven haired slim woman, in a business suit with a skirt, stepped in front of me before I could get to the doors. She might have been very pretty but she had her hair all pulled up and looked very businesslike and severe.

"Mr. Stewart, I don't appreciate being hung up on," she started. "I need to get these papers signed and I can be on my way home. It will take only a couple of minutes and you can go on with your petty little life now that the twins have moved on."

"Miss Roseburg I presume?" I asked with a frown.

"Yes, I'm a lawyer assigned to Calvin Klein, now can we just finish this up?" she asked. "The dean's office, the athletic director and the NCAA rep signed off on most of the photos and two of the four commercials, so I just need you to sign off and then we can get them on the air this weekend."

"I told you, I have no interest in signing off on anything, especially now with your attitude Miss Roseburg," I told her. "I'm late for an important meeting of my own, so just go back to New York with your superior attitude and leave me alone."

"Mr. Stewart, these have to be signed or we can't use them," she said. "There are millions at stake here, try not to be such an immature boy and think of others for a change."

"Goodbye Miss Roseburg, you're negotiating skills are severely lacking in tack and your lack of perception is mindboggling," I told her. "You've made it very easy to walk away from this whole affair."

I walked around her and out the doors and I thought I heard her teeth grind together as she stomped her foot. After a quick scrape of the windows as the car heated up, I got in and drove home, picking up some chicken on the way. I got changed and dug in, ignoring my phone as it rang once. After supper, I worked on my math homework for both algebra and calculus, still ignoring the phone as it rang at least three more times.

When I was done, I checked my messages. The first couple were from the lawyer after I hung up on her this afternoon. The third was from her after I walked out on her at the arena.

'Mr. Stewart, you have left me no choice but to inform the powers that be at Calvin Klein of your refusal to sign the authorization papers for the photos and commercials," Miss Roseburg stated. "I'm sure they will start appropriate legal actions against you. You have only yourself to blame."

The next was from Mr. Carroll, the man in charge of the Calvin Klein shoot.

"Michael, Miss Roseburg tells me that you no longer wish to give your authorization for the photos and commercials," Mr. Carroll said. "I can certainly see your point after what happened with the twins last week. However, we are really impressed with how everything turned out; you have this place buzzing with excitement. Yes, you Mike. We know that most women buy underwear for their men, so you're just as valuable as the twins to us, maybe more so. So, please call me back so we can work something out, maybe I can fly in to Detroit the next couple of days and we can negotiate face to face, not only for these pictures, but for some additional ones on your own and with other models. Please call me back, day or night."

I played the next message, from Becky.

"Michael, it's Bec," she started. "I know you're pissed at us, all of us, but you shouldn't take it out on Calvin Klein. You're hindering their whole campaign by not allowing them to use the photos and commercials. Please call me or Vicky back when you get this."

I continued on to the last one.

"Mike, it's Kristen, Vicky just called me and told me what you doing with the CK stuff," Kristen said with a laugh. "Good work to screw with them. Do you believe she called me to see if I could convince you to sign the authorization paperwork? I told her what I thought about how they treated you and said I wouldn't help them at all. Call me when you can Mike, I miss you."

I sat there and though about things for a bit before searching for my copies of the agreements I signed at the shoot. I had signed a standard photo shoot contract which was fine, but the second contract was to have the twins and Amy act as my agent through their company. That would not do anymore, so I emailed the twins and Amy first before doing anything else.

I called Kristen and told her my thoughts. We talked it through and she eventually came around to my point of view. I let her know about my new figure skating ladies and she laughed at my predicament before wishing me luck.

After checking my email and finding a copy of the annulment of the agent contract from the twins, I called Mr. Carroll and talked some things over, explaining what had happened with Miss Roseburg and how her actions made my decision much easier. He said he would handle the issue and we set up an appointment at two forty five tomorrow in Ann Arbor at a downtown hotel to negotiate a resolution to the issue and for future endeavours.

I finally called it a night and dreamt of my two new figures skating friends.

Tuesday morning I woke up in a good mood and was quickly away to the arena. I was out peppering Patrick with shots well before the team even showed up. I had some extra energy this morning as we ran some drills before practicing some set plays for offence. After a vigorous scrimmage, I had a shower and told Coach about my meeting and the potential about being late for afternoon practice. He told me no problem, he was told to facilitate my approval as the college and the athletic department were getting a nice grant from Calvin Klein for their approvals. I thanked him and headed up to the programming class.

I followed along in the textbook as the professor hurried through a couple of chapters before assigning problems and a program for the week's assignment. I walked to the nearby cafeteria and found the two figure skaters waiting for me just inside the double doors wearing short leather jackets, snug, expensive jeans and designer blouses. They seemed made up a bit and their hair was like they had just stepped out of a salon.

"Ladies, it's nice to see you today, you both look wonderful," I said.

"Thank you Michael," Mitsy replied. "We thought we would surprise you."

"It is a surprise, a nice one," I said.

They smiled at me and led me into the cafeteria. I followed them into line where they chose healthy items while I had a big fried chicken dinner. After we each paid for our meals with our cards, they led me to an empty table and sat down across from me.

"Did you have a nice evening?" Casey asked.

"It was a busy one, I had to deal with some fallout from some modeling I did with my former girlfriend," I said. "In fact, I have a meeting with the head of CK this afternoon."

"You modeled for Calvin Klein?" Casey asked, looking surprised.

"One time; I had to fill in for a male model in the twin's photo and commercial shoot in New York," I explained. "They needed my authorization, along with a few from the authorities here at school, but the person they sent was a such a rude witch that she gave me an additional reason to refuse to sign, besides what the twins did to me last week."

"So what is the meeting about?" Mitsy asked.

"He wants to renegotiate for my approval of the original photos and commercials and wants to sign me up for additional modeling," I replied. "I guess that they really liked how things turned out."

"Do you want to continue modeling?" Casey asked.

"I really don't but I should at least hear him out," I said. "Maybe if I can get them to sponsor some scholarships I might at least let them use the first ones, but it would take an impressive offer to reconsider."

"Michael, you should not be alone negotiating with them," Mitsy said. "I will discuss this with my father and someone will meet you there that can advise and help you negotiate."

"That's not necessary Mitsy, I can handle it by myself," I replied.

"Michael, I insist, you do not know how tricky and ruthless these people can be," Mitsy said. "The person will be discreet and respectful, but please listen to him or her. They will have your best interests in mind at all times."

"Ok, it's at the Hilton at two forty five, I'll meet your person in the lobby," I agreed.

"Good, I'm relieved," Mitsy said. "Casey and I won't have to worry about you now."

Casey blushed and then nodded. I quickly changed the subject.

So, how did you find out where I eat lunch anyway?" I asked.

"We had you followed by a family friend," Mitsy said, pointing to a young Japanese woman sitting nearby, reading a paper and looking around every so often. "My father had Asuka assigned to protect me after the attack. She's an old friend of mine that went a different path."

The young woman looked about our age, but seemed older and harder when she looked at me with her dark eyes for a few seconds. She wore a black leather jacket over a black tee shirt and black pants. Mitsy motioned her over and the fairly tall and wirily woman glided over and sat down beside her.

"Michael, this is my very best childhood friend Asuka, she has come to protect me until we know it is safe," Mitsy told me. "Asuka, this is my other protector, Michael Stewart, the man who saved me from my attacker."

"It's a pleasure to meet you Asuka, I'm glad to hear that Mitsy has extra protection," I said.

"I am honoured to meet you Michael Stewart, you have spared my childhood friend from much pain and suffering," Asuka replied. "She is perhaps the only person that still sees some good in me, so I am in your debt and am at your service should you require anything."

She bowed her head and, after looking at Mitsy who nodded to me, I bowed back to her. The two Japanese girls talked for a bit in Japanese and then Asuka moved back to her seat and kept watch.

"Asuka's path in life has been hard," Mitsy said. "She lost her parents after we had moved away and she disappeared from our lives for a long time. She was brought up by relatives involved in less than legal activities and has had extensive training in martial arts and other useful trades. Our family came across her again in the last year and we have extricated her from her situation and she now works for our company. I have been trying to get her to join me at school and forge a new life for herself, but she is resisting my efforts."

"She truly must be made of steel then," I said deadpan.

Casey grinned as Mitsy stomped her foot and I saw a tiny smile appear on Asuka's face for a second.

"I am not that bossy Michael, I just want to be sure the people I care for are properly taken care of," Mitsy said. "You don't know anything about me."

"Ok, so let's get to know each other a bit, while we have a bit of time," I suggested as we ate.

So we took turns learning about each other, our families, lives and past relationships.

Casey grew up in Ohio but came to Michigan instead of Ohio State because she liked the skating program. She had an older brother and a younger sister. She had a steady boyfriend the last year of high school but split up when he went to a school in Ohio. She had one boyfriend at college early in the year but broke it off after he cheated on her.

Mitsy was born in Japan and moved to America with her parents and younger sister when her dad took over the American portion of her Grandfather's company. They moved to Michigan and stayed as the American Division became the most important division, more than all the others combined. Her younger sister, Kishi, was an accomplished ballet dancer as well as an excellent student and would be joining her in the fall. Mitsy had never had an official boyfriend in high school and only had a few dates. At college she had gone on a few dates but nothing serious developed.

I told them about my parents, my life in Northern Ontario and the events of the past year there as well as at college. I briefly told them about Vicky and what happened the last month or so, leaving out the more exotic parts.

"So, now that we know a bit about each other, shall we schedule our date for Thursday night?" Mitsy asked.

Casey and I looked at her in surprise.

"What, do you two want to be alone?" she asked with a smirk.

"Mitsy, we're just getting to know each other, it's not a date," Casey said blushing.

"We agreed on a dinner, just the three of us, so how about Thursday at seven," Mitsy continued on like the tiny juggernaut that she was.

"Thursday is fine with me," I agreed. "But it's not a date. I just got out of a relationship and the media is watching me. You don't want to get caught up in that."

"Ok, but why not the weekend?" Casey asked.

"Um Casey, what does Mike do as a second career around here?" Mitsy asked.

"Oh, sorry, it slipped my mind for a second there," Casey said, embarrassed.

"Hey, no problem Casey, I forget myself sometimes," I told her.

"Ok, Thursday night, fancy dress, like tonight, I'll arrange everything, just pick us up at our rooms at six forty five Michael," Mitsy said.

"Yes Ma'am," I responded.

Mitsy glared at me as Casey smiled.

"You are being very bossy Mitsy," Casey said. "I haven't seen this side of you before."

Mitsy sighed and explained, "My life has changed since the attack Casey. I'm going to be involved in Michael's life from now on as it is my duty. I'm just trying to provide some direction to it."

"I haven't agreed to you providing direction for me, I've been getting along quite fine without your help you know."

"It's time for you to go to class Michael," Mitsy said, ignoring my statement. "Remember, I will have someone meet you in the lobby at two forty and we will see you just before seven tonight at the Japanese Gardens on University."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied. "Casey, Mitsy, I can't wait to see you all dressed up tonight. Have a good afternoon."

I got up and, after nodding to Asuka, took off for database programming. It was another intense class, going over two and a half chapters, with a program and questions assigned for the next week.

After class I hurried to the arena to get my car and then quickly drove over to the Hilton and parked in their lot. I walked to the lobby and a Japanese woman, tall, slim and beautiful, came up to me, dressed in a business suit.

"Mr. Stewart, I am Kiyomi Toyama; Mr. Matsuda and his daughter have sent me to assist in your negotiations with Mr. Carroll of the Calvin Klein company," the lady said as she shook my hand.

"Miss Toyama, it is a pleasure to meet you, and thank you for being here with me," I told her. "How did you find out his name?"

"We did some research after Mitsuko called," Kiyomi responded. "I will stay quiet unless I feel that you are being taken advantage of, or you are bargaining to low for your services. I will review any contracts before you sign them and suggest alterations to your benefit. If things are not going well, I will suggest we retire outside to discuss things. Does this meet with your approval Mr. Stewart?"

"Certainly Miss Toyama, I welcome any help or advice anytime you think it necessary," I agreed. "How should I introduce you?"

"You can give him my name and that I'm a friend of a friend," she replied. "I will respond if he needs more of my credentials."

"Sounds good to me," I said as I led the way to the front desk.

After getting his room number from the desk clerk, we took the elevator to the top floor and knocked on his door.

"Mike, good to see you," Mr. Carroll said. "And you brought a friend. Come on in and have a seat."

He led us to a table by the windows and after I made the introductions, we all sat down.

"Ok, let's get the existing picture business over with first and then we can move on to the future," he said. "I realize that the Waters twins really screwed you over, dumping you for that actor fellow and I know you only did this for them in the first place. If I had a choice in the matter I would scrap the whole thing and move on but things have gone too far. We have space booked in magazines, on billboards, for every play-off game and even for the Super Bowl."

"Obviously, the point was to use the twins as the focal point and to a certain degree it will definitely help them and us," he continued. "But once we started getting the ads and the commercials all laid out, the buzz from the marketing people, and the people around the office, was just as much for you as the twins."

"Really?" I asked. "Why do you think that was?"

"You would have to ask Miss Toyama about that, I looked at the twins myself," he said with a laugh.

He pulled out a file and spread out the photos. While we looked that them, he set up a small DVD player and, when we had finished looking at the prints, played the two commercials. They got the playful seduction and the mysterious seduction commercials approved by the NCAA and the college.

I thought that I looked ok in everything; I wasn't embarrassed about anything I guess. The two of us looked over at Miss Toyama for her opinion.

"I am perhaps not the best one to ask about this sort of thing, but you do come off handsome and your physique is most impressive," she said. "I would definitely pay attention to the ad if I saw it, to look at you and not the twins. It's not that they aren't gorgeous, it's like Mr. Carroll said; the women will be looking at you while the guys will be looking at the twins."

"So we have something for both sexes in the ads," Mr. Carroll said. "That's very good for us as we can use the same ad for both sexes in two different genres. Cosmo or Sports Illustrated can get the same one. One commercial can work for the Football game as well as for Dancing with the Stars or American Idol."

"I can see your point and the benefit to you," I told him. "I just don't want to be in them."

"Ok Mike, I could try and go the whole legal route and try and get a judge to approve the ads without your consent," he said. "That would win me the battle but lose me the war. I want you happy and willing to be in more modeling for us. If the buzz is correct, you will be very popular with the ladies, and as we know, the ladies buy most of the underwear for their men. And if the ladies like Calvin Klein because of you, the guys that buy underwear will buy ours because they think they will look as good in them as you do."

"I understand everything so far Mr. Carroll, and I don't mean to screw your plans up, but I don't really want to be that guy for you," I told him. "It's really kind of embarrassing to me to be seen like this and frankly I'm not even getting the benefits from the twins for doing it."

"Ok, let's get down to brass tacks Mike," he said. "CK will fully fund two scholarships to the University of Michigan. One will be in clothing design in your mother's name and the other will be in computer science in your dad's name. These will be yearly awards to a financially strapped individual that both you and I will pick the recipient based on an essay and their financial records. The company would like to have the words 'sponsored by Calvin Klein' attached to the end of the scholarship."

"That's a nice gesture Mr. Carroll," I said.

"It is but honestly we can use them as tax write-offs so it doesn't cost us much, but we thought you would like it for your parents," he said. "Now, to get this done today and to make up for what's going to happen to your life, we are prepared to offer you five hundred thousand dollars for your approval, if you sign the approval today."

"What! Are you serious?" I asked.

"Yes we are," he replied. "We need you on board with this today or we lose millions. And, if you agree and sign off, we will move on to future stuff and see if we can negotiate a new deal this afternoon as well."

I looked over at Kiyomi and she spoke up.

"We have serious issue before we can continue Mr. Carroll," she said. "Mr. Stewart is a Canadian citizen, here on a student visa. He should not have done that shoot in New York without a work visa, so the only way he can sign the approvals if he does not accept any payment. The student visa does not allow him to work in the U.S."

Mr. Carroll thought for a second and then said, "Ok, for the stuff already done we'll handle it with the new contract, and write it under Ontario Law, since we have an office in Toronto, Ontario. The shoots can be done in Canada, if we need local; we'll use Windsor, right across from Detroit, or in Toronto, a couple hours flight time at most. The rest we can do anywhere in the world so you don't have to work in the U.S."

"That should be acceptable, as long as the payment for the photo shoot already done is paid at time of signing," Kiyomi said.

"So let's talk about the future then," Mr. Carroll told me. "I know that you never wanted to do this once Mike let alone as a career, but we are so confident that you will be a big hit for us that we want to put you on a retainer so you can't be scooped up by a rival underwear or clothing company. In addition, I would like to book you for six photo shoots, to be done anywhere in the world when we can fit it into your schedule. All expenses paid trip to Hawaii for a week perhaps for only a two day photo shoot and commercial filming on the beach. You would model swimwear, underwear, active wear; all by yourself and with the most gorgeous models in the world. You get final approval of everything, the models, location, director, the final shots; the works."

"So that would be six two-day shoots in how much time, a year?" I asked.

"Yes, the retainer and the contract for the shoots would each be for a year," Mr. Carroll agreed. "We can schedule the shoots around your school and hockey obviously, maybe one each break, a couple more in the summer, that sort of thing. The two days is average, sometimes you need an extra day or so to finish off things."

"I would have to be blown away by your offer to agree to this Mr. Carroll, I'm really not interested in being a model," I told him.

"How does a million sound for the retainer, just to be exclusive to us —at least for all the type of clothing we sell?" Mr. Carroll asked.

"Are you telling me that you would give me a million dollars for one year, just to ensure that I don't do any work for your competition?"

"It's a package deal with the six photo and video shoots, I'm afraid," he said.

"So you're offering a million to do the six shoots and be exclusive to you," I clarified.

"Sorry, no the million is just to be exclusive to us, for the photo shoots we would offer five hundred thousand for each one, just like we paid you for the first one," he told me. "So, the total for the year would be four million dollars."

I looked over at Kiyomi and she said, "That is an impressive first offer, but I would have to see how the contract would be written. What would happen if all six could not be fit into his schedule is a point to be clarified. How will disagreements over his exceptions be handled? What type of accommodations, airfare, food etc will be included. What if he wants a companion or two to join him? How is the money to be paid out?"

"All of those can be worked out easily, most of our high end models have riders specifying these types of things, so we'll pick the most outlandish one and use that as a base," Mr. Carroll said. "I know Mike isn't like them, and probably won't use but a tiny portion of it, but I'm not going to quibble over chump change."

"This would be exclusive to Calvin Klein; it couldn't be transferred or sold to anyone else correct?" I said. "No other crap about having to do promotional stuff, TV appearances or anything else right?"

"That is correct, the retainer is just to make sure you stay with us, the other contract is for six photo shoots, and obviously the pictures and film of those shoots with your approval," Mr. Carroll agreed. "The contracts are non transferable, so no one can force you to do anything you don't want to do. There are no tricks or hidden agendas Mike. We just want you to model our products and take your picture."

I looked at her and she nodded.

"It sounds doable Mr. Carroll," I said. "Miss Toyama would have to approve the contracts, with all the details she requests."

"Good," he replied. "I would like to add one thing, a mutually agreeable renewal option, with twenty percent increase yearly in both contracts for the next five years."

I looked at my advisor and she sat for a moment before asking, "Both parties have to approve or the renewal is void, correct?"

"That is correct," he answered.

"We would need to get NCAA approval of the contracts, but I don't think they can complain about it, I'm not on an athletic scholarship," I said. "I'm not sure what a professional hockey team would think about this, I guess I have a good chance of being drafted by one in June."

"If that is the case, your value to Calvin Klein would increase dramatically," Kiyomi said. "The twenty percent would not cover the increase."

"We'll put in a different escalator if that situation occurs, or you can just not accept the renewal and we can negotiate a new deal for the next year," Mr. Carroll said.

"Ok, if you can get all of that in a couple of contracts, I think we have a deal Mr. Carroll," I told him. "That is, after Miss Toyama's approval, of course."

"Fantastic Mike, I'll get my lawyers to draft them up and email them to you tomorrow and you can look them over," he said. "Once we all agree, we can send you official copies for you to sign and return and we're in business. We'll transfer the original five hundred thousand and the one million retainer to your account in Canada, converted to Canadian funds as soon as you sign the contracts. Frankly, I want you under contract before the current campaign gets rolling."

He slid an approval form over and Kiyomi looked at it and then nodded. I signed it and he handed a copy over to her for safekeeping as well a copy of the pictures and the DVD.

"Ok, let me let New York know so they can get it rolling," he said, taking out his phone.

We listened as he told someone it was a go and then hung up.

"Ok, you and the twins will be plastered on billboards, in magazines starting tomorrow," he told me. "Prepare to get a lot of attention from the ladies, Mike."

I just shook my head and muttered 'great'.

We all shook hands on the deal. Miss Toyama gave Mr. Carroll her card and he promised to email a copy of the new contracts to both of us.

We left the room and took the elevator down to the lobby.

"Thank you for your help today Miss Toyama, it was greatly appreciated," I said as we relaxed a bit.

"I hardly had to do anything, but you are welcome all the same," she said.

"Can I offer you something for your services, a commission or something?" I asked.

"That is most generous of you but not required," she replied. "My time is already paid for by the company and I did not have to do much to obtain you your contract."

"I thought that would be the case," I said dryly. "I'll talk it over with Mitsy anyway."

She nodded and smiled, "I might take a copy of these pictures and the DVD as payment though."

"Miss Toyama, you liked the twins that much?" I said with a grin.

"Mr. Stewart, I assure you that it's not for the twins," she said with a blush.

"You're blushing Miss Toyama," I noted. "I'm going to be embarrassed knowing that you have pictures of me while I have none of your beauty. I don't suppose you have some pictures that I could have?"

"I'm afraid I'm a modest, private person so I don't have pictures of myself, even in a swimsuit," she replied.

"That is a shame, you're obviously a very beautiful woman," I told her. "I used to be a modest private guy too, but that's out the window now. Alright, have fun with a copy of everything, but it's private to you only. I hope you get some enjoyment out of them. If they do, maybe you can get me a picture or two of yourself."

"Thank you for both the compliment and the copies," she said. "I will endeavour to get you a picture of two of me if you would like it, for your eyes only."

"Thank you Kiyomi," I responded. "It would be a treasure."

"You're welcome Michael," she said with a blush.

I walked her to her car and made sure she got away safely before driving back to the arena. I got dressed quickly and joined the team as they started a scrimmage.

"Did you get things all settled Mike?" Fred asked.

"Unfortunately, yes Coach," I replied. "You'll be seeing me in my underwear with the twins all over the TV, billboards and magazines in the next couple of days."

"I'm sure the college and the athletic department will be most pleased, even if you're not," he said.

"That doesn't make me feel any better," I said dryly.

He laughed and sent me out with the fourth line. I got in a good half an hour of practice before we were let go. I quickly got changed and headed home to get into my suit. I drove to the restaurant and got there a bit early.

I parked in the surprisingly full parking lot and went inside, entering into a lovely lobby, decorated like a traditional Japanese garden, with wood arches, oriental evergreens, ponds and waterfalls. I looked around for a bit and then approached the hostess, who was waiting patiently with a smile on her face.

"Sorry, I was just admiring your lovely lobby," I said. "Hi, I'm Mike Stewart, I'm meeting with the Matsuda family."

"I thought that might be the case, Mitsuko described you as a tall, well built, handsome young man," the hostess said with a smile. "She forgot to mention polite and intelligent in her description."

"At this point, we don't know each other well enough for her to comment on my intelligence or lack thereof," I replied with a grin.

"A man of humour as well I see, she is indeed lucky in her choice of dinner companion this evening," she said. "Please follow me; they have selected the Jade Garden room for your dining experience this evening. You are in for a rare treat Mr. Stewart, this room is reserved for only our most distinguished Japanese guests; for the owners to allow two non-Japanese to step inside is very rare, indeed it has never happened in my ten years here."

"I'm probably not deserving of the honour but I will appreciate it," I told her.

"I am well aware of how deserving you are Mr. Stewart," she replied. "Now, a few words on some of our customs; shoes off inside the door, bow the same depth as someone bows to you, do not offer to shake hands unless someone does first, try any food offered to you and eat everything on your plate. Use the back of the chopsticks to take food from the dish to your plate. Look to Mitsuko for how to proceed during the meal; she will not let you embarrass yourself. Try your best and you will do fine, they are aware of your lack of knowledge in our customs."

"Now that you've gotten me very nervous, I assume that there is a bunch of important people waiting for me?" I asked.

"You assume correctly, Mr. Stewart," she said. "Mr. Matsuda is a very important man, not only in our local Japanese society, but on the international business and political stage. Just be polite, gracious and you will do fine. Ready?"

"Not really, I'm not prepared for this properly, I didn't have time to do any research on your customs," I replied.

"Trust in Mitsuko, she will not let her hero be embarrassed," the hostess said as she opened the door.

I walked in and slipped off my good shoes, and put on the slippers that were at the end of the row. I turned my shoes to point back at the door as all the others were the same way, neatly in a row. I stepped onto the wood floor and lightly knocked on the next sliding partition door that separated the entrance from the actual dining room.

Mitsuko appeared in a beautiful dress that made her look very mature and pretty. She smiled at me while bowing low, her hands clasped in her lap. I bowed back to her and then she led me to the low tables where I recognized her parents and Casey, also dressed in a similar form fitting elegant dress. She was so gorgeous I forgot to breathe until we stopped walking. There were four other older couples as well as two single men a bit older than me and two teenage girls who looked one or two years younger than us. Asuka was sitting beside Casey, dressed in a dark pant suit, her hair done up to make her look pretty.

Everyone stood as we approached and we stopped in front of Mitsy's parents.

"Father, I would like to introduce you to Michael Stewart; Michael, this is my father, Hiroshi Matsuda," Mitsy said.

Mr. Matsuda bowed low and held it for a few seconds and I followed suit. He then offered his hand and we shook hands.

"Mr. Stewart, I am most happy to see you tonight and must I thank you again for saving our eldest daughter's life," he said. "I would like to introduce you to my wife Kiri."

She bowed low and I copied the depth, while emulating Mr. Matsuda's bow.

"It is very nice to meet you both, thank you for inviting me to such a wonderful place to dine," I responded.

I was introduced to the rest of the table, and found out that one of the men was the Japanese Consulate in Detroit; another was the head of one of the Japanese automotive company's American division, the third was the head of a major electronics company and the fourth couple were Mr. Matsuda's parents, Mitsy's grandparents. Mr. Matsuda Senior was Chairman of the board of the Matsuda Corporation, of which his son was President of.

The younger two men were cousins of Mitsy; the two oldest grandchildren destined to continue running the company. One of the two girls was Mitsy's younger sister Kishi, and their younger cousin Saika.

Once all the formal introductions were finished, I was sat between Casey and Mitsy and gave them each a smile which was returned. The meal began with everyone saying 'Itadakimasu', which was explained as a traditional 'I gratefully receive' phrase before starting the meal. Green Tea or water was served and then many dishes were brought out. Rice, along with many types of Sushi with sauces was passed around and I tried some of each, placing them on my own plate awkwardly with the other end of my chopsticks. Mitsy explained what each one was and I enjoyed some and decided not to have any more of others. She also explained some of the cultural traditions we were getting immersed in.

While eating, I enjoyed looking around the room, decorated to look like a Japanese temple. It was very ornate and elegant and Mitsy explained the significance to both Casey and me.

Finally, the meal was over with the saying of the phrase 'Gochisosama-deshita' or 'thank you for a good meal'.

Mr. Matsuda, Mitsy's father stood up and bowed to the four couples and then to me before beginning a toast.

"Honoured parents, long-time friends and business associates, nephews, niece, daughters and special new friends; we come together to show our gratitude to Mr. Michael Stewart for saving our eldest daughter's life. During his rescue he sustained an injury to his eye that required hospitalization and recuperation away from hockey. Mitsuko also sustained injuries that have kept her away from school and her skating until now."

"Mitsuko has acknowledged her Giri or debt and obligation to Mr. Stewart in the most traditional sense of the word," Mr. Matsuda continued. "I now acknowledge the same Giri or debt to Mr. Stewart for saving the life of my eldest daughter."

He turned directly to me and said, "I will forever be in your debt for your actions and should ever you need anything it would be my honour and my duty to gladly obtain it for you."

He bowed very deeply to me and I responded by standing and bowing back to him.

They seemed to be waiting for me to reply so I thought for a few seconds and then looked at Mitsy who nodded.

"Please bear with me and forgive me if I don't act as your custom dictates," I started. "I feel it is the duty of everyone to help those that need protecting. I am grateful that I saved Mitsuko from her attacker, and that she is still in all of our lives to grace us with her beauty, kindness and intelligence. It is not normal in Western culture to accept more than simple thanks for such an act, in fact it is deemed not gentlemanly. However, I do realize how I would feel if our roles were reversed, I would feel deeply in debt if someone saved a loved one of mine. So, I acknowledge your Giri to me but please know that I do not expect any payment other than your previous thanks and this fine dinner."

Mr. Matsuda again bowed deeply and I returned the bow. Mr. Matsuda Senior stood up and spoke in a heavy accent.

"Mr. Stewart, you a credit to your parent's upbringing and a fine example to young people of any culture," he said. "You are intelligent enough to know that the people in this room could provide you rich rewards for your service to our family, but your honour will not allow you to accept more than my son's and granddaughter's simple thanks. I have long felt anxiousness about the future of our youth but you and my granddaughter have restored some of my optimism. Be assured, should you ever need our assistance, we will be there to provide it any way you need."

We exchanged bows and sat down again.

Mr. Matsuda, Mitsy's father stood up again and said, "Normally, we would present you with gifts to show our appreciation of your actions, but Mitsuko has informed us of the rules that you must live by while being a college athlete. Rest assured, once your college days are over, we will be presenting you with some tokens of our esteem. Until then, if you require any assistance, anyone in this room will be honoured if you would ask for our help."

I got up and bowed deeply before saying, "I appreciate the gesture and the fact that you respect the rules we live under. Please realize that I desire no reward for my actions, so gifts are not necessary."

After sitting down again, I thought of one thing that they could advise me on.

"You know, there is one thing that I could use advice on," I said. "I realized after my altercation, I could use some martial arts training to defend myself better. Please don't take offence if it seems like I'm culturally stereotyping, but if anyone has some advice on an appropriate type of training and a particular facility that would be willing to take on a new student, I would appreciate it."

Takeru, one of Mitsy's older male cousins, spoke up, "Mike, the family happens to have an interest in a nearby Dojo that the two of us train at. We will go tomorrow night and get you enrolled with the sensei as your instructor."

"That would be excellent Takeru, I seem to lack the ability to dodge any punch when I'm involved in an altercation, on or off the ice," I told him with a laugh. "I thank you for the introduction."

"It is an honour to provide something you will benefit from, Mike," Takeru said. "We did not know what would be an appropriate gift, but you have given us at least one way to help you."

"I will coordinate location and timing with Mitsuko if that is ok with the two of you?" I asked.

"Certainly Mike, I'm sure she will wish to attend as well," Hiroto said, smiling at his cousin.

"Yes cousin, I will of course accompany Michael to the Dojo," Mitsy replied. "We will meet you there at seven if that is acceptable?"

Hiroto nodded and it was settled.

Finally, after another round of thanks, Mitsy dragged Casey, Asuka and me out of the restaurant and into my car. I got the motor running and left them in the car while I scraped the windows and then I drove them back to the University. They insisted that I park the car and walk them up to their dorm room.

Once inside their room Mitsy spoke up, "Kiyomi has told me about your new contracts Michael, congratulations."

"Yes, we're so happy for you," Casey said.

"Thanks I guess," I replied. "I really didn't want pictures and TV commercials of me in my underwear out there for everyone to see, but the offer was too good to turn down."

"You look real good in them Michael, you have nothing to be ashamed about," Mitsy said.

"You looked very masculine and handsome," Casey added.

"And how did you two happen to see them?" I asked.

"Oh, we happened to be in the office when Kiyomi was making a copy," Mitsy said. "We knew that you wouldn't mind so we both got a copy too."

"Well then, like Kiyomi, you have to reciprocate by providing some pictures of you to me," I said. "Both of you in skimpy underwear or bikinis will do."

"Michael! How can you ask such a thing?" Mitsy asked.

"You're all copying legal documents unauthorized, so cough up some pics or you're going to the slammer," I said with a grin. "And keep those copies private, unlike your lawyer did."

"You're such a meany," Casey said, sticking her tongue out at me.

"So says the criminal," I replied.

"Asuka saw them as well; does she have to provide some pictures?" Mitsy asked.

"Does she have a copy?" I asked.

"No, she just looked at them," Mitsy replied.

"Then it's up to her if she wants to give me a picture or two," I said with a grin. "I'll leave it to her to decide if she thinks she should. I wouldn't turn them down, that's for sure. She's as beautiful as you two."

They both looked at her sitting in the desk chair and she looked back calmly.

"So Asuka, will you be giving Mike some pictures of you?" Casey asked.

"Of course she isn't," Mitsy spoke up. "We aren't either."

"How am I supposed to fall asleep dreaming of you three if I don't know what you look like under all those layers?" I asked with a pout. "I might as well dream of you in your coats then."

"Poor Mikey, you'll just have to use your imagination," Casey said with a laugh.

"Great, I'm here alone with three gorgeous women and I don't even get to see any bare arms," I said with a pout.

"So, can you pick us up here tomorrow night at six thirty so we can go with you to the Dojo?" Mitsy asked.

"You're all going?" I asked.

"Yes, we are also going to attend self defence classes, in a separate class of course," Mitsy told me. "You're going to be with the Sensei and perhaps my cousins."

"They're ok with everything right?" I asked. "I'm not walking into a situation where they can get me alone and show me how they really feel about me, am I?"

"Of course not Michael, they would never tarnish our family's honour that way," Mitsy said. "They are truly pleased that you saved me and are honoured that you have asked them to help you."

"Good, they could probably kick my ass with one hand behind their back," I said.

"It would be hard to say," she replied. "You seem to be able to overpower just about anyone when you go into your berserker mode. In a practice bout without the emotion, they would probably win."

"Alright, I still have homework to do, so I'll bid you a good night and maybe see you at the arena tomorrow afternoon," I said.

The two skaters got up and gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek. Asuka just nodded as I smiled at her before leaving the room and walked down the hall to the elevator. Two girls got off when the doors opened.

"Hello handsome," one of them said.

"Hello ladies, you have a good night," I replied.

"It would be better if you stayed up here," the other one said.

I just smiled and let the door close as they pouted. I supposed I was going to have to get used to the attention but for now it still surprised me that girls and women were attracted to me.

I drove home and got onto my homework, working late into the night to get at least the first year programming assignment done as well as the end of chapter questions. After that I crashed after setting the alarm.

Wednesday was bitterly cold as I warmed the car up while scrapping the thick layer of frost off the windows. As I drove looking through the small clear spot in the windshield, I vowed to one, get a new car, and two, find a condo with an underground parking lot.

Morning practice and school were pretty normal, and I got in a good workout prior to taking up my ogling spot in the tunnel before afternoon practice. Casey and Mitsy were both out there skating and for the first time I watched the little dictator skate. She was technically excellent and she made all the jumps look easy. She didn't seem as graceful as Casey; the skating between the jumps looked bland, just there to fill in until the next skill.

On the other hand Casey was grace personified. She glided like she born with skates instead of feet and her movements were like a ballet. Her weakness was the difficult jumps; she hit them about eighty percent of the time, which was a good average, but not perfect. The coach finally let them off the ice and all the skaters and the coaches said hi to me. My two skaters came up to me at the end and said hello.

"Hi ladies, you looked good out there," I said. "You two need to help each other out with your strengths and you both would be perfect."

"Oh, do tell oh mighty figure skating guru," Mitsy said with a grin.

"Yes, please enlighten us, oh great one," Casey embellished.

"If you insist," I said. "It seems pretty obvious to me, and maybe you already do it. Mitsy is almost perfect in the skills portion of her programs; her jumps look perfect to me every time. However, the skating in between looks like she's just going from one skill to the next in the shortest amount of time and energy."

"Casey on the other hand is grace personified, she looks like a ballerina out there," I continued. "However, her skills are less precise and you have a much lower percentage of completion. So, if Casey could help Mitsy with her style and Mitsy could help Casey with her precision, you both would be unbeatable."

They looked at each other and Mitsy said, "He's not as dumb as he looks."

"Mitsy, you know he's a genius, he probably could use his computers to analyse every move we make out there," Casey chided her. "We should book some extra time and help each other out."

"Fine, we'll listen to the big genius," Mitsy said. "His head will explode that much faster if this works. We'll see you at six thirty at our room Mister."

She stomped off and Casey said, "She hates it when she doesn't see things like that first. Thanks for the advice Mike. Have a good practice."

"You're welcome Casey, I'll see you soon," I replied and watched her as she walked down the tunnel and smiled at me before turning down the hallway. Her body made me want to follow her and pull into a vacant room and have my way with her, especially when she wore her skin tight pants and tee shirts. I shook my head and went out to help Rolf.

During practice, John came over and we talked a bit.

"Hey, I signed those approval forms for CK," I told him.

"Really, what made you change your mind?" he asked.

"They're sponsoring a couple of scholarships in my parents' names, and then they made me an offer I couldn't refuse," I told him.

"Well good for you Mike," John said. "You're picking up the next meal then."

"Sounds good to me," I replied. "They also signed me up for a new one year contract, to do six more shoots over that time."

"You're going to be rich, aren't you?" he asked.

"I guess you could say that," I answered. "Keep it to yourself, will you?"

"Sure, it's no one's business anyway," he replied.

After practice was over, I took a quick shower and grabbed a spare set of sweats in case I needed them. I drove over to their dorm and rode up in the elevator with a very pretty co-ed.

"You're Mike Stewart right?" the brunette asked.

"Yes I am," I replied.

"Casey is one lucky girl," she said. "I would ask you out myself, but she is too nice and her psycho roommate would sic her friend on me. I know you helped her out and all, but she seems overly protective of you and Casey."

"She is becoming a pint sized dictator," I agreed with a grin. "She's taking the debt thing a bit too far."

The doors opened and she said as she walked out, "I'm Paula, look me up if things don't work out with Casey."

"It was nice to meet you Paula," I replied as the doors closed.

I got off the elevator on their floor and walked down to their room, past open doorways with girls in less than full clothing on. A few came out as I knocked on the girl's door and waited with my hands in my pockets. The door opened and Mitsy pulled me in and glared at the observers.

"Hello ladies, looking very sexy this evening," I said, admiring their bodies.

They were in sports bras and tights, which allowed me to see their very firm figures.

"Mitsy, I told you to wait a second," Casey said, scrambling for a tee shirt to cover herself with. "Mike, please turn around for a second."

"Casey, you have nothing to be ashamed about, you're lovely," I said.

She got a tee shirt in front of herself and said, "Only my boyfriend gets to see me like this, and you're not even my date yet Michael."

"Well since I'm a boy and a friend, I think I meet the requirements," I said with a grin. "Mitsy doesn't seem to mind me looking at her."

I turned to look at Mitsy and she did a little twirl to show off her compact but very sexy body.

"Well, you look lovely as well Mitsy, thank you both so showing me how gorgeous you are," I said.

"Thank you Michael," Mitsy said. "I'm glad you like the view. Casey, let him see you, you're both adults now."

Casey shot her a look and pulled on the tee shirt instead. It covered her up down past her bum. I let out a dramatic sigh and put on a pout. That earned me a roll of Casey's eyes and a giggle from Mitsy.

"If our little exhibitionist will get dressed, we can be on our way before we're late," Casey said as she put on her boots.

"I bet Michael doesn't mind if we're late if I stay like this a little longer," Mitsy replied, getting her boots on.

"Mitsy, it's not nice to tease men, at some point they will want more," Casey advised.

"You're right, especially since you don't have time to take care of him right now," Mitsy agreed. "Sorry Michael, I'll cover up now."

She grabbed a tee shirt and slipped it on before putting on her coat. She led the way to the door and said with a grin, "You two stay here for a minute while I get Asuka from her room. Feel free to get to know one another better."

She slipped out of the room, pulling the door shut behind her.

"Sorry about that Mike, she's changed since she's gotten back," Casey said as she stood up. "She used to be so conservative and would cover up whenever I was in the room. Now she's the uninhibited one and I look like a shrew. All of us need to sit down and see where this is going and how we all fit in."

"Ok Casey, we'll talk tomorrow at dinner for sure, if not a bit tonight after our lesson," I promised. "I'm sorry this is so screwed up, if the circumstances were different, it would be pretty easy to figure things out."

"I know Mike, it's bad timing for us to get involved," she agreed. "You're going to be hit on by every woman within miles and most of them will try and get the media involved afterwards. I don't want to be caught up in that mess or play the jealous girlfriend. I think we both want to get together, and there is the obvious physical attraction; but we both know you're going to be a wanted man for a good while and I can't compete with that."

"You're probably right," I agreed. "I never wanted this stuff to happen, I would have loved to go out with you in a month or so and I think we would have been happy together. I won't put you through what's going to happen in the next few days, and what's already happening. I've been approached a half dozen times already by girls and women, some wanting a quick roll in the hay and some wanting a relationship. I'm not the type of guy that will take advantage of all of this, I don't want to sleep around or be a player and I'll never know what their motivations are. I'm afraid that I'll be the target of paternity suits, assault charges, extortion and who knows what else."

"I see you've thought this through Mike, so you know where I'm coming from," she said. "I would never know if you had slept with someone if they sued you or not, and I would be hounded every time something like that came up. You're going to have to be very careful who you sleep with and make sure you're protected."

"I'm going to get a new place and put in some extra security to try and protect myself," I told her. "And I'm tired of scraping my windows in the morning."

"Get a new car while you're at it, we're across town before it warms up," she said with a laugh.

Mitsy opened the door quickly, hoping to find us in an awkward situation, but we just grinned at her.

"Ok, let's go people," she said disappointed.

I followed them out and took up the rear while Asuka took the point. We all piled into the elevator and rode it down to the lobby.

"Hello Asuka, it's nice to see you again," I told her.

"Hello Michael, I'm glad everyone is getting some defensive training," she replied. "The girls especially need to be able to stop unwanted advances when neither of us is around."

"I agree Asuka, and I need to be able to do the same with unwanted female advances," I said.

The girls all laughed as we got off the elevator. We piled into my car and Mitsy guided us to the Dojo. Once we arrived, we waited in the lobby for her cousins. They arrived a few minutes later and brought us into a meeting room. Takeru left for a minute and returned with two Japanese men in white gi; one an older man in his late sixties and the other in his forties.

"Sensei Ogata and Sensei Yamagata, this is my cousin Mitsuko Matsuda and Asuka, their protector" Takeru introduced the ladies.

The two Sensei and the two Japanese ladies bowed to one another and a rapid fire conversation in Japanese ensued. Takeru and Hiroto joined the conversation while Casey and I stayed in the background. Finally the discussion broke up and we were included.

The younger Sensei Yamagata spoke to Casey first, "Miss Simmons, we welcome the friend of Miss Matsuda to our Dojo and we will of course allow you to train alongside her. You have been a good friend to her in her time of need and we agree that the two of you need to learn to defend yourself in these troubled times. Hiroto will take you to the women's instructor and will get you two set up."

Casey thanked him and they left the room after saying good luck to me.

The elder Sensei spoke to me, "Mr. Stewart, we commend you on the rescue of Miss Matsuda. We have watched the film of the incident and of some of your fights in your hockey games that young Takeru has provided us. Without being too insulting, you have prevailed more due to brute force and a brief burst of energy than any skill at fighting. You have asked for some training, so it seems that you are aware of your limited skills."

"I have noticed that my face seems to attract punches rather than avoid them," I replied with a grin.

"We can of course enrol you in one of our self defence classes or one of our programs of our various disciplines, but if you're interested, I would like to take up your training myself, as a favour to the Matsuda family and yourself. I would like to develop some methods for your on-ice encounters as well as start your real world training."

"I am honoured that you would consider training me yourself Sensei, your time must be booked up with your senior students already," I replied, giving him a bow.

"You people have a saying that fits; seniority has its benefits," he replied with a laugh. "I take on new students from time to time and I find your story intriguing. These boys tell me that you have just signed a large contract to model clothing, while still going to school, playing hockey and practicing. Your work ethic does you honour Mr. Stewart."

"I have my parents to thank for that Sensei," I replied. "My father always said 'There's no use doing something if you're not going to put your full effort into it'."

"Precisely, Mr. Stewart," he agreed and then talked to the younger Sensei. "So, we shall begin training tonight. I'm going to use this young one as my training assistant with Mr. Stewart, and we'll use the back private room as we'll be much less formal. No need for the other students to become curious."

He had indicated Asuka as his training assistant and both the younger Sensei and Takeru looked surprised. Asuka arched an eyebrow but remained quiet. The two men bowed to him and then he led us outside and around to the back of the building. He unlocked the back door and led us down a hall.

"Please take your shoes off Mr. Stewart, it's a custom dating back to antiquity, but really, it just keeps the floors clean," he said.

We all took our shoes off and put on some slippers after we hung up our bags.

"Now, we have come back here to train because I do not feel the need to follow all the traditions with you Michael," he said. "I have been friends with Mr. Matsuda for almost fifty years, and we have had discussions about both of you. You may call me Sensei but we will dispense with all the traditional bowing and other signs of respect. I will take it on faith that you respect my age and skills Michael, and that Asuka will not hurt you like some of my more traditional students."

We both nodded and he had me go change into a tee shirt and sweatpants. When I came back, Asuka was down to a sleeveless tee shirt and tights. She had a tattoo of a dragon on each shoulder and one of a snake going down her right arm. She had a hard, lean body and was in fantastic shape; if she would smile, she would be very pretty. The two of them were talking in Japanese and broke off soon after I came up to them.

"Let's look at what we have to work with," Sensei said. "Take your shirt off Michael, just for a second."

I pulled it over my head and let it hang from my fingers.

"I see that you do extensive weight training, obviously for your hockey," Sensei remarked. "I assume you do the same for your conditioning?"

"We practice twice a day for two hours on the ice, plus two hockey games a week," I told him. "Any off days, I ride the bike or the elliptical and work out."

He looked at Asuka and said, "He's an impressive specimen, wouldn't you agree?"

"For the purposes of his sport, his physique and conditioning is impressive," Asuka said. "The two girls as well as the others in the college dormitory seem to find it desirable as well. In regards to defending himself, he is too bulky and slow."

"I agree, though his bulk will help absorb blows that would disable a smaller man," Sensei remarked. "Ok, put your shirt back on Michael and we'll start. Asuka will actually be your trainer for most things. I'm too old to spar with a man your size and speed, but Asuka will do just fine. The other men in the room wouldn't have agreed to it but since we are in my private Dojo, they don't have to know."

Asuka spoke to him in Japanese and sounded less than pleased. They went back and forth for a bit and she finally relented.

"Asuka has agreed, with misgivings on your safety," Sensei told me. "She has had extensive training in Ninjutsu and, for such a young woman, is a very dangerous person. So, we all go slowly and learn new things as we go. This is an exercise in restraint and anger management as well as getting you trained."

"Ok, Michael, attack Asuka as if you are fighting on the ice, so punching and perhaps grabbing the jersey," Sensei instructed. "Asuka, avoid the punches and lightly respond with taps to his face or stomach. No major leg movements; just use your upper body for defence and offence. Understand?"

We both nodded and I moved to stand in front of her.

"How hard or fast should I try to hit her?" I asked.

"Let's say full speed, but fifty percent power," Sensei responded.

"You ok with this?" I asked her. "I know you can kick my butt, but if I hit you it's going to cause some damage."

"I have been hit before, Michael, it is not the pain that worries me, it is my reaction," she said.

"Ok, hit me in the gut if you get pissed," I told her. "I can't have my mug looking any worse."

"As you wish," she said. "I am ready."

This went against all that I had been taught, so I went for a quick jab rather than a knockout swing. Her head moved to the side and I felt a tap on my cheek that I didn't even see coming. I tried a quick combo and she moved her head to the side for the first one and then lightly blocked the second on to the side with her hand and tapped me on the nose. I moved back a bit and then tried a punch to the gut and then several swinging punches interspaced in between jabs and straight punches. She dodged or blocked everyone but the last quick jab that grazed her cheek. She reacted instinctively and hit me in the gut. It felt like a baseball bat hit me and I went down on one knee as I gasped for air.

Sensei shouted "Stop" sharply and I looked up to see her fist stopped near my face.

She stepped back and put her hands down by her side. I stood up holding my gut and slowly straightened up.

"You ok Asuka?" I asked, looking at her face.

"It is nothing," she replied. "Are you ok?"

"I'll survive," I said with a grin. "Man, you pack a wallop for such a small woman. I'm glad you're protecting Mitsuko."

"Asuka, you must show better restraint," Sensei said. "This training is for you as well, you must learn a measured response when protecting Mitsuko. A simple graze on the cheek does not warrant a death blow to Michael or to a drunken teenage boy who happens to bump into her."

Asuka spoke back harshly to him and they went at it again for a couple of minutes.

"That will be the last time you speak in Japanese Asuka, it is impolite to Michael," he said. "You are her protector; would you trust it to anyone else?"

"No," she replied angrily.

"Then you have to learn restraint or you will be arrested and she will be without protection," he told her. "She is the one who has kept her family looking for you and insisted on them getting you out of your previous life. She is your oldest friend and you will leave her defenceless. You must be better disciplined."

"Yes Sensei," she replied and bowed.

He bowed back and then spoke to me, "Michael, as you can see you are greatly overmatched. Do not be ashamed, she would defeat almost anyone in the country, including anyone in the front Dojo. For you to touch her at all is impressive."

"What was not impressive is your lack of any defence against her blows," he continued. "Any one of them would have knocked you out if it was a real punch. We will start with some defensive training and attempt to incorporate it into your on-ice fighting first. Then we will move on to real world applications."

"Sounds good to me Sensei," I replied with a rub on my stomach.

For the next hour I was subjected to slaps, finger flicks, taps and light punches on my face and abdomen by the unsmiling young woman. Sensei showed me how to look defensively first, at her shoulders and arms while holding my hands up like a boxer. I was instructed to move my head to the side to slip the punch and we practiced it at slow speed until I got the feel of it. As she sped up, more got through my defences and head bobs and my face started feeling like a punching bag.

We called it a night at nine o'clock and the Sensei would not accept any money from us. He explained that the family was covering the costs. We arranged for training three nights a week, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. We got dressed and walked around to meet the other two girls and their cousins. They all winced when they saw my face.

"That bad eh?" I asked with a grin.

"Didn't you try ducking once and a while?" Hiroto asked with a laugh.

"Or try some defensive blocks?" Takeru suggested.

"It appears that I am sadly lacking in quick reflexes," I told them ruefully. "In my defence, she is very quick."

The guys laughed while Mitsy went off on her. They had a conversation that continued on after we said goodbye to her cousins, as we walked out to the car and they got in the back seat.

I turned to Casey in the front passenger seat and asked, "How did your training go?"

"It was great, we learned how to stand properly and then they showed us some defensive moves and a few offensive one too," she replied. "We practiced all of them in slow motion and then on a padded dummy. It felt good to hit that thing. I'm definitely going back."

"Good to hear it," I said. "A few weeks of training and you'll be able to fight someone off."

"I hope so; right now we feel too scared around the campus in the evenings if Asuka isn't with us," she said.

We drove back to the university and Mitsy insisted that we all go up and discuss some things. We sat on the beds, with Casey and I on hers and Asuka and Mitsy on the other. They had finished their talk a couple of minutes after we got in the room and Mitsy gave the taller girl a hug. Asuka was surprised but eventually put her arms around her friend and rubbed her back. I was watching her face and it softened for a minute when she was doing that. She became a beautiful young woman when that happened.

Eventually Mitsy sat up and gave us all a smile before saying, "Sorry about that, we were talking about a lot of things and I got carried away. I feel so much safer when she's around and she tells me she's working with the Sensei and Michael to make sure that she won't hurt anyone unnecessarily and have to leave me. I was angry that she hurt Michael, but we're ok now."

"Sure, everything is ok but my face," I remarked with a grin.

"Well, you better learn to duck faster," Mitsy said, causing Casey to laugh and Asuka to crack a smile.

I just shook my head.

"Ok, Casey and I had a talk while we were waiting for you and she explained what you two talked about," Mitsy told me. "I have to agree with her, she'll be miserable if she's your girlfriend right now. The women are going to flock to you; some already have and you're going to be the target of every gold digger or slut out there. Short of locking you in a room, the women will get at you and not even you are strong enough to resist all of them. So, you and Casey are a no go for a while."

"So what have you come up with to solve the problem?" I asked her with a grin.

"I don't know, but you're a guy, if you don't have someone, even in private, you're going to succumb to one of them and then you're open to rape charges, paternity suits, health risks, extortion plots, you name it," she replied. "You have to move, we agree you're right about that, into a secured condo with a garage."

"Put in some good security cameras as well," Asuka said. "If you do have a girl over, you will have the whole incident on film and can dispute any claim."

"Good idea Asuka," Mitsy said. "And we can see what he's up to as well."

The girls giggled at that.

"Ok, we'll start looking for a suitable condo close by and we'll keep thinking about a girl to keep you less frustrated," Mitsy said. "What do you think about Kiyomi?"

"First of all, I'm Canadian and can't buy property here under my student visa, so I have to rent," I said. "So don't go looking for a condo for me to buy. Secondly, Kiyomi is beautiful and very intelligent but she's hardly going to be interested in a young guy like me and she's certainly not looking for that type of relationship. I'm sure she's saving herself for her future husband just like you are."

"I can ask her anyway, I know she's attracted to you, just like we are," she said.

"Listen, when did you become my provider of women anyway?" I asked. "I'm perfectly capable of screwing up my love life without you getting involved. You're not my mother or my girlfriend."

Casey hit me on the back of the head and said, "Be nice, she's worried about you and wants to take care of you."

"Boy, save a girl and all of a sudden I can't take care of myself anymore," I muttered. "You two better watch out, she'll be finding you men soon enough."

I winced as soon as I said it, and watched as a light bulb lit up over Mitsy's head as she turned to Asuka.

"Casey, please hit him again, hard," Asuka said, before turning to Mitsy. "No, I can't protect you and be with him. It's not an option Mitsuko, so don't even say it."

Casey hit me on the back of the head again as Mitsy started her argument in Japanese, pulling out the pictures that were supposed to be private. I just groaned as the little dictator made the tall ninja chick mad, which was never a good thing.

"Ok, I'm leaving now before Asuka decides to use me for a kicking bag," I said. "I will see you maybe tomorrow in the afternoon."

"We still have dinner tomorrow night," Mitsy reminded me.

"No, we don't," I rebutted. "There is no use having a dinner date if we're not going to be dating."

"The four of us can still go out as friends can't we?" Mitsy asked. "You still have to eat and you could use the company so why not come out with us?"

"We'll see how things are," I replied. "If we go, let's just make it a casual place where we don't have to dress up."

"Fine, we'll hit a Chili's or something," she relented. "Meet us here at quarter to seven."

"I don't suppose you would let me swap her bum a few times?" I asked Asuka.

"We'll see how she behaves once you're gone," Asuka said with small grin.

"Asuka, how could you take his side?" Mitsy asked in shock.

I chuckled as I left the room and headed home. I checked my emails and messages and found the contracts from Mr. Carroll. I read them through and didn't find any issues. I forwarded them to Kiyomi in case she didn't get them and told her I thought they were ok. If she was ok with them, I asked her to let both Mr. Carroll and I know and he could get the real ones sent to us to be signed.

Vicky and Becky both sent emails thanking me for approving the pictures. I didn't reply back.

I worked on my database program for an hour or so and called it a night. I fell asleep dreaming of my three new lady friends.

Thursday morning flew by as the coaches pushed us hard in the morning practice in preparation for tomorrow night's game. After a programming class where the professor packed in two difficult chapters, I headed to the cafeteria and opened my laptop to work on my homework while eating. I checked my emails and found the ok from Kiyomi approving them and another one from Mr. Carroll asking me to be at my apartment at two forty five to sign the contracts as he was sending a special courier to get it done quickly. I emailed him back that I would be there and then got busy. At twelve forty five I packed up and headed to my next class.

After a busy database class, I headed home to the meet the courier. After database class I drove home and got there just in time to meet a Mr. Hanson who had me review the contracts against the ones that Kiyomi and I had approved. Once I was sure that they were the same, I signed four copies of each and he called Mr. Carroll and told him that he had two signed copies of the contracts and was heading back to New York.

He handed me his phone.

"Hello?" I said.

"Mike, congratulations, we're in business," Mr. Carroll said.

"Thanks Mr. Carroll, I appreciate your faith in me and I'll do my part as best I can," I replied.

"And I'm doing mine as we speak," he responded. "My CFO is just completing a transaction to your Canadian account for the one point five million in U.S. funds we agreed on Mike."

"Thank you Sir, I appreciate that very much," I thanked him.

"You are very welcome, spend it wisely," he said with a laugh. "I'll have my best manager get a hold of you soon to start the process of scheduling more shoots. Don't worry, she's great to work with and easy on the eyes. I want you happy and comfortable with this, as much as you can be."

"Alright, I'll expect her call or email Mr. Carroll and thanks again," I said, before handing back the phone to Mr. Hanson.

He left with his copies and I went online to check my account. Sure enough, I was a rich man. I emailed Kiyomi letting her know what was up and then had a quick snack. After I was done, I went back to the arena and watched the figure skaters for a bit before getting dressed and taking up my position in the tunnel. I noticed that instead of them both practicing parts of their program at the same time, one would watch the other do theirs and then they would discuss it together before the other one took the ice. Cooperation seemed to the name of the game today.

Several of the ladies said 'Hi Mikey' and giggled as they walked by. I smiled and replied with a 'hello ladies' as I appreciated their well toned bodies. The pint sized dictator and the ballerina came off together, still talking about their routines. They were so engrossed in their conversation that they walked right by me and continued on down the tunnel and turned the corner without stopping. I just shook my head and went out to help Rolf with the nets.

After another intense practice, I showered and got dressed before almost bumping into the two skaters and their hovering protector in the hallway outside the locker room.

"Hello ladies, you're looking beautiful as always," I said with a smile.

"Hi Michael," Casey replied with a smile.

"We're here to make sure you're coming out with us for dinner," Mitsy said.

"Hi there Mitsy, it's nice to see you too!" I replied to her business like statement. "No need to be so cheerful and happy to see me, you should just get down to business."

"Sarcasm does not suit you Michael, it is the tool of the weak minded," she replied primly. "Shall we go?"

I ignored her and turned to Asuka and said, "It's nice to see you again Asuka, you're looking very chic and lovely this evening."

"Your two friends here thought that I should try and blend in more with the other girls," Asuka explained. "I'm not sure I like these clothes or these shoes."

All three had dressed up a bit. Nice blouses and dress pants with high heel boots were the attire of all three. They had all let down their hair and it shined in the light as it draped over their shoulders. I was indeed a lucky man to have their company tonight.

"You look absolutely gorgeous, you all do," I told her and the others. "I'm going to have to beat off the guys wherever we go."

"We're going to your apartment to let you get changed and then it's off to dinner," Mitsy informed me as we started walking.

"I thought we were going real casual?" I asked.

"We have an appointment at seven thirty to see a condo in one of our buildings," she said. "You need to look well dressed or they won't take you seriously."

"I'm surprised that you haven't already had me moved in and picked out a car for me," I told her dryly. "You're actually letting me see it first?"

Casey laughed and Asuka smiled as Mitsy blushed.

"She tried to get her Dad to just rent it to you sight unseen, but he told her that you would be insulted that you didn't get to at least look at it," Casey told me with a grin.

"Mitsy, we'll go see this condo, but after that, you're going to stop trying to be my mother or wife and go back to being a freshman college student and lead your own life."

"You need someone to look after you Michael," she insisted.

"No I don't, I've been on my own for eight months and I'm doing fine," I said. "You need to relax a bit, just be a student and a skater. Let me handle things for a bit and if I find I need your help, I will ask for it."

Mitsy was going to say something back but Asuka put her hand on her shoulder and spoke in Japanese to her. They had a conversation as we exited the lobby and piled into my car. I drove to my apartment and they came into see it. I gave them the penny tour and quickly got changed in the bedroom while they sat at the table.

I came out and the three of them were talking quietly but stopped as soon as they say me.

"Ok, you three look guilty, what's up now?" I asked.

"Nothing, just girl talk," Casey said with a too innocent smile. "Shall we go handsome?"

"Alright beautiful," I replied with a grin. "And don't think I'm buying your innocent act Missy."

"Who me?" she asked as they got up.

"All of you," I replied.

I got them into the car and I followed Mitsy's directions to the restaurant, this time a popular college hangout on the other side of campus. We all got stamped as being below the legal age to drink and then were led us to a table that had a reserved sign on it.

A waitress came over and took our drink order and then we looked at the menus. I decided on a big burger and fries while the girls had salads with chicken in them. We gave the food order when she came back with the drinks and then looked around the crowded club. It was still early so no one was dancing or drinking much yet.

"This place gets really crowded after nine," Casey said. "A lot of girls from the dorm come here Thursdays and Fridays."

"Which draws a lot of guys from the dorms too," Mitsy added with a grin.

"This is the first time for me," I told them. "I don't get out much."

"You should get out a bit more Mike, try and enjoy college life a bit," Casey said.

"I'm enjoying it but hockey takes up so much time that all that I have time left for is schoolwork," I said. "It's not that bad, I came for school first and I don't mind being alone."

"Well, you'll be with us three nights a week from now on," Mitsy said. "We'll keep you out of trouble while getting you out of that apartment, or your new condo."

"So, tell me about this condo we'll be seeing later," I said.

"It's on the top floor of the building across the street, so it's close to campus and the arena," Mitsy started. "It has three bedrooms, two baths, large kitchen, laundry room, living room and dining room. The furnishings come with it and so do the appliances and blinds. It has a washer and dryer in the laundry room, a Jacuzzi tub and a separate shower in the big bathroom, and a great view of the campus. Oh yeah, it has a long balcony so we can sunbath in private."

"We?" I asked.

"You're going to invite us over so we can lounge in our bikinis aren't you?" Casey asked with a grin.

"Sure, did you bring them with you so I can see how you look?" I asked.

She hit me in my arm as Mitsy kicked me under the table.

"Why do I need three bedrooms?" I asked, rubbing my shin.

"You'll probably have guests from time to time, so they will come in handy," Mitsy said. "You could turn one of them into a study if you like."

The waitress came with our food and we dug in. I was watching some hockey highlights on the TV over the bar when the playful sexy CK commercial came on.

"Shit, it's on the TV already," I said.

The girls turned to see and watched me as I worked out with the twins watching from the hallway. The scene switched to the locker room with a few seconds in the shower and the twins coming in. They showed me getting into the underwear and the girls jumping out in theirs. We fooled around for a few seconds and then showed us getting dressed before walking out to the car. The scene switched to showing us having some fun in the bedroom. The scene faded to the CK logo and the commercial was done.

"That was pretty good Mike, you looked hot," Casey said.

"Yes Michael, you have nothing to be ashamed about with that," Mitsy agreed. "Right Asuka?"

"He looked in good shape," she conceded.

"Thanks ladies," I said. "But you three, ok you two, are biased a bit."

We heard the table behind commenting on the commercial.

"Damn! What a hunk!" one of the girls said.

"Wasn't that the Waters twins?" another asked.

"And their ex-boyfriend, the guy that plays hockey for the Wolverines?" a third piped up.

"Yeah, I heard they did some stuff before they dumped him for Robert Pattinson, the bitches," was the reply. "I think he looks hotter than Pattinson, definitely better built anyway."

"And what an ass," another one said. "I wonder if he was really lifting those weights or was it fake."

"I don't care, he's ripped enough to pull it off," a girl replied. "Did you see his six-pack abs? He could enter a bodybuilding contest he was that cut."

I wonder if he has a new girlfriend yet," another girl said.

"I heard that he and Casey Simmons might be hooking up," one of them replied. "You know; the hot blonde figure skater up on sixth floor."

"What a lucky bitch," was the response. "I bet he's great in bed, he certainly filled out those underwear well."

The girls all giggled and I looked at Casey to see her blushing red.

I whispered, "Well, you are a hot blonde, even if we're not hooking up."

"Yeah, but everyone will think we are doing things when we're not," she said bitterly.

"So, either we stop hanging out or we start doing things," I said with a grin.

"Wouldn't you like that!" she responded.

"Oh yeah!" I said as she hit me again.

We went back to our food and finished quickly. I paid the bill and we got out of there before I was recognized and walked across the street to the modern condominium building.

"Your family built this and are selling the condos?" I asked.

"We kept a few but sold the rest a while ago," Mitsy answered. "The one we're looking at just became vacant."

"So, before we go up, what's the rent?" I inquired.

"Two thousand a month plus utilities," she said.

"That's a bit higher than I was looking for," I told her.

"You just got one point five mill, so you can easily afford it," Mitsy said. "You need a place that has restricted access and this one has a keyed restricted elevator from the garage or lobby to the four penthouse condos on the twelfth floor. Besides, you need to spend some of that money or the government will just tax you to death on it."

"Fine, let's go in," I said, holding the door for the three of them.

We met a Japanese man who turned out to be the manager of the building. Mitsy and him spoke in Japanese for a bit and then he led us to the isolated elevator and used a key to unlock the door. We rode up in silence and he led us down the left hall and opened the double doors of the first condo.

After going through the whole condo buying thing with Steph and the twins last month, it was old hat for me. The manager explained everything but I checked out the appliances and the plumbing to make sure everything worked. I also checked out the windows and the walls under them to make sure everything was in good shape.

I followed them through the rest of the place and was impressed with the size and the views out the windows. The balcony was wide, secluded and pointed south to get lots of sun with a great view of the campus. We went back in and sat at the table in the dining room.

"Do I have to pay a maintenance fee on top of rent? I asked.

"No, just the utilities," he replied.

"All the furniture is included as well correct?" I asked.

"That is correct," he confirmed.

"Can I get two parking spots reserved?" I asked.

"Two come with each of the penthouse condos," he assured me.

"Who lives in the other three penthouse apartments?" I asked.

"As far as I know a young couple lives in one, a family of four in the other and a couple of college girls live in the fourth one," he responded.

"How soon can I move in? I asked.

"As soon as you sign the one year lease and give me first and last payment, plus deposits for the utilities," he replied.

I pulled out my check book from my local bank and made out a cheque for four grand. He slid over the rental paperwork and I filled out what was required. He handed over the keys, the garage remotes and the keys to the private elevator.

After he welcomed me to the building, we all took the elevator down and we wished him a good night before leaving the lobby. We crossed the road and got into the car before driving back around to their dorm on the other side of campus.

I walked them back to the dorm but decided not to go up so Casey and I wouldn't be seen together.

"You ladies have a good weekend; should I pick you up Sunday for training?" I asked.

"No, we'll meet you there, but why won't we see you this weekend?" Mitsy asked.

"I have hockey both days remember?" I told her. "I have to look for a new car before the game and move my stuff over her on Saturday so I'm going to be busy."

"Kiyomi will go with you tomorrow and show you where you can pick out a car."

"Ok, that's it!" I said as we entered the lobby. "Asuka, she needs a good paddling; are you going to do it or shall I?"

She looked at me and then at Mitsy as Casey giggled. Mitsy looked worried as Asuka didn't answer right away. After about twenty seconds she turned to me.

"You have to be less stubborn, she does have your best interest at heart and you will benefit from her help," she started before turning to Mitsy. "You need to stop trying to run his life. He is a man, not a boy. You insult him by acting like his mother or his wife. If you do not intend to become his wife or lover, you cannot keep acting like one."

"You know I can't be either of those Asuka," she said sadly.

"Then you can only be a friend," she replied.

"Fine, but after we get him in the condo and get him a car," Mitsy said stubbornly. "I won't have him in that old apartment or car any longer than necessary."

"Fine Mitsy, but that's it, understand?" I asked.

"Ok, I'll send Kiyomi to you in the morning," she said with a satisfied smile. "She'll be at your apartment at nine thirty. Try not to wear her out too much, she should do some work at the office."

"Could you two both paddle her for me please?" I asked. "Goodnight ladies."

I left them laughing in the lobby and drove back home. After I worked a couple of hours on homework, I checked my emails and found a bunch.

Aunt Nancy sent a short one.

'I know I'm not supposed to look at my new nephew like that but Hubba-Hubba Michael! Looking good there. We'll be in touch in the next couple of weeks to arrange for a visit. Enjoy the attention from the girls now that you're single again!'

Kristen sent one as well.

'Damn, you are looking hot Mike. I just saw the commercial and I'm seeing you in magazines and on billboards out here in LA. I have to see you if you're not getting with the skaters. We'll keep it secret if you want, but please let me come visit. I can fly in Sunday, I looked up your hockey schedule and see that you're in Ohio Saturday night, but I can be there in the morning on Sunday. Please Mike, I need you.'

Evelyn Grayson, the reporter from last week, Angie from the AD office, Emmy and Leighton from New York, Cynthia my writing tutor, all sent emails congratulating me and telling me that I looked good. All of them offered to come see me if I wanted them to.

I sent those ladies a generic letter, thanking them for the kind words, but not mentioning anything of their offer. To Aunt Nancy, I sent a quick reply thanking her for the compliment and that I would be seeing them soon.

The hardest to do was the one for Kristen. I thought long about how to handle her. I wanted her for a friend and I would love to have her as a lover, but all hell would break loose if we were found out. Her relationship with Rob on the films could be jeopardized and the press would have a field day with the revenge angle. We would both be even more under the microscope. Finally I sent a response back.

'Kristen, it's good to hear from you, and thanks for the compliments. This weekend is out I'm afraid; I'm trying to get a new car and will be moving into a new secure condo. It would have been nice to see you again. We have to be real careful about this friendship, you don't want it public or your career would suffer from the backlash of the whole revenge thing. Let this CK thing die down a bit so I'm out of the spotlight and we can see each other then. I know it's not what you want to hear, and it's not what I would like. I think about you a lot so please be patient and we'll think of something.'

I shut down the laptop and got ready for bed. I did my normal checks of the locks and then hit the hay, thinking about all the women in my life. I drifted off dreaming of the new ones just down the road a bit.

I was startled awake by a hand shaking me on my shoulder. I knocked the arm out of the way and rolled over on the other side of the bed and turned on that light. Asuka was standing by the bed with her arms crossed and an arched eyebrow.

"Asuka, you scared the crap out of me," I said. "How the hell did you get in here? I know I put the chain on the door."

"Michael, I'm fully trained in Ninjutsu; a first year novice could get in here easily," she said in contempt. "You sleep like a child with no enemies."

"As far as I know, I don't have any enemies," I responded.

"Do you think the man that attacked Mitsuko will let things be?" she asked. "He could have friends sent to take you out so you can't testify or just have you beat up as a warning or for revenge. You must look out for yourself at all times."

"Ok, so I'm getting out of here by Sunday and we can make sure the new condo I'm renting is more secure," I responded. "I hope that you didn't come here in the middle of the night for that."

"No, I came to warn you against getting romantically or sexually involved with Kiyomi Toyama," she said.

"Why?" I asked.

"You two are both ready to explode and she is willing to give herself to you now," Asuka informed me. "You would take her up on her offer tomorrow, any man would."

"So why don't you want me to?" I asked. "I would be doing her a favour and I would treat her well."

"Hiroto's heart would be crushed, he's been trying for three years to get up the nerve to approach her," she admitted.

"Ok, I won't touch her," I said with a sigh. "She is a beautiful, intelligent woman, I envy him."

"She is also kind, thoughtful and a dedicated employee," she added.

"So, who told you about Hiroto and told you to come here?" I asked. "It wasn't Mitsy; she's the one setting us up."

"My employer told me and asked me to try and convince you," she admitted. "He thought it might have been harder than it was."

"I think they would be good for each other and I have some growing up to do before I could be comfortable with a women like Kiyomi," I told her. "So, was it Mitsy's grandfather that knew about Hiroto's crush?"

"Yes, he is the owner of the company and the ultimate boss of all the employees, including myself," she said.

"Alright, I'll do my best to point them in each other's direction tomorrow," I told her.

"You were easier to convince than we both thought," she said. "Mr. Matsuda thought I would have to resort to bribery."

"I have enough money, I would have been insulted," I told her.

"They are other types of bribes Michael," she said dryly.

"Oh, maybe I'll have to change my mind and see what you have to offer," I said with a grin.

"You are a terrible negotiator Michael," she responded.

"I know, but Kiyomi's and Hiroto's happiness is not something I would ever bargain for," I replied simply.

"Very mature for an eighteen year old boy," she noted. "There is some hope for you yet."

"You're only eighteen or nineteen Asuka, you're not much more mature than me," I reminded her.

"Wisdom and experience determine maturity, not years," she replied.

"Then I feel like I'm forty," I said without a smile. "And I think you probably feel a hundred if I'm right about you've been through. I'm surprised that Mr. Matsudo would make you draw on those experiences in your previous life to provide a bribe."

"Ownership has its privileges," she said simply. "He is a much kinder master than my previous owners."

"I'm surprised that ownership was kept rather than setting you free to be your own woman," I said. "I'm sure Mitsy doesn't consider you property."

"She is a spoiled little girl, though she has her eyes opened somewhat since the attack," Asuka remarked. "Even her father doesn't know what transpired to bring me here."

"Do ever think you will be set free?" I asked.

"Obligation in Japanese culture means something more than in Western culture," she said. "I am grateful to be free of what I had to do for my previous owners. To sleep with a not so ugly boy would have been much more desirable than tasks I had to perform every day."

"Damn, I should have kept my mouth shut if that was going to be offered," I said with a smile. "I had no idea that he was willing to offer a King's ransom to keep Kiyomi untouched."

"Kiyomi is worth a million of me, Michael, she is literally a treasure that is priceless," she said.

"Oh I agree, but then I think you are just as priceless, even if Mr. Matsuda or you don't think so," I rebutted. "You are beautiful, intelligent, strong, a master of Ninjutsu, loyal and caring."

"You are trying to assign character traits to me that you would like for me to have Michael, but I am a trained killer, using any method that I need to obtain my goals, including my body," she said harshly. "I have been trained using methods that would make you throw up if you saw them. Do not think that you can be the white knight that rides in to save me and I'll be your princess and we'll live happily ever after."

"And if I could save you, what would you do?" I asked.

"I would be yours, to do with what you will," she said. "I will never be free."

"So I couldn't just set you free?" I inquired. "What would do if you actually didn't have an owner?"

"Michael, you are a nice boy, still clinging to your romantic notions, but this is real life," she said.

"I have two things that you don't Asuka, I have a lot of money and I have a family that owes me a life debt," I said seriously. "I am certain that if I asked, you would be set free tomorrow. So what would do with your life?"

"I do not know, I have not wasted time thinking on that impossibility," she said.

"As payment for your request this evening, I want you to give me an answer to that question by Sunday night," I told her. "Even if it's staying with Mitsy as a friend and protector, actually going to school and learning different skills that you want to learn."

"Michael, that is a very poor choice of payment, you could have had this body I know you desire," she rebuked me.

"I don't want the body if the mind isn't there as well, and by her own choice and desire," I told her. "You're welcome in my bed anytime you come because you want me and you want me to want you."

"Childish, romantic ideals," she said.

"So, I have women begging me to be with them, I don't need you as a receptacle," I said. "I respect you too much for that. So I would like your answer by Sunday night please, unless that is too hard for your mind to comprehend?"

"Now I know why Mitsy gets so frustrated with you," she said in exasperation.

"Everyone misjudges me because I have this large body," I said. "I have a rather large head and it's not completely empty. I find it funny that for a culture that prides itself on being superior to us because of their minds, you don't even respect mine."

"Fine, I accept you payment terms Michael," she said. "I must go now before Mitsy suspects I'm gone."

"Why do you worry what a child thinks?" I asked with a grin.

"One does not awake the sleeping child," she replied. "She still thinks good of me. I would not have her lose her last innocence over me. She is all that I have left."

"No, you have Casey, Kiyomi and me, always will," I told her.

"Children and a naive woman," she said with a laugh. "Not much to inspire confidence."

"Go and protect your children them, I'm going back to my crib," I said. "And put the chain back on the door when you leave."

I climbed back into bed and smiled at her.

"Unless you would like to join me?" I asked.

"Goodnight Michael, you are a good boy," she said as she stepped out of the room.

"Goodnight Asuka, you're a stubborn girl," I replied.

She chuckled and then I didn't sense her in the apartment anymore. I got up and the door was still chained. I checked the bathroom but she was gone. I would have to think about how she did that. I went back to bed and eventually fell asleep.

Friday morning I was up early thinking about how she could have put the chain back on, maybe with a bent metal instrument I supposed. I had some cereal and read a textbook before heading over to the arena. After my usual warm-up I shot for a while and then rested on the bench until the team came on the ice.

"Hey CK, how's it going?" Chris asked with a grin.

"Ah, the fun begins already," I replied. "It's going well, and you Chris?"

"I'm ok I guess," he replied. "Whatever possessed you to pose in your underwear?"

"You did see the twins beside me right?" I asked. "They were very good motivators, that and the big check I got for doing it."

"I hope it's worth it with all the ribbing you're going to get," he said.

"I'll survive or go into hiding," I said with a laugh.

The rest of the guys all called me CK for the practice and when we were done, there was a full size print on me in my underwear on my locker. At least they cut out the twins.

I left it up and headed out for my apartment. I cleaned up a bit before Kiyomi knocked on the door.

"Hi Kiyomi, it's nice to see you," I told her as I let her in.

"Hi Michael, it's good to see you again," she said with a smile.

"Can I get you anything to drink?" I asked as we sat down.

"No thank you, I had my coffee this morning already," she said, pulling out a folder. "Mitsy informed me of the situation and I took the initiative to compile a list of cars and SUVs at some of our dealerships."

"Kiyomi, you didn't have to spend your own time to do this, now I have to compensate you for sure," I told her as I took the folder.

"You have no need, I enjoy doing things for you Michael," she said shyly.

"You are so nice to me Kiyomi, I wish you weren't already someone's sweetheart," I smiled at her.

"I am unattached Michael, I was hoping you and I could maybe see each other," she said shyly.

"Oh Kiyomi, I am so honoured that you feel that way, but I couldn't stand in the way of another more honourable man," I told her. "I'm sure that if he hasn't made his intentions known, he will very soon."

"I have no idea about who you are talking about Michael," she said, looking puzzled.

"I'm not going to ruin the surprise then," I said. "Let's hold off for just a bit, and if no one approaches you by next weekend, then we'll talk more. Ok?"

"Ok Michael, but if not, I would like to spend some time with you," she said more firmly.

I opened the folder and saw a picture of Kiyomi in a small bikini. She was gorgeous, long and lean and had just enough on top to fill out the bikini. The next picture was from behind and her ass was to die for.

I looked at her and said, "Kiyomi, I will treasure these to the day I die. You look absolutely wonderful. I am so surprised you haven't been snapped up years ago."

"I'm too tall for a lot of Japanese men, and the others are scared of my intelligence or my career," she said. "I have resigned myself to having to take on a non Japanese lover or husband. I am only twenty five, so I should be able to find a nice husband if I can practice a bit first. I am hoping you would consider helping me."

"Kiyomi, you have no reason to fear that someone won't want you," I told her with a smile. "Believe me, you're a treasure that many a man would sell their soul for. Let me light a fire under someone and if doesn't work out, I'll help you find someone who would love to have you."

"Wouldn't you love to have me?" she asked.

"I would, but I think you should set your sights higher," I said. "Enough of this, let's get down to business."

I looked through the different vehicles and decided on a SUV from Lexus. She drove me to the dealership and I test drove a 2010 Lexus GX470 SUV in black. I decided on that and Kiyomi negotiated a great deal for me. They told me it would be ready by two.

"You got a great deal Mike," she said with a smile.

"With your help," I said. "I'm taking you out for lunch as a thank you, but I need to go to your office building first if you don't mind."

"Sure, I'd love to go to lunch with you," she said with a smile. "Let's get you over to the office real quick and then we can go."

She directed me over to their offices and I told her I would meet her in her office in twenty five. She smiled and directed me to Mr. Matsudo's office.

"Michael, it's good to see you," he said when I knocked on his door.

"It's good to see you Mr. Matsudo," I said. "I just wanted to thank you for loaning me Miss Kiyomi Toyama again. She just helped me get a great deal on a new SUV."

"You are most welcome, and congratulations on a fine purchase," he said. "You have a fine condo rented out as well."

"Your daughter did most of that, both ladies are being very helpful," I said. "I must really commend Miss Toyama's work and professionalism," I continued. "She is not only an excellent lawyer, but a beautiful and charming young woman."

"I agree, she is one our best employees," he beamed.

"I'm surprised one of you nephews hasn't snatched her up for a wonderful wife," I remarked.

"Who knows what those youngsters are thinking, in my day she would have had my ring on her three years ago," he agreed.

"So there's no family reason why they haven't approached her? I asked.

"No, she comes from a very good family," he said. "You seem very interested in Kiyomi all of a sudden Michael."

"A little birdie told me one of them liked her but hasn't done anything about it," I told him. "Kiyomi is about to branch out her search for a man but I convinced her to wait a week. Can I borrow Hiroto for a lunch with her to kick start things before it's too late?"

"I see you have helped my family again Michael, of course you may take him away, with my blessing," he said. "I will clear his schedule for the remainder of the day. Let's go get the fool going before he misses out."

He led me to Hiroto's office and he got up from behind his desk to greet his Uncle and me.

"Uncle, Michael, what a pleasure to see you," he said. "What brings you here today?"

"Michael was just expounding on the many virtues of Miss Toyama, she's been helping him today," Mr. Matsudo said. "He wanted to take her out for lunch to thank her and since she works for you, I thought you should go with them and hear how well she's done for Michael. I'll clear your schedule for a few hours so you don't have to rush back."

"Certainly Uncle, I would love to go to lunch with them," he said. "That is, unless they would like to be alone?"

"Don't be ridiculous, we would love to have you," I said. "In fact, I'm going to need your help; I have to meet a girl at school at twelve forty five but have to be back at the dealer at two. So if you could spend some time with her and drive her over to the car lot it would save me an embarrassing tale. I'll just tell her it's a lab. That is, if you don't mind spending time with her."

"Of course I would like to spend time with her, she is one of our best employees," Hiroto replied.

"Good, I had to fight two guys off of her just to get her to come out to lunch with me," I told him. "I guess she's getting tired of waiting for a Japanese husband, the fools are intimidated by her beauty, her height and her intelligence. Anyway, I shouldn't be talking out of turn; she's a wonderful lady who would make any man an excellent wife. It's too bad I'm a little young for her or I might just steal her away."

"And I'm too old," Mr. Matsuda joked, clapping a hand on my shoulder.

"Alright, I'm not that stupid, who told you?" Hiroto asked.

"A little birdie that will remain nameless told me you liked her," I told him. "Kiyomi told me she herself that she's tired of waiting for a Japanese husband. So you have until the end of this week to get in the game or you'll lose her. I suggest you pull out all the stops this weekend."

"Ok Michael and thanks, I know it wasn't easy to give her up," he said.

"She was never mine just so you know, but I admire her greatly so treat her well and don't expect to change her into a mousy stay at home wife with the kids," I told him. "She's a highly intelligent woman who deserves an equal say in things."

"I guess that's why I have waited, I'm not sure how the women in my family will take that," he said. "I'm fine with her, more than fine, but Grandmother and Mother might not like it so much."

"You handle the wooing this weekend while I talk to my wife and your mother and they can handle your Grandmother," Mr. Matsudo told him. "Ok you two get going and don't blow this or Mike might take her off your hands."

We walked over to her office and poked her head in. She stood up and bowed to Hiroto and he bowed back.

"Sorry to pull your boss in here Kiyomi but I was telling his uncle how well you were performing for me, and he thought he should tell Hiroto," I said. "He insisted on coming over and embarrassing you with what I said and I had to let out that we were going to lunch and invited him to join us. I hope you're not too mad at me."

"Of course not Mr. Stewart, I would be happy to have Mr. Matsuda join us for lunch," she said, straightening her outfit up.

"Ok, you two, I know you're boss and employee but when we're at lunch I'm going to call you Kiyomi and Hiroto so you two might as well lighten up for a couple of hours," I said. "I'm certainly not going to respond to Mr. Stewart so let's go."

I followed them out the door and waved at Mr. Matsuda and he waved back. I told them Hiroto should follow in his car so I could borrow Kiyomi's for a short while as I would have to leave for a bit to hand in a lab at school.

We went to a nearby steakhouse and I had a nice Porterhouse steak for lunch. They ate much lighter but at least they were talking.

"Ok, I need to run for a bit but you two stay and enjoy some dessert and each other's company," I said. "I'll see you at the car dealership at two if that's ok Hiroto?"

"Sure Mike, we'll meet you there," he said.

"Ok, but don't run off with my lawyer until after I get possession of the car Hiroto," I told him with a laugh before looking at Kiyomi. "And you; try not to blind him to much with your wit and charm so you're late."

"Ok Michael, we'll be there," she said with a shy smile.

I called around to get some car insurance locally for the new SUV. I drove to their office and gave them a check and got some temp insurance papers in return.

I called Mitsy and when she answered said, "You should be ashamed of yourself young lady."

"And why is that?" she asked.

"Not helping Kiyomi and Hiroto get together," I replied. "You must have known about what he thought of her."

"He never approached her and she shouldn't be alone," she defended herself. "Did you make it nice for her?"

"Well, they're just having lunch so I hope he's nice or I'll kick his ass," I responded.

"What have you done Michael, she was supposed to be yours today?" she asked crossly. "I got her all ready for you."

"That has to be the cruellest thing you've done, convincing her to give up her hope for a suitable Japanese husband, to lose her innocence forever," I said. "All you had to do was give him a kick in the ass, like your dad and I just did."

"You deserve her more and she would have been happier with you I think," she said. "Now we're back to square one with you."

"No, now you're all done with me," I corrected her. "I've got my new place and a new SUV, so your work is done. That is unless you want me to start mentioning to your folks that you've been asking about sleeping with me. That should get you a Japanese husband real quick."

"You wouldn't!" she gasped.

"I most definitely would, and they would believe me," I told her. "So back off on the girls, I have a bunch to choose from already, from actresses, models, reporters and students."

"Fine, you win," she said softly.

"Good, now I want you to help with the Hiroto and Kiyomi situation this weekend, convince her that I'm not a good option," I instructed her.

"Yes Michael," she agreed.

"I'll see you at the arena," I said and hung up.

I drove over to the dealership and found the two future lovebirds in Hiro's car. I pulled up and they moved apart quickly when they heard me.

"Ok, you're both still alive and showed up on time," I said with a grin. "How was dessert?"

"It was good Mike, Kiyomi tells me you're getting a great deal here," he said.

"And she probably never said a thing about how it was her that did it," I stated. "She's too modest for her own good."

"Michael, I didn't do that much," she blushed.

"Ok, let's get this over with so I can go rest up before the game tonight," I said.

We all went in and I signed some paperwork and got the keys to my new vehicle.

"Hiroto, can I talk with Michael for a minute please?" she asked him as we stepped out.

"Sure, I'll be in my car so I can follow you back," he said. "I'll see you soon Mike."

"Ok Hiro, thanks for keeping Kiyomi company," I told him.

"That was a pleasure," he said with a smile at her.

She blushed and watched as he walked away.

"Ok, what gives Michael, my boss becomes interested in me all of a sudden, what's up?" she asked.

"Give him a chance, he's a nice guy who worried too much about the old traditions," I said. "He's a much better future for you than I am."

"I've been waiting for him for three years, how did you do it in a day?" she asked.

"I've got an in with his family silly," I said. "So, you happy?"

"If he can keep it up, maybe, but I'm not going to be a stay at home wife, so he better get that out of his head," she said.

"He's aware of that already, so chill and put on some charm," I told her. "He needs to know that you are interested and over me."

"Ok, but I'm coming for you if this doesn't work out," she warned.

"Fine, but try Takeru first, then me," I said. "Now give me a hug and then tell him you had to break my heart because you want an older man. It will do wonders for his ego."

You're a good man, Michael, enjoy the pictures as I enjoy yours," she said as she hugged me. "Call me whenever you need me, for anything."

"I will, and I expect one of the kids to have Michael in his name," I told her.

"If it can't be yours then that's the least I can do," she said.

She gave me a hug and I looked sad as I got into my SUV and drove off as they were still talking by his car. I drove home for a quick nap.

I joined the team for team supper and then relaxed before our time to skate. When we went out for our turn there were only a few people there to watch us. We did our usual warm up routine and I felt a little off. My shots were ok but my legs felt sluggish. I grabbed a Gatorade and chugged it down but that just made my stomach churn. I went to the bathroom and promptly threw up what I had eaten for supper and most of my lunch as well.

I let Chris know what was up and he gave me something for my stomach and told me to relax for a bit. I must have looked worse than normal for John to comment.

"Damn you look like shit Mike," he said. "Are you going to make it?"

"We'll see," I said, closing my eyes.

We eventually went out to the arena to the cheers of our fans. I kept my helmet on to hide my condition and Chris kept a bucket in the tunnel just in case. The coaches knew what was up so they played the fourth line in the usual last place. I went over the boards on the fly and got over to my side and tried to put my stomach out of mind. It seemed to work as nothing came up but I was a bit weak and just made sure I didn't lose defensive containment rather than go in hard into the corners. Peter and Victor went in and I stayed out front and looked for a pass or a screen.

Our line didn't score or even have a good scoring chance, but we didn't let a goal in either so it wasn't so bad. Bowling Green got a power play on a hooking penalty and kept the penalty killers hemmed for a good portion of the first unit. Frank put John and Samuel out as I definitely wasn't up to it. Unfortunately, neither was Samuel and he got burnt by a speedy left forward. One quick pass out front, when Mark was covering the post, got them up one to nothing.

The first period ended one to nothing and Chris brought me to the training room and hooked me up to an IV and pumped in fluids to get my strength back up. They started the second period without me but I joined within five minutes. I was just in time to let the fourth line out and we took it to them in their zone. I hit a defenceman in the corner and chased the puck behind the net. I flipped it over the net to Pete and he hit it out of the air and into the net.

The ref immediately called a no goal as he thought Pete's stick was too high, above crossbar height when he hit the puck. They went upstairs for a review and, since the ref had already called it a non goal, they didn't find enough evidence to overturn the play.

We fed off the crowd's displeasure and took the play to them for the next ten minutes and nearly scored a couple of times. Unfortunately, they got a lucky break with a bad bounce past John at the point. Samuel was caught in a two on one and badly missed the pass over to the second forward who put it in easily.

The period ended with the score two to nothing and we trooped in silently. Chris brought me more fluids and energy food while Fred talked to us.

"What the hell is wrong with you guys out there?" he yelled. "You're all playing like Mike looks, Crap! At least he has an excuse. The rest of you had either be puking soon or you better pick up the energy. Hit them, go after pucks and let's get some damn shots on net people!"

The coaches went around and took a few people to task on an individual basis. Samuel got it from Frank and Fred for his lame attempt on the two on one. Fred got over to me eventually.

"Feeling any better Mike?" he asked.

"A bit Coach, I've got a bit in the tank now so I'll cause some havoc, never fear," I told him. "We're not out of this yet."

"Ok, I'm going to put your line out first, let's surprise them with a burst of energy," he said. "Try for a forward push on the face-off. I'll tell Sam to let Pete and Victor know."

"Sounds good Coach, I won't let you down," I said.

"Never have yet," he replied.

We went out and Pete, Vic and I planned the first play. I played up being tired and didn't even bend over to cover the left winger. When the puck dropped I took off towards their zone as Pete pushed the puck forward. I beat the slower moving defencemen to the puck and chipped it by them. I split between them and chased the puck as they tried to hook me. I was spun right around but somehow kept my balance and caught up to the puck before the goalie could get to it. I took it wide around him and he dove to trip me as the defenceman hit me in my head, knocking my helmet off as I flipped the puck into the net.

The crowd cheered and Pete and Victor got me back on my feet, blood rushing down my face as I had fell on it when I had to keep my hands on my stick to shoot the puck.

"Fantastic Mike," Pete said as he carried my helmet for me.

"Thanks, great face-off win Pete," I replied as we skated back to the bench to do the obligatory glove touching.

I got onto the bench and Chris started working on the cut.

"Shit, it needs a few stitches Mike, let's go back to the room," he said.

"Just do it here, I'm not leaving," I told him.

"You sure Mike, it's going to hurt?" he asked.

"So I cry like a baby, it's nothing new," I replied.

He had Wendy help and he put in five stitches right there on the bench. I missed one shift but Sam just put us on as soon as I was ready. I went and grabbed the puck from Chris behind our net and built up a head of steam. They backed away and let me get past centre ice before the first forward tried to check me. I put a simple deke on him and got past him and both their centre and left defenceman moved to squeeze me onto the boards.

I passed it off to Pete as they both hit me going full bore. I made sure I leaned into them and we all went down hard, the centre making sure he put my head into the boards. I heard the crowd let out a big cheer as I lay on the ice for a few seconds to clear my head. I got up onto one knee and then stood up and skated slowly to the nearby bench and sat down at the end while everyone congratulated the others.

I got off my helmet and poured water over my head and saw it tinged with red as the cut stung. I went into the tunnel and leaned on the wall and closed my eyes as I slumped down when I got dizzy. I took a drink and fought down the nausea before I hurled again. When I felt better, I opened my eyes to see Wendy looking back at me.

"Hi there cutie," I said with a grin. "You're a sight for sore eyes."

"Now I know you hit your head too hard," she said with a matching grin.

"Just got my bell rung," I said. "I'm good now."

She put another bandage on my cut and said, "No, you're not, but I know I can't stop you. Take it easy on the bench for a couple more minutes and be careful Mike."

She walked beside me and made sure I got on the bench ok. We were tied up with just three minutes left to play. I put my helmet on and shook my head until it cleared for a minute. I nodded to Sam and he tapped the fourth line again to change as soon as the current line came off.

Twenty seconds later I was over the boards and chasing the dump in as the first line peeled off. I hit the first defenceman to touch it and then the second one as he just got a stick on it before he hit the boards. I moved back up the ice chasing the left winger as he carried it up our wing. I caught him by our blue line and lifted his stick before he could bump it in. I turned with the puck and headed back up the ice. I made it to the blueline and wound up for a slap shot and, when defenceman went down to block the shot, went around him. The second d-man came over to block the pass and stop me from having a free angle to the goal. I flipped it over to him and Peter got his stick on the fluttering puck but it went wide of the net.

I rounded the net and passed the puck to John at the point. He faked a shot and slid a nice set up pass over to Samuel. He also faked a shot and tried to go around the charging left winger. I skated back hard to cover the point but I was just half way there when he lost the puck to the forward. John and I raced for the speedy winger but he had too much of a lead on me and John misjudged his speed and was a split second behind him when he deked Mark and put it in the net behind him.

I banged the glass as the crowd groaned and then left the ice. I was out of gas. The first two lines tried desperately to tie up the score but the buzzer rang as our time ran out. We lost to an unranked team in our own house three to two. I moved to the dressing room in a daze and slumped onto the bench in front of my bench. Chris and Jesse came over to me and took off my helmet and my shoulder pads before standing me up. I helped with the rest of my stuff and had a quick shower before getting dressed in sweats.

"I'm disappointed gentlemen, we fought back to tie it up and then let it slip away," Fred said. "Now we go into their house and they have a very good record at home. We need that game tomorrow. I'm making changes in the line-up. Stewart, you're back on defence and Samuel you're out of the starting line-up until you can show you deserve to be there. Adam, you're back in as right winger for the fourth line. Show me that you can play like a starter."

I left the locker room and found Chris, the team doctor and Wendy ready to sew up the cut properly.

"It's the good Doctor," I said with lopsided grin. "It must be bad when they call you in."

"It is when we want to keep your face pretty for your modelling career," he replied.

"True Doc, there would be a bunch of suits in New York that would be very mad about that," I agreed.

"And quite a few women as well" he said.

"I don't think so," I said as I lay on the table. "Ok Doc, try and match it with the others, maybe a checkerboard pattern or an M for Michigan."

I closed my eyes and fell asleep on them. When they shook me awake I cleared my eyes and said, "Did you save the arm Doc? Can I still play ball?"

"I think we saved your modeling career, but your baseball one is shot to hell," he replied. "Now go home and rest that head."

"Thanks Doc, put your bill on my tab," I said. "I'll be leaving town tomorrow."

He laughed and left the room. Wendy put a bandage over the stitches and helped me up.

"Ok there Mike?" she asked.

"I'll survive," I said. "Thanks for your help today doll, I owe ya one."

"Get lots of sleep tomorrow, forget about coming in to practice in the morning," she said. "If you're not better I'm not letting you play tomorrow night."

"You're a bit small to be such a pushy person," I said, looking down at her. "I'll be playing tomorrow night and then I can rest a week. Now point me to the middle door and I'll be fine."

I went back to the locker room and grabbed my stuff. I changed into good slacks and a shirt but carried the suit and tie in a garment bag because I just didn't feel like wearing it. I slipped out of the locker room and headed out the side door and found my car. I drove home and crashed on the bed, falling asleep in a couple of minutes.

Saturday morning I started packing all my clothes, dishes and bathroom stuff. I went and talked with my landlord Mrs. Sullivan, and we decided to leave the furniture that I had in the apartment for the next tenants. I let her know I would be out by Sunday night but would at least pay till the end of the month.

I packed all I could stuff into the SUV and drove it over to the new condo. I parked in my reserved parking spot after piling my stuff by the elevator. I locked out the penthouse elevator and jammed it with all my stuff. I rode up to the top floor and unloaded it into the hallway. I then opened the double doors and piled it just inside them. After locking it up, I went back and did a second trip. I had just finished up piling the stuff in the condo when two lovely ladies walked by.

"Hi there, you the new renter?" the black haired beauty asked.

"Yes, I'm Mike," I replied. "Just getting a few things brought up,"

"I'm Yvonne and this is Tina, we both go to the college," she said.

"So do I, I'm in comp sci," I said.

"You look very familiar Mike, have we met before?" Tina asked.

"I would definitely remember you two if we had," I said with a grin.

"Well welcome to the building Mike, we'll have to have you over for dinner soon," Yvonne told me.

"Thanks, and I'll cook my favourite speciality for you sometime as well," I agreed.

They walked on to the apartment next door and I locked up mine before heading down to the parking garage.

I drove home and then relaxed for a bit before driving my old car over to the arena for a late lunch with the team. After eating, we put on our good clothes and got on the bus for the hour and a quarter trip to Bowling Green Ohio.

I sat beside John and we shot the shit for awhile. He wanted to know about the twins and the CK stuff, or Amanda did anyway. I filled him in on the various happenings and, while he was a bit envious, he still congratulated me, on the modeling stuff anyway.

After we exhausted our topics, I read a textbook while he chatted with his other friends on the team. We hit their arena just after three and were filmed as we walked in. After getting dressed, we immediately took the ice for our warm-up session. After the usual rest and waiting, the game finally got started.

The game itself was a bit boring, for me at least. I had gotten used to seeing the puck more and getting to hit people all over the ice while playing forward. Defence seemed easier somehow, maybe because I could read what the wingers would do if I was in their shoes, or skates as it were. I did get some payback in the first period, crushing the centre who had used my head as a basketball on the boards last game. He kept his head down a second too long going through centre ice and I removed him from the puck and the tenuous hold his skates had on the ice. I sent the first line in on a good scoring chance going the other way but the goalie made a good save.

The second period was more of the same, they had superior speed on a couple lines but our neutral zone trap kept them from using it. We kept the puck more but couldn't put it past their goalie. I did however extend my streak of breaking Plexiglas panels when a rising shot from the point just grazed the crossbar and smashed into the back panel, creating a large spider web design. We waited around a bit longer than usual as they hadn't had one break in a couple of years. The second period ended in a scoreless tie and we sat in the locker room with our drinks when Fred got up to speak.

"Ok, decent game so far, no lapses in judgement, good defensive coverage and no goals against," he started. "However, zero goals for and only four or five decent scoring chances through two periods are not going to win us this game. We need more energy from everyone. Let's get physical out there and see if we can generate some offence that way. Defencemen, take a few more chances if you know your winger will back you up. We need this game gentlemen so dig deep and let's pull this one out."

We marched out to the ice and everyone picked it up a notch. The ice sloped in their direction most of the period as we had them pinned in their zone. Their goalie was having a fantastic game, stopping everything we could throw at him. He stopped a shot that I had labelled for over his glove shoulder by jumping up and taking it on his shoulder.

Finally, with about two minutes left, I had enough. I picked up the puck behind the net and deliberately copied my actions from the previous game, deking the first forechecker and heading to their zone on the right wing. This time, I flipped the puck softly in off the boards and avoided the hit the defenceman and centre tried to put on me. I retrieved my pass to myself and skated in on net from the right side. The remaining defenceman and their right winger stayed with Gary and Daniel so, after looking their way, wound up from the middle of the circle and blew one by his stick shoulder before the goalie could move.

The guys congratulated me as the crowd booed. We lined up and kept the pressure on them so they couldn't score the equalizer. I did have a scare as the fast right winger got the puck and came in on me one on one down the right side. He faked going outside like he had been doing all game, but then he tried to drag the puck with him as he cut to the inside sharply.

I kept him in front of me and, as he was playing with the puck, I leaned into him and put him on his butt, the puck sliding harmlessly to Mark to freeze. The resulting face-off was won and we cleared the puck out, even though they had pulled their goalie for the extra attacker. They had one last rush up the ice but John took out the puck carrier at the blueline and Gary held the puck away from them for the last ten seconds by skating around behind our net. The horn sounded and we had won the game.

I quickly got off the ice and got undressed and in the shower. The captains and the coaches did the press conference and then we ate a boxed supper on the trip back. We got back by nine thirty and I drove back to the apartment and checked my emails and messages.

"Good game tonight Michael, we'll see you tomorrow to get you moved into your condo," Mitsy said. "We'll be there at ten so get a good night's sleep."

Kristen left one as well, "You played great both games this weekend, though I got worried seeing you bleeding like that last night. They showed you getting stitched on the bench and I had to turn away I got so upset. I like that fact that you're back on defence, you should be safer. Have a good sleep and good luck with the move. I miss you Mike."

A third message came on and a woman's voice spoke, "Mr. Stewart, this is Katie Dunn from Calvin Klein, I've just been put in charge of your commercials and photos shoots for the next year and I couldn't be happier. I'm just calling to introduce myself and to see if you could send me your schedules for school and hockey so I can try and do some preliminary scheduling for possible shoots. Of course you get final approval, but I would like to take the load off of you and just present a couple possibilities for you.

I will also line up a slew of possible destinations for the shoots just in case you would like to escape snowy Michigan for a few days. If you have any ideas please let me know and we'll make it happen and arrange for you and a couple of guests to be put up in the best accommodations we can find. I will also line up a local studio across the border in Windsor where we can do a shoot or two if we have to.

I'm also starting our selections for possible models to work with you. We've had a slew of requests to work with you so we have lots of beautiful sexy women to choose from. You're going to have to beat them off with a stick when they show up at the shoot, let me tell you!

I'm here to make you happy Mike, so if there is anything you need, you let me know and we'll get it for you, no questions asked. I'm sending you all my contact information so we can stay in touch and you can send me your schedules.

Mr. Carroll told me about the issue with your student visa so Canada is a good option for us. We have a great customer base in that country so we would love it if you considered a shoot in Toronto. We have a gorgeous model that does our women's shoots up there and we think you would look great with as well as get along with.

Finally, Mr. Carroll would like you to know he took care of the problem you had with one of our employees. She's now working in a more reduced role in the company and has lost many of her company perks. Unfortunately her lovely younger sister has been adversely affected by the loss of their apartment and her sister's income, so we've offered her a job as your personal assistant. She is eighteen and very beautiful and also very smart. She was an engineering student before the unfortunate actions of her sister.

So, I would like to visit you with her Monday evening so we can all get to know each other. I of course made sure it was after your afternoon practice, so we should be there by seven. So, check your email, send me your full schedule and have a good night Mike."

I booted up my laptop and checked my emails. I opened the one from Katie and read her quick note with all her information. She had attached a couple of pictures, one of her, a good looking blonde about twenty five or so, and a second one with her standing beside a gorgeous, green-eyed, redheaded young lady. She was dressed in a blouse and short skirt and had a knockout body along with freckles on a model's pixie face. She wasn't smiling like Katie was, but wasn't scowling either.

I wondered why such a beautiful woman had to stoop to being a personal assistant half a country away from where she was going to school. She could have found a millionaire boyfriend to help her out so she could stay in school and in New York. I really didn't need another personal assistant but my small head argued to at least see her once and find out what the story was. I'm sure my little dictator and my ninja conscience wouldn't let me keep her anyway.

I emailed Katie back with my schedules and at least made the attempt to look like I didn't want a personal assistant (even if she was a beautiful, sexy, tall, green-eyed redhead). Hopefully she didn't read her email until Tuesday.

I closed down the laptop and headed to bed, thinking about my new personal assistant that I so didn't need.

Sunday morning I woke to banging in my door. Looking at my clock, I cringed as it read five after ten. I went and saved the door from being kicked into pieces and opened it up to see the three gorgeous women with slightly perturbed looks on their faces.

"Hello ladies, I'm sorry for keeping you all waiting, I had a bad night's sleep unfortunately," I said as I stepped aside to let them in.

The three women came in and sat around the table while I grabbed a diet coke. After getting a no on some coffee, I went to get dressed.

"There isn't much to pack up; the fridge, the bathroom and a bit of clothes left over," I told them. "The last of my books, laptop and I'll rescue the network router."

It took us three trips up the stairs to load everything in the SUV. After one last look around the apartment, I went upstairs and handed in my keys to Mrs. Sullivan. She wished me luck and gave me a hug. I thanked her and got in the SUV with Casey while Mitsy drove the car over. We piled everything by the elevator and then parked the cars in our reserved spots. We loaded it all in the elevator when it showed up. Soon enough we were unloading it into the hallway and then carrying it to the condo.

I carried the food into the kitchen and the girls helped get it put away. We continued with the rest of the kitchen stuff and then carried the bags to the master bedroom and the boxes of bathroom stuff to the master bath. Mitsy tackled the bathroom and Casey and I put away all my clothes. Asuka started installing her security cameras, sensors and alarm system in the various rooms.

We ordered a pizza to be delivered and took a break when it arrived. I played them the message from Miss Dunn on my cell and then showed them the email with their pictures.

"So we have a potential solution to your woman problem," Mitsy said.

"I wasn't aware that I had a woman problem," I said mildly.

"You're actually going to let her stay?" Casey asked her in surprise.

"She's smart, beautiful, his age and willing to take care of all his needs," Mitsy responded. "What's not to like?"

"What about us?" Casey asked.

"We will still see him three times a week and we can monitor him via Asuka's cameras," she replied.

"Those will all be recorded onto disc, not sent via wifi to you," I replied. "And I'm not going to sleep with her, she's obviously been forced into this so let's just get her here and then help her out. I've decided I'm staying single for a while, you women have cured me of any desire to hook up with one for a good long time."

"Good, our plan is working then," Mitsy said primly.

Asuka called me to the master bedroom and showed me the system she had set up on a small laptop. All the wireless cameras were motion and sound activated and would send their signals back to the laptop through a router to be recorded. Each recording would be stored in a daily file that would be saved in a directory rather than be recorded over.

"Ok, the girls can't access this computer, no one can, it's not set up for that," she said quietly. "So, just leave it alone in the back and just check to make sure it's working once a month and you're all set. If we need the feeds we'll just transfer the files to a disc and you're good."

"Sounds easy enough," I said.

She brought me to the sliding door that led out to the patio.

"The front door and this door are your only points of entry," she said. "Keep them locked obviously, and put this bar in the groove to stop the door from opening if someone picks the lock. It's easy and effective. Let's go to the front door."

She led the way and said, "Ok, standard key lock in the handle and a second deadbolt lock. Both can be picked by an expert in about a minute. The alarm system I've installed trips when the door is open; it's not a motion detection system, it's just for the door. So if someone enters, they have twenty seconds to put in the right code. What they don't know is that there is a secondary shutoff switch in the closet."

She moved the sliding door and showed me the switch.

"Just hit the off button and the system is disabled. Hit it on to put it back on and then hit the arm alarm button on the wall panel to activate the system. If someone forgets to do the second switch, the siren screams and only an eight digit code will shut it off, plus hitting the switch. No one will find the second shut off switch, especially with the siren screaming. Just hang up you coat and flick the switch and no one will suspect a thing if you're with someone."

"Very clever," I said. "Does it call the police?"

"No, but it activates the cameras," she said. "We can add to it as we need to. Now, for the front door security when you're in the apartment, I have found a simple rod system, bolted to the floor and propped on the door will suffice. I have installed the floor bracket, a bit further away than normal to hide it, but all that means is that you have a longer rod to put in. The door bracket is installed and the rod is in the closet."

"I think we should be good for now, thank you very much Asuka, how much do I owe you for all the equipment?" I asked.

"Of course there is no charge, Hiroto and Kiyomi have put it on the company expenses for this building," she said. "By the way, they had a nice date last night and they are going to talk to their parents today. You have done well Michael; Mr. Matsuda senior is very pleased and thanks you for your intervention and sacrifice."

"Well that's wonderful news, I'm glad things are working out for those two," I said. "Tell Mr. Matsuda that I'm happy to have helped the two of them find each other. Now, have you come up with an answer to my question yet?"

"Yes I have," she replied. "I would stay with Mitsuko for as long as she needed me and then find a small house with a bit of land and build my own Japanese garden. To support myself, I would set up a company to provide security analysis and systems to high end clientele as well as personal protection services. I can also provide self defence training at all levels."

"That is a well thought out answer Asuka, and I think we can make that happen for you," I said. "I'll put up the money for the company right away so you can get it started in your spare time. As soon as you think Mitsy is ok without you, I'll float the mortgage on the house with no interest as well. How soon do you wish me to approach the family?"

"Michael, it will be years before Mitsuko will no longer need me," she said. "There is no reason to rush into this."

"I'm glad to hear that you're not fighting me on this, just on the timing," I said with a smile. "I think you're bored when the girls are in class. You can get your company started up and work on a laptop to set up a website and probably can do a few jobs when she's under the protection of the family or me. The family could hire your services or at least recommend you all of their friends and associates, just like I will."

"Michael, the family gets my services for free," she said.

"Ok, but they have lots of contacts and they will help you out, I'm sure," I said. "I would like to get you started as soon as I can, so I'm going to talk things over with Sensei tonight and find the best way to approach Mr. Matsudo Senior about you."

"Michael, I know you mean well, but this could be taken badly by the family," she said. "I would look ungrateful and they would think I have influenced you to do this. I could become even more an outcast than I already am."

"No, you would not Asuka," Mitsy spoke up. "I would not allow it. Michael, you are a good man to do this for her but it is not necessary any more. I will discuss this with my parents and grandparents and we will take care of Asuka and her future plan. She will not cast aside, used or made to use her previous skills for anything but family protection."

"Mitsuko, you were not meant to hear this conversation," Asuka said. "Please do not involve yourself in this; there are things that you are not privy to and should not until you are older."

"We're the same age Asuka, I'm not a little girl anymore," she replied. "Let's go back to the dorm and we can talk about things before going to the Dojo. Michael, hold off for a day or two on your plans for her please. I'll want to know why you thought it was necessary; I can't think of a reason why so something must have happened when I wasn't around."

"I'll let Asuka fill you in if she wants," I said.

"Fine, we'll talk before and after the session," she said.

They gathered up their stuff and, after I thanked them and gave each of them a hug, left the condo after refusing to take the car. I cleaned up the lunch dishes and got down to some homework, finishing up my assignments for tomorrow and then reading ahead for next week. I heated up some left over pizza and then took a nap before driving over to the Dojo.

The two figure skaters were subdued as they waited in the lobby for me.

"Boy, the two of you look like you lost your pet dog," I said. "Things aren't that bad are they?"

"They have learned more of my past than they should know Michael," Asuka informed me.

"What's done is done and everyone has to move on," I told them. "Asuka is here now and it's up to us to keep things going forward in a positive way. None of us is responsible for what happened to her, not even Asuka. You two have had to grow up a bit today, but now you can help her make the transition from that life to this one better."

"That's so easy for you to say, you're such a little boy," Mitsy said. "What would you possibly know about what she went through?"

"Nothing at all; forget I said anything and continue to wallow in self pity if you like," I said. "I'll go ahead and do something about it in the meantime."

"No, I will handle it Michael, it shouldn't be an outsider criticizing family actions," she replied. "I will approach the women for advice and then my Father. You have my word she won't be asked to do that again."

"Alright Mitsuko, maybe you're not such a little girl after all," I replied. "You two have a good session; I'm heading to the back."

I entered through the back door and took my shoes off before entering the room. I did my normal stretches while waiting for the other two to show up. Soon I felt limber enough and explored some of the equipment around the outside of the room. There was a peg board that went up to the top of the high ceilings and I pulled myself up using my arms. I got up and back down pretty easily so I moved on. There was something that looked like a pommel horse and I tried my old pommel routine from gym class. I was a lot lighter back then, put also not so well built either. What I did forget was that I grew five inches since then so my legs didn't clear as easy as they did before.

I moved on to where there were some boards sticking out of stands. They were wrapped in rope and were at different heights. Next to it was a heavy punching bag as well as a speed bag. The heavy bag was anchored at top and bottom so I grabbed a pair of gloves and started hitting it head high, using a jab and combinations. I threw in a few hooks and undercuts and increased my speed and power. It felt real good to hit something that couldn't get hurt so I put everything into it for a couple of minutes.

After a quick break, I did a few minutes on the speed bag and stopped when the two of them joined me.

"Good evening Sensei," I said with a bow.

"Good evening Michael, I see you've warmed up with some of the equipment," he replied. "That's good; we can start your training right away then. We're going to skip the strength training; you seem to have enough of that. We'll concentrate on speed while you learn the right stances, forms and defensive countermeasures."

The next hour was what I thought the first session should be. They showed me all the various punches to the head and torso and what kind of blocks I could use. I copied all the punches and then all the defensive blocks, first in slow motion and then at speed.

After that we went back to hockey fighting, and the Sensei worked with me to incorporate some of the defensive blocks into my defence, while also using the head bob to make the punches miss or slide by. Asuka dodged or blocked everything I threw at her and counter-punched quickly. I learned quickly not to extend the punches too far past her head because she always went for the side of my head that was defenceless.

Sensei let both of us have fifteen minutes to relieve our frustrations out on the rope boards. I took the tall one and broke the top foot off of one with a left hook while Asuka snapped one in half with a front kick. We eventually left the six of them in splinters and we both grinned at each other before cleaning up.

"Feel better now?" Sensei asked.

"Much better, thanks," I said with a grin.

"Yes Sensei," Asuka replied.

"Good, you both needed relief from that earlier exercise," he said. "I see I need thicker boards next time. Have a good night young ones, I'll see you Tuesday night."

We got our shoes and coats on and walked around to get the girls. Two guys were chatting with them when we got there.

"Mike, Asuka, this is Kentaro and Todd, they go to Michigan and train here," Misty said. "Guys, this is Mike and Asuka."

"Pleasure to meet you guys," I said while Asuka nodded.

"Nice to meet you Mike," Todd said, while Kentaro just nodded as well. "We were going to ask these two ladies out for a coffee but we don't want to step on any toes."

"While our relationship is hard to explain, we're not going out, so if the ladies want to go with you, don't let me stand in your way," I said. "Asuka would have to go with you, but I'm going to take off if you can make sure they get to their dorm."

"Sure thing Mike; ladies care to go for a cup of coffee down the road?" Todd asked.

They smiled and nodded so I headed out after giving them all a good night. They all got in a sedan with Todd driving and took off down the road. I followed them and saw them turn into a coffee shop about a mile down the road and drove on by. I headed to the condo and parked in the garage before heading to the elevator. It stopped on the main floor and a mother and her two daughters stepped in. The mother and older daughter were blonde, big busted and very pretty. The younger daughter was taller than both of them, probably five ten, and was still very skinny, with a small chest. Her hair was reddish brown and she wore it in a ponytail and her glasses made her look like a cute librarian.

"Oh, you surprised me, we usually don't get anyone travelling up with us," the mother said.

"Sorry to scare you, I'm Mike Stewart, I just moved into the 1201 condo today," I told them. "I'm a freshman at the college for computer science."

"It's nice to meet you Mr. Stewart, I'm Linda Burns, and these two are my daughters Lily and Layla," she replied. "We're in 1203 down the other hall. Are your parents moving in as well?"

"No, I'm by myself," I told her.

"Well, I hope you won't be having loud parties and lots of friends over," she said with a frown.

"Nope, I'm too busy to have parties so you don't have to worry Mrs. Burns," I responded. "I don't drink, smoke or do drugs so I'm pretty boring."

"You look familiar Mike," Lily said. "I could swear I've seen you before."

Layla looked up at me and her eyes widened as she recognized me right away. She whispered to her sister as her mother tried to figure out who I might be.

"No shit!" Lily said as she looked at me with dawning in her eyes.

"You're the Mike Stewart that plays hockey at Michigan, dated the Waters twins and is a Calvin Klein model right?" Lily asked.

"I'm afraid so," I said. "I'd appreciate it if you keep it to yourself; I really like my privacy. It's why I moved in here."

"Wow, we've been seeing your pictures and commercials this week all over the TV and in magazines," Mrs. Burns said.

"You look real good in them Mike," Lily said.

"Lily's modeled a bit as well," her mom bragged.

"All three of you look good enough to be models," I told them.

"Layla needs a bit more time to grow into her height, but she's our book worm, while Lily is our cheerleader and part time actress," Mrs. Burns talked up her daughters. "Lily is in her final year of high school and almost eighteen, while Layla is turning seventeen next week and is in grade eleven."

The elevator came to a stop and the door opened on our floor. A handsome young couple was waiting for the elevator and they all said hi to each other. Mrs. Burns had to introduce me to them.

"Bruce, Maggie, this is the new tenant in 1201, Mike Stewart; Mike, this is Bruce Timmons and Maggie Otter, his fiancée," she made the introductions.

He was about six one, in decent shape and was fairly handsome with curly brown hair. Maggie was about five eight, and was a beautiful dark haired lady with slightly olive skin. She looked like she had some native Indian in her genes.

"Nice to meet you both," I said, shaking Bruce's hand.

"Welcome to the building Mike," Bruce said loudly and he shook my hand firmly.

"Thank you Bruce," I said before shaking Maggie's hand.

"It's nice to meet you Mike, I imagine Yvonne and Tina have some competition for your attentions with Lily and Layla here," she said with a grin.

"The entire floor is filled with beautiful women, Bruce and Mr. Burns must be beating the guys away from all of you with bats," I said.

"Mr. Burns liked his secretary more than his family, so he doesn't live here anymore," Mrs. Burns told me.

"Sorry to bring him up," I said. "I usually stick my foot in my mouth at least once a day, so you'll have to forgive me in advance. Well, I have some studying to do, so it was nice to meet all of you and I'm sure we'll get to know each other better over time. Have a good night."

They all wished me good night and stayed in a group as I walked to my door. I unlocked my door and waved as I went in. I quickly put in my code and then flipped off the second switch. I checked my messages but didn't have any and no emails either.

So, after having a shower, I read for a bit before hitting the hay. I fell asleep thinking about everything new that had happened this week.



-------

Chapter 40


I had slept surprising well for the first night in a new place. I felt great when I got dressed and looked out the windows at the dark campus and city while drinking a diet coke. The thermometer on the outside of the patio window read fifteen below, so I dressed in an extra sweater and took the SUV to the arena. There was frost on everything and I had to be real careful over a patch of black ice on an overpass before I finally got to the arena, still fairly early. After getting dressed in the cold dressing room, I did a lot of the skating drills for both defence and forward before I shot at Patrick from both out at the point and further in. The team joined me on the ice eventually and I shot the shit with John, Pete and Victor until the coaches came out and Fred gathered us together for the usual Monday morning speech.

"We squeaked out a split with Bowling Green on the weekend, instead of taking two games that we should have won easily," he started out. "So we've dropped down to eighth in the rankings, which is unacceptable. This weekend we play Michigan State in a home and home series, but this time their home game is at the Joe Louis arena on Friday night. We need to take both of these games this weekend especially since we've proven we can beat these guys back to back already."

The guys grinned at playing at Joe Louis again. Fred continued after a short pause.

"So, we know they're going to play physical, so we need to play a fast, puck possession game while avoiding playing their game," he said. "Let's get busy."

We switched back to what had worked against State in the past games, a quick passing attack and carry the puck into their zone whenever we could, instead of dumping it and giving up possession. On defence, we practiced avoiding getting hit by our forwards as they dumped it in on us. We had a short special teams practice and then the usual scrimmage before we were let go.

I walked up to the algebra classroom and handed in the assignment before finding a seat. The professor started up soon after and only did one chapter this time as it was on a difficult topic. He went through a few more examples than usual and then assigned questions from the back of the chapter for the weekly assignment.

I moved on to calculus and put my assignment on the pile on the desktop and found a seat. Professor Hiller came in and revealed a nice dress and heels when she took her coat off. Her hair was down around her shoulders today and I she looked very beautiful. She got through two easy chapters of calculus before the bell rang. She quickly assigned questions from each chapter before we could run off. I deliberately hung back again to be the last one out.

"Mr. Stewart, I've been seeing you all over the place this past weekend; in magazines, commercials, and I even watched you play hockey two nights on the telly," she said.

"How did you like the games?" I asked.

"A bit brutal for my taste, but I've seen worse in the crowds at an English football match," she said. "Your poor face, I saw them stitch you up on the bench, it must have hurt."

"Didn't you see me crying like a baby?" I asked.

She laughed and started packing up her stuff.

"So, you're a model of Calvin Klein underwear as well," she stated. "I must admit, you seem to be suited for it with your physique. The girls have been discussing you quite flatteringly from what I've heard."

"I did it as a favour to my ex-girlfriend but the company seems to like the response so they've signed me on for six more shoots," I told her. "I'm pretty embarrassed about being seen by everyone in my underwear, but they made me an offer I couldn't refuse."

"Well, you have nothing to be embarrassed about, you looked great," she said. "I'll need to get you to sign some pictures for me or no one will believe me that I know you."

"Sure, bring them in and I'll be happy to," I told her. "While we're passing out compliments, I just wanted to say that you look very beautiful today, I like your dress and your hair down."

"Why thank you Michael, that's very kind of you to notice," she replied with a blush.

I helped her with her coat and handed her suitcase to her.

"You have a good day Professor Hiller and I'll see you next class," I told her.

"So you've given up on getting me to lunch?" she asked with a grin.

"Right now I am, I'm a bit of a public figure right now and I don't want you to get in trouble," I said. "Maybe we can have dinner sometime soon at my condo, it's a secure building so no one will be able to get in to photograph us."

"You're right, being seen with you would ruin my career here," she said. "I think I'll admire you from afar, at least while you're a student of mine."

"Unfortunately, I have to agree Miss Hiller," I responded. "I definitely want you around for a long time so let's just be friends for now."

"You are very good for my self confidence Mr. Stewart," she said with a smile. "I enjoy our little sessions after class."

"As do I," I replied. "It's nice to flirt with such a gorgeous intelligent woman."

"Why thank you Mr. Stewart, I look forward to the day that we can do more than talk to each other," she said. "Now, let's get out of here before we do something that we will regret later."

"Have a good day Miss Hiller," I said with a grin.

"You too Mr. Stewart," she replied with an answering smile.

We split up and went our separate ways. I grabbed some food at the nearby cafeteria and sat at an empty table. I ate the pork chops and French fries while getting out my calculus textbook and starting the assignment. When I got that done it was about time to go to philosophy so I packed up and walked over to the classroom. I found an aisle seat and relaxed as everyone trickled in.

A few girls seemed to recognize me, or at least suspect that I was the new CK guy, but they didn't approach me. They whispered to their friends if they were in a group and I became the focus of a few ladies as they talked amongst themselves.

The professor walked in which forced everyone to get ready for the lecture. We passed our assignments to the end of the rows and he came along and collected the piles from the aisles. We then went through another Greek philosopher, covering a chapter in the textbook. He assigned more questions and then reminded us that the first term paper should be started and he was available for help during his office hours. He let us out and I quickly scooted out the back door and checked my messages as I left the building.

Katie Dunn had left me a message on my cell, letting me know that the two of them were at the airport in New York and would see me at seven. She left me a cell number to get a hold of her if I needed to. I called her and left a message that I had moved and gave her the new address and simple directions on how to get there from the airport.

I walked to the arena and did my whole routine in the weight room since I knew my time was getting filled up. After a quick shower, I got suited up and watched the skaters for a bit and said hi to the ones that came by. Casey and Mitsy came up to me at the end of the line.

"Hi Mike, I wasn't sure if you were going to be here anymore," Casey said.

"And why is that?" I asked with a smile.

"Well, we thought you might get angry or jealous of us going to the doughnut shop last night," she replied.

"I'm a bit jealous but if we're not going to go out, you might as well meet new guys, both of you," I said. "It's going to be happening to me too, so it wouldn't be fair for me to get angry. Just be careful and keep Asuka around until you can trust them."

"I found out that Kentaro's family and ours do some business together so Asuka is doing some research on him and Todd," Mitsy told me. If nothing bad turns up, we might continue the coffee shop visits after our self defence classes and see how it goes. They are pretty cute and interesting."

"I'm happy for you two, and I hope this means you back off a bit on your meddling in my affairs," I responded.

"Ok, but we're going to make sure your girlfriends are treating you well," she replied.

"Fine, because I'll be doing the same with both of your boyfriends," I told them.

"It's a deal," Casey said.

"I'll see you tomorrow, same bat time, and same bat place", I told them as they started to go.

"See you Michael," Mitsy responded.

"Later Mike," Casey said.

I watched them until they rounded the corner. It looked like my figure skaters were moving on before I even got a chance to know them. Hopefully Asuka would still want to train with me. I was disappointed but it was probably for the best – for them at least.

Practice was intense and I took out my disappointment on the forwards by finishing checks and peppering the goalies with hard shots. Rich Franklin, the third line left winger, took exception to me rubbing him out on the boards.

"Fuck you queer boy," he shouted as he got up and slashed my stick out of my hand.

"Jesus Franklin, I hardly touched you," I said, going to pick up my stick. "Next time you come into the zone with your head down I'll put you through the boards so you know you got off lucky this time."

"Just stay away from me ass lover," he yelled as he skated away.

A few minutes later in the scrimmage he thought he would prove me wrong as he took the puck wide on me. I lowered the boom on him and separated him from the puck, as well as his stick and gloves when I slammed him into the boards. I calmly corralled the loose puck and passed it out of the zone to Adam Steel, who went up ice to deke out Mark and put it in the net behind him. Fred blew the whistle and skated over to Rich, who was just getting up to his feet.

"That's what's going to happen to any of you that think you can get cute with the guys from State," he said loudly. "If that happens in a game Franklin, I'll bench you until you're an old man."

"Yes Coach," Franklin mumbled.

"And Franklin, you did see the Waters twins in the pictures I hope. I would drop the whole gay thing with Stewart if I were you, I'm damn sure he's straight. If not, a lot of women are going to go to bed crying tonight."

The guys laughed at that and I skated away.

After practice was over I drove home to the condo and made sure everything was tidied up for the visit. I had a quick snack in case they had eaten; if not we could go out to eat or order something in. I put on some good casual clothes so we could go just about anywhere.

Just before seven the buzzer on the intercom rang and let them in the lobby and told them I would be down in a minute. I grabbed my keys and took the elevator down to the main floor. They were sitting in the small waiting area and both showed me lots of their long legs as they got up.

"Mr. Stewart, it's nice to see you, I'm Katie Dunn and this gorgeous young lady is Barb Roseburg," she said, offering her hand.

"Hello Miss Dunn and Miss Roseburg, it's nice to meet you both," I said. "Your pictures didn't do either of you justice, you're both very beautiful."

"Why thank you Mr. Stewart," Miss Dunn said. "I insist that you call us Katie and Barb since we're all going to be working very close to one another."

"Then please call me Mike," I responded. "Come on up to the condo and we can decide if we want to order in or go out for dinner."

I grabbed the two suitcases and led them to the elevator. I put them down for a second and used the key to get the elevator door open. I followed them into the elevator and hit the up button and watched the doors close. In the confined space I could smell someone's perfume and it was a very mild fruity smell. I looked over at them and Katie smiled back while Barb was looking down at the floor.

When the doors opened, I let them out first and then guided them to the condo door and opened it while they waited. After taking their coats and hanging them in the foyer closet, I led them to the living room and admired them as sat down on the sofa. The two were both in clingy dresses that came down just past mid thigh and showed off their slim figures. They were made up with their hair done up and their makeup looked like they went to a salon to get it done.

"Wow, you two look gorgeous in those dresses," I said. "I'm surprised you're both not models."

"Thank you Mike, that's kind of you to say," Katie replied with a smile. "We took extra care to look good for you tonight."

"It shows, believe me," I said with an answering smile. "So, you haven't eaten yet?"

"No, we thought we would see if you would like to go out with us," Katie replied.

"We could, or we could order in and handle our business here, in private," I suggested. "Several very good restaurants close by deliver; we could get Italian, Seafood, Steak or Chinese in less than an hour if you like."

"I'm pretty easy to satisfy," Katie said. "Any of those is fine with me. Barb?"

Barb looked up and replied quietly, "I'm ok with anything as well."

"Well, I'll order some Chinese, a dinner for three should have enough variety for all of us," I decided. "Do either of you have any allergies or dislikes?"

Neither one did, so I quickly ordered from a nearby restaurant and came back with some bottled water for all of us. They thanked me as I sat down across from them.

"Ok Mike, I'm going to be in charge of your modelling activities this year," Katie started. "I'm here to make sure you're happy, content and have everything you need. I'm also supposed to make up a tentative schedule of the six shoots, times, locations, models, photographers, directors; the works. I handle the shoot bookings, the travel itinerary, the hotel accommodations; everything to get them ready for you. All you have to do is show up with a good work ethic for two to three days and then you get to relax and enjoy the rest of the time, however long you want."

"That sounds good so far, it's a lot for you to do by yourself though," I commented.

"I have help back at the office so don't worry about that," she said with a smile.

"Good enough," I replied with an answering smile.

"We know your time is very tight, with school, hockey, homework and any social activities you might have; so we probably have to fit these shoots in your school and hockey breaks," she continued. "March break, summer holidays, Thanksgiving or Christmas holidays will all be good times, especially if you bring any family with you to the location."

"I don't have much in regards to family, just an Aunt and Uncle with two young cousins in Toronto," I told her. "So I can see them if we do a shoot up there, maybe for one in the summer."

"Excellent, we were hoping to use Toronto as one of them," she said.

"I'm off the first week of March for Spring break and my last game is Saturday, February twenty eighth I think," I told her. "I could do one that week but have to be back here by the next Sunday. Let me get my schedules and a calendar so we can do this right."

I got up and retrieved my school and hockey schedules as well as a full size calendar and made my way back to the living room.

"I could schedule a shoot in the Caribbean to start shooting on the Monday and a flight back on the following Saturday afternoon," Katie said, writing down some dates in a small book she pulled from her purse.

"That looks good for me," I replied.

"We'll talk later about setting up any extracurricular activities that you and your guests might like to do and all you have to do is show up," she added. "I'm talking at all of the shoots, not just the first one."

"That's very generous of you Katie," I said.

"It's part of the service Mike, Mr. Carroll wants us to take very good care of you," she said with a smile. "Ok, we have one time slot done and two destinations settled. Let's do some tentative scheduling for the rest of the five shoots. You get done this semester at the end of April and hockey is done then as well, according to the schedules you sent me. You said in your email you were going to keep on with school in the summer, so you'll just have the first week of May off, the first week of July off, and a few days around Labour Day off."

"That sounds right," I said.

"So, we could schedule two one-week shoots in May and July, wherever you want to go, and a shorter one around Labour day, real close, say in Windsor or in Toronto," she proposed.

"Ok, the one in May can be down somewhere warm, but the one in July could be in a cooler place, maybe Vancouver or Banff in Canada," I suggested.

"How about a nice resort in Hawaii for May and maybe split the next one in Vancouver and nearby Whistler Mountain," she asked. "They say that Whistler is fantastic in the summer as well."

"Sounds good," I agreed.

"Alright," she said as she wrote some things down. "So would Toronto or Windsor be ok for Labour day?"

"Let's do Toronto for that one," I told her.

"Ok, we have the Caribbean, Hawaii, Vancouver and Whistler, and Toronto," she listed. "We'll probably need to use your Thanksgiving holiday's four days and then a week or two of your Christmas holidays to finish the last two," she pointed out.

"Ok, somewhere warm for both, a quick one for the Thanksgiving and a week for the Christmas one," I agreed. "We'll need to schedule around the Great Lakes hockey tournament just after Christmas."

"Ok, as soon as you get next year's hockey schedule, we'll pencil in the exact dates for the last couple," she stated.

"I'll check with the coach tomorrow to see when it comes out," I told her.

"So, how does Cancun or Acapulco in Mexico sound for the Thanksgiving one; and a longer trip to the Mediterranean for the last one?" Katie asked. "It could be in Greece, Italy, French or Spanish Rivera or a combination of several countries I suppose."

"Sounds good to me if we can get enough time to go that far away," I said.

"We'll see what we can do, maybe you have to leave the day before and get in late before school starts up again, but hopefully we can set something up," she replied.

"Ok, so we have tentative times and locations for the six shoots," I said. "We're making good progress."

"Yes we are, you're being very cooperative Mike; I really appreciate it," Katie responded with a smile.

"Since I'm committed to doing these, I might as well work with you to get them done," I replied with a shrug.

The panel at the front door buzzed and I grabbed my keys and went to answer it. The delivery guy was at the lobby door and I let him in and said I would be down in a minute.

"I'll be right back ladies," I said.

I went down and paid the delivery guy and then came back up. When I entered the condo, the ladies had frowns on their faces and looked like they had just stopped arguing when I came in. I avoided them and put the bags on the dining room table before going into the kitchen to get plates and utensils. I set the table and grabbed some glasses for some pop or water as the ladies started arguing quietly in the living room. After opening the various containers and putting serving spoons in them, I walked over to the two of them and they stopped their discussion and looked at me.

"The food is ready if you would like to join me," I told them. "You can fill me on what the problem is afterwards, ok?"

"Ok Mike, that sounds like the best plan," Katie said quickly as Barb started to say something.

I turned and led them back to the table and they sat on either side while I took the end by the window. I offered Katie some General Tao's chicken and then Barb some Lo Mein before dishing some Beef Chop Suey onto my plate. After we had our plates full, I offered them some diet coke, milk or water and they both went with water. We started eating, still in silence, as we were obviously all pretty hungry.

I looked at the two ladies as they ate and saw that they both avoided eye contact with each other and with me. I took the opportunity to look at them more closely. Katie was a beautiful blonde with blue eyes and pale skin. She reminded me a bit of Meg Ryan, cute beautiful rather than high end model beautiful.

Barb, on the other hand, looked so much like an elfish princess; the long, wavy red hair, the tiny button nose and the small mouth looked almost fairy. Add to the picture all the freckles that covered her face, neck, arms and chest and you had the quintessential beautiful Irish elf girl. She was tall and thin, with wonderfully firm upstanding breasts, just the right size for her petite frame. I sorely wished I had met her under better circumstances as she was simply gorgeous. She caught me staring at her and immediately got angry.

"What?" she asked in a huff as her green eyes glared. "Haven't you seen someone eat before?"

"Sorry, I'm being rude; I tend to stare at beautiful women to long," I apologized. "I always get myself in trouble doing it, but in my defence, you're both are utterly gorgeous. I know you probably hate having to deal with your beauty when you want to be an engineer, but I'm shocked you're not a fashion model."

"They don't like all the freckles and I wanted to do more than pose for stupid pictures in ridiculous outfits," she responded irritably.

"Again, I'm sorry for staring," I said, before putting a forkful of food into my mouth.

She stabbed a chicken ball hard as if she wanted it to be me and plopped it in her mouth, chewing it angrily.

I finished my mouthful and then put my fork down on my plate.

"It doesn't take a genius to figure out that you don't want be here Barb," I noted. "Why did you even make the trip if you were going to act like this and force me to send you back?"

"I don't have much of a choice, now do I?" she said bitterly. "After you got my sister fired and the two of us evicted from our condo, they cancelled my scholarship and blacklisted her at all of the legal firms in the state. It was either these jobs or out on the street for both of us."

"Jesus, all I told him that she was a witch, I never meant for any of that to happen," I told her in shock. "I'll give Mr. Carroll a call and get this all straightened out as soon as we're finished dinner. Or you can just quit and I'm sure I could help you get a new job somewhere else."

"That won't help Mike, we had to sign contracts that have an even harsher penalty if we quit," Barb said bitterly. "My sister is at the beck and call of Mr. Carroll and I'm at yours. I'm sure you'll take advantage of it as he no doubt is."

"Listen, I'm not a bad guy and I had nothing to do with this, other than complain once about your sister," I told her. "I'm not about to make you do anything you don't want to so you can put your mind at ease on that. Katie, what do you know about this?"

"Ha! She's not in much better shape, she has to make sure that you're totally satisfied or she's out the door as well," Barb said with a mirthless laugh. "Why do you think we're both dressed like this?"

"Jesus, I really don't need this crap right now," I said angrily. "Katie, you can just take her back with her and I'll tell Carroll the whole deal is off. He can have his money back, including the extra for the first shoot and I'll just walk away."

"Mike, please don't act rashly," Katie said quickly. "Barb and her sister are being treated unfairly, I know that; but I'm not in a position to do anything about it. What Barb isn't taking into account is the fact that if she goes back, she'll have to work for someone else that won't treat her as well as I'm sure you will. That will be the case whether you quit modelling or not. I'm sure that she would rather be here with you than being Mr. White's personal assistant. Or she can quit and pay the penalty clause on the contract. If you quit, I'll be out on the street as well. Why don't we all calm down a bit and dial in the rest of the stuff and then come back to this at the end?"

"Alright," I said with a sigh. "It might be all for naught, but at least you can say that you had everything else done except that."

We both looked at Barb and she spat out, "Fine!"

"Ok, let me go through some of the things that I'm supposed to let you know that we provide as part of our service to you," Katie said, putting a leather clipboard on the table beside her. "I've been told to let you know that if there is anything that you need or want, you just have to ask and it's my job to get it for you. You need concert tickets, show tickets, any sporting events you want to go to; just let us know and we'll get them for you, anywhere in the country, anytime. Also, if you need an escort to an event, we can get a model to be there with you, if you give me enough time."

"That's a nice bonus" I responded. "I'm not sure I'll need any of that but it's nice to know it's there. We'll have to see if the NCAA will allow it though; probably not."

"We'll check before we officially offer you anything," Katie assured me. "Now this next one is important; if you run into any trouble, with the law, the press, a girl, a girl's parents, boyfriend or husband, something with the school, anything; you need to let me know so I can help you and start damage control," she said seriously. "You don't have an agent or a publicist, so I'm going to do that for you. Mr. Carroll says you're a good guy, so I don't expect to have to do much, but you have to let me know if anything happens. I can handle things before it gets out too far, but it's a lot harder if I hear it in the press before you tell me."

"Ok, there shouldn't be anything, but the way the girls are acting around here, I wouldn't be surprised if someone tries to pull something," I agreed.

"The next issue is picking the models. I know you don't know many, and the ones you do know are probably the last ones you want, so I brought a few pictures of some we have under contract to start," Katie continued. "We have some that we think will look good with you and you can see what you think of our choices. We have others we can get and I'll be sending you their profiles this week as well, and you can look through them."

"It's going to be hard for me to choose someone by their picture, and I have no idea who would look good with me," I said. "I have certain taste in women so I would probably just pick the models that look good to me. That wouldn't mean that they would be the best choice for you."

"Let's do this, you pick a few and we will as well," she said. "Then, when they are in the neighbourhood and you have a couple of hours, we'll get you two together and see how you look together and how you click. We can take a few digital pictures of you and then you and the model can go out for dinner and get to know one another. Over the next few months we will get a few that we all agree on and we'll fit them into the shoots. Sound good?"

"That will do, fair to both parties I think," I agreed.

"The one on top of the pile is our model in Canada, Ellen Bradshaw. I've already spoken to her and she is real excited to get to work with you and she said she could come down as soon as you were ready to meet with her. She can be down here in about four to five hours and you can have Barb take some pictures and go out and have some fun."

"Ok, I'll let you know what day is good, probably a Monday or Wednesday evening or Sunday all day till seven is good," I said. "Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings I have additional martial arts training from seven till nine. I don't have much free time anymore."

"No problem Mike, we work around your schedule the best we can," she replied as she made note of my additional hours and then closed up the model file and handed it to me.

"Now, the rest of it is photographers and film directors, which at first you won't have much of a preference I think," Katie said.

"The guy that we worked with on the first shoot and commercial directed both and was patient and really made it bearable," I said. "I would be ok with him again, his name was Sergio. I wouldn't work well with a prima donna type of guy or one that was prancing around like a girl."

"Ok, I'll look up Sergio and see if he wants to be on the next shoot," she said as she tried not laugh.

"You laugh, but I was at a photo shoot for the twins and the director was flouncing around dressed in a yellow shirt, pink pants and a red beret," I told them. "I know there are lots of gay guys in fashion and I'm not a homophobe or anything; but I'm going to be in my underwear and I don't need a touchy, feely type of director, unless she's a beautiful woman."

"I get the point Mike, and Mr. Carroll already made sure to tell me that you were supposed to be shown in the most manly, rugged manner possible," Katie said with a grin.

"Good, I'm already taking heat for this from the team and from my opponents, if anything makes me look wimpy or gay I'll never hear the end of it and then this already not so pretty face will get uglier as I get into more fights," I told her.

"I'm making a note of it as we speak Mike," she said with a laugh. "Don't worry Mike, none of the women that are looking at the pictures think you're the least bit gay and that's the important thing. The guys are looking at the girls with you anyway."

"Except for the gay ones, who hope you're gay too," Barb said with an evil grin.

"Don't remind me," I replied with a shake of the head.

"Ok, that's all I have until you get the hockey schedule for next year," Katie told me.

"I'll find out about that tomorrow," I responded.

"Good," Katie said, putting her paperwork away into her book and putting it back in her briefcase. "Oh, one last thing, we need to get you wearing Calvin Klein clothes, both underwear and our outer wear stuff. We have a store in the mall down on University Street and we'll set up an account for you so you just have to go in and find the right sizes and that's it. It's all covered by the contract and it wouldn't look good to have you dressed in competitor's clothing."

"Ok, I'll get there as soon as I can," I told her. "I'll be wearing a lot of University stuff but anything else I can switch to CK if I like it. I'm a pretty casual dresser most of the time, so I'll probably get some just jeans and tee shirts and a couple of good casual things."

"Well, get anything you like, and they do have some good looking dress pants and shirts that you would look good in," Katie responded. "We should get you a couple of suits as well. The first time you go there, you should take Barb or me so we can help with the colour coordination."

"I'll do that," I agreed.

We sat looking at each other for a bit and then Katie spoke up.

"Before we tackle the subject none of us really want to, we should probably book a hotel room for the night," Katie said. "Do you know of one close by Mike?"

"Look, there are two spare bedrooms here, you two can take those for tonight," I told them.

"That's very kind of you Mike, are you sure you don't mind us staying for the night?" she asked.

"I'm sure we can all survive one night without someone stabbing someone," I replied wryly.

"I hope so," Katie replied, looking over at Barb.

"What?" Barb asked. "I'll stab him if he comes anywhere near me tonight, but I won't go looking for him."

"On that friendly note, why don't we take a break for a little bit," Katie suggested. "Barb and I can get out of these dresses into some comfortable clothes and then help you put away this food."

"Sounds good," I said, standing up. "I'll get started while you two decide for yourself who gets what bedroom at this end of the hall. There are a couple of towels in the bathroom closet if you want a shower."

They grabbed their suitcases and I watched as they walked to the hallway and turn right. After they were out of my view, I started carrying the food to the kitchen and putting it into the fridge. I continued with the dishes and started washing them. I was halfway done when they finally came back in. I looked over as the door opened and found them in snug sweatpants and tee shirts. They both had on white socks and looked damn cute.

"Hey, you were supposed to wait for us to help you," Katie chided me.

"I'm used to doing things by myself so no big deal," I told her. "You can wipe the table if you like while I finish washing the dishes."

She came over and grabbed a rag from the sink and went out to the dining room. I continued washing the last of the few dishes and then dried my hands off.

"Can I get you anything else to drink?" I asked them both as Katie came back in.

"Just water is fine with me," Katie replied as she rinsed the washcloth and left it hanging over the divider between the two sinks.

"That's fine with me as well," Barb said.

I grabbed us three bottles and we went back out to the couches.

Katie started up the conversation, "Let me explain what Barb's role was supposed to be here and then we can talk about her staying or going. She was to be your personal assistant, helping you maintain your condo, do the shopping, cleaning, laundry; everything that takes away from you doing the important stuff. She would also be your personal scheduler, making sure you get to where you're supposed to be on time. The two of us would be in daily contact to make sure that you're happy and everything is going ok. Barb would travel with you to each shoot and be your assistant on the set. She would know exactly what your needs are and would be the best person to serve you when you're on site."

"I don't really have all that much for her to do, I've taken care of myself for a while now," I responded.

"I know that Mike, but if Barb can take one to two hours out of your day, that's one to two hours that you can study more or practice more," Katie said. "Your time is precious to you and to us; we want you as stress free as possible."

"Where was she supposed to stay?" I asked.

"They intended her to stay with you, even when you were in your small apartment," Katie replied.

I looked over at Barb but she was looking down at the coffee table.

"That was pretty presumptuous of them, especially if I was still in the one bedroom apartment," I stated. "What if I wanted to bring a girl back or if I get a girlfriend? It would have been most awkward. Even now with this condo, another woman would be pretty intimidated to find a gorgeous woman already in the condo. Was I supposed to feed and clothe her as well?"

"It was pretty presumptuous of them and not well thought out," Katie agreed. "I suppose we could look for another condo in this building or one nearby to set her up in. She could walk over on a daily basis to do her job and go back in the evenings or before you have company. I'll take that up with Mr. Carroll in the morning as well as providing for her food and clothing and other expenses."

"Barb, would that be a better compromise than staying here fulltime?" I asked.

"Sure it would, if he would go for it," she said, looking a bit surprised. "I thought you would want me here all the time to take care of you."

"I don't want you here at all, especially with your attitude," I replied. "On the other hand, I know you won't be treated well back in New York, so this gets you away from them and out of my hair."

"Hey, that's not nice!" Barb retorted. "You don't have to be so mean about it."

"So you would rather be here with me or back in New York?" I asked.

"Of course here, but you could be nicer about it," she protested.

"Barb, I suggest you just keep quiet or he might change his mind," Katie said. "So are you two ok with Barb staying in Ann Arbor to be your PA if we get her situated?"

"I guess so, but what will I do when he doesn't want me around?" Barb asked.

"You can take some courses at the University during the day, I don't need you here when I'm at school anyway," I said.

"I don't think they would pay for that if they even allowed it," Katie said.

"I'll get her enrolled with my own money and they don't have to know about it at all," I said. "I feel responsible for her predicament, so if CK pays for her condo and expenses, I'll get her education expenses."

They both looked at me in shock and Katie spoke up, "What if they find out about how she's spending her time?"

"One, she's my PA so I get to determine how I use her time," I replied. "Two, she can put the hours in the evening and the weekend if there really is anything needed to be done."

"I don't know, I could really get in trouble over this," Katie replied.

"If you get fired or disciplined, I'll take care of you, don't worry," I told her. "Now, onto the next thing, I want you to tell Mr. Carroll that, while I enjoyed having Barb here, I don't know why I wasn't allowed to have the pleasure disciplining Melanie. After all, I was the one insulted, not him. I want her sent here as soon as possible and tell him I'll make sure she is put to work on my dirtiest problems. You better make that condo a two bedroom one. I'll put you in touch with the daughter of the owner of the building and she can see if there is one open."

"What!" Katie exclaimed. "You want Melanie here as well?"

"Not really, but neither one will be happy until they both are together out of his reach," I responded and then looked at Barb. "Now how long is this contract you signed?"

"One year," Barb said. "Why?"

"That's how long you'll have to stay silly," I said. "I should be able to get Melanie a job, the building owners have a big company and maybe they can hire her or at least help find her a job."

"Mike, Mr. Carroll won't give her up, he really wants to punish her," Katie said.

"Ok, if he doesn't do it just to make me happy, then offer me doing one or two promotional appearances as payment," I suggested. "I'm not being egotistical, but it should help sales of CK if I appear on a show that women watch, maybe some morning show or daytime talk show perhaps."

Katie sat for a few seconds and then replied, "That might work Mike; the payback would be immense. I'm sure he would go for it and I could use it to make me look good, if you don't mind?"

"Knock yourself out, just remember to keep quiet about what the girls are doing here and you can take all the credit you want," I told her. "What kind of shows would you put me on if I had to do a couple?"

"I'm not sure, maybe Regis and Kelly in New York and Ellen out in California," she replied. "I don't know if the late night shows would want you, they target older people but who knows."

"I would have to split them up, and they probably film during the week right?" I asked.

"Yes, early morning for Regis, but Ellen is taped in the afternoon for the next day I think," Katie answered. "I don't know if you want to miss a whole day of school and practice for that. If Mr. Carroll goes for it tomorrow, then I'll make some calls to see if either show, or some other one that marketing suggests, would want you."

"If nobody does, then I'll do a store opening or something if that helps instead," I said. "But first try just getting her here without that."

"Ok, I'll do my best, but be prepared to have to give something up," she replied.

"Alright, I think we've covered enough for tonight," I announced. "I have some homework to do so you two can watch some TV or something for a bit. I leave here by six am but I can come back at about ten thirty for a bit. I have another class at one and then I go to the arena to work out and then practice from four to six. I'll be home for a bit after that but then need to head to martial arts practice about twenty to seven. I'll be back after nine."

"I'm flying out in the afternoon, so we can tie up any loose ends in the morning and I'll have Mr. Carroll's answers on the extra condo and Melanie," Katie said.

"Good," I replied. "Barb, you need to call the school you were attending and get your transcript emailed or sent here so we can get you enrolled as soon as possible."

"I can't believe you're doing this for me and my sister, especially after how we both treated you," Barb said.

"Like I said, I feel responsible, so if a little bit of money and a bit of my time can get you both out of this situation, then it's money and time well spent," I told her. "We'll get you set up with a new laptop in the next couple of days."

"Ok, thanks Mike; I'm really sorry for being such a bitch, you didn't deserve it," Barb said.

"It's ok, you had reason enough," I responded before turning to Katie. "Ok, I'll call Mitsy and ask about a two bedroom condo that you can rent for a year in the building. That way you can have some numbers for Mr. Carroll in the morning."

I got up and called Mitsy. I explained the situation and she said she would call back on the condo phone so Katie could talk to her after she discussed it with her Dad. I thanked her and told her I would see her tomorrow afternoon. I let Katie know to pick up the phone if it rang and then got to work on some Algebra homework at the dining room table.

I had to concentrate as they sat in my view on the couch while watching some reality show and talking quietly during the commercials. The phone rang when I finally got going on the questions and I looked up to see Katie pick up the phone on the end table. I made sure they were getting along before getting back to the assignment.

I finally finished the last question about a half an hour later and looked up to see Barb talking on the phone with Katie sitting close enough to hear what was being said by Mitsy. They both seemed to be in a good mood and laughed at something that the little dictator said. It didn't bode well when even the brand new women in my life got along with the other new women in my life.

I shook my head as I packed up the algebra textbook and grabbed the programming one to read ahead. Eventually the two women hung up the phone and came over to stand on either side of me. I looked up at first one and then the other with an arched eyebrow in my best Mr. Spock imitation.

"So, Mitsy was most inquisitive about us and we had to tell her all about the situation," Barb said. "Then she told us about what you did for her a few weeks ago."

"Did she tell you how she's become a little dictator since she's gotten back?" I asked.

"Well she did say that she and Casey had to make sure that you were in a safer condo and vehicle," Katie admitted. "She certainly drilled us on our motivations for being here. She let us know that there was an empty condo that we could rent for a year and she could guarantee at least an interview for Melanie at her Dad's company. She also said she would get her Dad to help with getting Barb into the engineering department; I guess their company does a lot of work with the department. So, if Barb's marks are as good as she said, she should be able to get in within a day or so."

"That's all good news," I told them. "So, it's up to you to get Mr. Carroll on board. If he doesn't want to pay for the condo rent, I'll do if I have to."

"Leave it to me, it's the least I can do to do my part to make sure this one gets another shot at a good education," Katie told us. "I'll hit him with everything we've got accomplished first and how accommodating you've been on the schedule and then explain the issue in such a way that he'll understand why you don't want her here all the time. Melanie will be harder but I think with some creative storytelling and probably the offer of an appearance or two should get that resolved."

"Ok, I'm done for the night, so I'm going to hit the hay," I told them, standing up between them. "Do you need anything for the night?"

"Nope, I think we're good," Katie said, looking over at Barb.

"I'm ok for the night but I'll need to do a bit of shopping soon for some incidentals and some clothes soon," Barb added.

"I'll see how Mr. Carroll wants to handle it and we can quickly go tomorrow," Katie said.

"I'll leave a credit card just in case and the keys to the SUV on the table so you can get around," I told them. "Have a good night and I'll see you after ten thirty tomorrow."

"Good night Mike and thanks for being such a good sport about all of this," Katie said.

"Yes thanks a lot Mike, and have a good sleep," Barb added.

"You're welcome," I said before heading to my bedroom.

I got into my shorts and, after brushing my teeth, hit the hay. It took a while to fall asleep as I thought about the two beauties down the hall. It had been a while since I had female companionship in my bed and I wouldn't kick either one out of it for eating a full course meal, let alone peanuts or crackers in it. Unfortunately, I didn't feel like the time was right to ask either of them if they wanted to join me as I wouldn't know if they were doing because they wanted to or felt obligated. I stayed awake hoping one of them might take the initiative but finally fell asleep, alone.

I took old Bessie to the arena Tuesday morning after quietly slipping out of the condo without waking either woman. I quickly got dressed and out onto the ice, getting through my warm-up and shooting practice just as the rest of the team joined me. We had another up-tempo practice as I settled back into the defence position. I didn't plan on giving it up to Samuel anytime soon, though the coaches might have a different opinion. I knew that next year we would lose our top four defensemen plus Samuel, and John would be a senior if he came back. So they would need me to fill in as an experienced defenceman for sure.

After a rough scrimmage, I got showered and dressed before going to ask Fred about next year's hockey schedule. He let me know it wouldn't be out until probably March or April. I told him what I needed it for and we got a calendar up on his computer and he jotted down some dates that he thought would work around the holidays in question. I thanked him and then walked up to programming class. Dr. Albert went through a couple of chapters and then asked me to stay behind as the bell rang.

"Mike, I've talked to the head of the department and he agrees that you should be allowed to take some higher courses, especially the AI course," he said as the room cleared. "I know this semester is booked but how about in the spring or summer semesters?"

"I was planning to get ahead in both semesters so if I can use the courses as part of my degree, then I would be very interested," I replied. "I don't know if I will be going to graduate school but I would love to get into something that challenged me."

"I'm sure that we could get them to count to your degree, so when it's time to register for them, come see me and we'll walk down to department head's office and get it all settled," he told me.

"Excellent, I look forward to it," I said. "Thanks for thinking of me Dr. Albert."

"You're most welcome, I enjoyed our little exam battles," he replied with a grin.

We went our separate ways and I walked back to the new condo and took the elevator up from the lobby. I unlocked the door and found Katie at the dining room table.

"Hey Katie, have a good morning?" I asked.

"Yes I have," Katie replied with a big grin. "We got the condo for the sisters and Melanie will be on the next available flight today!"

"Great news Katie," I replied with a smile. "What did I have to give up?"

"Two appearances, the Ellen show in Burbank, California and they want you to do the Letterman show in New York," Katie said. "Both shows want you as soon as you can fit them in your schedule."

"Wow, I like both of them so it should be fun," I said. "Let's sit down and see when it might be good to skip a day of school each of the next two weeks."

"Ok, I was hoping you would say that," she replied. "I was looking at your schedule and I think the best time would be on a Thursday. You would miss only two classes and two practices and you don't have classes Friday morning so you could sleep in if you get back late."

"I would miss martial arts in the evening as well, but that might be better than missing three classes on Monday or Wednesday," I mused. "It's too bad they don't tape on Sunday."

"So, should I book Wednesday night flights for the next two weeks starting tomorrow?" she asked.

"I have to talk to the coaches to see if it's ok to miss two practices on a Thursday or if it's better on Tuesday, not so close to game day," I told her. "I'll let you know this evening ok?"

"Good enough," she said. "Next, I've looked at Jamaica and the Bahamas and there are some wonderful all inclusive resorts that have been used as photo shoot sites before. I can get you into a three bedroom suite at either so I've sent you the links for you to look at later."

"Sounds good, I'll get you an answer on which one tonight as well," I said. "The coach gave me a list of dates for the last three shoots. The new schedule doesn't come out for awhile, so go by these for now."

I handed her the list and she smiled and said, "Good, I can get all of them on a schedule to present tomorrow, along with some tentative destinations. I'll email it to you as soon as I have it done and you can let me know what you think before I present it to them."

"Alright, it will be good to get it all set up so I know what's up for a while," I told her. "Where's Barb?"

"She went out to get some things she needed; they really didn't let her pack anything but a couple sets of clothes and a bit of makeup," Katie told me. "She should be back soon; she wanted to have lunch with you. You should have seen her; she was like a different person after she heard her sister was coming here tonight."

"I'm glad, she shouldn't have been brought into this in the first place," I responded. "So, still going back today?"

"Yep, I have to present all of this to the head honchos tomorrow morning, so no rest for the wicked," she said with a laugh. "Don't worry, I'll meet you before each TV show and walk you through it and I'll also try and come back here at least once every couple of weeks. I'll probably join you at the first shoot as well to make sure things go smoothly. One thing you need to do is get some CK clothes as soon as possible, especially if you decide to go to one of the shows tomorrow night."

"I'll have to do that late tonight then or quickly tomorrow in between classes," I said. "It might be best to wait until next Tuesday instead."

"That might be best as it's getting pretty late to schedule into either show for this Thursday," Katie agreed. "How about you confirm with your coaches that Tuesday is best and then I'll get evening flights scheduled on each Monday out of Detroit and then back here Tuesday late afternoon. Do you have a preference which one first?"

"Not really, I just need to let a friend out in LA know so maybe we can meet up," I told her.

"Ok, I'll let you know as soon as I can," she said. "Do you want me to get a ticket for your friend to the Ellen taping?"

"She's a bit too famous to sit in the audience," I told her. "I'll let her know and she can decide what she wants to do."

"Ok, let me know if I can help in any way," she responded. "I'll get a nice suite if you want to entertain her Monday night."

"She's just a friend for now but I think she wants more," I said with a grin. "I'm not sure what will happen but I'm sure she'll want to see me."

"Ok, let me know if something will go public before it happens, if you can," she requested. "I will have to deal with any fallout so some advance notice helps."

I nodded and grabbed a couple of water bottles and brought one back to her.

"Mike, I wanted to talk to you while Barb was out," she said.

"Ok, shoot," I said.

"I wanted to let you know that I've never slept with anyone at work or with a client or a model before," she started. "What Barb said about I was in the same boat as her wasn't exactly correct. Yes I need to make sure you're happy, but I never agreed to sleep with you. I don't jump into any guy's bed at the drop of a hat, especially for work."

"That's good to know, and I would never ask you to do that," I assured her.

She smiled and said, "After I saw what you did to help Barb and Melanie, I was sure that you wouldn't be the type of guy that would try and take advantage of any of us. I just wanted you to know that both Barb and I aren't that type of women but we're not prudes either. We know you're going to be having models here and other women, and we'll make sure we stay out of the way and let you have your privacy and we won't be judgemental or anything like that."

"I appreciate that; I'm not a player or anything so I don't think you'll see a revolving door installed in my bedroom, but I'm not a monk either," I told her. "Just let me know if anything bothers either of you and we can at least discuss it like adults."

"That sounds very reasonable Mike," she said.

"Ok, I'm going to make some lunch for all of us and let you get to work on that new schedule,"

I quickly made up some toasted tuna sandwiches and soup and brought had it on the dining room table just as Barb came in the door, both hands full carrying plastic bags.

"Just in time I see," Barb said with a smile. "I'll just put these in the bedroom and be right out."

I ladled out the soup into the three bowls and passed out some sandwich halves while she was gone. I crushed some crackers into my tomato soup and passed them to Katie.

"So when do they take possession of the condo?" I asked her.

"It's vacant but unfurnished so I'll take possession of it with Barb after lunch and then she and Melanie can furnish it this week," she replied. "I'll set up an account at a local furniture store and they can get them to deliver it."

"Use Gibbons on Oak Street, they did the twin's condo furniture and did a good job," I suggested.

"Ok, I'll get them set up there then, thanks," she replied.

Barb came in and sat down.

"This looks good, sorry I wasn't here to help, I got lost trying to get back here," she said.

"No problem, soup and sandwiches are my speciality," I responded with a grin.

"So, did Katie tell you the great news?" Barb asked as we dug in.

"Yep, Melanie should be here sometime tonight," I replied. "Is Mr. Hanson bringing her or is she coming by herself?"

"She's coming by herself so she'll get a taxi to here from the airport," Katie said. "I'll let you know when as soon as I know."

"I'll let you both use the SUV to get your furniture and stuff for the rest of the week," I told Barb. "I'll get you both put on the insurance policy as soon as I get you info."

"Thanks Mike, I really appreciate how much you've done for us and Katie too," Barb told us.

"No problem, I'm just glad it seems to be working out," I said.

After lunch I had a few minutes to spare, so I went onto the two websites and decided on the Jamaican resort for the first photo shoot. I let Katie know and she got busy having her assistant book a couple of suites, one for me and one for the two of them.

"Ok, I have to get going back to class soon," I said. "Is there anything else besides deciding on Tuesday or Thursday for the TV show?"

"Nope, that should be it for now, except for choosing the models and getting them to stop by in the next few weeks," Katie said. "We need to get Ellen down from Toronto first and then pick some others for the first shoot in Jamaica."

"Ok, we'll dial all of that in tonight after I talk with the coaches," I said.

"Good enough, I'll talk to you tonight and probably see you Monday night in New York or Burbank," Katie said.

"Sounds like a plan," I replied. "Barb, did you set something up with Mitsy to get enrolled?"

"Yep, I'm going to walk with you now and meet up with them at the engineering department and then hopefully when you're done at two thirty, we can meet up at the administration office and you can sign for the tuition," she said with a tentative look.

"Sounds good, have Mitsy call me on my cell if anything changes," I said. "Keep the credit card if not and go ahead and use it when you have to. Get your books and stuff you need as well."

She smiled in relief and said, "Thanks Mike, I owe you big time."

"Don't worry about it, I have plenty to spare now a days," I said. "Katie, let me know if I can do anything for you ok? You should get rewarded for doing such a great job too."

"I'm fine, but thanks for the offer," she said. "I'll let you know if something comes up."

"Alright, let's get going Barb, and Katie, just lock the door on the way out," I said. "You're going to have to walk down a floor to get the regular elevator."

Barb and I gave her a hug before letting ourselves out and walking down to the elevator. She got in first when the elevator doors opened and pushed the lobby button. We rode down in silence and I led the way to campus once we were out of the building.

"You don't talk much do you?" she asked.

"Not really, I'm usually alone," I said. "I go by the principle that it's better to be thought a fool then open my mouth and prove it. Besides, I'm pretty shy, especially around beautiful women."

"Then how the hell did you ever land the Waters twins and become the hottest male model in America?" she asked.

"Vicky was my next door neighbour before the twins were discovered," I told her. "They got discovered at one of my games and the rest is history. I never planned on the popularity or the modelling. I wouldn't be doing the modeling except I couldn't say no to the offer. At least I don't have to model out in public."

"So is that why you don't want to go out with Casey or anyone else here?" she asked.

"I'm going to be too visible and will be approached by a lot of women unfortunately," I said. "No girlfriend can handle that type of competition and media attention. I've got celebrities and actresses after me already, so how can Casey handle that?"

"I can see your point but what does that leave you?" she asked.

"It leaves me playing hockey and going to school and doing those six shoots," I said. "I don't have much time left over for anything else."

We walked along in silence until we got on campus. I got her pointed in the right direction and wished her luck before branching off for my database class. I sat through a long two chapter lecture on B trees in database programming and then walked over to the nearby admin building.

I found Barb by looking over top of the people in line and at the desks for her red hair. She was at a desk and it looked like she was having difficulty with something so I walked over.

"Hey Barb, sorry I'm late, class ran on a bit," I said. "How's it going?"

"Ok, they accepted me into the program, but Mrs. Hutchins won't accept your credit card because it doesn't have my signature on it," Barb said.

"Ok, I'm here now so I can sign for it and show my id," I said cheerfully.

"This is your card Mr. Stewart?" Mrs. Hutchins asked. "How does a student get such a big credit limit that this card has?"

"Not to be rude, but that's really none of your business as long as the payment gets authorized," I said. "I assume that you've run the card to see how much the limit is, so if you provide a slip I'll just sign it and Barb should be all set, correct?"

"Well, if you're going to be snooty about it, maybe I should have my manager look at this further to see what the authorities have to say about this?" she responded haughtily.

"I wasn't being snooty about anything, but I'm wondering why you think it is your business on how much my credit card limit is?" I asked. "I'm about to fork over a very large sum of money to the university and I would think that in these tough economic times that would be looked upon as a good thing for the school."

"Only if the money is lawfully obtained," she retorted.

"Miss Hutchins, you're getting very close to slander there, so if you don't want a huge lawsuit on your hands, I suggest you lower your voice and take us to a private conference room to meet with your manager or just give me the slip to sign and we're out of each other's hair forever," I responded politely but firmly.

She looked at me for a few seconds and wisely ran the card through and tore off the paper and turned it towards me to sign. I quickly signed it and she gave me the bottom copy. Barb stood up and we walked out of her cubicle and left the building.

"What a bitch!" Barb said angrily.

"Power corrupts, even a small amount of it," I said. "At least she gave in at the end."

"I hate that she can get away with doing that," she went on.

"We don't need the publicity that a lawsuit would generate so let's drop it," I said. "You're now an engineering student at the University of Michigan so be happy, ok?"

"You're right Mike and thanks again," she replied. "Ok, you have to work out and I need to get some books."

"I better come with you in case they don't accept the credit card," I told her.

"Do you have enough time?" she asked.

"I can miss one workout to take care of this," I responded. "I'll get you a credit card with a smaller limit in your name when we get some time."

"Ok, thanks Mike," she replied with a big smile. "You're being so nice to me and I really do appreciate it. I wish I could pay you back somehow."

I gave her a wolfish grin and she hit my arm and said, "Not like that you perv!"

"Well, you can come with me and help me pick out clothes at the CK store sometime in the next few days," I said. "And just being a friend would be nice, for a start anyway."

"I can do the first but the second, I'm not so sure on," she said, trying to keep a straight face. "You're a bit too weird to be a friend just yet."

"Well, I'll just stare at you then and you can get slightly uncomfortable as you imagine what I'm thinking about you," I told her as we arrived at the book store.

"I know exactly what you're thinking about and you should be ashamed of yourself," she told me. "I'm an innocent young lady, don't you know."

"That's why I'm looking at you like that silly," I replied with a grin. "I'm a not so innocent young man."

"You're a perverted young man is more like it," she retorted as she walked through the door I held open for her.

"You betcha," I agreed.

She laughed and led me to the engineering section and used me as a book carrier, piling textbook upon textbook on the pile. We finally got everything she needed, including notebooks, binders and supplies and plopped it down on the counter. I handed the cute cashier the credit card and she gave me a big smile. I signed the form and handed it to her. She thanked me and told me to come back if I needed anything else.

"Ahem, I'm standing right here, and he's buying my books so don't even think about it Missy," Red told her before grabbing my hand and pulling me out of the store.

"Ok, what was that all about?" I asked mildly as she turned to glare at me.

"She shouldn't have just come on to you like that with me right there," Barb told me. "I could have been your girlfriend for all she knew."

"And that got you a tad upset?" I asked.

"I guess it did," she said as we started walking to the arena. "Where are we going?"

"I'm headed to the arena, you can either carry these to the condo or you can come with me and we'll put them in my car," I replied. "Casey and Mitsy will still be skating so you could meet them and hang out with them for a couple of hours or take the car back to the condo. I'll see when Melanie is supposed to come."

I took out my phone and found a message from Katie. I listened to it and found that Melanie would be here about eight and let Barb know so she didn't have to worry.

"Ok, I'll come with you and meet the girls and we can decide what to do from there," Barb decided.

We continued on and I warned her about walking alone on this street, even in daylight. After that, we walked in silence for a bit and then she spoke up.

"I'm sorry for doing that back there, I've been thinking why I did that and all I can come up with is that I might want to have a shot at being more than a friend and I didn't want her to come between us," she explained.

"There's going to be a lot of girls like that one Barb, that's why I didn't get together with Casey, though we both like each other," I told her. "I'm not good boyfriend material right now for anyone."

"Why, because you're going to sleep with lots of women?" she retorted.

"No, but a lot of women will want to and some might lie and say they did," I told her. "Let's just work on trying to become friends for now ok?"

"I guess so, but it's not fair," she replied.

"No it's not, but I would rather have you as a friend than an ex-girlfriend," I said.

I led her into the arena after we put the bags in the car. She had grabbed one textbook to read while she watched and carried it in. I showed her the door I went through to go change and then we went out the lobby door into the stands. We found Asuka in her usual spot watching the skaters.

"Hey Asuka, this is Barb, she's the girl who Mitsy just got into engineering," I told her. "Barb, this Asuka, she's a friend of Mitsy's."

They said hello to each other and we sat down for a couple of minutes to watch the two skaters.

"Asuka, can you introduce Barb to the two ladies when they get done and have Mitsy let me know where you are if you four take off?" I asked her.

"I can do that Mike," she agreed.

I left Barb the keys to the car and went down to the tunnel to go get dressed. I waved to the girls on the ice as I walked by the ice down by the boards. A few waved back to me and the coach even smiled at me.

Soon I was back in the tunnel as the girls filed past, most of them smiling and saying hi to me. The last two came up to me with their arms on their hips.

"Why is it that every girl you attract is more gorgeous then the last?" Casey asked.

"Oh, I think you are just as gorgeous as Mitsy, Asuka, and Barb," I told her with a grin. "I'm just lucky so many beautiful ladies seem to want to be friends."

"Hmmm, I'm not sure we want to be friends if you keep it up," Casey said with a growl.

"I'm not going out looking for any more ladies," I told her. "I'm sorry you feel that way but Barb's here because of someone else and she needs help. Don't get mad at her."

"Of course not, we'll get mad at you," Mitsy said, as they pushed past me. "We'll see you at the Dojo."

I watched them as they walked down the tunnel and turned the corner, their gorgeous derrieres looking great in their tights. I smiled as I heard them giggling down the hallway.

I got on the ice after Rolf drove the Zamboni around the ice and did my usual skate and stretching as my teammates came out. I spotted Coach on the bench and skated over.

"Hi Coach, you got a second?" I asked.

"Sure, what's up?" Fred asked.

I explained the issue with the two appearances and asked which day would be better to miss in terms of practicing. He agreed with the Tuesday as I suspected.

"I hope this doesn't become a habit Mike, the other guys won't like it if you keep missing practices to go fly across the country," he told me.

"I don't plan to do anymore than these two Coach, so one next week and one more the week after that should be it," I assured him. "I don't even want to do these but it was part of the deal. I want to get them over with early in the semester."

"Alright, but give me a full schedule of all of your activities so we know what's going on," he requested.

"Sure, they're finalizing it today and tomorrow and I can give it to you for the rest of the calendar year," I agreed. "All six shoots are on school breaks and holidays, we made sure of that. These two appearances have to be during the week because they only tape during the week."

I rejoined the team and shot on the goalies for a bit before we started on special teams. After that, we worked on offence with either the defence carrying the puck in or the centre. The scout team of course knew what we had planned so it wasn't easy to bring it into the zone when they were stacked up at their blueline. Quick short passes, banks off the boards, or nifty stick work and moves were required to get through if we weren't allowed to dump it into the corner. We wanted to keep possession of the puck as much as we could.

For defensive practice, the scout team would dump and chase the puck into the corner, enjoying the chance to hit the starters. We had to decide on whether to play the puck and risk getting hit or let them play it and hit them. I gave as good as I got and enjoyed the physical play.

Finally we ended with a scrimmage and I was given more chances to carry the puck up the ice. I was getting comfortable in a more offensive role now after being a forward for a few games. John and I split being those duties now on defence and we made sure that we both got equal time. I had a couple of scoring chances against Bob, our back-up goalie as I went farther into the zone and also scored once from the blueline through a crowd of players in front.

After the practice was over, I quickly had a shower and found my car gone when I went out to the parking garage. I listened to my messages as I walked up to the university and found that the girls took it to go to the condo. I was graciously allowed to walk back to the condo to get the car as they would shopping for furniture before dropping Barb back there to meet her sister, while the other three would take it to go to the Dojo.

I walked through the university campus to get to my condo on the other side. I let myself in the lobby and took the elevator up to the top floor. Barb wasn't back yet so I had a small bite to eat before getting ready to go to the Dojo. I grabbed the keys off the table by the door and headed down the hallway to the elevator.

Barb got out when the doors opened.

"Hi Mike, heading out to the Dojo?" she asked.

"Yep, how was your time with the girls?" I asked.

"It was good, they were very welcoming and helpful at the furniture store and at the electronic store," she replied. "I got a laptop on the credit card, I hope that's ok?"

"Sure, no problem, you'll need it for sure," I told her. "Ok, tell your sister to make herself comfortable and I'll see you about nine thirty."

"Ok, see you later," Barb replied and we split up.

I watched her until she got the door open and waved before I got in the elevator. I had to make sure she got in ok, not just check out her lovely butt as she walked down the hall; really. I rode down to the garage and got in the car. On the way over I called Katie and left her a message that the next two Tuesdays were good for the shows and asked her to let me know which show was when as soon as possible.

I thought about Kristen and decided to wait and see how she wanted to play it when we saw each other again. I would love to get more involved with her, especially physically, but I knew long distance relationships rarely worked out. On one hand she was beautiful, pretty cool and seemed to be into me, but she was very much in the public eye and half way across the country. If I was a publicity hound I would probably jump on the opportunity, but I really liked my privacy so it wasn't an easy decision. I decided not to decide until we met up and discussed things.

I pulled into the dojo and, after a quick look in the front door and not finding anyone; I walked around to the back and entered the building. I got out of my winter stuff and entered the training room. Asuka was there but not the Sensei.

"Hi Asuka, how was your day?" I asked.

"It was good, I enjoyed being with the girls, picking out furniture and computers," she said. "I like doing these ordinary day to day things; I haven't had a chance to do much of this before. Now get to stretching before the Sensei gets here."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied with a grin.

I got down on the ground and did my usual hockey stretches. When I was done I was going to get up when she stopped me.

"Those are ok for your simple game of hockey, but not for serious training," she said as she pushed down on my head to keep me on the floor. "You must be more flexible Michael or you won't be able to do half of the moves. And don't tell me men can't to the splits because your goalies do them all the time. So let us see you stretch out a bit more."

I put more effort into it and got a couple more inches out of my leg stretches. Asuka slid her legs apart from a standing position in front of me until she was doing the splits on the ground.

"Now imagine if I did that in the middle of a fight while punching at a man's groin," Asuka said as she looked at me. "I believe I've even seen it in the movies from that Claude fellow. He does have some flexibility."

I stretched a bit further and then did the other leg. I worked on my back and sides next while she showed me the proper way to get the most of the stretches.

"I see that Asuka is getting you started on proper stretching, this is very good," Sensei said from behind me. "The more flexible you are Michael, the easier it will be for you to move out of the way, hit from farther away and in more unexpected places using all of your body."

"It's going to take me a while to get as flexible as she is," I said with a grimace as she had me go another couple inches past my previous comfort zone.

"It will be a life's work if you do it right," Sensei responded. "The stretching and practicing of the forms we will teach you will keep you fit limber and in shape long after you retire from hockey. And all you need is a small open space in a room to do it."

They both showed me a few more stretches and then we went through all the blocks they taught me last time. We started at half speed and then Asuka sped up her punches gradually until it was all I could do to react with the proper defensive block. Finally, after a couple of minutes, one got through my blocks and grazed my cheek as I moved my head to the side a bit slow.

"And stop!" Sensei shouted before the follow-up punch connected to my nose. "Good work both of you. You were getting into instinctive reaction there for a bit there rather than thinking about what form to use."

"Yes Mike, that was much better," Asuka agreed. "Just remember that you should attempt a couple of offensive punches to keep your opponent honest in their defences."

"Ok, let's show him a few offensive punches then," Sensei said.

The next half hour was work on stances and simple punches from different positions in relation to your opponent.

"So now you know the blocks for most punches as well as the punches themselves," Sensei said. "Of course you need much practice with the proper form of each punch and each block. Once they become second nature to you, then we will start combining them in mock fighting to show when each should be used and how to turn a block into a punch."

"And you should practice the forms for all of them every day so they become natural," Asuka added. "That way we can concentrate on the combining of them here instead of just the simple forms. And you should also stretch every morning and evening."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied with a grin.

"It appears Asuka will also be your Sensei Michael," Sensei said with a smile. "She will certainly keep you on your toes, as they say."

"Or flat on my back," I replied with a grin.

"I'm sure she is quite able to do that," Sensei agreed. "However, right now that would be like you doing the same thing to a child, so that would only happen if an important lesson was needed, even it was only humility that was learned."

"Believe me, I'm feeling pretty humble already," I told him. "I'm going to have to get her on a pair of skates to make myself feel the least bit superior to her."

"And how do you know if I'm not a better skater than you as well Michael?" Asuka asked with a hint of a smile. "My best friend is a figure skater of some renown."

"Sure, burst the last bubble I had a small hope on," I said with a dramatic sigh. "At least I'm taller than you, so there."

"Alright children, I'll see you Thursday night," Sensei said with a smile.

"Just so you both know, the next two Tuesdays I will be out of town, so I won't make it," I told them.

"Thank you for the advance notice Michael," Sensei responded as we got our shoes on.

"Goodnight," I told him as we left the building.

We walked up to the front and found the girls, their coffee dates and one other guy in a group just inside the door. The new guy looked hopefully at Asuka but his face fell when he saw me.

"Hi you two," Mitsy said. "This is Roger, a friend of Kentaro and Todd. Roger, this is Asuka and Mike."

We all said hi to each other and then stood around for a few seconds.

"So, who's up for coffee down the road?" Todd asked.

The other two guys and Casey and Mitsy were all happy to go and looked over at the two of us.

"Sorry, no can do, I have people waiting at the condo," I said.

"Asuka, you're coming with us right?" Casey asked. "Roger would like to get to know you better."

Asuka looked at Mitsy and spoke in Japanese for a couple of sentences. Mitsy replied and then Asuka nodded to Casey.

"Ok, we'll see you later then Mike," Casey said.

"So, can I get my keys to the SUV please?" I asked.

"Mike, how are we going to get home?" Mitsy asked. "We can drop it off in the morning for Barb and Melanie to use."

"Oh, I thought the guys would be driving you home," I responded. "Just be careful, I don't have you guys on the insurance policy."

"We will, have a good night," Mitsy replied as they filed out.

I followed at the end and got into my car as the girls got into my SUV. The guys hopped in Todd's car and drove off. The girls followed and I kept pace with them until they turned off into the donut shop. I drove on to the condo and opened the door to see Melanie and her sister on the couch watching TV.

"Hello there Ladies," I said. "Melanie, I'm glad you made it, how was your trip?"

"It was ok Mr. Stewart, thank you for arranging for me to come here. Barb has told me what you did for her and for me and I greatly appreciate it," she replied. "I'm so sorry for treating you so badly last week. I promise I won't be any trouble here and I'll do my best to make sure you're well taken care of."

"First of all, call me Mike," I told her. "Secondly, I'm sorry for getting you in so much trouble so no need to apologize for last week. Thirdly, both you and Barb will be in your new condo by the end of the week and we'll get you an interview for a new job soon. So you don't have to take care of me at all. Neither does Barb, you'll both be in your new lives and out from under Mr. Carroll's thumb."

"So Barb said, but I didn't believe her," Melanie said. "I was expecting to be treated worse than what Mr. Carroll did and to see Barb being treated as badly. I was so worried about her and I'm so glad you turned out to be a nice guy. You could have done anything to both of us you wanted to. I'm surprised a young man didn't take advantage of the situation, especially with how beautiful Barb is."

"Well, she is gorgeous, but there was no way that I could have taken advantage of the situation," I said. "So, are you settled in ok?"

"Yep, Barb has me in my own bedroom and she got me some stuff to wear and use until we can go shopping tomorrow," Melanie answered.

"Good, well I have some homework to do, so I'll leave you two to your TV," I said.

"I have homework as well," Barb said. "I need to catch up on my reading for tomorrow's classes."

I grabbed three water bottles from the fridge and passed them out before setting up on the dining room table. I pulled out the assignments for both of my computer programming classes. I wanted to see if I could get them done and handed in by Thursday as I wouldn't be in class the next Tuesday.

I worked hard on the first assignment and had a working solution done before eleven. I would finish it up tomorrow between classes and then work on the database one. I checked my email and found one from Katie, letting me know that I would be going to LA next week and then New York the week after. She also sent the completed schedule for the six shoots. I sent a copy of the schedule to Fred and then sent Kristen an email telling her I'd be in LA late Monday night. After packing up my stuff, I grabbed a quick shower and then went out to the living room to wish the sisters a good night.

"You ladies have a good sleep," I said. "I've be off to the arena by six, but the girls are supposed to drop the SUV for you in the morning to use. Make sure I get a copy of your licences so I can get you on the insurance tomorrow ok?"

"Sure thing Mike and thanks for letting us use it until we can get our own ride," Barb said.

"You can use my car after you get settled, I'll put you both on each just to be safe," I responded. "Have a good night."

"Good night Mike and thanks again," Melanie said.

I smiled and headed to my bedroom. After brushing my teeth, I slipped into bed and finally relaxed. I was asleep soon after.

Wednesday was almost back to normal, as I attended practice and classes in the morning. Miss Hiller wore a pant suit as it was very cold out, but she still looked very svelte and sexy. After our usual banter I went to lunch and worked on proofing my program from last night. I had just finished when Asuka sat down across from me.

"Hey Asuka, this is a surprise," I said, as I packed away my computer.

"I wished to talk to you alone and I have dropped Mitsy at her class, so she should be safe for a bit," she replied.

"Ok, what's up?" I asked.

"This Roger from last night wishes to ask me out when Kentaro and Todd ask Mitsy and Casey out this weekend," she told me.

Something must have shown on my face because she immediately remarked, "You are upset about this I see."

"Just because it was decided it wasn't a good thing that I go out with any of you, doesn't mean I didn't want to," I told her. "I guess I'm a bit jealous that all of you found someone so quickly. I know I don't have any right to be but it's there. But, never the less, I'm happy you have someone to take you out and learn how to go on a date. So how can I help?"

"I am wondering what this Roger will expect on this date?" she asked. "The girls think nothing but maybe to hold my hand and a kiss goodnight. Is that correct?"

"Everybody is different, but he seemed pretty timid, so that should be all that he expects, and definitely all he should get," I said. "Some guys might expect more depending on their presumed status and who they are taking out, but normal first dates are just to see if you even like each other and want to pursue something more. Kentaro and Todd should be the same with the other two, though Todd might think he's a player and want more from Casey. Kentaro is harder to read, but hopefully he treats Mitsy as per the old ways. Are you all going together, to the same place and in the same vehicle?"

"I'm not sure, it might be hard to get six of us in Todd's car, ' Asuka said. "I should be there for Mitsy though, until the family decides she does not require a chaperone. Casey is the most vunerable of the two, especially with Todd being the most outspoken. I should be there to watch out for her as well."

"I should think so, for a few dates until the girls tell you they want to be alone with them," I said. "Let me know if you or the other two want me to say anything to them before you go out."

"I doubt that the girls will want you to intimidate them before the first date, Michael," she said, looking at me as if I was dumb.

"All the more reason for me to do it," I said with a grin. "The longer they keep their hands off you three the better I like it."

"This jealousy you have is cute but foolish," she replied. "You can't have every girl you know as a girlfriend. Pick one and just be friends with the rest."

"I know, I know. I'm still new at this girl stuff so it's hard not to get attached when they're friendly and so nice," I said. "I'm trying to be smart about it and back off earlier."

"Good, now we are still friends and training partners, yes?" Asuka asked. "I'm sure nothing will happen with this Roger boy, but eventually someone will come along that is worthy."

"Yes, we are," I replied. "Have some fun with the boy and I won't even intimidate him a bit."

"I will see you Thursday night," she said as she got up.

"Yep, see you then," I replied, as I got up as well.

We went our separate ways and I found an aisle seat in Philosophy a few minutes later.

Nora, the sexy blonde, managed to grab the seat beside me again.

"Hi Mike, how are you today?" she asked with a smile.

"I'm fine, and you Nora?" I replied.

"I'm doing well, thank you for asking," she replied. "I must say that I do admire your ads for Calvin Klein Mike, you're in great shape."

"Thanks, I need to be for hockey, so it worked out well when they needed someone to fill in," I responded. "I'm sure you know it, but you're very beautiful yourself. Do you model?"

"Thank you kind Sir," she replied with a smile. "I'm afraid a Bradford can't stoop to modeling, it wouldn't be good for their golden child to be seen in such a profession. That is according to my parents anyway. They seem to think their Blue blood is too good for everyone else."

"Aren't you taking a big chance just sitting beside a model then?" I asked with a grin.

"A bit, but as long as I don't bring you home, to the home back east that is, you're just a harmless college fling in my mother's eyes," she replied. "Daddy would have you hung if he knew you were even sitting beside his precious daughter. I'm surprised the Mayflower Society police haven't hauled you away already."

"So why is Miss Nora Bradford slumming it way out here in the American mid-west rather than in an Ivy League school where the rest of the Blue bloods get educated?" I asked as the professor walked in.

"I fooled around too much in high school and this was the only place that would take me, after Daddy set up a scholarship in the Bradford name of course, and donated a new wing for the Library," she said with a grin. "Money has its uses, even if Blue blood doesn't anymore."

The professor started his lecture and we stopped our conversation. I found myself liking Nora a bit; her self-deprecating humour showed she had a bit of a brain behind all the beauty. I wasn't sure how much the beauty was real, but she was hot. I wondered about the gossip that I heard from the girls the last time, was she really a man-eater or was it just jealousy? Not that it was any of my business; I still didn't need a Nora type in my life.

The class eventually finished up and I stood up quickly after packing up.

"So Mike, care for that coffee now?" she asked with a smile.

I looked at her for a few seconds and then said, "Sorry Nora, I don't have time after class, I have to go work out. Besides, I'm not Blue blood material, I'm not even American."

"That would be a complication for my parents Mike, not me," she said. "We can make it another time perhaps."

"Let's just get to know each other in class," I said. "I have to go, have a good week."

"Ok, see you in class next week Mike," she said quickly as I walked down the steps.

I managed to get away and headed to the arena for a good workout. I thought about Nora and just couldn't see myself with her, even if she was a genius behind that Barbie-doll exterior. I was sure I could find someone a little more my type soon or later.

I had a good workout and then showered before getting ready for practice. I was later than usual getting out to the tunnel and passed the girls as I got out of the locker room. I smiled and said hi ladies as Casey and Mitsy rounded the corner. They smiled back and we kept going without stopping. I didn't turn to look at them as I entered the tunnel and stood with a couple of the guys while we waited for the ice to be cleaned.

Practice was pretty mild as we had short offensive and defensive practices before a longer than normal scrimmage. I felt comfortable back on defence again, though a bit bored as I didn't get to mix it up in the offensive zone as much anymore. I couldn't compensate by being more aggressive in the defensive zone because I was playing against my own team.

After practice, I drove home and found a nice chicken dinner waiting for me. The sisters had gone all out to make a nice meal for the three of us.

"This looks fantastic ladies, I hope you didn't go to too much trouble," I said.

"No trouble at all Mike," Barb said.

"Yeah, because you just put the potatoes in the oven," Melanie said wryly.

"Well, I'm a busy student, I can't be cooking like a chef all day," Barb retorted.

"So how was everybody's day?" I asked quickly.

"It was tough, I had to find every classroom and try and catch up for all I've missed," Barb said. "I'll be up all night reading and doing assignments."

"I'm sorry to hear that, but I know you can catch up quickly," I told her.

"I went and picked out our furniture and it's being delivered tomorrow," Melanie said. "I've got an interview with the Matsuda Corp lawyer Friday morning so I went and got a couple good outfits. I hope you don't mind?"

"Of course not, you need to make a good impression," I said.

"Thanks Mike, I'll pay you back as soon as I can," she replied.

"Don't worry about it, it's not as if I'm hurting for money," I said with a laugh. "I just don't have enough time in the day for everything."

We ate the meal, engaging in small talk when the mood struck us. After we were done, Melanie did the dishes while Barb and I got cracking on our homework. I remembered I had to get the girls on my insurance plan and called my local broker. Luckily he was working late and promised to get them on right away.

I eventually finished my db program and then worked on my Calculus homework. I took a break and checked my emails and found one from my Aunt and one from Kristen.

My aunt and her family were coming down this weekend to see me and the two games. They would be driving down and staying at the Holiday Inn just south of the arena. They would be leaving Friday morning and hoped to see me before the game down at Joe Louis Arena. They would head home on Sunday.

I emailed them back and said I was looking forward to seeing them. I gave them my new address and told them to stop on by. I would have to go to the team supper by four so they could come around in the early afternoon if they made it on time. If not, I could see them after the game or Saturday morning for breakfast.

Kristen's email was a treat. She was so excited about seeing me Monday night. I knew, because she said so in big bold letters. She wanted to know my flight and where I was staying and who was coming with me and how long could I stay.

I replied back with what I knew; I was flying out Monday night, and taping the show the next day sometime and flying out right after. I told her that Katie, my CK manager would either be on the flight or meet me there. I let her know I didn't know where I was staying yet or any times. I promised to get the information as soon as possible and forward it to her. At the end of the email, I wrote that I was looking forward to seeing her as well and hoped to spend some time Monday evening with her and on Tuesday as well, if she wasn't busy.

After I sent that off, I emailed Katie and asked for details so I could pass it on. I shut the laptop down and headed to bed after wishing them a good night.

"Mike, can we talk for a quick second?" Melanie asked.

"Sure, what's up?" I asked.

"We were wondering if you wanted company at night?" she asked. "You haven't asked or given us any indication if you have a girlfriend or anything but we are here to make sure you're happy."

"That stuff went out the window the second you got away from those people Melanie," I told her. "I thought I made myself pretty clear on that to Barb. You ladies don't have to do a thing around here and as soon as you move downstairs, you're free to do what you want as long as you don't get caught by home office."

"Barb did tell me, but we do feel in debt to you for getting us out of this mess," Melanie said. "We would be happy to spend some time with you if you find us appealing."

"You're both gorgeous, but I'm not going to entertain that while you have any feelings of debt or obligation Melanie," I told her. "Thank you for the wonderful offer but I'm good."

"I told you he would say that silly, he's Canadian, they have superhero morals up there," Barb said. "You could probably get naked and he wouldn't touch you. Me, on the other hand, he couldn't resist because I'm his Elvin princess. But he's going to have to work at it if he wants me. He's not ready to do that."

"Good night ladies," I said to both of them with a smile. "I'm going to need a cold shower to get to sleep if we keep this up."

They giggled as I walked down the hall and closed the door behind me. It took a while to get to sleep, especially when I hoped they wouldn't listen to me and come in to keep me company.

Thursday was busy, from practice to martial arts. Practice was intense to get ready for the game. I handed in both computer program assignments after class and then got the next one as I would be out of town on the following Tuesday. I would have to read ahead and work on both on the weekend. In between classes I did some research on the philosophy paper and decided to do it on Aristotle. After my second class of the day I finished my math homework and went to the arena and did another workout.

After another gruelling practice, I headed back to the condo and had a quick bite to eat. The girls weren't there so I drove the car to the Dojo. I just parked in the back and entered through the back door. I took off my winter gear and got to my stretches, trying to go past what I had down the last two mornings and last night. It seemed to be getting marginally easier and I could extend a bit farther.

I had been practising the forms for both offense and defence as well so I got up and worked on them as well before both Sensei and Asuka joined me.

"I see you have been practicing Michael, that is good," Sensei observed. "Doing the stretches as well?"

"Yes Sensei, morning and night," I told him.

"Good, so if you are ready, we'll start meshing the defensive and offensive together," Sensei informed me. "Asuka will attempt a punch and you will do the block and then a punch that I call out. You will use the alternate hand most of the time, but sometimes a block will naturally lead to an offensive form as you deflect the arm away from both you and her body. We will begin in slow motion to demonstrate the opening and the proper counter-strike. Asuka, begin."

So we started a punch-counterpunch lesson, with Sensei shouting out some punch to me to use once I blocked Asuka's strike. He had to step in a few times to show me a new punch or the right way to throw it. We practiced a dozen different reactions to her attacks, gradually speeding up. Eventually we were at half speed and things started to click. Sensei stopped shouting a counter-strike and let me use what I thought was best. We took a short break when they could tell my arms were getting tired.

"Good, very good Mike," Sensei said. "You're picking this up even faster than I thought you might. Your obvious athletic talent mixed with your memory and your creativity is giving you an advantage in your training. You obviously need to continue with your original forms and stretches, but you can now add these new two step forms to your daily solo practices."

After break, we just sped up our punching and I was soon at near full speed in order to try and defend myself from Asuka's first attack. My defence and counter-punch had to happen quickly because if it didn't she attacked again and all I could do is defend. We fell into a natural rhythm and the punches and counter punches started flowing naturally from one subset to the next.

After about five minutes of non-stop mock fighting at my high speed, I tried to slip in a wrinkle to see if she could pick it up. While blocking a right hook with my elbow, I extended my arm to try and catch her off guard. She somehow swung her head out of the way and grabbed my arm and I was soon flying over her head and landing on my back, the air rushing out of my lungs.

Sensei came up and looked down at me with a grin, "I see that Asuka does not like it when you surprise her. That was a good attempt at improvisation Michael, but Asuka had to react instinctively to defend herself. That move is good for a novice, but as you can see, it leaves you vunerable as you are extended too far off your base. Can you breathe yet?"

I finally took in a deep breath and slowly rolled over.

"Damn, how did you do that?" I asked as I got onto my hands and knees. "I must weight a hundred and forty pounds more than you."

"I used your momentum to continue pulling you off balance," Asuka said. "Once you're leaning, it's easy to keep you going."

"Remind me to stick with what you show me from now on," I told both of them.

"That would be best for a while," Sensei said. "Remember, Asuka is almost in robot mode while you are doing these exercises. When she suddenly finds something different happening, her training will kick in and defend her any way it can."

We called it a night after that as I had reached my limit on physical activity for the day. I was pleased with my progress but knew I was just scratching the surface. I thanked them both and told them I would see them Sunday evening. I started my car and let it warm up before walking Asuka to the front.

"You ok for a ride home?" I asked her.

"Yes, the girls and I were picked up by the boys this evening," she told me.

"Ok, have a good night then," I told her, before heading back to the car. I pulled out of the parking lot after I cleaned the frost from the windows and drove back to the condo. The girls were nowhere to be found and they didn't leave a note. I hoped they were just downstairs in their new condo, since the furniture was supposed to be delivered.

I turned on my laptop and called Barb while it was booting up.

"Hey Mike, you back in your condo?" she asked.

"Yep, you guys in yours?" I asked.

Yeah, we're just getting the beds made and the rest of the stuff put away," she replied. "We should be up in about a half hour for the rest of our stuff and we'll be out of your hair, just in time for your Aunt's visit."

"Ok, see you in a few," I replied.

That was thoughtful of them, since I wasn't sure how I was going to explain the presence of both of them to my Aunt.

I brought up my email and found a reply from Katie. She had booked me on a seven forty o'clock flight from Metro airport outside Detroit that would arrive at LAX at a quarter to ten, California time. It was a five hour flight, so I was going to be tired when I got there.

She had me booked at the Hilton Universal City, a couple of miles from the Warner Brothers studio where the Ellen show was taped. It would take about half an hour to get to the hotel, depending on traffic. She had booked a suite for me on the top floor and a room for her a floor down. Katie was flying in that night as well, direct from New York.

The taping of the show would be in the afternoon for the next day's airing. I had to be there for two thirty for the five o'clock taping. My flight out was at eight and I would be flying during the night to be back around three in the morning on Wednesday.

I forwarded the email to Kristen so she would know the trip plan and know Katie's plans as well.

I shut down the laptop and had a shower before the girls came back. When they did, I helped them carry a couple boxes of their stuff down to the condo on the next floor down. We got all of their stuff down by eleven and I left them there for the night. They gave me back my keys to the SUV and my condo and I gave them the keys to the car for now. They gave me a hug and thanked me again for all my help.

I wished them well and told them to call me if they needed anything. I headed back up and hit the hay as it was getting late.

Friday morning I got up a bit earlier to do all my stretches, forms and new combinations that I had learned last night. I then headed to the arena using the SUV and got out on the ice, still early as usual. I had time to practice carrying the puck up the ice and experiment with some dekes and fake passes as I approached the blueline. I even tried a few shots off a fake pass to see if I could catch the goalie napping. I was going to try that on Mark in the scrimmage later to see if might work.

Fred told us about team supper at three thirty so we could head down to Joe Louis Arena by quarter after four as game time was at seven thirty five. We practiced special teams, offence and defence before one more scrimmage. I did get a chance to try out my shot and Mark had to make a good save as he was cheating to help with the dump in that I faked. I tried out one of my new dekes and it fooled Peter, allowing me to go in on the defencemen and wire a shot past Mark from the top of the circle when the two of them parted like the Red sea.

After practice, I went back to the condo and cleaned up. The girls' bedrooms were a mess, so I made the beds up and then vacuumed the entire condo. I cleaned the kitchen and the made sure everything looked good for their visit.

After I was satisfied with the appearance of the condo, I started on my essay on Aristotle, doing some research and then planning out the various topics I would concentrate on. I worked on one of them for a bit and then had lunch. About two thirty I got a call on my cell.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Hi Michael, it's Aunt Nancy, we just got into the hotel and everyone is bushed from the long car ride," she said. "I think we'll rest up and head down to the arena later to watch the game. We can meet up after the game or tomorrow morning if that is ok?"

"Sure Aunt Nancy, that will be fine," I responded. "I have to leave for the team dinner soon anyway, they moved it up to three thirty. I'm up by six so come on over whenever you're ready. You can have a quick tour and then we'll head out for a nice breakfast."

"That sounds good Michael, but we'll try and see you tonight as well if we can," she replied. "The girls will have their Michigan number five jerseys on so look for us if you get a second."

"I will, don't worry," I told her. "Have a relaxing afternoon and I'll see you tonight."

"See you later Michael," she replied before she hung up.

I realized that I hadn't got my cousins anything yet. I grabbed my suit bag, with the suit in it, and raced out of the condo to the elevator. The younger sister that lived in the condo next door, I thought her name was Layla, was waiting at the elevator.

"Hi, you're Layla right?" I asked.

"That's right," she replied shyly. "And you're Mike."

"I need a woman's help, I have two very young nieces coming over tomorrow and I don't have a clue what I should get them," I told her.

"How old are they?" she asked as the doors opened and we got in.

"Six and four," I replied.

"Stuffed animals or dolls are fine at that age, especially from a cute, older cousin," she said. "No Barbie dolls, though, get smaller girls or baby dolls with some clothes they can change."

"Should I get them the same thing or different or one of each?" I asked.

"Definitely not the same thing, but they can be similar," she said. "I would get them each a stuffed animal and then a doll with a package of clothes."

"Ok, where's the nearest toy store around here?" I asked.

"For an adult, you're pretty helpless," she remarked.

"Hey, I've never been around young girls before or had to buy for them," I defended myself. "That's why I'm asking a professional. So, you busy for a half an hour? I'll make it worth your while; get you an IPod or something."

"Mike, I barely know you, I can't go anywhere with you," she said.

"Layla, we're all alone in an elevator, going down to a dark, scary garage," I said in a deep voice and a scowl. "I don't need to take you to a brightly lit, crowded toy store to have my way with you."

I grinned at her panicked look and started laughing as she looked embarrassed.

"You scared me there for a second Mike," she said. "You never know who's a creep these days, everyone looks normal."

"Ok, no pressure, you right, you probably shouldn't just take off with me, your mother would worry about you," I said. "And I'm sorry for scaring you, everyone tells me I'm not funny, I should listen to them more I guess."

She laughed and replied, "It wasn't very funny, especially to someone who doesn't know you that well, so I would agree with your critics. My mother wouldn't worry about me with you, except that it wasn't my sister with you. You better be careful around those two, they're already plotting ways to get Lily and you together."

"Thanks for the warning, your sister isn't my type," I said.

The doors opened to the lobby and she hesitated for a second.

"Do you really need help?" she asked.

"I'm sure you're much too busy to help an old guy like me Layla," I responded. "I'm sure they'll like whatever snake and spider I pick out. I'm thinking a Freddy Kruger doll and a Jason action figure will make their day too."

"God, you'll scar them for life with those choices," she said, stepping back in and pushing the button for the garage. "I better make come with you and make sure the girls don't end up serial killers by age eight."

I put on an innocent look and shrugged as she looked at me with disgust.

"You just tricked me again, didn't you?" she asked.

"For a supposed young genius, you're very easy to fool," I told her. "Good thing you've got your looks or you would be in trouble down the road."

She laughed and replied, "Looks! What are you talking about? I'm a beanpole with glasses and weird hair. No guy even looks once at me."

"You're cute, tall and just starting to fill out," I replied. "You're not even seventeen right?"

"Will be next month," she replied.

"You'll be utterly gorgeous by eighteen, and you'll be fighting of the guys who will want to go out with you," I assured her.

"Now I know you're insane," she said as we got out of the elevator.

We walked to my SUV and I opened her door and didn't have to help her in as she was very tall. I got in and got us pointed out the garage.

"Ok, navigator, which way?" I asked.

She guided me to a nearby mall and we found a toy store. She picked out a teddy bear and a rabbit and then we got the youngest a baby doll and a package of clothes and baby accessories. The older one got a package of small girl dolls with another package of clothes as well.

"I'm glad you were here to help, I would have gotten something odd for sure," I said. "Ok, what do you need, an IPod, some CDs, a Nintendo DS or something?"

She looked at me for a few seconds and then said, "If no one asks me to the junior prom, I want you to be my date."

"What! You're passing up an expensive electronic device for a prom date?" I asked. "You're going to be asked anyway, especially if you start putting just a small effort into your appearance at school. So you won't get anything for this."

"That's ok, I got to hang out with a handsome model who treated me like a woman and not a little girl, so I'm happy," she replied as we walked to the check-out.

"You should have taken the device anyway, I'm sure you could have gotten me to go with you just by your feminine wiles," I told her.

"Oh, I'm sure I could get you to buy me something with my feminine wiles sometime in the future, but I don't want you to think I'm like my sister," she replied.

I paid for the girls' presents and I drove Layla back to the condo after I found out that she was just going down to check the mail when I shanghaied her.

"Thank you very much Layla for your help today, you were a life saver," I told her as I pulled in front of the building.

"You're welcome Mike, just remember your promise in June," she said with a grin. "Give me those gifts and I'll wrap them for you. You don't need them until tomorrow right?"

"Tomorrow morning," I answered.

"Ok, I'll have them ready tonight if you want to come get them or I can deliver them anytime in the morning," she said.

"Can't I just give them like this?" I asked with a frown.

"Girls of all ages like to unwrap gifts Mike," she said. "You have a game tonight right? Come by afterwards or I'll come by as early as seven in the morning."

"Ok, and thanks Layla," I told her. "Now I owe you again. I'll see you tonight if it's not too late or in the morning."

She got out and grabbed the bags from the back seat before stating, "Don't worry, my mother and sister always go out Friday night so it will be ok to come and get them tonight."

"Ok, I'll see you later then Layla," I told her.

She smiled and walked into the building, turning to wave before she closed the door. I pulled out after I made sure she was in the lobby and quickly drove to the arena. On the way I thought of the poor girl, her mother and sister didn't spend a lot of time with her. She certainly looked lonely and I wondered if she at least had friends at school.

I had to put her out of my mind as I entered the arena and went to hang up my suit in the locker room before joining the team in the cafeteria. I joined the back of the line and grabbed some pasta and salad and found a seat at an empty table. I quickly ate while I thought about what I needed to do before I left Monday night. The most crucial was to get to the CK store and get a new wardrobe. I would have to do that Saturday or Sunday for sure. I had to hand in my math assignments and work on the new ones on the trip out. Hopefully I could get my new program assignments done this weekend or I would continue to work on them during the trip.

I finished the food on my plate and headed down to the locker room to get into my suit. My teammates joined me and then I headed out to the waiting bus. John and I sat together for the ride to Detroit.

"So, what's new in the life of Mike?" he asked.

"My Aunt and her family are down from Toronto for a couple of days and then I have to fly to LA Monday night and New York next Monday night," I told him quietly.

"What the hell are you doing there?" he asked.

"I have to appear on the Ellen show and the Letterman show the next week," I said softly.

"No shit?" he said. "That's awesome dude, you're hitting the big time now," he exclaimed. "Who's going to be on with you?"

"No clue yet," I said. "Keep it to yourself until you see a commercial of it will you?" I asked.

"No problem, even from Amanda," he agreed. "What else is going on?"

"I have six shoots to do in the next year, so I go on March break to Jamaica for the first one," I told him. "Don't know the models yet."

"You are one lucky dude man," he said. "Now don't forget about the combine the last week of May in Toronto and the draft the last Friday and Saturday in June in Montreal; you have to go to both."

"The draft is probably ok, the combine means I miss one or two days of spring semester," I told him.

"Like I told you, you go up Wednesday night, do the interviews Thursday and the fitness tests on Friday and you're done," he explained. "You will wow them on the fitness stuff for sure and since you're a genius, you should do well on the mental tests and interviews."

"Ok, I'll go unless there is a big test in class or something," I told him.

"Good, you have to pay for your own flight and room and board, just so you know," he informed me.

"Are you going to come? I'll spring for your flight and room and stuff," I asked him.

"I might just do that; let me check with the boss on our schedule and I'll let you know," he said.

We were silent for a while and he started up a conversation with another guy across the aisle. I had a quick catnap and John had to wake me when we got there. I followed him off the bus and we were filmed as we entered the building. We were quickly ushered into the locker room and we got dressed for our practice time.

When we went out to the ice, it was a bit early and we found some of the Detroit Red Wings still on the ice. I watched as some of my boyhood heroes shot against the goalies or practiced some penalty shots. A few minutes later the horn sounded and the players started clearing the ice. I had a big grin on my face as they walked by.

"Good luck tonight guys," Chris Draper said to us in passing.

Nicklas Lindstrom, the six time Norris trophy defenceman, nodded as he passed and the goalie Chris Osgood grinned as he waddled on by. A couple others said hi and I knew I would remember this moment for a long time. These were the defending Stanley Cup Champions walking by and saying hi to us.

Eventually we got on the ice and did our stretches and our skating warm-ups. We then shot on both Mark and Bob and I made sure to put some extra zip on my shots. I looked around when it wasn't my turn to shoot and it just felt real good to play in this building.

We finished up with some three on two drills from centre ice and then left the ice when the horn sounded. The team helpers passed out drinks and we rested while the Spartans took to the ice.

"Ok gentlemen, we know what to expect; physical, intimidating play," Fred said as he got up. "We know what we need to do, play a puck possession, smart game and stay away from the rough stuff. We have nothing to prove getting into fights or pushing and shoving matches; just walk away from them and ignore their comments."

Frank came over a bit later and talked to John and I.

"Ok you two, you're going to be driving the offence, so make sure you communicate between the two of you, only one guy goes in if any, the other has to stay back to cover," he told us. "Make sure you use your codes for your special plays and be careful on defence, they'll be coming for both of you in the corners. If it's not a critical play, just dump it out of the zone and take an icing rather than taking a big hit. Good luck and play hard."

We nodded and then talked over our signals for our special plays and who would carry the puck up.

Finally it was time to get out on the ice. I sat on the bench while the first line and first pair of defence were on the ice for the national anthem and the start of the game. I looked around a bit for my Aunt and her family but I didn't see them in the stands across from me or at our end of the ice behind our net.

The game started off as predicted, as the Spartans were trying to hit anyone that was even close to the puck. Our team did their best to make quick passes and avoid the hits. We worked the puck into their zone and ended up with a good scoring chance before they cleared the puck out of their zone. The defence went back to get the puck and the forward lines changed. After moving the puck back up pack centre ice, Chris dumped the puck into their corned and the defence peeled off to change.

The second line and second pair of defence couldn't keep them bottled up in their zone for more than twenty seconds and they came out in force. The dumped it in behind the defence and their forwards tore in after the puck. Ralph got hold of the puck and passed it around the net to Mat, the other defenceman, who calmly passed to Ron, the left winger at the half boards. Ron flipped it out of our zone to Henry, the second line centre who skated hard up the ice. The rest of the team broke away to the bench and changed. I jumped on with John and we headed up the ice as Henry tried to keep the puck in their zone until we could get there. The two wingers of the third line entered the zone and soon there was a big scrum in the corner. Henry broke away and skated to the bench to let Shawn, the third line centre, on the ice.

The whistle blew as they had the puck tied up for a while in the corner. We kept the same line on but the Spartans switched everyone and we were facing their fourth line, their most physical line. Shawn won the faceoff and John stepped into the pass with a hard, low shot towards the scrum in front of the net. The puck hit a leg and bounced to the corner where Rich Franklin battled their defenceman for it. He eventually kicked it back along the boards towards John. John raced in from the point to keep the puck in while I moved to the centre of the blue line to help cover John's side.

There was a big collision at the half boards and their big defenceman on that side took John and Rich out of the play, while their forward scooped up the puck and started a three on one against us. Shawn and Brad were in front of their net trying to get free to help me as their other defenceman had them tied up. Their three forwards came up the ice skating fast as I backed up, keeping in the centre of the ice.

They passed the puck between the three of them as they crossed our blue line. I had to slow down as I was going to be in too deep to be any use soon. I left the big behemoth right winger alone and concentrated on the other two to try a last desperate move to block the pass or shot. I got my stick in the passing lane and went down on one knee to block the pass from the winger across the goal to the other winger.

The left winger with the puck flipped it over my stick to the centre. He faked a shot and passed it the open right winger, who just had to tip it in the open side for the goal. I got up and fished the puck out of the net and pushed it to centre ice.

"Sorry Mark, I couldn't cover them all," I said.

"Don't worry about it, not your fault," he said as he got up. "Shit happens, especially in this game."

I skated to the bench as we all changed up while the Spartans and their fans celebrated their lead.

"Sorry Mike, it was in no-man's land and I thought I could keep it in," John apologized.

"Like Mark said, shit happens," I replied as I looked up the bench.

Fred and Sam were giving all three guys of the third line shit for getting caught so deep. Frank came over shaking his head.

"John, let that puck go if the guys are in deep," he said. "A three on two with that line is a just a two and a quarter against two."

"Sorry Frank, I really thought I could get to it," John said. "It won't happen again."

"Mike, you played it perfectly, you left the worst guy open and hoped to block the pass," Frank turned to me. "There is just no way to win in that situation, so just shake it off. We need to get it back so they don't gain too much confidence."

"Ok Frank, I'll do my best," I said.

We got back on with the second line and I carried the puck up the ice, starting from behind the net after I went back to get it from Mat. John jumped on as Mat went off and he followed as I sped up. I faked a pass to the left side and deked around the forward waiting near their blue line on my side. The defenceman on my side moved to pin me to the boards so I bank passed it off the boards and swooped around him to the inside. He missed me and hit the boards hard while I went after the puck further down the side boards.

I corralled it and cut back in towards the net, forcing the centre to come back and pick me up before I had a free path to the net. He came over to me and the other defenceman tied up Ron on the left side, which left Henry open in the slot. I waited until their centre was close and slid the puck back to Henry as the centre and collided. Their centre went flaying towards the front of the net, causing a big distraction to their goalie and Henry wound up and slapped the puck past him into the net.

The crowd erupted as we congratulated Henry on his goal. Eventually we lined back up at centre ice, but this time against their fourth line. We won the faceoff and I backed into our zone with the puck, drawing their two forwards in with me. They were trying to play a two-one-two trap but I was hoping their fourth line wingers weren't fast enough to get back to help. Once they both came in to cover John and I, I faked a pass over to John and then deked the guy in front of me. It was a bit risky, and I wouldn't have done it if it was anyone else but the big, slow right winger. He bit on the deke and I went around him on the other side and passed it to Kerry, the winger waiting just past the blueline as an outlet. John and I skated hard and Kerry hit John across the ice as their centre tried to check him into the boards.

Now we had all three of their forwards behind us, trying to catch up as John carried the puck into their half of the ice. Their defencemen wisely backed off of their blueline and John crossed into their zone and passed the puck to Ron down the side boards. Ron wasted no time in heading to the net along with Henry, while John gave them a target in the slot as he found the open area. Sure enough the defencemen had to take the two forwards and Ron passed the puck out in front of the net and John slammed it home past the helpless goalie. We congratulated him and then went off for a change.

Frank patted both our shoulders as we grabbed a drink and rested for a bit. We watched the next couple of shifts and got ready to go out again. Nothing much happened the next shift, though their forwards tried harder to hit us in our zone. I avoided one hit and leaned hard into the check on the next one.

A couple of shifts later one of their defenceman pulled down Gary in their zone and a penalty was called. John and I joined the first line for the faceoff. Gary won the faceoff and John quickly passed it over to me on a rope. I had to stop it before winding up and blasting it on net, as both Gary and Chris went to the front of the net to provide a screen. The shot made it through but hit the post with a big clang before popping up in the air. The goalie jumped for it and batted it behind the net and one of their defenseman rang in around the boards past John and out to centre ice.

I raced over and just beat a speedy forward to it as I backhanded it to John coming back to help. He turned and dumped it in and the forwards chased after it. I moved back to my side of the rink and just got back to my point when the puck was passed to me. I faked a shot and passed it down the boards to Chris. He held it for a bit and then passed it into the middle for Gary to one time on the net. The goalie saw it all the way and stopped the shot and held it for a faceoff so we changed up the lines for the second power play unit.

The second unit kept the Spartans pinned in their zone for the rest of the penalty but only got a couple shots on net. Their goalie, realizing the penalty was just about over, used his goalie stick to flip the puck out of the zone just as the offender left the penalty box. He grabbed the puck onside and had a breakaway on Mark. A quick deke and the puck was in the back of the net to tie the score. We groaned as the Spartan faithful cheered on their team.

The period ended a few minutes later with the score tied at two. We left the bench and I looked quickly up in the stands behind the bench but didn't see them anywhere. I grabbed a Gatorade from a barrel by the door and found a bench to sit on by my locker.

Fred came in and boy was he livid. He slammed the door shut and started yelling.

"Do you guys enjoy making Mark look like a fish out of water out there?" he asked. "First you give up a three on one and then allow them a breakaway off a power play! Where are your minds tonight? You're playing street hockey out there, against a team that should be down two goals, not tied with us damn-it!"

He looked around at everyone and only a few guys could look him in the eye.

"You're playing in the house of one of the best teams in the National Hockey league, with four Stanley cups in the last eleven years," he continued. "You watched them practice and walk by you afterwards. How can you not feel proud and privileged to play here? How can you play your best to show them you belong in their building? I'm sure some of them stayed to watch this game and some of their management is here as well. If any of you have any aspirations in a further career in hockey, I suggest you pick it up a few notches and keep your head in the game. If not, I'll see that the few that do get all the ice time they can handle and the rest of you can pick splinters out of your ass as you slide down the bench!"

He left the room and slammed the door on his way out while the other coaches came over to the guys they needed to talk to. Sam had the third line in the corner while Frank talked to Chris and Albert about their gaffe before coming over to talk to John about his.

"John, we don't need to risk anything against this team, so just play it safe when it comes to keeping pucks in," he cautioned. "We can score at will against them when you guys put your mind to it, so let them have the few pucks that go their way, ok?"

"Sure Frank, it won't happen again," John said.

Frank looked at me and said with a serious face, "Mike, try not to get in on every goal, the guys in the booth get bored saying your name."

"Sure Frank, but I do try to spread them around to everyone," I replied. "Even John got one already."

"That reminds me, don't pull that stunt on a better player or we'll be down a goal," he said.

"That's the only reason I did it, I knew it would work on him," I replied.

"Alright, let's get a couple of goals next period, but cover for each other and don't go in deep if the forwards are tied up," he said. "You have to have back-up or you leave everyone vunerable."

"Alright coach, we'll be careful," John said.

We went out for the second period a very determined team. We took the play to them, hitting them every chance we could and beating them to the loose pucks. We got on with the fourth line, moved up because of the third's line gaffe in the first period. They put out their fourth line and all of us looked to knock someone through the glass. I caught the big right winger with his head down as he took a pass. He looked up to see my shoulder coming to hit his chest and he flew off his skates and landed on his shoulder as his stick and gloves went flying one way while the puck went the other.

John picked up the puck and passed it up the ice while their centre, not a big guy by any stretch, came rushing over and threw off his gloves and tried to get me to fight. I backed up and tried to get out of his way. He kept coming at me and I had to give him a big push away that had him flailing backwards as the ref and linesmen blew their whistles and got in between the two of us.

I tried to skate to the bench but the ref was calling penalties on both the centre and me.

"What the hell for?" I asked as did Coach.

"Two for roughing, get in the box or it will be an extra ten," the ref said.

"Roughing! You call a push roughing? What did he get?" I asked.

"He gets two for roughing and two for instigating," the ref said.

I shook my head and looked at Coach. He nodded and I went into the penalty box while he gave the ref a piece of his mind.

"You're a chicken shit Stewart!" the Spartan said. "You're just a gay underwear model who's too scared to get his face bashed in."

"Ask Randall if I'm a chicken, you little shit," I replied back with a grin. "Keep your head up because you're next."

While this was going on, they were helping the big guy up from the ice and into the locker room. Play continued four on four for two minutes and then we would have a power play when I got out. Nothing happened for both shifts and when my time was up I raced into the play as John carried it up the ice. He dumped it in as I crossed their blueline and rushed after the puck in the corner. I was going full out as I grabbed the puck before the defenceman got there. I kept on skating behind the net and passed the puck out front when the second defenceman came to hit me.

Gary one timed the pass into the net as the goalie started turning back to the front of the net. I collided with the defenceman and we both staggered back from the force of the check. I took a couple of seconds to get clear the cobwebs and got off my knee to skate back to the bench. The defenceman was slowly getting up as well.

"Good hit guy, you ok?" I asked as I moved past him.

"Yeah, I'll survive," he said. "Stay at the point will ya?"

I laughed and keep on to the bench, looking for the centre with the big mouth on the bench. I just stared at him as I skated by until I stepped onto our bench.

"Nice hustle Mike," John said. "Just keep it under control."

"I'm always under control John," I replied.

"Sure, tell that to Randall," he said sarcastically.

"Ok, except in a fight, but that's going to change too," I corrected myself.

The team seemed to build on the intensity and the fourth line quickly scored another goal as the Spartans seemed to lose their focus. John and I got on a couple more times in the period but their fourth line didn't come out as their big right winger wasn't on the bench. The period ended with the score four to two and we felt better as we trooped into the locker room.

I sat down with another drink and took off my helmet and put my head back on the locker.

"You ok? You took a couple of big hits out there," John asked.

"I'm ok, just resting," I told him.

Fred came in and was much calmer.

"A much better effort from everyone," he stated. "We got out of our game plan but the results speak for themselves. Other than Stewart's picking on all their big guys and getting in a real donnybrook with their fourth line centre, we're doing well. So keep up the intensity and we'll finish them off."

I took it easier in the third period, at least in terms of hard hits. The Spartans were just going through the motions and we put in two more goals in the third period before it was all over. I got one more assist as Kerry deflected a point shot of mine past the goalie near the end of the period. With the final score of six to two, the fans cheered as we left the ice at the end of the game. I took one more look around but still couldn't find them so I ducked down the hallway to the locker room.

I had a quick shower and was dressed before most of the guys even had a shower.

"Hey coach, my aunt and her family just came down from Toronto, I'm just going to see if they're around before we take off," I told Fred.

"Ok, just let someone know if you're going back with them," Fred said. "Good game tonight."

"Thanks Coach," I replied as I headed out of the locker room, cell phone in hand.

I went back out to the rink and looked around the near empty seats. I didn't see a family of four anywhere so I called her cell.

"Hi Michael, we're just in the lower concourse behind the benches, section 122," Aunt Nancy said.

"Ok, I'm just in the bench area, let me see if I can get up there for a few minutes," I told her.

I went back down the hallway and told Frank, who was in the hallway outside the locker room, what I was up to.

I took the stairs up and slowly opened the man door and poked my head out. I came out at section 121 and looked to my right and saw the four of them standing around a table.

I moved over to them and had a big smile on my face when they saw me coming.

Aunt Nancy gave me a big hug as she said, "Michael, you're the splitting image of your father, here and on the ice."

"It's nice to finally see you Aunt Nancy, you look a lot like Mom," I told her as we let go.

"This is my husband, your Uncle Aaron," she said.

"Hi Uncle Aaron," I said as I shook his hand. "Boy that's strange to say."

"Hi Mike, it sure will need getting used to," he replied with a smile. "I'm not used to having my nephew five inches taller than me, that's for sure."

"And these two are your cousins, Mary and Ellen," Aunt Nancy said.

I squatted down to their level and said, "Hi there ladies, you two are so pretty and I love your jerseys. I'm your cousin Mike and you two are named after my Mom. Did you like the game?"

"Hi Mikey, I'm Mary, I'm six and a half," the older one said primly. "I didn't like when that guy wanted to fight you. He was a big meany!"

"Yes he was Mary, I'll have to have you tell him that," I said with a smile. "I'm very happy to see you."

I turned to her sister and said, "Hi there, you must be Ellen. How did you like the game?"

"It was very noisy in there," she replied. "I'm Ellen and I'm four and a quarter and I'm going to school in September."

"It's nice to meet you both, do I get hugs or are you too shy?" I asked.

They came on either side of me and both gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek before moving back to beside their mother. I thanked them and stood up.

"So, do you have time to go for a coffee or something tonight or do you have to go back with the team?" Aunt Nancy asked.

"I guess it depends if you have room in your car for me," I responded. "If not, I'll have to wait for the team and go back to the arena on the bus. It's pretty late now; maybe we should wait until the morning so the girls don't get too tired."

"That's probably best," Uncle Aaron spoke up. "Both the girls are still in car seats so there's not much room in the back seat. How about we meet for breakfast at our hotel, say nine o'clock in the morning?"

"Sounds good to me, you're at the Hilton just down from Yost Arena correct?" I asked.

"Yes, in room 510," he replied.

"Ok, we have a plan," I said. "I will see you two lovely ladies in the morning ok?"

"Ok Mikey, see ya in the morning!" Ellen said with a grin.

"Bye Mikey, see you tomorrow," Mary added.

"You know how to get back?" I asked.

"Sure, we have a GPS to help, but it's pretty easy," Uncle Aaron replied.

"Alright, have a safe drive and I'll see you at nine in the morning," I said.

"See you then Mike," Aunt Nancy said, giving me a hug. "You're so tall and much bigger than what I remember your Dad being."

"I had a pretty big growth spurt when I got here," I said with a grin. "I wish I was this big when I played him on our backyard rink!"

"Ok, we'll catch up tomorrow," she said with a smile. "You better get back there before they take off without you."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied.

"Hey, I'm too young to be a Ma'am," she replied with a stomp of her foot.

"It's just a natural reaction when a woman tells me to do something," I said with a grin. "I guess too many women around me think I'm a work in progress."

"We'll see about that tomorrow when we visit your condo," she responded with a stern look.

"Does she give you that look when she wants you to clean your rooms?" I asked the girls.

"Yeah, she gets real mean looking," Mary said.

"She looks just like my mom when she did it too," I said. "I used to tell my mom that her face would get stuck like that if she kept frowning. You should tell your mom that too."

"Away with you, you bad nephew," Aunt Nancy said, shielding her girls' ears. "You'll be corrupting these poor innocents."

"Of course I will, and I'm going to spoil them rotten too," I told her. "I'll see you at nine."

We split up and I went back to the stairs, while they headed around the lower level to the garage exit. I rejoined the team by the locker room and followed a few of them out to the bus, letting Frank know I was still with them.

"Where did you run off to?" John asked.

"Just met my Aunt and Uncle up on the concourse, they're down for the weekend," I told him. "I'll see them again in the morning."

"How were they?" he inquired.

"Nice, my nieces are six and four and they're cute," I told him. "My aunt and uncle seemed ok too."

"Good for you, it must be nice to find some family when you thought you were all alone," he said. "I'm happy for you. And now we have a place to stay in Toronto for the combine."

"I'll be staying in a nice hotel room, and I can afford to get you a small cupboard with an outhouse," I responded.

"I'll be in the suite as your manager, and you can be in the shack outside," he responded.

Eventually the coach and the captains came back from the press conference and we headed back to the arena in Ann Arbor. The team helpers passed out a late snack box with a sandwich, chips and a bottle of water and we all ate with gusto.

When we got to the arena I drove John up to his dorm and then drove on to the condo. I shut off the alarm and put the rod on the front door before putting my suit away and checking my emails.

Kristen sent one back after reading my schedule.

'Mike, you're here such a short time! Oh well, we'll make the best of it and I'm going to visit you in Ann Arbor before I start shooting the second twilight movie in March. The rest of the year is hectic, I'm filming The Runaways right after New Moon and then we film Eclipse, the third Twilight in late summer. Right after that I have to do all the promotions for New Moon, so the year is just about shot.

That's enough about my schedule; I know you're just as busy as I am with school, hockey and modeling. Call me when you land and I'll meet up with you Monday night. We can spend some time together then and in the morning before the show. I'm really looking forward to see you, let me know if you need me to get anything for you or pick you up at the airport or whatever.'

Kris

I responded back telling her I should be good with what I'm bringing and that I thought Katie had the transportation booked from the airport to the hotel. I gave her a synopsis of my schedule for the rest of the year. I told her that I would be in Vancouver and Whistler the first week of July so we might be able to hook up then as I knew they filmed somewhere in British Columbia. Finally, I told her I was getting excited knowing I would see her soon. I also asked for her to help me prepare for the show as I was pretty nervous about it.

I sent the email and then closed the laptop and did my usual stretching and form routine, incorporating the new ones as well. I hit the hay after I was done and was soon asleep.

Saturday morning I was up extra early to stretch before going to the arena for a quick skate and shooting. I even had time for a quick work-out before grabbing a shower and heading back to the condo. I knocked on the door to Layla's condo softly and she opened it up and had her finger on her mouth. She grabbed two bags and shut the door to the condo so we could talk in the hallway.

"Sorry, I just didn't want you subjected to those two if they woke up after partying all night," Layla told me. "I wrapped them up separate, the two in pink are for the younger one and the blue are for the older girl."

"Thank you very much Layla, I really appreciate this," I told her. "Can I pay you for your time and supplies at least?"

"No silly, it was nothing," she replied. "I'm sure you would do the same for me if I needed anything."

"Sure, just knock on the door if you need anything, but I'll tell you I'm not home very often," I told her. "Slip a note under the door or we can exchange email addresses and phone numbers and you can get a hold of me that way."

"Ok, I'll put mine in your mail box and you can email me yours back when you get a chance," she said. "Don't worry, I'll keep it secret and won't bother you."

"Sounds good Layla and thanks for all of your help," I said. "I have to meet them soon so I have to run, but we can talk more soon."

"You're welcome Mike, I'll see you later," she replied with a shy smile and went back inside.

I looked inside and she had done a great job on the wrapping, with little bows and ribbons on each. I made a note to myself to get her something once I figured out what she liked.

I stopped in my condo for a few minutes and got into some casual clothes and did a quick tidying. Then it was back down to the SUV and off to their hotel. I arrived just before nine and found a parking spot in their lot. I walked in with the two bags and made my way to the restaurant down the hall from the lobby. There was a buffet breakfast with an omelette station and I saw the four of them at a table for six, with an open seat on the other side of the table from the girls.

"Good morning everyone, I hope you haven't been waiting long?" I asked.

"Just got here a couple minutes ago," Aaron said.

"Good, I hate being late," I stated as I sat down and looked over at the girls. "You two look pretty in your dresses today."

"Mom made us wear them, and we have to be real careful not to spill on them," Ellen said grumpily.

"Mom's can be so mean, I bet you wanted to wear comfortable clothes," I said in a whisper. "You're mom's just trying to show how pretty you are in your fancy dresses. Just like I had to dress up so she doesn't find out how messy I usually am."

"Michael, stop making me look like a big meany," Aunt Nancy scolded me. "It's a mom's prerogative to dress up her little darlings once and a while. It's a reward for all the times I have to clean them up when they come in from the sandbox."

"Sorry girls, moms always win in the end, even over big cousins," I told them.

Ellen crossed her arms and glared at her mom, making us all laugh.

"So is everyone hungry?" Aaron asked.

"I am," Mary said.

"I am," Ellen said.

"I am," I added my answer.

We all looked at Aunt Nancy and she laughed and said, "I am."

"Ok, buffet for everyone then," he said as the waiter came up with a coffee pot.

"Hi all, who wants coffee?" she asked.

The adults each had one and us kids had orange or apple juice. She told us to get in line and each parent helped a daughter get some food on their plates while I had some eggs cooked over easy. I filled my plate with some hash browns, bacon and sausage and then went back to get the eggs and toast I had put in earlier. My plate was full when I got back to the table.

"Wow Mikey, you sure eat a lot," Mary said.

"I'm a growing boy, I need to eat a lot to stay strong and skate fast," I told her. "I have to play another game tonight, this time in the arena just up the road."

"Do we have to come watch you again?" Ellen asked. "It was so loud last time."

"Of course you don't honey, I'm sure I could find you a babysitter if your parents and sister still want to go," I told her, looking at Aunt Nancy.

"It really wasn't a great place for little girls, the crowd was pretty loud and rowdy," she said. "We might just skip tonight's game if you don't mind."

"No problem at all," I replied with a smile. "It's on Fox Sports Net if you really wanted to watch it but feel free to watch a movie for the kids instead. I can point you to a restaurant if you want to go out for a nice meal."

"The girls are pretty fussy, so we generally just pick somewhere simple," Aaron replied.

I dug into my food as did everyone else. Eventually the silence got to Aunt Nancy and she had to get the conversation going.

"So, you moved recently Mike?" she asked.

"I needed a more secure place and this new one has a secure garage and front door, and since I'm on the top floor, there's a private elevator as well," I told her.

"That must be expensive, can you afford that?" she asked.

"My parent's estate and the accident payout was substantial, plus I'm here on scholarship so I just have to pay for rent and food," I told her. "The modeling paid well for the first shoot and they just signed me on for six more shoots this year with a nice retainer up front. You don't have to worry about me Aunt Nancy, I'm fine. You guys ok money wise? I can't remember; do you both work for your dad?"

"I stay at home with the girls now, I used to work at the main office," she replied. "Your uncle runs one of the plants that my father's company owns. We're doing fine so you don't have to worry about us either."

"So, you going to make this modeling a career or concentrate on hockey or computer science," Aaron asked.

"For the next couple of years, I'm going to do them all," I replied. "I plan to finish my degree in two years; I'm taking a full load now and both semesters in the summer. I'm fitting the modeling during the holidays and the week between semesters. By the way, I have a shoot over Labour Day in Toronto. The hockey; well it fits around my school schedule and the games are Friday and Saturday nights usually. From what my defence partner John says, I'm a top five pick in this year's draft, if I go to the combine and do well. It's in Toronto, the last week of May. The draft is in Montreal, the last weekend in June. After school is done, who knows what I'll do; I'll probably give pro hockey a shot and keep modeling if they keep offering me the money they're throwing around."

"You've got everything planned out, but in my experience, things usually don't go as planned," Aaron commented. "What happens if you get hurt or your face gets damaged so you can't model anymore?"

"I finish school and start my own business," I replied. "I have lots of options, I'm too young to just retire and just laze around. This face isn't that photogenic anyway, I'm sure they'll wise up soon and stop paying to put me in their ads."

I ate a bit more while the two adults looked at each other. Aunt Nancy helped Ellen with cutting her pancakes and then ate some of her food off her plate. I finished my plate before anyone else did and went up to get a plate of fruit.

"Geez Michael, where do you put it all?" Aunt Nancy asked.

"You have to remember I had a game last night, did a martial arts workout at home this morning before practicing on the ice for an hour afterword and then worked out with weights," I told her. "I burn all of this off real quick. I would lose five pounds a day if I didn't eat properly."

"Oh, I didn't know you did all that already this morning," she said.

Eventually the girls finished what they could eat and Uncle Aaron insisted on paying.

"So, shall we go see if my condo passes muster?" I asked.

"Sure, we can do that, just let us go up and get our coats and we'll be right back," Aunt Nancy said.

I waited in the lobby for about ten minutes and they came out of the elevator and the girls ran over to me. The adults were carrying a box and a bag and we all went out to the parking lot. They were driving a Denali and I pointed to my SUV and told them to follow me.

I made sure they were behind me as I pulled out of the lot. We drove the few miles and I pulled into the front visitor's lot and pointed out a spot for them to park. I rolled down the window and told them I would see them in the lobby in a couple minutes before driving down into the garage.

When we were in the condo with our jackets off, I gave them a quick tour and then we sat in the living room.

"So, before we get to talking, let me give these two bags to the girls so I don't forget," I said. "I had a friend of mine help me pick these out so I hope you like them. If not, we can find something that you do like ok?"

"Michael, you didn't have to get them anything," Aunt Nancy said.

"Of course I did, girls like unwrapping presents right?" I asked them.

"That's right," Mary agreed.

"Yes, yes, yes!" Ellen replied happily.

"Ok, pink is Ellen's and blue is Mary's, I think," I announced as I put them in front of them.

They reached in and grabbed a present each and started ripping off the wrapping while we watched.

Layla put the stuffed animals first and they both gave their furry buddies a big hug and showed their parents. Then it was on to the second present and they soon had their dolls out of the wrapping. We had to help with the packaging and then they were both happy dressing the baby and the girl dolls. We left them playing in the living room and moved to the nearby dining room table.

"So, it doesn't look like you need our help down here," Aunt Nancy stated. "You're doing well in school?"

"Three point nine grade point average out of four last semester," I replied. "I'm going to be taking a graduate course in artificial intelligence in the spring for a bit of a challenge."

"Good, so grades good, money not an issue, safe car and condo, you're doing very well on your own," Aunt Nancy admitted. "Only issue I see is that you broke up with your girlfriend and you must be pretty lonely."

I smiled and responded, "Right now, I'm staying single so a girlfriend won't get upset because of all the stuff going on with the CK publicity. I have a few friends that can't seem to stop meddling in my life so don't worry about that either."

"Alright, I'll stop worrying so much, you're much more mature than I was at your age," she admitted. "On to the next topic, your grandparents on your mother's side, my parents would like to meet you. My father is still too damn stubborn but my mom was very sad when she heard about your parent's passing. She's mellowed in her attitude and she wants to see you. My dad says out loud that he thinks you want money from them, but he knows I approached you, so he's just posturing."

"I don't have a good enough control of my temper to see them just yet," I told her. "It was nineteen eighty nine or so when this happened right? Dad was a first round pick of the Maple Leafs; he would have made decent money and taken good care of all of us. Instead, your parents and his parents drove them away and we lived a harder, lonely life without any family around. How can two sets of parents do that to teenagers, younger than I am now?"

"They were both very demanding parents and very much over worried about their family name and reputation," she said. "It was horribly wrong and everyone has paid a big price for their stubbornness and honour."

"No, my parents paid a big price, no one else has paid anything but some disappointment and a bit of sadness," I corrected her. "How could parents do that to them? Could either of you abandon your girls if you needed them no matter how bad they screwed up?"

"Of course not, but what's done is done, we can't change what happened, we can only go forward and make something better of the future," Aunt Nancy answered.

"I'm nothing that special, but they don't deserve to have me in their future," I replied. "I hope their family name and honour keep them company as they grow old."

She was going to say something when Aaron patted her hand and said, "He's not going to change his mind, and I don't blame him. Your old man doesn't deserve to know his only grandson. He's a mean S.O.B. to me and treats you like you're an idiot. Your mother is a snob who doesn't think I'm good enough for you and belittles you any chance you get. I don't know why you're defending them at all."

She sighed and nodded, "You're right, they aren't nice people. Ok, at least I can honestly tell them I tried."

"It was a good effort," I told her.

"Alright, I know what you're going to do about the next thing, but I might as well go through the motions," she said.

She pulled out a brown letter sized envelope from the box and took out a document and a check.

"Your grandmother sent a letter and a check in case you didn't want to see her," she told me.

"Not interested, please return both of them," I responded.

"It's a big check, it would pay for rent and food for a couple of years," Aunt Nancy said.

I turned on my laptop that I had left on the table.

"Can I get you some water or pop or the girls something?" I asked as I got up.

"A water would be good," she replied and Aaron nodded.

I came back and handed out the bottles.

"Girls, let me know if you get thirsty ok?" I asked them.

"Ok Mikey," Mary said, and went back to her doll.

I opened up my Canadian account and turned to show them the balance of over two million in Canadian dollars.

"I will never need or want their money, so let's drop all of that," I said.

"That's what you got for modeling?" Aaron said in shock.

"No, a quarter is for the first shoot, a quarter is from the settlements and half is my one year retainer," I said. "I get another three for the six shoots this year. So please don't bring up their money again."

"Ok, my nephew is independently wealthy, that's good to know," Aunt Nancy said. "Maybe we will come to you for a loan."

"Anytime you need some, just ask, I have more than I'll ever need," I told them.

"Alright, I'll just skip the shares that your grandfather offered, and move on to your other grandparent's estate," Aunt Nancy said. "They died with no heirs and their will stated that their property was to be sold and the money held in trust for your Dad or his offspring. It's probably a few hundred thousand by now, their lawyer is the trustee."

"I'll sign it over to you guys, you could use it right?" I asked.

"Michael, you can't do that, it's your dad's family money, not ours," she replied.

"Listen, I bet you have to live in a big house because you're his daughter right?" I asked.

"You got it," Aaron said.

"And I bet you he doesn't pay you more than any of his other plant managers, because he can't show you any favouritism and he wants you to earn your way," I stated.

"True again," he replied.

"So, take the money, pay off the house and get out from under his thumb," I told them. "I'll donate it to charity if not, but I think charity starts at home first. I'll make sure I donate lots, so don't worry about that either."

They looked at each other for a few seconds and he shrugged at her.

"We'll talk about that later," Aunt Nancy said. "The rest of this box is some things of your mom that I kept after she left. They're some keepsakes, pictures and some diaries that I saved from her room before my parents packed away her stuff. You can have all of them or pick some things out if you don't want it all."

"I'll look through it today and see what I might like to keep," I said. "Don't you want any of it?"

"I'll keep anything you don't want," she replied.

"I'll bring the rest back tomorrow before you head home," I promised.

"Ok, last but not least, we brought you a little gift from all of us and the girls added something as well," she said with a smile as she pushed the bag over to me.

"Girls, did you make me something?" I asked as I looked in the bag.

They ran over on their little legs and looked in the bag as I did. I reached in and pulled out a framed picture of the family and then two crayon pictures that the girls drew.

"Wow, these are real good girls, is this your family?" I asked Mary.

"Yep, mom and dad, and Ellen and me, at our house," she said. "I drew a rabbit and a squirrel too."

"That is a very good drawing Mary, ' I complimented her. "And Ellen, is that a hockey rink?"

"It is and that's you Mikey, right there," she pointed at one player. "I put a five on your sweater cause that's the number you wear."

"Fantastic, both of you," I said. "Thank you very much and I'll take more of these any time you want to draw for me, ok?"

"Ok, but we left our crayons at home so you have to wait," Ellen said.

"I'm going to put these on my fridge and this nice picture up on the mantle," I told them as I got up.

I put the picture in the living room and then we went into the kitchen and they watched as I put them up on the fridge with some tape.

"You need magnets Mikey, then you can put lots up!" Mary told me wisely.

"You're right, I'll make sure to get some so you can send me lots," I said. "Make sure to send me one where your mom looks like a big Meany so I know when to avoid her."

"Ok, but she won't want us to send that to you," Ellen said.

"Then keep it safe for me and I'll pick it up when I come up to visit," I whispered.

They giggled and then ran back to play again.

"They like you Mike, and you're good with kids," Aunt Nancy said.

"It's easy, you bribe them with gifts and make fun of their parents," I said. "Who wouldn't like me?"

We moved out to the living room and watched them play with their dolls.

"I need to run out for about an hour sometime today or tomorrow and I could use a woman's opinion," I told them. "I need to go to the local CK store and get a new wardrobe as I shouldn't be wearing clothes from their competitors. I have to go to LA Monday night and then New York next Monday night, so I have to get this done this weekend. Would you all like to go to the mall or can I borrow Aunt Nancy for an hour or so. Uncle Aaron, you can stay here and watch TV while the girls play if you like."

"I'd love to help you Mike," Aunt Nancy said. "Aaron, want to watch the kids here or at the mall?"

"These two would be a handful at the mall, why don't I stay here with them," he suggested.

"Ok, the remotes are on the TV beside the guide," I told him. "I promise we won't be long."

"Take your time, it will be good for you two to talk and get to know each other better," he replied. "We'll be fine."

"If it's not too late we'll bring lunch back with us or you can help yourself to anything in the fridge," I said.

"Alright Mike," he replied.

Aunt Nancy and I said goodbye to the girls and told them we would be back soon. I led the way to the elevator and we took it down to the garage. It was a quick ten minute drive to the mall and we parked outside the entrance to the CK store, as it had an outside entrance as well as a mall entrance. As we walked up to the entrance, Aunt Nancy saw posters with the twins and I on the windows.

"I can't believe you're in all these ads for Calvin Klein," she said. "And in your underwear no less, with those beautiful girls."

"It's strange to see myself out in public," I agreed as I looked at the twins.

"You miss them don't you?" she said as she caught me staring.

"Yeah, but they made their choice and moved on, so I have to as well," I said, shaking my head.

I grabbed the door handle and opened it for her. I moved to the counter and asked to see the manager. A cute brunette, a few years younger than Aunt Nancy, came up to us.

"Hi, I'm Renee, the manager of the store, can I help you?" she said pleasantly.

"Hi, I'm Mike Stewart, I believe a Katie Dunn from New York set up an account for me to get some clothes here," I told her.

"Mr. Stewart, yes of course, I should have recognized you," Renee said with a blush.

"Unfortunately, not too many pictures of me in clothes yet," I responded. "At least it gives me some privacy still."

"Miss Dunn set up an unlimited account, so you can get anything you want or need anytime you want to come in," Renee said. "Are you looking for something in particular or just want to browse?"

"I need some of everything, some jeans, shirts, tee shirts, a few good casual and I see CK even does suits, I better get one or two of those," I said. "I'm going to LA on official CK business Monday night so I need stuff to wear for the trip and while I'm there."

"Ok, let's get started then, is this your sister?" she asked.

"I like you already Renee, I'm Nancy, his aunt," Nancy replied.

"Sorry about that, you look so young," Renee remarked.

"Don't apologize, I'm flattered," Nancy responded with a laugh.

"Ok, what are your sizes?" Renee asked.

"We better measure, I haven't bought clothes in a while or had any measurements taken lately," I said.

So, she took my measurements and we started with jeans and then casual pants. Then we piled on some tee shirts and shirts on to the growing pile. Renee had the tailor come out and measure me properly for a couple of suits and the girls decided on what type and colour. Renee promised they would be ready Monday afternoon if I wanted to pick them up before going to the airport.

"Ok, I need something for a TV show, let's pick one dress outfit and one good casual and then just jeans and a golf shirt and Katie can decide what I'm to wear when it's time," I told them.

They decided on blue shirts to match my eyes and then picked out some dress pants, good golf type casual pants and then a couple pairs of jeans. Finally, I grabbed a few packages of various types and colours of underwear so I could switch over to them as well.

"Ok, I think I'm done for today, you want anything Aunt Nancy?" I asked. "Maybe some fancy dress or lingerie to surprise Uncle Aaron?"

"We have lots to choose from, Nancy," Renee said. "What's your size?"

I let Renee talk her into a dress, some jeans and a couple of tops before she threw in some skimpy underwear as well.

"Ok, I'll pay for her stuff Renee," I told her.

"Sorry Mr. Stewart, your money is no good here, Miss Dunn's orders," Renee said. "Even if you brought in a girlfriend or relative, they will cover it."

"Ok, but do you get commission at least?" I asked.

"No, but it goes on the store sales, so it will help for our bonus evaluation," she replied.

"I'll make sure to tell Katie and Mr. Carroll how well I'm being treated," I told her.

"Thank you Mr. Stewart, I appreciate it," she said with a smile.

She rang everything through and she got help bagging everything up. She even helped us carry some of the bags out to the SUV. I pulled out a couple hundred dollar bills and handed them to her.

"Here, please take this and go have a nice dinner for all your help," I told her. "I insist."

"Thank you very much Mr. Stewart, it isn't necessary," she said.

"It is for me, so go enjoy a nice dinner," I said.

"Ok, but only if you come in and sign a few posters and pose for some pictures with the staff," she responded.

So I quickly went back in and signed a few things and had some pictures taken with everyone. We finally got out of there and hurried back to the condo.

"I hope Aaron isn't at his wit's end with the girls," Nancy worried. "They still get cranky sometimes."

"Hopefully he found something to feed them," I said, it being almost one.

We entered the condo and it was quiet. Aaron was sleeping on the couch and the girls weren't in sight. We looked in the bedrooms and found them both sleeping on one of the beds, under the covers. I quickly grabbed the camera and snapped a couple pictures of them and Aaron and then of Aunt Nancy as well. We retired to the kitchen and made some sandwiches and soup and sat at the small kitchen table.

"So, what shows are you going to be on?" she asked.

"Ellen, this week, we tape Tuesday and it should be on Wednesday," I said. "Next week it's Letterman, again to air Wednesday."

"Really? You're that popular already?" she asked, clearly amazed.

"I don't know if I'm that popular, but they want to get more exposure and the ads seem to be generating a lot of buzz," I said. "I'm not stopped on the street or anything and probably not too many people know my name. I'm probably just called the new CK guy."

"You'll be known after going on those shows I would think," she said.

"I hope not, I'm happy being anonymous, I never did any of this to be popular," I told her.

"So any new girls on the horizon?" she asked.

"I have a few friends but since I'm not sure what's going to happen, we're decided not to get involved," I said. "I'm meeting a friend out in LA and I'm pretty sure she wants to be more than friends, but I'm not sure if she wants to make it public."

"Is she a famous actress or model?" she asked with a grin.

"Actually she is, but I'm not telling a soul until she wants to, she's pretty private," I replied.

"Oh, now I'm going to be guessing who it is; she's probably young and real pretty, is she on TV or in film?" she asked.

"Film," I told her.

"Oh, it's not who I'm thinking of then," she replied.

"I'm not going to tell you, so it doesn't matter," I told her with a laugh. "You'll have to wait and see."

We chatted a bit about several things, my mom, my dad, hockey and living in Toronto versus Dryden. It was a pleasant way to spend an hour getting to know her better.

The girls came in, wiping the sleep out of their eyes and we plopped one of them on each of our laps.

"Did you two have a good nap?" I asked.

"I guess, but that bed is too big," Ellen said. "And Mary kept kicking me."

"I did not," she said. "You were lying right next to me and you kicked me."

"Girls, don't argue, it's not polite in front of your cousin," Aunt Nancy chided. "Would you like some milk and cookies if Mikey has some?"

"Chocolate chip?" Ellen asked.

"Let me check" I said, picking her up and putting her on my shoulder. "You can help me find them."

We looked in every cupboard and we finally found some Oreos and some chocolate chip ones. She held on to one and I grabbed the other and we brought them back to the table, where I lowered her to the chair.

"Ok Mary, now you help me with the milk," I said, picking her up.

She grabbed two glasses and I got the milk and brought her back to the table. She put the glasses down and I poured them the milk. She got back up on her mom's lap and I picked up Ellen and she promptly spilled milk on the table.

"Whoops," she said. "I'm sorry cousin Mikey."

"That's ok, I poured them too full and they're big glasses," I said, as I lifted her out of the way before it got on her dress.

We got some paper towels and cleaned up the mess and tried it all over.

"Now, two hands and go slow," I told her as I was ready to rescue the glass.

She handled it like a pro this time and smiled at us.

"Good job there kiddo," I told her. "And you too Mary."

Uncle Aaron came in a bit later and had some cookies and a pop. Eventually it was time for me to get ready to go to the arena and have an early supper with the team before our warm-up drills.

I volunteered to let them stay here for the night but they had all their stuff at the hotel. We made plans to hook up for an early brunch tomorrow and I carried the girls to the elevator before putting them down. I used the key to get the elevator to come up and waited with them.

"Have a good game tonight and be careful," Aunt Nancy said, giving me a hug.

"Good luck tonight," Uncle Aaron said, shaking my hand.

"Good luck Mikey," Mary said and gave me a hug.

"Lucky Mikey!" Ellen said and gave me a big kiss on my cheek as she hugged me.

"Thank you everyone, I'll have a great game for sure with all these good wishes," I said with a laugh.

They piled in the elevator as I held the door from closing. They waved and said goodbye as the door shut. It was a good visit, I thought as I walked back the condo. I looked a bit through the box of my mother's stuff but it was more what a girl would think special then a guy. Things like diaries, little knick knacks, figurines, high school yearbooks and pictures were in with some tapes and paperbacks. I would let Aunt Nancy have anything she wanted and put the rest in with what I had of my parents from the house.

I had a quick shower and then grabbed my suit bag and headed off to the arena. After hanging the bag up in my locker, I joined the team in the cafeteria again for the early dinner. After we ate, we had our usual warm-up and then waited for the game to begin.

The Spartans changed their game plan on us and carried the puck in rather than dumping it into the corner and chasing after it as usual. They caught our defenceman cheating a bit and gained the zone easily. They set up an offensive play that generated a good scoring chance that Mark had to make a good save on. He promptly held the puck for a faceoff.

Gary won the faceoff and, as they tried to get the puck out of our zone, faced a left wing lock type defence, where their left winger fell back to line up with the defence and the two remaining forwards aggressively forechecked us to force us to their left, or our right. This system was difficult to break out against as it forced the more prevalent left hand shooters to use their backhands while on the right side of the ice, especially if the puck was dumped into that corner, while potentially they had three players on their forehand.

The first line had to dump the puck into the right corner as they were being harassed by the forecheckers. The Spartans quickly gained control and started back out of their zone against our neutral zone trap, more a two-one-two zone then their two-three version. They again carried the puck in and tried to set up a play. There was a battle against the boards and the puck was forced out of our zone and the lines changed up.

While the first line and defence pair were still on the ice the coaches talked to the next line and pair. I overheard Frank telling the second defence pair to stay closer to the blue line when they came up the ice to stop them from carrying the puck in so easily.

After the change, Frank moved to John and I and said, "Ok, they've changed things up, they're trying a puck possession scheme on offence so stay up by the line and they'll have to dump it behind you. On offence, they're using the left wing lock which forces us to our right. To counteract that, the defence needs to carry the puck up and dump it into the left corner, their right, so we have the advantage. They're using two guys to push us right, so Mike, carry it up the right and dump it left or get it over to John."

We nodded and saw that the forwards were getting instructions from Sam and Fred as the second line tried to counteract what the Spartans were doing on the ice. The puck was bottled up in the neutral zone as they kept us to the right side and double teamed the forward on that side. Eventually the puck went deep, back into our zone and the forwards and one defenceman changed. John went out and took the puck from behind the net and waited until I changed with that defenceman before heading up slowly.

The two forechecking forwards blocked off the left side so he passed it off to me. I accelerated and reached centre ice before two of the three guys back farther tried to wall me in. I flipped the puck to the opposite corner and our forwards chased it down. Once we had possession in their zone we could play our normal offence, keeping the puck and forcing them to chase after us.

John and I were on with the third line and Shawn got the puck back to John at the point. He wound up for a slap shot, and when the forward went down to block it, passed it over to me. I one-timed it at the net and the goalie made a good stop off a deflection by Rick. Brad went after the rebound behind the net but lost it to a bigger defenceman, who rapped it sharply around the boards. John stopped it before it got out past the blueline and flipped it back into the corner before their forward could help force it out.

There was another battle for the puck with both Shawn and Brad working in the corner against a defenceman and their centre. Eventually they got the puck and the defenceman flipped it out of the zone. I went back to get it while the rest changed up. I waited for the new defenceman to come get the puck and then went off as well.

The game continued as we adapted to counteract their strategy. The defence stayed longer up at our blueline, discouraging them from carrying the puck in. When we carried the puck up the ice, quick passes disrupted their plans to stop us from obtaining their zone, as they couldn't force us the way they wanted.

Near the end of the period, the Spartans changed again and dumped the puck in when the Chris and Albert were up at the blueline. The speedy right winger beat Albert to the puck and fed a pass to their centre who tipped it by Mark high into the net.

The period ended with the score one to nothing for the Spartans and we moved back to the locker room. We grabbed drinks and waited for the coaches to speak up.

"Gentlemen," Fred started. "They're thrown us a wrinkle that first period, both in the neutral zone and with their offensive tactic. These can be overcome as we've already started adapting, using a two-one-two neutral zone trap and keeping the defence up by the blueline. Defence, you need to watch out for what they just did against Chris and Albert, dumping it behind you and chase it at full speed while you're still turning. Stagger yourselves a bit so the off defenceman can go after the puck while the closer one makes the forward have to go around him to get at the puck. You forwards have to come back farther and help pick up the other forwards so they're not open out in front."

"On offence, quick passing will get us past the left wing lock," he continued. "Also, having a forward break out early a couple of times will break the wall at the back of the lock, forcing their defenceman or winger to cover him. Once we're in their zone, we'll take advantage of their forward that's back and try to pressure that side."

Frank came over to where the defencemen sat with a white board and explained in more detail what they wanted us to do on defence and how to break the left wing lock while carrying the puck up. It made things clearer to see it visually.

The crowd cheered as we came back out onto the ice for the start of the second period. John and I took our seats on the bench and watched the first two shifts as the Spartans took the play into our zone. They had three good scoring chances before Mark could freeze the puck for a face off. The coaches switched up the lines early and John and I went on the ice. Shawn battled for the puck in the faceoff circle as neither centre won the draw cleanly. Brad skated in from his wing position and tapped the puck back to me and I quickly passed it back around the net to John. He carried it up the boards and passed it up to Rick, who carried it out of the zone.

The Spartans fell back into their left wing lock and Rick drop passed it to John, who passed it over to me. I carried it up the right wing until I got pressured by the forward and flipped it into their zone. Shawn chased it into the corner and gained possession of the puck. He circled the net and hit Brad with a pass on the half boards. That drew the forward down from covering the point, so Brad fed a pass to John who wired it towards the net. Shawn got a stick on the low shot and tipped it by a surprised Spartan goalie and into the net to tie the score.

We switched off and the fourth line, along with the top defence pair, kept the pressure on the Spartans. They had them hemmed in their zone for a minute before the goalie froze the puck for a whistle. The lines all changed up and the Spartans won the faceoff and sent one of their forwards off on a break, with Ralph, the second line right defenceman hot on his tail. Ralph caught up to him just after crossing our blueline and tried to knock the puck away without success. Just before their forward started his deke, Ralph hit him to the side and they both rammed into the goalpost as they fell, narrowly missing Mark as he stopped the loose puck from going into the net.

The net dislodged from its moorings and they stayed down as the ref's blew the whistle and called a penalty. Chris and the Spartan's trainer both came out to look at the two players. Eventually, they both were helped off the ice, with Ralph not able to put pressure on his left leg, and their forward holding his left arm with his right. Chris shook his head at Frank and Fred and he put John and I out on the ice after telling me that I would split the extra shifts playing with Matt Cook on the second D pair with Chris from the first pairing.

The ref had called a penalty shot for Ralph's penalty and the centre that was on the ice at the time took the shot. He skated up slowly, went wide for a bit and then came in quickly at the end. He forced Mark to come all the way across his goal crease, and then shot it over him as he dove to cover the bottom of the net. The crowd booed as the Spartans cheered for their goal.

The rest of the period went back and forth, mostly getting nowhere as both traps clogged up the neutral zone and the few shots were easily stopped by each goalie. I got off one shot from the point but it hit a leg and bounced to the corner to be cleared. The defenceman it hit hobbled off the ice to put them down one as well.

We got an earful from Fred during the second intermission while we hydrated and rested.

"Gentlemen, you let those guys dictate the pace out there last period, and that's how they will win this game," Fred yelled. "You're letting them off the hook and let those slow as molasses behemoths make you plod up the ice like little old grandmas! Forwards, start using your speed and get after those pucks. Defence, carry that puck up with speed and either get through their trap or dump it in so the forwards can skate after it."

After a quick drink he continued, "On defence, pressure them as soon as they get control of the puck. Don't let them have a spare second to think, let alone look for an open man. We need this period, so leave it all on the ice."

We went back on the ice with scowls on our faces and took it to them. The first line had them on the ropes in their zone half a minute after the puck dropped. They got three good scoring chances before the puck went out of play. Matt and I went on with the second line and we kept the puck in their zone for another minute, until Matt's point shot went in off a leg in front of the net to tie the score.

The fourth line put another by their goalie three minutes later as Peter drew the defence to him and then fed Adam a pass that he re-directed into the net to make the score three to two.

The Spartans tied it up when Steve, our first pair right defenceman, got tired from the additional shifts he and I were doing, and couldn't catch a speedy forward. The forward put a nice deke on Mark and slid the puck past him on the other side.

With about four minutes to play, John and I took the ice with the first line with the puck in our zone. John carried it up the left side and was getting pressured by two forwards. He let them both get close and sent it over to me as I sped up the ice. The wall of the two defenceman and the remaining forward backed up as we came in with numbers. I crossed their blueline and drop passed it to Chris, waiting to enter the zone once I got the puck in. I continued in deep past their left winger who was now caught between covering me or Chris at the point. He chose to cover me, which allowed Chris to move into the opening left by our absence. At the top of the right circle he wound up for a shot as I moved to the front of the net with their winger desperately trying to catch up to me. I kept my stick on the ice and managed to deflect Chris's low shot up into the net over the shoulder of the goalie to take the lead. The arena erupted in cheers as the red light came on. My teammates congratulated me as we skated back to the bench for a change.

The Spartans threw everything they could at us to get the tying score. They pulled their goalie with a minute to go for an extra attacker. With only twenty seconds to go, I got hold of the puck after crushing a forward to the boards. I turned and flipped it high out of the zone as another forward hit me to the ice. I was on my back as I heard the crowd roar a few seconds later. I looked up and saw the red light over the far goalie and the rest of the team gathered around Gary. I got up slowly and headed to the bench and sat down, exhausted.

The last fifteen seconds were over quickly and we all went to congratulate Mark before waving to the crowd. We left the ice and I got slowly got showered and into my suit. John and I met Amanda in the lobby and I drove them to the dorms before heading to the condo. I got into the condo and turned off the alarms before getting out of my suit and into some shorts and a tee shirt. I heated up some leftovers for a late night snack and went into the living room to grab the bags of clothes. I sorted them out and read the tags before starting a load. A lot of it couldn't be dried in the dryer so I found an extra bundle of hangers and pulled out the convenient clothes line from its wheel and strung it across the laundry room.

After eating, I waited for the first load to finish and then put them into the dryer or hung them up as needed. I called it a night and headed to bed.

Sunday morning I started another load in the washer, folded the clothes in the dryer and then went to the arena for a quick skate and shooting practice and a workout. After a shower in the locker room, I headed home and continued with the laundry while working on my assignments due Monday. When those were finished I started reading ahead for my two computer programming courses so I could do the next assignments. I wanted to hand them in Thursday again as I would miss the next Tuesday as well.

Around eleven, I got into some good casual clothes, grabbed the box of my mother's stuff and drove the short distance to a family restaurant that had a good brunch. I entered the restaurant and found Aunt Nancy and the rest of the family already at a table.

"Good morning everyone, how was your evening?" I asked as I sat down at the end of the table.

"Good Mike, we went to a kid's restaurant and then watched a movie for the girls," Aunt Nancy responded. "After they were asleep, we caught the last period of your game, you played well, scoring the go ahead goal and assisting on the final one."

"Well, with all the good lucks I got last night from these two, of course I played well," I said, ruffling the girls' hair.

"Stop Mikey, you're going to mess up our hairdos," Mary said primly, putting her hands up to push my hand away.

"Sorry Princess, I must say you two do look very pretty in those dresses and your hair looks very fashionable," I told her.

"I got a pink ribbon cause that's my favourite colour," Ellen said to get my attention.

"I like it Princess Ellen, it matches your dress just right," I complimented her.

"So, shall we go up and get started?" Uncle Aaron asked.

Everyone was hungry so we got up and followed him to the buffet. We all helped the girls get some pancakes and bacon and then I filled up my plate with assorted breakfast items for my first run.

We had a leisurely meal, with all three of the adults helping the girls out with their food. After we were done, we drove back to their hotel and I helped them get their luggage down to their vehicle. I got Aunt Nancy aside and gave the box back to her, explaining that she should keep what she wanted and give the girls anything they might like to have later as they grew up.

"Ok, final thing, have that lawyer for my grandparent's estate start the proceedings to get that transferred to you, however is best for your tax situation," I told her. "You need it more than I do."

"We're not destitute Mike, we just have a big mortgage," she explained.

"I know that, but if you can pay it off, you can start saving money and have a bit of fun and spoil those cousins of mine," I told her. "Please take the money, you're the only family I have and I want to help you out."

"Ok Mike, and thanks," she replied as she gave me a hug. "I know it will make our lives a lot less stressful in these tough economic times. Aaron and I have been worrying about money too much lately, so hopefully this will get us back on track."

"I hope so too," I agreed. "Let me know if you ever need anything Aunt Nancy; I don't want you to be shy about it. I have more than I'll ever spend."

"We should be fine with this Mike," she replied.

"Ok, let me know what you and the lawyer need to make it happen and we'll get it done this week," I told her.

She hugged me again as Uncle Aaron came back down with the girls.

"Ok, we've all taken a washroom run and I just have to check out," he said, handing me the last two cases as the girls came to stand beside us.

"Ok, I'll run these out and come back in for hugs," I told them.

I put the final two cases in the back of their SUV and locked it again before joining them in the lobby. I gave the girls and Aunt Nancy hugs and shook Uncle Aaron's hand.

"Ok, you guys have a safe trip back home and we'll talk later in the week," I told them. "Thanks for coming down to see me everyone."

"It was our pleasure Mike, and thanks for the gifts," Aunt Nancy said.

"Yes, thanks Mike, you don't know how much that is going to help," Uncle Aaron added.

"You're welcome, it's the least I can do," I told them. "You girls have a good ride up and take care of those animals and dolls."

"We will cousin Mikey!" Ellen said.

"Yes, we will," Mary agreed. "They're our favourites already!"

"Good, cause you're my favourite cousins in the whole world," I told them.

They gave me another hug and then we walked out to their car. The parents buckled in the girls and then got in themselves.

"Ok, I'll talk to you when I get back from LA, have a safe trip back home," I told Aunt Nancy.

"You have a safe and fun trip out to LA, Mike and we'll be in touch," she replied.

I backed away and they drove off, the girls waving to me and blowing me kisses as I waved to them. I drove back home and settled down to do some homework, trying to getting ahead of the game. In between, I finished the laundry and put it all away, moving some of my other clothes into a pile in the corner of a closet.

After a small dinner, I got ready to go to the Dojo for more training. I arrived a bit early and got down to stretching and then worked on the forms and counterpunches. I then used some of the workout equipment to practice some more.

Eventually Sensei and Asuka joined me and we worked on forms, blocks and counterpunching for a bit to review last session's work. We quickly got back to my full speed against her and then she sped up even faster. I was soon forced to eliminate my counterpunches to protect myself from her punches. I tried to slip a couple in here and there but they were few and far between. Even on full defensive mode, punches started slipping through my blocks and I had to move my head or get clocked. One got through to my stomach and I staggered back from the force of it.

"And Stop!" Sensei shouted as Asuka almost connected again. "Time for a break I think."

I went and got a drink from the sink and rested on a chair while they talked in Japanese for a couple of minutes. They finally returned to me and I got up to meet them.

"Ok, that was good work Michael, you sped up when Asuka did and protected yourself," Sensei told me. "We're going to slow down just a bit and concentrate on the proper form; you're losing technique as you speed up past your comfort zone. Asuka will speed up more slowly and we'll make sure the form is correct. Speed can come in time, form is more critical at this juncture in your training."

I nodded and we started up again, at a speed where I could counterpunch after blocking or deflecting a punch. I concentrated on the correct posture and location of each block or punch until we sped up and it had to become instinctive. We sped up over time and eventually got to the previous speed. I kept up with her longer and then again had to fall back to defending only. Sensei called another stoppage and we all sat down.

"You are improving every time we practice Michael, I'm impressed," Sensei said. "We'll keep on the practicing of this portion and then add you attacking first and then defending against a counterpunch. After that, we'll start adding footwork and then defending and using kicks and knees in time."

"Sounds good to me," I replied. "I appreciate all of your work you're both putting into me. I know it will come in handy eventually."

"Ok, why don't you both play with the equipment for a bit and then call it a night." Sensei suggested.

Asuka and I moved over to the various pieces of equipment and she jumped up and broke off the top six inches of a one inch thick board about six feet off the ground, using a front kick.

I moved to the speed bag and practiced my punching and my speed for a bit before moving to the heavy bag and let out my frustrations on it. It felt good to finally hit something tonight.

After about twenty minutes, we had enough and cleaned up before I we started to get into our outside winter gear before walking back up front.

"Good night Michael, and enjoy your trip to LA if we don't see you before then," she said. "Be careful and use protection if you sleep with your friend. The girls won't be happy if you get her pregnant or catch something."

"I have no secrets from you ladies, do I?" I asked, shaking my head as I put on my boots.

"No, not many," she said with a small smile. "You have five wives without the benefits."

She stood up from putting on her boots and slipped on her coat. I put mine on and followed her out the door.

"Why do you ladies have to know everything I do?" I asked. "You have your own guys now."

"Those boys are no longer in the picture, Michael," Asuka said. "They tried to get too familiar with the girls and I had to chastise them."

"Oh no, did they make it to the hospital in time?" I asked.

"I did not have to resort to such measures," she said, with a small grin. "Suffice it to say that they will walk slowly for a couple of days, but I'm sure nothing is permanently damaged."

"Are you and the other two ok?" I asked.

"Everyone is fine, they are not children, they know how boys get," she said.

"Good, now back to my original question, why do you ladies need to know everything I do?" I asked.

"Because we all care for you, is that not obvious?" she asked.

"I appreciate the sentiment, but I am a big boy now," I told her.

"So, we should stop caring for you then?" she asked. "Did you stop caring about us because we had a date with those boys?"

"Of course not, but we're not going out, you don't have to know everything about what I do," I said.

"You decided that, not us," she replied with a look as we got to the front door.

"You ladies have a ride home?" I asked.

"Yes, the Roseburg sisters drove us and attended class with the girls," Asuka replied. "Good night Michael, and remember to be careful please."

"I will, if I don't see you tomorrow, I'll see you Wednesday," I told her.

I looked in and saw the other four chatting in the lobby. I quickly got in my SUV and had it warming up while I scraped the windows. I got in and drove home to the condo and got into the elevator. It stopped at the lobby and Maggie Otter, from 1204 got in, dressed in sweats and a tee shirt, holding some mail in her hands.

"Oh hi Mike, how are you tonight?" she asked with a nice smile.

"I'm fine, and you Maggie?" I asked.

"I'm good, just getting the mail, Bruce would forget his head if it wasn't attached," she said bitterly. "Sorry, we're not getting along lately."

"I'm sorry to hear that," I commented. "Have you been together long?"

"Too long," she admitted. "I'm starting to think he's getting cold feet and he just proposed to keep me happy."

"Well, you're a beautiful woman, he's a fool if he lets you go," I told her. "Maybe you have to motivate him a bit."

"Why thank you Mike, that's kind of you to say," she said with a big smile. "I'll have to see if coming over to get a cup of sugar from you has any affect on him."

"Just hide the shotgun before you do please," I replied.

She laughed and responded, "He's not a fighter, so don't worry."

"Well, I hope it works out for you, I wouldn't want to lose you as a neighbour," I said.

"Oh, the condo's mine, he's the one who will go if he doesn't smarten up soon," she informed me.

"You go girl," I said as the door opened. "I'll make sure I have some sugar on hand."

"Mike, you're good for my ego, I wish I was a few years younger," she said.

"A few years younger and you'd be too young for me to date silly," I said. "You have a good night Maggie and good luck with your fiancé."

"You too Mike and thanks for listening, you're a good man," she said as she headed down to her condo.

I turned the other way and only looked down at her when I put my key in the door. She was waiting and waved before going in her door. I got the alarm off and put the rod on the door before going to have a shower. After I got dressed, I checked my emails and found one from Kristen.

'Hey Mike, of course I'll help you get ready for the show. I'll give you some pointers and make sure you look great.

On meeting up in July, I'm afraid I'll be back in LA working on the Runaways starting in late June. I'll check the schedule as it gets closer, to see what the holiday situation is and if I have a couple of days, maybe I can shoot up there. I'll check some of your other dates and see if I can join you then.

I can't wait to see you Monday night Mike, have a safe flight and call my cell when you're on the way to the hotel.'

Kris

I hit reply and wrote her back.

Hey Kris

Thanks for helping me out for the show. I know you'll keep me calm as long as anyone could. I'll call when I'm on my way to the hotel. See you tomorrow night. Mike.

I shut things down and hit the sack early. It didn't look like I was going to get much sleep when for the next couple of nights.



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Chapter 41


Monday morning I woke up raring to go. I couldn't wait to get the day done and fly out to LA to see Kristen. I drank a diet coke as I was driving to the arena and finished it as I walked into the dark locker room. I got dressed and out on the ice quickly and got to my stretching. My morning and evening stretching was paying dividends as I felt more limber than usual. I did my usual skating and shooting practice and then rested on the bench, waiting for the others.

"You're getting here earlier and earlier Mike," Fred said, coming out of the tunnel and onto the bench.

"I like the solitude here in the morning, and I don't pick off anyone when I shoot alone," I replied. "You're getting here pretty early too."

"We're in the home stretch, the next few weeks determine our season," he said. "Lot's to think about and get ready for. For example, Albert is going to be out for a couple of weeks. Do I put Rob with him or move you up and put Rob with John?"

"I'm surprised you haven't split John and me up already," I told him. Mat and Albert are two stay at home defenceman and John and I both are offensive minded. I thought you usually paired up opposites, especially since John and I are on different sides."

"All things being equal, that's usually how it goes, but you have egos to contend with as well," he said. "And no, I'm not talking about yours. Seniors don't like being demoted to the third pairing, especially when a freshman moves up."

"I see," I said. "I guess that's why I'm here and you're behind the bench."

"I also have to make my decision based on you missing a day of practice, which will affect how you and Mat would play together," he added.

"Sorry Coach, I never thought me missing a couple of practices would mean that much," I said.

"Usually it wouldn't but you never know what comes up. So that's why I get here earlier. There's always something to think about, deal with or make sure it's done," he said. "Whether it's the team health, marks, the tutors, travel, equipment, the arena, practice, food, Athletic department meetings, recruiting with potential recruit visits here or at their home, film watching, scouting, strategizing; there's always something to do."

"I guess so," I agreed. "I thought I had a busy schedule, but that sounds more than a full plate."

"You forget, I have help, you have to do yours by yourself," he reminded me. "Try not to burn yourself out with doing too much."

"I think I have a free hour on Sunday in two years," I said with a laugh. "That is if I don't have a project due."

He laughed and then went back to his office while I got off the bench and shot a bit more before the team straggled in. Fred gathered us together after they all warmed up.

"Gentlemen, we had a good weekend, winning both games against State," he started. "We've moved up to seventh in the Nation which isn't bad but just shows you what happens when we lose concentration and lose to a supposed weak team the week before."

He looked around and then continued, "This week is the big show; we play Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana Friday night in a late game and then back here Saturday night. They are now the number one team in the Nation so we know it won't be easy. They're stacked with several NHL calibre forwards, four top defencemen and possibly the best goalie in the country right now. They play a very good puck possession game and their man to man defence is second to none."

"So, we have a very big task ahead of us. We're going to play our game, a puck possession offence with a good physical presence in all three zones. But we're going to switch things up on defence. We're not going to play one type of defence or neutral zone trap, we're going to adapt and switch at the drop of a hat. Even in the offensive zone we'll carry it in when we can, dump it in when we can't and make their preparation all for nothing."

"One final note, with Albert out a couple of weeks, we're going to split our two offensive guys on the third pair and move Mike up with Mat and Rob will be inserted back in the line up with John. Ok, let's get busy!"

Frank came over and talked with both new pairings, explaining the reasons and the potential advantages of splitting John and I. I looked at Mat and he seemed ok with things while Samuel seemed a bit perturbed that he wasn't considered the offensive guy of the pair. Frank also told us that John and I would still be the defence pair on the first power play unit.

We split up to either side of the rink and we ran some five on five drills just to get the four of us used to each other. Mat and I seemed to work ok together; he had me come back behind the net to get the puck to carry it up or made the first pass to me to get it up the ice. In the offensive zone, he took his fair share of shots from the point but didn't go far into the zone. He moved over when he saw I was taking a cruise farther up the boards and we even did a cross-over at the blueline to get more on our shots from the centre of the ice.

On the other hand, Rob and John didn't click. It got so bad that Fred and Frank stopped the scrimmage and sat them down on the bench, sending out the first pair to replace them. I glanced over a couple of times and at first the coaches were explaining calmly what they wanted. The next time I looked over they were much more animated and telling Rob what he was supposed to be doing. I chuckled inside as I saw him having to agree or not get on the ice.

Finally they got back on and John was the unquestioned leader of the duo and handled the puck carrying duties. He was the better quarterback of the pair and things flowed smoother.

We moved on to practicing switching from one neutral trap type to another and, depending on which one we used, we flowed into a defence set if the scout team got through the trap and into our zone. Every forward line paired up with each defensive pair to get used to playing with each other.

The last bit of the practice we scrimmaged, using what we had practiced earlier. I felt good about pairing up with Mat and we seemed to get along. Finally we were let go and I had to have a quick shower and hustle up to algebra. I handed in my assignment and found a seat. The professor sped through two chapters and assigned a ton of questions for next week.

Calculus was just as tough as Professor Hiller went through two difficult chapters as well. I barely had time to admire her figure as she wrote on blackboard after blackboard, sliding one in front of another as she did examples. She also assigned a lot of questions and reminded everyone that she and the teaching assistants were available should we need help. I finished writing down the last few lines while the classroom emptied.

"Mr. Stewart, did I go too fast or are you slower than the rest of the students?" she asked with a grin.

"I'm probably a bit slower in the writing department than most," I replied as I packed up my books. "I'll try and go a bit faster next time, but it's better if I understand it as you explain it, rather than get every last note down."

"That's correct Mr. Stewart, so don't worry about it, I was just kidding you," she said as I approached her.

"You are looking very chic today, Professor Hiller," I told her as I helped her with her coat.

"Thank you kind Sir," she replied. "You're looking as handsome as ever. I watched your games on the weekend, you did well."

"Thank you for both compliments," I replied.

"I need you to sign these pictures of you, so my girlfriends here believe me," she asked as she pulled out a folder with a few of the CK ads, with me in my underwear.

"Sure," I replied and pulled out a pen and signed them in the corner and dated them.

"Thank you, I'm going to show them and prove I do know you," she said with a grin.

"You're welcome Professor Hiller, glad to be of assistance," I said with a smile. "You're going to have to get me some of you so I can get you to sign them."

"That will be the day!" she said with a laugh. "Why do you think I wear nice clothes? To hide this skinny body, that's why!"

"Nonsense, I'm sure you're just as beautiful in a bathing suit as you are fully clothed," I told her. "I'm going to have to bring you with me to one of my shoots down south so you have to wear a bikini."

"Cheeky, very cheeky Mr. Stewart," she said as she put the pictures away. "You're determined to get me in trouble aren't you?"

"Just having a bit of fun Miss Hiller," I said with a smile. "You have a good day and I'll see you on Wednesday."

"You too Mr. Stewart," she replied with an answering smile.

I followed her out the door and went to the cafeteria for lunch. After I finished, I worked a bit on my math assignments and then headed off to philosophy.

I was just on time as I walked in with the professor and found a seat high up in the back. The lecture was the last on the Greek philosophers and he quickly reviewed all of them before the end of the class. After handing in our assignment, I quickly scooted out the back door and headed to Yost Arena to pick up my SUV.

I drove to the CK store and tried on my suits and was pleased with the results. I thanked Renee again and drove home to pack. I ended up with a suitcase and a garment bag because I didn't know what I would be wearing on the show. I locked up the condo after putting on the alarm and drove back to the arena. After a shortened workout, I rinsed off and got suited up for practice.

I was a few minutes early so I watched Casey do a routine and admired her grace and her wonderful body in a figure skating dress. Mitsy did a routine after and she had on a short dress as well. They both were looking very beautiful this afternoon.

They were all smiles when they came up to me at the end of the line of cute skaters.

"Hi Mike, I'm glad we ran into you before your trip," Casey said. "Have a safe flight and promise me you'll be careful with your friend."

"I promise I won't hurt her a bit," I said with a grin. "You look especially beautiful today Casey."

"Thank you kind sir, I wanted you to have us in your mind before you left," she replied. "Remember who you have waiting for you back home, ok?"

"How could I forget either one of you lovely ladies?" I responded. "Mitsy, you look very gorgeous this afternoon as well."

"Thank you Michael, we know how you like our legs in short skirts," she replied with a smile. "I hope you picture us in your mind often on your trip."

"How could I not, you two are visions," I told them.

That put big smiles on their faces and they both gave me a kiss before Casey said, "Be safe Michael and please don't abandon us. We need you here."

"I'll see you Wednesday ladies, you two behave while I'm gone and keep safe," I said.

They reluctantly left me there and I watched them blatantly as they walked down the tunnel. They both turned and smiled back at me before going down the hallway.

Practice was brutal as the coaches worked us hard again, switching from one offence to another as soon as we started up the ice. After that, we worked on neutral zone traps and defences and finally special teams. Mat and I were on the second penalty kill unit, so we had to get used to each other there as well.

Finally, the coaches called for a scrimmage and at a quarter to six, Fred let me get out of there to head to the airport. I rushed through a quick shower and got into some good casual CK clothes. I headed out to the SUV and drove to Metro airport. I was parked and in line at the baggage check in at seven, luckily in first class. I checked in both bags and just brought my book bag with my laptop and my math textbooks and assignments. I waited in line to get through the security checkpoint and then walked quickly to the correct terminal and gate.

First class was already boarding when I got to the desk at the gate. I showed my boarding pass and they checked it and then let me through. I walked down the walkway and ducked as I entered the plane. A pretty stewardess guided me to my seat and I ordered a diet coke when she asked. I worked on the algebra assignment while people filed in down the aisle.

"Excuse me, can I get in my seat please?" a woman asked.

I looked up to find a pretty, black haired woman, maybe mid twenties, looking down at me.

"Sure, sorry about that," I said as I gathered my books and my pop before standing up to let her pass.

"Thank you," she said as she squeezed by, dressed in a tweed business jacket and skirt.

"No problem," I said as I waited until she was settled before sitting down.

I finished off the pop to make sure I wouldn't spill it and then got back to work. The woman ordered a vodka tonic from the stewardess and then settled down with a magazine. Ten minutes later the stewardesses came around to collect the cups and asked us to sit up and stow away our stuff before take-off.

I looked out the windows but couldn't see much in the dark, so I looked around the cabin. There was only a small first class area and it was mostly filled with business men or older people. I saw a couple women behind me but couldn't see them well without turning and staring. I relaxed as we taxied to the runway and waited for clearance to take off. The pilot announced that we would be taking off in about a minute, so I looked over at the woman beside me and she was still reading her magazine, cool as a cucumber.

Soon enough we were racing down the runway and shoved back into our seats as the pilot got us in the air and continued climbing at a steep rate. We banked and turned westward as we climbed higher. Eventually we levelled out and the seatbelt signs were turned off and the stewardesses came around with drinks and snacks. The woman kept to herself so I did the same, finishing the one assignment before dinner was offered. We both had the chicken and she opened up a bit as we ate.

"So, going to LA for business or pleasure?" she asked.

"I'm going for business actually, and yourself?" I asked.

"Business as well," she replied. "I have to negotiate a contract with a company face to face. You look a bit young to be in business already; what do you do if you don't mind me asking?"

"I'm a part time model and full time student," I told her.

"You do look a bit familiar, but I can't place you," she said. "Would I have seen you in anything?"

"May I?" I asked, indicating her Cosmo magazine.

I looked through and found the inevitable CK ad and showed it to her.

"Holy Shit, you're the new CK guy!" she said, thankfully not too loudly.

"Keep it down will ya?" I asked her. "My only shoot actually, we did a bunch of photos and a couple of commercials. I have to go hawk the wares on a TV show tomorrow."

"No one will believe me if I tell them this," she said with a grin.

I pulled out a pen and asked," What's your name?"

"I'm Sharon," she said. "Sharon Middleton."

I wrote on the ad 'I enjoyed our plane ride together, Sharon' and then signed and dated it.

"Thanks Mike, the girls will be so jealous," Sharon told me.

"You're welcome Sharon, just keep it secret until after tomorrow afternoon, the show airs on Wednesday, and I'd rather be back home before anyone knew I was even there," I told her.

"Sure, mum's the word," she agreed.

She was quiet for a moment and then asked, "Has your life changed much since you became the new CK guy?"

"I'm a little more recognizable at school, and, with the new contract, money isn't as tight," I told her. "We've had to squeeze in the new shoots in my spare time from school, so that's a bummer, but I want to finish school if I can."

"What are you taking?" she inquired.

"Computer science, hence the math," I replied.

"A good subject to take, I think," she noted.

"I hope so, I'm worried what jobs there will be out there in a couple of years, almost everything needed has a program written for it already," I said.

"If you're good, there's always a job for a good programmer, but the money is in developing something on your own, rather than working for someone else," she said.

"I guess so, the trouble is finding out what is needed and being an expert in the application as well as the programming," I told her. "I'll probably get into artificial intelligence I guess."

"A growing field for sure," she agreed.

We talked about things as the stewardesses came around and collected the dinner trays and we could recline the seats and relax. She told me she worked for a company that specialized in finding locations for companies to expand into and she was going to meet with a rapidly growing company that was in the girl's clothing and accessories field.

After a bit, she had a nap while I did my calculus assignment and then powered up my laptop. I worked on my programming assignments for a while until I got tired and packed everything up. I had a nap myself and Sharon had to wake me when it was time to get ready to land. We touched down a few minutes later and slowly made our way to the terminal. Finally we stopped and I stood and got both of our carry-on bags and coats down. I let her go first and we proceeded up the walkway and into the airport.

Since we both had luggage, we walked together to the luggage turnstiles and waited for the unit to start up. I helped her when the luggage finally started coming out and pulled both hers and mine off the carousel and put hers on a cart.

"Sharon, it's been a pleasure to meet you, good luck in your negotiations," I told her.

"You to Mike, it was very nice to meet you, good luck on the show tomorrow," she replied. "Here's my card; if you're ever in Boston, give me a call and I'll show you around."

"Thanks Sharon, I'll take you up on that someday," I replied.

She walked off to the car rental units, pulling her cart with her, while I walked over to a pretty young woman holding up a sign that had my name on it.

"Hi, I'm Mike," I told her.

"Hi Mr. Stewart, I'm Danni, I'm your chauffeur while you're in town," she replied.

She was wearing a dark chauffeur's suit jacket over a white blouse and short black skirt. She had a thin tie on and completed the ensemble with a hat. Her blonde hair was in a ponytail and she looked very cute.

"Hi Danni, I have no idea where we're going so you lead on," I said with a grin. "And call me Mike; I'm probably younger than you so it's pretty silly to call me Mister."

"Can I get those bags for you Mike?" she asked with an answering grin.

"I'm good thanks," I replied. "I've only ridden in a limo a couple of times, but are female chauffeurs common?"

"Nope, I'm pretty unique," she replied.

"That must be great for you; I bet you're in high demand, especially with younger guys and maybe with female clients?" I asked as we weaved through the masses to get to the exit.

"Yes and no," she relied. "I'm a good driver and I work hard to make sure my clients get great service. Sometimes that's enough, but a lot of clients want more than I'm willing to give, if you know what I mean."

"Ah, because you're a beautiful young woman, they expect extra service," I stated. "I can see how that can be a drag. I would think that they would be happy to have someone pretty driving them around and having a good conversation with."

"It's hard to be polite about it without making them angry, but if I want repeat business I have to be very tactful," she said. "I know my appearance is what gets me business, but it should be my service that keeps them coming back."

We reached the exit and she guided me to a small limo, almost just a large full size car.

"Your manager told me it was just you and a couple of bags, so I brought the executive car, I hope that's ok," she looked at me a bit worried.

"Of course it is, I'm not a snob that needs to look important, this is fine," I responded.

She smiled in relief and opened the trunk to let me put in my bags. She shut it and opened the back door for me, but I walked around her and opened the front passenger door.

"If it's ok with you, I'd rather sit up front with you," I said.

She smiled and said, "Sure Mike, that's fine, just don't get fresh."

"Damn, caught on to me already," I replied.

I got in and she walked around and got into the driver's seat and buckled up. Soon we were on the way and she pointed out things as we passed. I pulled out my phone and called Kristen's cell.

"Hello?" she said.

"Hey, it's Mike, I'm in the limo and on the way to the hotel," I told her. "I should be there in about thirty minutes or so."

"Ok, I'll see you there, call me when you're in your room," Kristen replied.

"Sounds good, see you then," I replied and hung up.

Luckily traffic was fairly light and we arrived at the Hilton in about a half hour. We pulled up to the front and she handed me a card after she stopped.

"You manager has me booked until you leave tomorrow night so if you need me anytime, just call and I'll be here in about fifteen minutes," Danni said.

"I'm bushed so I'll be staying in tonight," I told her. "I know we have to be at the studio by two thirty so plan for that and then right to the airport after shooting is done around five. I'm not sure if we'll do anything else in the morning but Katie or I will call you with as much advance notice as we can."

"Thanks Mike and thanks for being a perfect gentleman," she said. "Just my luck, a really nice cute guy comes along that I wouldn't mind getting to know better and he doesn't even attempt a pass."

I laughed and replied, "If I was going to be alone, I would have at least asked you in for a drink, but I'm meeting someone as you heard. You're certainly a wonderful lady. Listen, I don't have a lot of cash on me tonight, but I'll give you a tip tomorrow for the whole trip ok, Danni?"

"I appreciate the thought Mike, but your manager is handling that," she replied.

We got out and moved to the trunk. She opened it and I slung my book bag over my shoulder and then lifted the other two bags out.

"I'll see you tomorrow Danni, thanks for the ride," I told her.

"Have a good night with your friend," she said with a smile. "I'll see you tomorrow."

I walked into the fancy lobby and got in line at the check-in counter. After about five minutes I was up at the front of the line and approached the clerk.

"Hi, I'm Mike Stewart, I'm checking in for one night," I said.

"Hi Mr. Stewart, let me see where you're to rest your head for the night," the woman said.

A few seconds later she looked up and said with a big smile, "You're in our last Luxury suite on the top floor Mr. Stewart. Just sign here and I'll have a bellhop show you to your suite."

"No need for that, I'm sure I can find the way," I replied as she handed over two room keys after I signed in. "Can you tell me what room Katie Burns is in?"

"Sorry, but we can't give out that information," she said, looking apologetic, "but we can give her a message and she can call your room."

"Can you let her know I'm here and what room I'm in please?" I requested.

"Certainly Mr. Stewart, enjoy your stay," she replied.

I walked to the elevators and smiled at a pair of hot ladies that exited one of them and they smiled back at me. I got in the one they came out of and turned to look back at them. They looked back at me and I smiled as the doors closed. I took the elevator up to the top floor and walked down to the end suite, using one of the key cards to open the door.

I was in a foyer that had three doors off of it and a hallway leading to a large sitting room that looked out onto a balcony. I checked out the rooms and there were two big bedrooms with king size beds in each. The third door led to a huge bathroom with a Jacuzzi tub, a glass walled shower and a sit down are for doing make-up, along with a couple sinks in a long counter and a separate area for the toilet and bidet.

"This is the life," I said to myself.

I grabbed my phone and called Kristen.

"Hello?" she said.

"Hey Kris, it's Mike, I'm in a suite on the twenty fourth floor, 2404 is the suite number," I told her.

"Ok, I'll be up in five," she said before hanging up.

I hung up most of my clothes and put the rest in the dresser in one of the rooms. I used the washroom and quickly washed my face and brushed my teeth before she got there. I heard a knock and quickly went to answer it. When I opened the door, she quickly ducked in and shut the door behind her.

"Whew!" she said. "I think I made it without anyone recognizing me."

She had a cap pulled low, a long jacket covering a flannel shirt and a tee shirt, and a pair of low rider jeans that ended in a pair of red runners. She had a big bag on her shoulder.

"Hi there, you look like you're undercover," I said with a grin.

"I am, you don't know how often I get recognized and mobbed Mike, I didn't want to be seen until we decide how to play this," she replied. "Can I use the spare bedroom and then the washroom for a few minutes?"

"Sure, just don't fall in or we'll have to send for a rescue party," I told her.

I let her know what bedroom was empty and showed her the bathroom before heading down the hall to the sitting room. I slid open the patio doors and stepped out onto the balcony. It was cool, about fifty five degrees at about ten thirty at night. I looked over the Hollywood hills and the view was fantastic. I had a partial view of Universal Studios and it was lit up as well.

I heard the door slide open a few minutes later and turned to see her transformed.

"Wow, you look fantastic Kris, you're very beautiful," I told her with a big smile.

She was wearing a plaid dress in multiple shades of grey that bared her shoulders and came down to mid thigh. It was snug around her torso and flared out slightly after her hips to show off her shape nicely. She had brushed her hair out and put on some make up and some nice burgundy low heels. In all, I hadn't seen her look more beautiful, ever.

"Thanks Mike, I wanted to show you I can wear more than jeans and a tee shirt," she said, giving me a smile as she joined me out on the balcony. "You have a great view from here."

"I sure do," I replied, looking at her the whole time.

"Stop it, silly," she replied, pushing my chest.

I bent down and gave her a light kiss on her lips. She returned it and then shivered.

"Come on back in, you're going to get cold out here," I said, lightly taking her hand and pulling her into the sitting room.

I shut the door behind us and moved to the couch. We sat down beside each other and looked at each other for a bit.

"Are you hungry or thirsty?" I asked. "I can order something in or see what's in the fridge."

"Just water is fine with me, but you go ahead if you're hungry," she replied.

I moved to the nearby fridge and pulled out a couple bottles of water and returned to the couch, passing one to her as I sat down.

"So, we're finally together," I said. "I've been thinking about this moment for a while, evening dreaming about it. But I must say that you're looking even more beautiful than I ever imagined."

"Thanks Mike, you're good for my self esteem," she said, blushing. "And you're looking real good as well. I like your outfit; I see you've gone shopping at CK."

"Yeah, they don't want me wearing competitor's clothes," I replied with a grin.

I took a drink and so did she and I think we both were a little nervous.

"I'm a bit nervous, I'm not sure why," I admitted to her.

"Me too, I've thought about this moment, planned it so many ways, but now that we're together, I'm not sure what to do," she responded.

The phone rang at that moment.

"Saved by the bell," I said before going to pick it up. "It's probably Katie, my CK manager. Do you want her to know who you are or do you want to keep it secret?"

"Secret for tonight, we can decide tomorrow what we're doing," she said quickly.

I nodded and picked up the phone.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Hi Mike, its Katie, I'm glad you made it safely," she said.

"Hi Katie, I just got in about ten minutes ago," I said. "How are you?"

"I've been here about an hour, but I'm fading fast, it's one thirty back in New York," she replied. "Do you mind if we meet in the morning?"

"That's fine, let's meet for breakfast around nine, ok?" I suggested.

"Sounds good, have fun and I'm supposed to tell you to use protection," she said with a giggle.

"I can't believe they made you say that!" I responded. "I'm going to kill them when I get back."

"Good night Mike, I'll see you in the morning, maybe I can meet your friend too," she said.

"We'll see, goodnight Katie," I replied before hanging up.

"What did she say and who made her say it?" Kris asked, looking curious.

"Who are the girls back at the university, the two skaters, Casey and Mitsy, their protector Asuka, and two sisters that I had to kind of rescue from some CK home office trouble, Barb and Melanie Roseburg," I told her. "I'll tell you that story later; suffice it to say they're now in a condo on another floor."

"And?" Kris prompted.

"All five of them are overly protective and very nosy," I told her. "Barb heard me telling Katie that I would be seeing a friend out here and suddenly they're acting jealous. I didn't tell anyone who I was seeing or that you were anything but a friend, but I think everyone of them warned me at some time in the last few days to use protection. Now, one of them, probably Barb, told Katie to remind me about protection again. Before you get upset, I never, ever implied, said, insinuated, let on, or otherwise gave them any indication that I thought we would be doing anything that might require protection."

"So, you get dumped by the twins and, in less than a month, have a new harem in Michigan, a manager in New York that probably wants you and whatever I am to you out in LA," she said with a smirk on her face. "You certainly didn't waste any time Mike."

"I guess I shouldn't mention a bunch of models I'm supposed to meet over time to get to know," I told her with a grin. "I haven't done anything with anybody, I promise," I said, "but the five are acting like they're my wives or mothers. Save a girl or three and they think they have to run my life."

"So, where does that leave us?" she asked as I sat down.

"Right now, like everyone else, as friends," I said. "I would like to get to know you better, I barely know a thing about you except that you're a good actress and you're beautiful."

"Thanks," she said, blushing a bit. "I guess I was hoping for a bit more."

"Don't you think we need to know each other better before we proceed with more?" I asked.

"If we were a normal guy and girl, living close by, then maybe, but with our schedules we have to use what moments we have together," she said. "I don't want to waste this opportunity; I might not get another one."

She turned her body towards me and leaned in to kiss me on the lips, bringing up her hands to hold my head. I put a hand on her shoulder to steady her as I returned the kiss. Her tongue soon was on my lips, insisting on entering my mouth, so I opened up and it darted in to play with mine. We played tongue wrestling for a bit while she rose up on her knees beside me to get her body close to mine.

I caressed her bare shoulders and arms and then slid one hand down her back. She wrapped her arms around my neck and moved herself onto my lap, her knees on the couch cushions on either side of me as she sat down. She moved in tight and I held her by her hips as she pressed herself to my chest and body. The dress rode up her legs and bared her more of her thighs to me.

After a few minutes of some passionate kissing she broke away and started to undo the buttons on my shirt and then pulled it out of my pants before pushing it off my shoulders. She caressed my shoulders and chest so I caressed her bare shoulders and moved down her back. She leaned back in and started kissing my neck as she kept her hands moving on my body.

I had my hands down to her hips and continued down to caress her bare thighs below the hem of the dress. She moaned as she sucked on my neck and moved her hand down to caress me just above my belt line. That started my erection growing and she must have felt it because she moved her lower body closer to grind herself on it. That made me groan and I grabbed her hips and pulled her tight against me.

"Someone's happy to see me," she whispered into my ear as she hugged me tightly to her.

I brought my hands up and caressed her bare back and shoulders again and then started kissing her neck. She moaned and started grinding herself on me, making sure her pussy contacted my erection. She dry humped me for a bit as my fingers found the zipper of her dress and pulled it down. That got her attention and she broke away from me.

"Not here Michael, too many windows," she said, reaching back to zip it up.

"Sorry, I got carried away," I apologized.

"Don't apologize, I don't mind, we just need to move to the bedroom," she said, cupping my cheek and kissing me softly.

She stood up and helped pull me off the couch before taking my hand and leading me down the hall and into the first bedroom. She sat me down on the bed and moved to stand between my legs. She reached behind her and undid the dress and the top of it loosened to bare her breasts. I reached for her hips and pulled her close and kissed one and then the other breast as she ran her fingers through my hair and directed me to each one. I sucked and nibbled on her nipples as my hands travelled down her back and started caressing her ass through the dress.

She moaned and had to hang onto my shoulders as I moved my hands to the bottom of the dress and then moved them back up to caress her bare ass, finding a small thong just barely covering her. I squeezed and massaged her cheeks and ran a hand down her crack to slip in between them, teasing her as she arched her back to press her ass back against my hand.

Her legs were together as she was between my legs, so I moved my hands around to her front and caressed her underneath the dress as I opened my legs wider. She in turn opened her legs and left me room to explore. I reached down and cupped her pussy through her small thong. She was soaking wet and I quickly moved the thong to one side and lightly drew my fingers through her pussy and then started rubbing it gently, eventually finding her clit as she gasped loudly, her knees almost buckling.

I looked up at her as I continued to suck on her nipples and slowly inserted a finger inside her as I rubbed her clit with my thumb. She threw her head back in passion as she held herself up by holding on to my shoulders. Soon she was moving her hips as she ground herself onto my hand, moaning loudly every time my finger went in deeper.

"Michael, that feels so good," she said, looking back down at me. "I can't believe how wet I'm for you."

"You look so beautiful right now, I love turning you on," I told her as I sped up my hand.

"Oh yeah, that's it Michael, you're making me so hot, I want you to make me cum, I waited so long for this, please, I need you so bad!" she pleaded.

I lightly bit on a nipple and pressed a bit harder on her clit and she screamed as her body convulsed on my hand, her juices drenching it as her knees buckled. I held her up with my other hand as her hips moved her pussy on my hand.

"Oh God, I'm cumming, I'm cumming, Oh Michael!" she said as she continued to move herself on my finger and held herself by digging her nails into the skin on my shoulders.

Eventually she stopped moving herself and looked down at me through her hair with a fulfilled look. I started moving my hand again and she bit her lip as I looked up at her. I continued until she moaned again and then stood up and got her turned and sitting on the bed, my hand not leaving or stopping. She moved herself back while spreading her legs and watching me with hooded eyes. She was propped up on her elbows and her dress was bunched around her waist, baring her breasts and pussy for me. I leaned over and kissed her hard and she returned the passion. I broke away and moved down to lick and suck her breasts for a bit while I continued to slowly finger her. Her hips moved in time with me and she moaned every time I went in deeper than normal. I lowered my head to her pussy and licked up some of her juices before licking her exposed clit.

"Oh God, that feels fantastic Michael, I'm so wet and hot for you," she said as she grasped my head. "Lick my pussy Michael, suck my clit, oh yeah eat me!"

I proceeded to bring her back up to a boil as she moaned and thrust her hips up at my face. I kept her up on a plateau for a while as she begged me to let her come.

"Michael, please let me cum, I'm so ready to cum," she moaned. "I'll do anything you want, please let me cum."

I finally took pity on her and inserted a second finger into her and sped up my hand as I took her clit into my mouth and lightly bit on it as I sucked on it hard.

That did the trick as she screamed loudly and arched her back to lift herself off the bed as her legs kicked against my back. She thrust her pussy against my hand and face for about a half minute until she finally relaxed and fell back to the bed. I let her legs down and moved from between them. I pulled her thong off her legs and put it on the chair before getting undressed. I put a condom on and moved back to the end of the bed.

I was so ready for her and I knew I wouldn't last long so I didn't want her to get too relaxed and come down too far. I lifted her legs and spread them as I moved in between them. I quickly rubbed the tip of my cock in her juices and looked down at her as she opened her eyes.

"That was fantastic Michael, you were the best ever," she said, reaching up to pull me down for a kiss. "Oh my, someone's eager!"

She had felt my cock at her opening and her eyes opened wide as it slid in a bit.

"Oh God, you're so big," she groaned as she instinctively spread her legs wider. "Please be gentle, it's been a while and you're huge!"

I smiled down at her and backed out and slid in a bit farther, repeating it gently as she looked up at me with first a worried look and then as it got easier, a more lustful one. I pushed in farther then and she gasped and grabbed my ass and held me in her as her legs wrapped around me.

"I've got you now Michael Stewart, and I'm not letting go until you cum inside me," she said as she squeezed my cock with her pussy.

"I'll be happy to Kristen Stewart, as soon as you loosen up a bit so I can get to work," I replied, kissing her passionately.

She moaned into my mouth as I pulled back and thrust deep into her and started fucking her. She loosened her legs and spread them wide again as I went in until our pelvises hit together.

"Oh God, you're all the way inside me, I feel all of you," she said. "Fuck me now Michael, I need it so bad!"

I got up on my elbows and proceeded to fuck her as the lady instructed. Luckily the condom desensitized me so I didn't come in the first five minutes. She was moaning and mumbling the whole time and every so often she would thrust up and gasp loudly and hold that position for a bit while squeezing my cock hard with her pussy.

I knew I was getting close, so I pulled out of her to calm down.

"What's wrong Michael, are you ok?" she asked, looking worried. "It was fantastic, believe me; I've been coming every five minutes."

"It's been a while and I didn't want to cum so early," I told her. "I'm glad you're enjoying it. How about we try a new position?"

"Sure Michael, anything you want," she agreed quickly. "And don't worry, you've made me feel so good, don't hold back anymore, I want you to cum now. What positions do you like the best?"

She scrambled up onto her knees and kissed me hard and then took a second to work her dress over her head.

"How's that? Better for you?" she asked eagerly.

She moved close and rubbed herself on me, her breast on my chest as she grabbed my cock with her hand.

"I want this back in me now, Michael," she said as she kissed me.

I pushed her back a bit and spun her around and then pulled her back to my chest, her back and butt up against me. My cock flopped against her ass and I lowered my hips to get it to slide under her ass.

"Oh yes Michael, fuck me from behind, take me hard," she said as she looked over her shoulder and reached behind to grab my cock.

She pointed it in the right direction and lowered herself onto her hands and knees. I quickly grabbed her hips as she reached underneath her to make sure I went in the right hole. She guided me in and then was still as I thrust forward while pulling back her hips.

"Oh my God, you're in even deeper!" she said. "You're going to split me in half!"

I felt her hand rubbing my shaft and her clit as I started fucking her. I went slowly until she seemed comfortable with it and then sped up.

"Yeah Michael, fuck me harder, it feels so good now," she said as she looked back at me. "I want you to cum inside me. Don't worry, I'm getting close too, don't hold back, fuck me hard."

"Ok Kris, I'm ready to let loose," I told her.

I sped up and thrust in deeper and she gasped and put her head down on the pillow. I pulled her back every time I thrust into her and she moaned every time. Finally I lost control and sped up as I felt ready to explode. I heard her scream loudly as I shouted and started cumming into the condom as I thrust as deep as I could go. I had to thrust about six times before I finally finished.

She moaned loudly each time I thrust into her and then just mumbled as I gasped for air.

"Oh my God, Oh my God, I'm cumming, I'm cumming, you're filling me up so good," she said as she gripped the covers hard.

I let go of her hips and she slid off my cock to lie flat on her stomach as I held onto the condom. I made a quick trip to the bathroom to flush it down the toilet and wash up. I brought a washcloth back with me and grabbed a couple of waters from the sitting room before going back to the room.

She was still on her stomach but had stopped talking and her eyes were closed. I put a bottle on her night stand along with the washcloth and then lay down on the other side of her.

She opened her eyes when she felt me close and gave me a very satisfied smile.

"Hi there, you look very happy," I said with a grin.

"You made me very, very happy Michael," she said. "I have never been as completely satisfied as I am right now. You were spectacular."

"The pleasure was entirely mine," I told her. "I loved how passionate you were and you looked so beautiful when you're excited. Thank you so much for a wonderful experience."

"The pleasure was mine as well, and I the one who should be thanking you," she said, reaching a hand to cup my face.

I smiled and kissed the palm of her hand.

"There's water on your night stand and a washcloth if you need it," I told her.

"I'm not moving from this position the rest of the night," she informed me. "I'm staying the night obviously."

"Sounds good to me, I'll get to play with your naked sexy body all night and in the morning," I said with a grin.

"Go ahead, but I'll be dead to the world soon," she replied.

"You're going to catch a cold silly, at least get under the covers," I told her.

"Nope, don't have the energy to move," she mumbled.

I stood up and walked around. I slipped my hands under her and lifted her up off the bed.

"Michael, what are you doing?" she shrieked.

I flipped her over so she was looking up at me and kissed her as she quickly put her arms around my neck to hold on. I used my bottom hand to pull the covers back and then lowered her to the bed.

"You're a big meany!" she said, not letting me go.

I kissed her and caressed her stomach a bit as she moaned.

"Ok, you're not such a meany after all," she sighed.

"Could you let me go so I can join you?"

"Alright, but you better come right back to me," she said.

She loosened her arms and I stood up and walked around the bed and got back in under the covers. She watched me the whole time and waited until I was settled before moving so she was lying right next to me, resting her head on my chest.

"Now I can sleep," she said with a sigh.

"Alright, you have a good sleep Kris, I'll see you in the morning," I told her.

"Goodnight Mikey," she replied and was soon snoring lightly.

I followed her into dreamland soon after.

Tuesday morning I woke up, a bit disoriented, holding a woman. It came back to me and I looked at Kris as she slept soundly. The clock said six am so it was nine back home. I really had to go, so I eased out from behind her and left her sleeping. After my bathroom break, I did some stretches in the sitting room and then decided to go get a workout in the hotel's gym. I left Kris a note after getting into my sweats and took the elevator down to the main floor and followed the signs to their exercise room.

I did half hour on the elliptical and then did a full workout, mostly using the full weights on each machine, just doing more reps than usual. After I was done, I went back up to the room, checked to see that Kris was still sleeping, and then had a shower.

I got dressed and then had to wake her as it was already eight thirty.

"Hey Kris, its eight thirty, time to get up if you're coming to breakfast," I told her as I shook her shoulder.

"Go by yourself," she mumbled, trying to swat my hand.

"You sure?" I asked.

"Yeah, too tired and sore, "she replied and fell back asleep.

"OK, I'll try and be back by ten," I said and left the room.

I stood out on the balcony for a bit, looking out at the hills and the studio. I thought about Kris and what we should do. I realized I wanted to keep seeing her, even though it would be an even longer distance relationship than the one before. Hopefully she wanted the same thing, she seemed to like me and want me well enough last night.

When it was time, I headed downstairs via the elevator and joined Katie in the restaurant.

"Hi Katie, you look well rested," I said with a smile.

"You do as well; your friend didn't tucker you out?" she asked with a grin.

"No, I was up at six and had a workout already," I told her.

The waitress came over and we ordered our breakfasts.

"So what's on the agenda?" I asked.

"We leave at two fifteen to go to the Warner Brother's studio a few minutes away, and then we get you in makeup and pick what you're going to wear," she said. "You did bring a bunch of clothes right?"

"Yep, a full garment bag and a suitcase," I told her.

"Good," she replied. "Then one of their assistants and I will walk you through what's going to happen and coach you on how to act and what to say. We want you to act naturally, except don't tell any jokes."

"Not you too!" I said, shaking my head.

"Please Michael, it's cute when you do it with us, but not on national television please," she begged.

"Fine, but I bet Ellen would get my humour," I said with a pout.

"Let's not try it the first time she meets you," she suggested.

Our food came and we ate as we discussed our first shoot in March.

"We need to pick a model soon, they have to be booked well in advance Mike," she told me.

"I'll look through the file tomorrow and let you know who I like, but I can work with just about anyone if you have any in mind," I told her.

"Ok, the pictures are in order of who we think would look best with you, so let me know if you like any of them and we'll get two or three of them booked for Jamaica," she said. "I'm sure they would love to visit you in Michigan if you have time for them."

"We'll see about that, the girls probably would kill me if I even had a conversation with them, let alone dinner," I said.

"This is business Michael, I can't have you and the models hating each other, you have to look comfortable and even cozy together," she said. "You're not a good actor, so it has to be real. So you will get visits and at least get acquainted with them and the girls will butt out."

"Yes Ma'am," I said.

"I'll speak to them tomorrow, I might just come back with you and talk some things over with them face to face," she mused. "They're not your mother or your wives and I can't have you stressing about them."

"Whatever you can do would be appreciated," I said. "I like them all but they really get into my business."

"I'll see what I can do," she promised.

We finished up our breakfast and got ready to leave.

"So what are you up to now?" I asked.

"I'm going to do some shopping and see the district manager for CK for lunch," she said. "Do you need the driver to take you anywhere?"

"I don't think so, you can use her if you like," I said.

"Too bad you had to meet your friend, that Danni is very cute," she said with a grin.

"She is, you enjoy her for the both of us," I said.

"Michael, how could you say such a thing?" she asked.

"Hey, I'm not judging at all, go ahead have some fun if you like her," I said.

"How did you know?" she asked.

"Just a guess," I said. "Believe me; it doesn't affect our relationship, except now I'll be picturing the two of you together. Get me some pictures and I'll be happy."

"Like I can make that happen," she responded dryly. "Ok, you have fun with your friend and I'll try and have fun with our driver and shopping. We'll pick you up at two fifteen in the lobby. You have to check out before we leave so make sure you're all showered and packed by two. Call me if your friend is coming to the show so I can get her on the guest list."

"Ok, Katie, enjoy yourself and I'll see you at two fifteen," I said as we got up.

She walked to the lobby with the phone in her hand while I went to the elevators and took one up to the top floor. I opened the door and almost ran into Kris as she was heading for the door. She was back in her disguise from last night, complete with hat and her bag on her shoulder.

"Damn," she said. "I didn't want to do this face to face."

"Hey Kris, what's wrong? You're going without even saying goodbye?" I asked in shock.

"I have to go Michael, you're right that we can't be together because of what will happen," she said. "I wanted to make a clean break of it so it wouldn't be so hard on either of us."

"Maybe I was wrong about that," I said. "Maybe it wouldn't be so bad. I'm willing to try if you are. After last night, I thought we would be closer, not farther away."

"Michael, last night was too good," she said sadly. "I'll always want that and we'll be apart so much. I need that from a person that will be nearby all the time."

"You can visit Michigan and stay with me and l can visit here fairly often," I told her. "I'm surprised I'm the one trying to convince you. Last night you seemed very happy. What happened this morning?"

She looked at me and then put her bag down and took off her hat and coat and pulled me to the parlour and sat me down.

"Michael, you're a great guy, a fantastic lover and I would love to be with you every day," she said. "But, in the light of the day, when I looked at our schedules, I realized that I was being selfish trying to keep you for myself. We'll be apart for almost the whole year and neither of us can last that long without some sort of companionship. Add in all the media crap and it's not worth the hassle to be together in name only. You, and I, deserve better than that."

"So why were you running out on me?" I asked. "I'm a big boy, I could have handled this."

"Maybe I couldn't, ok!" she replied a bit angrily. "I wanted this to work and after last night my feelings for you got deeper. I don't want to do this but I have to let you go."

"Listen, so we don't announce it to the world, we can still be private friends and I hope private lovers," I suggested. "You can come and see me and vice versa and with the web and phones we can keep in regular contact. I don't need to have anyone know about us and you have even less reason to."

"Michael, you're sweet and I'll always remember last night, I doubt that anyone will ever surpass it," she said. "But we're young and now's not the time to tie each other down when we're obviously going to be separated for a year. So, let's just be long distance friends for now and we'll see how things go when you're done school and a little less busy. Enjoy the girls near you and tell me about it when we correspond."

I looked at her and sighed.

"Are you sure about this Kris, because I think we can make this work," I said. "Sure we would be apart a lot, but we could get together a few times. I'm willing to put the effort in because I care a lot for you. We don't have to make it a clean break."

"It's for the best right now Michael, I'm sure of it," she responded. "I want you as a friend, and who knows, we can be secret friends with benefits in a while, but for now, let's just stick to friends."

"This isn't some test or an act is it?" I asked. "I'm being truthful and honest, I care for you and I'll be with you if that's what you want. But if you just want to be friends, I'll be that too. This wasn't about a one night stand for me."

She smiled and said, "It's no test or act Mike, and it wasn't supposed to be a one night stand for me either. It's just the right thing to do and neither of us can be selfish about it."

"Ok, you win, friends it is," I said with as sigh. "I swear I'll never understand women."

"You understand them quite well, you're an incredible lover and a great guy," she corrected me. "I can't believe you're only eighteen. How did you get so good?"

"I'm really not that experienced, so I just have one rule, the lady's pleasure always comes first and hopefully often," I told her. "After that, things seem to work out ok."

"You are a genius," she said with a grin as she stood up.

I gave her a hug and a kiss and walked her to the door. She put on her disguise and looked up at me.

"You take care of yourself Mike and try not to be so serious," she said. "Have some fun with this fame thing."

"Maybe," I said. "You sure you can't stick around, I'm alone for another four hours here."

"No, if I stick around I'll change my mind for sure and we'll end up back in bed," she said.

"I'm fine with that," I said with a grin.

She shook her head and picked up her bag.

"Michael, thank you for a wonderful night and I'm sorry to abandon you, but it's for the best," she said. "I'll send you an email in a few days."

"Ok Kristen, I had a wonderful night as well, one that I'll never forget," I said. "You better keep in touch or I'll come back here and I won't let you go so easily. We're not done with each other."

"Ok Mike, I promise to keep in touch," she agreed.

She gave me a kiss and then she was out the door and out of my life again. I went and sat down in the parlour for a bit and then got up and retrieved my book bag. No rest for the wicked, I said to myself as I got busy finishing my programming assignments.

Two hours later I took a break and headed downstairs to have lunch. I sat at a small table and had a simple burger and fries while most of the others around me had fancy salads and weird looking dishes that shouldn't have filled a kid up let alone an adult. Of course I got some looks when my normal burger and fries came out. I ignored the stares and ate with relish. And no, I didn't have relish on my burger; it means I ate with gusto.

I went back up and did some research online for my paper on Aristotle. I read several articles and papers on his philosophies and got a feel for his point of view. I put a few sentences down in a word document and started a bibliography to be included at the end of the paper. Soon enough it was time to get ready for the show. I had another shower and then did a good shave and flossing. I picked a nice shirt and dress pants and put them on, along with a good set of shoes.

A quick packing of my stuff and I was off to the lobby. I handed in my keys and looked for Katie in the lobby. When I didn't find her, I went outside to look for Danni's limo. I found it parked in the lot so either they were in the back or up in the room. I smiled and went back to wait in the lobby.

At two twenty the two ladies came out of the elevators and walked up to me.

"Sorry we're late Mike, shall we get going?" Katie said quickly.

"Looking good there Mike," Danni said as she walked by, carrying a suitcase.

I picked up mine and we followed the sexy chauffeur to the car.

"Did you two have fun?" I asked Katie.

"She was very delightful, you would have enjoyed her Mike," Katie said with a smile.

"I'm sure I would have," I agreed, watching the long legs of our driver in her short skirt.

Soon enough we were on our way to the studio and pulled up to the private gate. Katie took care of the details and we drove onto the lot and Danni followed the directions to the studio.

I got out and grabbed my garment bag out of the trunk. I had four mix and match outfits and a couple pairs of different coloured socks and shoes stuffed into it so I had enough choices for Katie and whoever else was in the decision making process. Katie talked to Danni for a minute and then turned to lead me inside.

"Good luck Mike," Danni said with a grin. "I'll see you both later."

I waved and said thanks before following Katie inside. She found an assistant who pointed us in the right direction. Soon enough we were ensconced in dressing room three; presumably the more important guests got the first two.

Over the next hour I changed into everyone of my outfits to let Katie and Debbie, the wardrobe expert assigned to me, mix and match until they had me in a set of light grey casual pants with pleats and a snug slightly darker grey shirt with a couple of buttons undone.

They sent in the makeup and hair ladies and then Marcy, an assistant director, sat with me and Katie to explain the format of the show.

Ellen did a dance through the audience and then did some things with callers at the beginning. After the second commercial break, the first guest came out and had their visit, usually lasting through two commercial breaks. The second guest was a singer and would do a song and then talk a bit with Ellen. After a commercial break, I would go on and have a conversation about modeling, how it happened, a bit about my life and what was in the future. They both advised me to let Ellen tell the jokes and just stick to the facts when answering her questions.

They coached me on how to walk, wave to the audience, shake Ellen's hand, and even how to sit and where to look.

"Wow, there's a lot to keep track of and do correctly," I said after they got through it all.

"If you do it right and you'll be a hit," Marcy said. "Our audience is mostly women so they're going to love you."

"I'll settle for them not lynching me," I replied.

Marcy headed out to handle some things and said they would start shooting in about an hour.

"Ok, just relax a bit Mike, I'm going out to make some calls," Katie said as she left the room, leaving the door open.

I sat back on the couch and read my database textbook to try and relax. There was a fair bit of traffic in the hallway that I tried to ignore, but I looked up when a bunch of people went by loudly. I saw a tall woman with blonde hair pass by with an entourage but only caught the back of her head.

Eventually Katie came back in and let me know it was time to move to the green room. Ellen was just about to start her dancing intro and we could catch it on the monitors there. The room was crowded with two groups on either side of the room, not mixing with each other, but both very loud as they gathered around their main attraction. On the left was an older woman, who I recognized as an American politician who was on the losing side in last year's election. On the right, was a young, tall, blonde country singer whose songs were carrying over to the pop charts.

"Wow, we didn't bring enough people in our entourage, we're not going to be able to take them with just the two of us," I whispered to Katie.

She smiled up at me, "Ok, that was a little funny. Let's grab those chairs other there before we're crushed by accident."

I chuckled as we got through to the other side of the room before the groups expanded to close the pathway off. We sat on a couple of chairs and watched as Ellen did her dance and other things she usually did at the beginning of the show. She introduced her three guests and the audience cheered loudly each time.

"At least there wasn't dead silence after I was introduced," I said to Katie.

"Don't worry, our polls have you doing very well with women from teens up to forties," Katie said. "This is our target audience, so you'll do fine out there."

Soon, the politician moved out of the room along with her posse. It got noticeably quieter and I could hear the TV.

"Don't look now, but you have some admirers in the room," Katie whispered.

I looked up at the TV for a bit and then glanced at the singer's group. They were a mixed bag of men and women, but the inner three close to the singer were all young women and all of them and the singer were looking over at me. I smiled at them and they looked away and started whispering amongst themselves, a couple of giggles escaping from them.

I turned back to Katie and asked, "So, are you coming back with me or going straight to New York?" I asked.

"I'm actually staying overnight and then flying direct to New York in the morning," she said with a blush. "You could stay too and spend time with your friend."

"We decided to just be friends, so no need for that," I said.

"Oh, sorry Michael," she responded and thought for a few seconds. "You could join Danni and I if you like, we would love to have you."

I smiled and replied, "Thank you for that wonderful offer, but I have to get back in time for practice. I'll take a video of your activities if you don't mind though."

"Yeah right, I doubt she would go for that," Katie said dryly.

"Excuse me?" a voice said.

We looked up to see the four girls standing close and the rest of her entourage looking at us in behind them.

"Sorry, we didn't hear you come up," I said as I stood up. "Hello ladies, I'm Mike and this is Katie."

"Hi, I'm Taylor, and this is Emily, Sadie and Nancy," the singer introduced her party.

"Ladies, it's a pleasure to meet all of you, you look beautiful this afternoon," I replied.

"Thank you kind sir, you look very handsome as well," Taylor replied with a smile.

"Thank Katie, I'd look like a lumberjack if she wasn't around," I said.

They smiled at my humour attempt.

"So, we were wondering if you would like to come to my concert tonight as my guest." Taylor asked.

"I'm sorry but I'm flying out right after the show, I have to get back to Michigan for morning practice," I said. "I would have loved to attend if my schedule wasn't so tight. I don't suppose you'll be in New York next Monday night or in Michigan soon?"

"I'm not sure, I'll check my schedule before we leave," Taylor said, looking disappointed. "Are you sure you can't miss your practice? I thought you were a model?"

"I'm a student at the University of Michigan and I also play on their hockey team," I told her. "I already missed both of today's practices, so I can't miss another. I'm sorry; I really would have liked to see you perform."

"Really, a student, a hockey player and a model, that seems a bit much don't you think?" she asked.

"It certainly keeps me hopping," I agreed. "I don't have much free time for the foreseeable future, but I'm keeping my head above water."

"Hmm, I should say not," Taylor mused. "So how are we supposed to get to know one another if you leave right away?"

"I guess we'll have to email and talk on the phone until you can come close to Michigan," I suggested. "I usually have games Friday and Saturday night so we would have to work around that and the usual school and practices. I'm sure you're super busy as well, on tour and recording albums, let alone all these publicity events."

"That seems like an awful lot of work for someone I don't know anything about, doesn't it ladies?" she asked. "He doesn't seem to be putting out much of an effort to win me over."

Two of them agreed with her right away, but Sadie spoke up, "Taylor, you might want to reconsider, Mike is willing to fit you into an already very busy schedule, and he's obviously not your average Hollywood teen star like your previous guys. He has an impressive work ethic and he's certainly tall enough for you."

"You have a point Sadie," Taylor agreed. "So Mike, are you worth the effort?"

"Probably not," I said, trying to get out of this mess politely. "I'm sure to disappoint you, sooner or later. It was a pleasure to meet you Taylor, ladies. Good luck today and tonight at your concert. If you would excuse me, I have to go make a call."

I smiled pleasantly and then walked out of the room and found a restroom down the hall. I used the urinal and then washed my hands and looked in the mirror.

'How could you just blow off one of the most popular singers in the country, you idiot?' I asked my reflection.

'Because she's a prima donna and you don't need the hassle in your life' I responded to myself.

'But she's so hot and tall and blonde and beautiful and talented?' I argued.

'Yes, but she's also very popular, busy, and probably self centred and vain, ' I rebutted.

'Ok, someone's going to come in and cart you off to the loony bin, ' I told myself before leaving the washroom and going back to the green room.

I felt a bunch of eyes on me as I walked through the room and sat beside Katie, who was looking annoyed.

"Why did you leave me here alone? They've been staring at me the whole time you've been gone," she whispered fiercely.

"Sorry, it was leave or be rude and sit down," I said. "Just ignore them and they will be out of here shortly. Neither one of us have time for a person like that in our lives."

I watched the TV and saw Ellen and the woman laughing about something just before they broke for a commercial. That got the singer and her entourage talking again as they gathered their stuff and slowly moved to the door. Sadie turned to me and winked before following the other three girls out the door.

"Finally, some peace and quiet," I said with a sigh. "I can't believe those two need so many people around them. I've never seen so many yes people in one room in my life."

"It's normal in their industry Mike, it makes them feel important," she replied.

"Remind me never to get like that," I told her.

We watched until the politician was done and then I got up to walk around and stretch for a bit. Finally Taylor was introduced and she did her Romeo and Juliet song, whatever the title was. She looked good and sounded great I admitted to myself.

When the song was over Ellen came over and they hugged and then cut to a commercial. Katie and I walked out of the room and went to stand by the stage manager.

"Slight change in plans, Ellen is going to talk to Taylor at the main stage for a bit," the man said. "Just stay close and you can watch on the monitor over there."

The band filed by and the two girls smirked at me while Sadie mouthed sorry.

"Something's up," I said to Katie.

"I bet she'll try and monopolize the rest of the time," Katie said, with a frown. "You shouldn't have rejected her Mike."

"I guess not," I replied with a grin. "I better keep quiet on the Letterman thing or she'll sabotage that too."

"It's not funny Mike, we spent a lot of time and money to get this set up, including commercial time," Katie said. "They are not going to be happy about this back at the home office."

"Hey, they won't know why it happened, just that it happened, so they'll be angry at the show, not me or you," I said.

"True, but I hate to waste all of that time and effort," she said.

"At least we got to see our friends out here," I said.

As we suspected, Taylor and Ellen talked the whole next session and as they went to break, I say Taylor whispering to Ellen and Ellen smiled and nodded.

"That did it," I said.

A couple minutes later, the stage manager came up to us and said, "Sorry folks, Ellen and Taylor have a big announcement to make; so we're going to have to bump you to another show."

"We understand, thanks," I said. "Let's go, might as well get to the airport."

"Wait, I'm sure they will want to reschedule you," the man said.

"Unfortunately, this was a one day shot," I replied.

I led the way to the dressing room and quickly wiped off the makeup before getting changed into some jeans and a tee shirt.

"Ok, let's go Katie, it's a long flight back," I said, grabbing my garment bag and textbook.

We walked out of the studio and found Danni waiting in the car. We rapped on the window and she let us in.

"Done already? How did it go?" she asked.

"Taylor Swift used up our time, on purpose," Katie said. "Mike turned her down, politely; but she obviously decided to use her power to get revenge."

"Sorry guys, I know this meant a lot to you," she said. "Where to now?"

"We better head to the airport, both of us," Katie said. "I'm going to have head back tonight if I can get a flight. Sorry Danni, but the head office is going to be in an uproar over this."

"That's ok Katie, just make sure to look me up when you come back out here, both of you," Danni responded.

"We will, you can bet on it," Katie replied. "Think about what I asked as well."

"I will," Danni responded.

She got the car started and got us on the freeway, heading back into LA. Traffic was busy but she guided us to the airport quickly and had me there in time to catch my flight. I had said my goodbyes to Kate in the limo and quickly said goodbye to Danni before heading to the departure desk and checking in my suitcase and garment bag. I had to hurry through the airport to get to the right gate, but I made it as they were calling final boarding.

I showed my boarding pass and quickly walked down to the plane and got into my seat. I put my book bag under my seat and buckled up as they shut the door to the cabin. The seat beside me was empty, which was a blessing as I planned to try and get some sleep on the way back.

Soon we were in the air and could take off our seatbelts. I had a diet coke and some chips and then studied for a bit. After dinner, I settled down for a nap and luckily fell asleep about nine California time, close to half way through the flight.

The flight attendant woke me up when we about to land and I quickly packed up my books and buckled my seatbelt. We landed about two thirty am and I was in my SUV just after three. I drove to the condo and unpacked my stuff, starting a load of laundry, as it was already after four and I would only get about an hour of sleep if I went to bed. I would just feel worse than I did now, so I had some breakfast and did a full set of stretches and forms before having a shower.

I drove to the arena and got out onto the ice just after Rolf finished his trip around. I helped him set up the goals and Patrick on the one end and then did my usual stretching and skating warm-ups. I had a longer shooting practice than usual and then rested on the bench.

"So how was your trip?" Fred asked.

"Hi coach," I said before replying to his question. "The trip was ok, but the result was crap. A singer hogged the rest of the time on the show and bumped me off. Other than seeing a friend, it was a waste, I'm afraid."

"Sorry to hear that, I guess that happens now and again," he said.

"I guess so," I agreed. "Did I miss much yesterday?"

"No, just more of what we did on Monday," Fred replied. "I had Ian take your spot and he managed ok, so I don't have any worries about you."

He excused himself and I went back out to shoot and skate some more until the team joined me. John asked me how it went and I told him the whole story. He laughed at me and told me that for a genius, I was pretty stupid sometimes. I agreed with him and told him I was going to avoid the high priced talent from now on. It didn't pay to associate with them. They always seemed to disappoint you in the end.

Practice was tough on only a couple hours of sleep on the plane, but I managed not to look like a fool. I got through Algebra and Calculus without too much trouble and had a quick banter with Professor Hiller before having a big lunch with a large diet coke to keep me awake. I checked my cell and had to turn it on as I had forgotten to after I had shut it off on the plane. I had five messages that I had to listen to.

Kristen had left one, telling me she was sorry again, and to call or email when I could. Katie had called and said she was in the office and dealing with the bigwigs. The show's producer had called and apologized and tried to get us back so Katie left it up to me if I wanted to try again.

The third call was from Mitsy and Casey, asking how it went and the fourth was from Sadie, who apologized for what happened and gave me her phone and email address if I wanted to talk to her. She was a real cutie, one of the back-up singers for Taylor, but if Taylor was busy, so was Sadie. I would have to think about it before I got involved with her.

I checked my emails and found one from Aunt Nancy with some information about my inheritance from my dad's parents and a request for some information about my parents and myself. Also attached was a picture of my cousins sleeping with their stuffed animals I got them. I made that my desktop on my laptop and made a note to get a picture printed of that and framed for the condo. I responded with the information that the lawyer needed and thanked her for the picture.

After a dull philosophy class, where we started the next generation of philosophers, I walked to the arena and did a full workout before having another shower. I waited for the girls in the tunnel and Asuka popped down to talk to me.

"You look tired Michael, the trip did not go well?" she asked.

"Not really, I got bumped off the show and I've had only a couple of hours of sleep in the last couple of days," I said.

"I'm sorry to hear that, you better make sure to tell the girls so they don't pop over like they had planned," she told me.

"Ok, try and help me convince them if you could," I asked. "By the way, you look very pretty today, you're looking very American."

"Thank you Michael, I'm trying hard to fit in," Asuka replied. "Did you resolve things with your friend out there?"

"We're just going to remain friends," I told her.

"I'm sorry, I know you were wishing for more," she replied.

"I don't know if I was wishing for more, or just a decision on where it was going," I said. "We both can move on now I guess."

"The girls will love to hear that," she said as she walked away, her tight jeans showing off her nice butt.

I just shook my head as she went back up to watch the girls. I waited for them to exit and smiled at the ladies as they walked by.

"So, how was it?" Mitsy asked.

"Not good, I got bumped by a singer," I told them.

"Aw, I'm sorry to hear that, we were so looking forward to it," Casey said, putting her hand on my forearm.

"And how about you and your friend?" Mitsy asked.

"We're still friends," I said.

"That's it?" she asked.

"That's it," I confirmed.

"Hmm, not a good trip for you at all," Mitsy stated. "You look tired, you better get some sleep after practice; we won't bother you unless you want company."

"Thanks, but I'll fall asleep on you as soon as I get in the door," I told her.

"Ok, but we'll talk after our training tomorrow night," Casey said.

"Alright," I said.

I watched as they walked away and they looked back and smiled before disappearing. I could do much worse than Casey, I said to myself. Maybe I should stop being an idiot and just ask her out. I thought about that as I did my stretches and skating and decided to wait until after the next trip.

After practice, I picked up some chicken for dinner and drove home. I had a plateful of food and put the rest in the fridge. I checked the messages and then email before setting the alarm and falling asleep.

Thursday I felt better as I got up, but still needed caffeine to wake up fully. I had a little more zip in practice and my shots had a bit more power to them. John and I stood together resting before practice started.

"Listen, if you're going to be helping me in May and June, I want to make sure Amanda is ok with it," I told him. "So I'm taking you two with me on my next shoot on March break. How does Jamaica sound for a week?"

"No shit?" he asked. "That would be fantastic Mike, I'm sure Amanda would love to go and so would I. Thanks man, I really appreciate it."

"Hey, I wouldn't have any of this if you hadn't helped me out in the beginning," I said.

"And I'll be helping you in May and June as well," he stated. "I'm going to get you in the top five if it kills you."

"You're all heart," I said as we rejoined the team.

Practice was particularly intense as it was the last day before we left for South Bend. After we were run into the ice, we were let go and had to rush to our classes.

I made it to programming class a couple minutes late and slipped in the back quietly and found a seat. It was a long lecture and I was glad I was there to take notes. After it was over, I handed in my next assignment as I wouldn't be there next Tuesday again. I got the next assignment and the chapters the prof was going to cover and told him that next week was it for missing classes.

I headed off to lunch and worked on homework while eating. When it was time, I walked to the other programming class and sat through a lecture encompassing one chapter before handing in next week's assignment and getting the next one.

I walked to the arena and checked my messages and found one from Katie reminding me to look through the model folder and get back to her tonight. It was possible to get someone to Michigan for Saturday if she knew tonight. If I didn't pick, they would send the model from Toronto, Ellen Bradshaw, instead. I made a note to go through the file after practice before heading to defence training.

I entered the arena and had a workout before saying hi to the girls in the tunnel. Practice focused on our switching plays and how to call it on the fly, for both offensive and defensive scenarios. We kept at it until every line and defence pair had it down pat before they let us go.

After changing, I drove home and had a quick bite to eat while looking through the pictures and short bio of the models. All of them were tall, over five nine and in great shape. There were probably three of each hair colour and all different skin tones, from pale white, to dark black. They were all beautiful to me and the order seemed fine to me, except for a younger blonde model, just eighteen, that just screamed cute when she smiled. I phoned Katie and told her the order was fine except I had one model who I thought was particularly cute.

"I bet I know who, it's Trisha isn't it?" Katie asked with a laugh.

"How did you know?" I asked.

"Because we have the same taste in women Michael," Katie replied. "I'll set it up and send her to you. She's new and begging for work, so I know she'll want the first shot at working with you. Enjoy yourself with her, and try not to fall too deeply."

"Ok, Katie, let me know when she's coming in," I said. "Talk to you soon."

I called down to Barb and Melanie's apartment and Barb answered.

"Hello?"

"Hey Red, you ladies need a ride in a warm SUV?" I asked in a deep voice.

"Oh ya, we'll ride with you anytime, big boy," she said in a sexy voice.

"Wow, that sounded hot," I said.

"Why thank you Mikey," she replied. "I hope it turned you on."

I heard giggling in the background and replied, "Oh yeah! So I'll walk down in a few minutes and we can ride down together."

"Sounds good," she replied. "See you in a few."

I grabbed some water and my gym bag and put the alarm on before using the stairs to go down a floor and knock on her door. I heard someone look through the peek hole before opening the door.

"Hi Michael," Asuka said and pulled me in.

"Hi Asuka," I replied as I walked into the living room to see the three college girls all sitting around the table.

"Hello ladies, all set to go?" I asked them.

"Hi Mikey!" they said in unison.

"We're ready as soon as Melanie is," Barb said.

Melanie came out of a room in a nice dress and heels.

"Hi Mike, I won't be joining you tonight, I have a date with a manager from work," she said. "I hope you don't mind?"

"Of course not, I'm happy for you," I said. "Have fun tonight."

We all headed out and rode the elevator down to the garage. We made sure Melanie got the car started and off safely before we followed her out the garage. I headed to the Dojo and we arrived in short order. Asuka and I walked them into the front and Asuka went with them all the way to their classroom.

She nodded when she came back and we proceeded around to the back. We started with our stretches and then warmed up on the equipment before performing the forms and blocks. We then worked through attacks and blocks and counterattacks, quickly ramping up to full speed and beyond. I held out a bit longer with the counterattacks and then fell back to blocking until we were stopped by Sensei.

The next thing they started was me attacking first, with Asuka defending only. It took a while for me to feel confident that Asuka wouldn't be hurt, but after about five minutes I sped up and she matched me easily. I wasn't using full power, but full speed throwing combinations in various orders to try and get through her defence. Of course nothing did, even at full speed, she was just too good.

"And break," Sensei said. "Good children, you are progressing every time you're here."

"Thanks, I feel a bit more confident each week, even though it's still early," I told them.

"Go get a drink and we'll start on reacting to counter punches, very slow," he said.

They talked while I went for a drink and then they started me on defending a counterpunch in slow motion. Since there were so many possibilities, we were at it the rest of the night, in slow motion.

I thanked both the Sensei and Asuka and then we went back out front and picked up the girls.

"How are things going with your training ladies?" I asked.

"We know a few ways to surprise attackers now," Mitsy said. "I feel a bit more confident I could at least make a guy sing soprano and get away from him."

"Yeah, it feels good to know that we could fight back rather than just scream and cower," Casey added.

"I'm just beginning, but the girls and Asuka are helping me out so I catch up, and I have to say that I love it," Barb said.

"Good to hear ladies, good to hear," I said. "Just keep your wits about you and react like you've been trained."

"So how is his training going?" Mitsy asked Asuka.

"He can defend himself from punches and mount a counter attack," she replied. "He can attack with some speed, though he hasn't used his full power against me. We are now teaching him to defend against a counterattack, in slow motion. He is getting very limber and he does his forms well. The Sensei is pleased with his progress."

"Are you pleased with his progress?" Casey asked with a grin.

"He is working hard at it and is doing adequate considering the limited time he can commit to it," she said. "He has to remember to continue to practice on his own."

"Good, because we don't want him all torn up the next time he fights," Barb said.

We skipped the coffee shop and headed back to the condo. I rode up with them on the main elevator and they had me come in to talk.

"Michael, Katie talked to us and told us about the models coming soon," Mitsy said. "We're trying not to be jealous and we'll stay away when they're here, except for Barb who has to take some pictures."

"We know you have to get comfortable with them, and that means familiarity and closeness," Casey added. "We're sure some of them will entice you into bed. You have to remember to use protection and to realize that they probably won't be getting to emotional about it. It will probably be very calculated or at least just a casual fling for some of them. Be careful not to fall for them too hard or you could get hurt."

"I'll be taking pictures of you in various outfits, down to your underwear and with the model down to hers or less," Barb spoke up with a grin. "I'm going to do my very best to be professional about it and not react as they drape themselves on you or entice you."

I looked to Asuka, whose turn it was to speak.

"We will do our best to be civil to them and we will not hold anything that happens with them against you, it is business," she said.

"I appreciate the effort it took to say that to me and for your understanding about the situation," I told them. "I have no idea how this is going to go, so please bear with me until it's over."

"We'll try our best to be positive about the situation," Mitsy responded.

"I have some homework to work on, so I'll be going now. Have a good night ladies, and thank you for being so understanding and sticking with me."

"Good night Mikey!" they all said with smiles. "Good luck tomorrow night!"

I went upstairs by the stairwell and had a quick shower before getting out my laptop. I powered it up and left to go check the phone messages and found Katie had phoned back.

"Good news Mike, Trisha was so happy when I called her, she said she could be there tomorrow morning," Katie said with a laugh. "I had to calm her down and let her know you'd be away tomorrow and back late or not to Saturday noon or so. So, she's coming in Saturday morning and will be driven to the condo for about noon. If you're not there, she'll buzz Barb and stay with her until you do get there."

She continued, "I'll inform Barb about everything, I already had a talk with the ladies as you might be aware. Barb is to get a couple of really good cameras and take pictures of both of you in different sets of clothes, from daywear, to swimwear to lingerie. Barb insists she can be professional about it, so we'll see how it goes."

"Trisha doesn't have any other shoots for at least a week, so she can stay as long as she and you like to get to know each other better. She's cute, happy, and eager and I think you two will hit it off wonderfully. So enjoy and keep me in the loop on how it's going. Call me tonight if any of this is a problem and I'll reschedule. Good night Mike."

It was going to be an interesting weekend. I got changed after checking the emails and then hit the hay as I was still tired from the trip.

Friday morning saw me at the arena early for an optional practice. A few guys showed up and we had a scrimmage after some drills. After a shower, I went back to the condo for a bit, finishing the programming assignment I started last night. I worked on the db one next and then packed up my CK suit into my garment bag and got into some casual clothes to go to the arena.

I hung up my garment bag in the locker room and joined the team in the cafeteria for a late lunch. After lunch we went back to the locker room and changed into our suits. I grabbed my book bag and John and I found a seat together. Since this was our first road trip in a while, the tutors were joining us to check the status of the freshmen. Pam and Sandi I recognized and they had a new girl along on this trip. She was a cute black girl named Brenda, with curly hair and wide smile.

After we got moving down the highway, Pam came around and found the rookies. Eventually she sat beside me, with John moving back to another seat for a bit.

"Hi Mike, how's it going?" she asked.

"Good Pam, and you?" I responded.

"I'm doing well," she replied. "You're certainly taking on a lot this semester, hockey, five courses and modeling. How are you doing in the coursework?"

"Good, keeping up so far, two maths, two computer programming courses and an introductory philosophy course," I told her. "I'm almost done the second program due to be assigned next week, and the two math assignments are done for next week. I have a philosophy paper due in three weeks on Aristotle, so that's what I'm going to concentrate on this weekend. I've got the rough outline sketched out and a bunch of research done. I could use a reviewer in a week or so, and maybe some help on proper format including the bibliography."

"No problem, I've taken that course and so has Sandi and Brenda, so come by the office with it, or email it to me and I'll have someone proof read it and fix any formatting issues," Pam said. "Do you need help in the math classes?"

"Not yet, I'm keeping up so far," I replied.

"Ok, I'll leave you to your paper, and don't hesitate to ask for help," she said as she got up.

"Thanks Pam," I replied as I pulled out my laptop.

John came back and got to work on some assignment as did a bunch of the guys. I struggled for a bit on how to begin the paper, but eventually used the few sentences I had saved in LA and made them in to an introduction. I followed it up with another couple of pages describing his point of view and then worked on how he influenced not only his students, but also philosophers through the ages.

I had enough after a couple of hours and the battery was getting low, so I shut the laptop down and packed it away. John was still working so I stared out the window, thinking about how my life seemed to change so quickly. I was looking forward to meeting Trisha; she seemed so cheerful and bubbly in her picture, besides being beautiful.

Eventually we pulled into South Bend and drove to a restaurant to have super before we headed to the arena. We were filmed coming in as this was another big game between top teams and a yearly rivalry.

We got suited up and took the ice for our warm-up. The arena was smaller than ours, it probably only sat half of our six thousand spectators. We just did our usual drills and shooting before relinquishing the ice to the Fighting Irish.

"Ok men, this is it, these two games can propel us up the standings and show the nation that we belong at the top of the rankings," Fred said as we sipped on liquids. "We have to hit them hard and fast with our game plan, so they have to react to us, not the other way around. We can beat this team; it just takes teamwork and extra effort from everyone."

Finally it was time to play the game. The puck was dropped and all the hype was done and let the better team on the ice win.

The first line played our normal puck possession offence and our neutral zone trap on the way back into our zone. That was to lure them into complacency and it worked. As we changed up, the bench called out Seven Zebra and we knew to change to a dump and chase offensive with physical play. I carried the puck up the ice and made to look like I was continuing into their zone when I flipped it high into the opposite corner. They were stacked at their blueline and it caught them by surprise.

Ron Zonk, the second line left winger, raced in and beat everyone to the puck in the corner. Their whole team collapsed to their net as Henry and Kerry drove to the net, looking for a pass. Ron faked a pass into the mass of people in front and instead set up Mat for a one timer from the left point. The puck bounced off a stick, hit a leg and then clanged off the post before bouncing away to the half boards on my side of the ice. I debated going in for a split second but, with three of our forwards in deep, I stayed back and let Kerry race their players for it.

Kerry battled for the puck and tied up two players long enough for Henry and Ron to disengage somewhat from the scrum in the front of the net. Henry gave Kerry an option to pass to as he moved down to the right corner while Ron moved back into the slot for a one timer. The puck squirted free, up the boards and I decided to move in to keep the puck in their zone. I raced their forward to the puck and flipped the puck down the boards, past Kerry and the defenceman, to Henry. I collided hard with the forward and that stopped my forward progress as he staggered back. I moved back to the point as Henry whipped a pass to Ron out front. Ron's one timer handcuffed the goalie, but he managed to keep the puck in front of him and smother it as Henry went for the rebound.

The coaches kept us on and called out an Alpha six code, which was a decoy, as we didn't have a play for that. Henry won the face-off and Kerry tapped the puck back to me at the point. I wound up and blasted the puck at the net as Ron and Henry provided a screen. I couldn't see the goalie's head, so he couldn't see the puck as it headed towards him. He guessed low and tried to cover the bottom of the net. It was a good decision on his part as his outstretched foot stopped the puck aimed for the near corner. The puck shot to the corner and a defenceman flipped it out of their zone, allowing them to change as Mat went back to get the puck. I moved to the bench and changed up with Rob and then Mat came over to let John on as both teams completed the change.

We continued to confound them by switching up our offence and neutral zone traps. It paid off about half way through the first period as Mat and I were on with the third line. We switched to an aggressive two one two forechecking scheme and the pressure forced the puck carrying defenceman to pass it to their left winger when I was up a bit higher in the neutral zone. I picked off the pass as I accelerated past the helpless forward and timed my entrance into their zone perfectly as Gary and Daniel, the two forecheckers, made their turn to exit the zone. We had a three on two advantage as their forwards were all caught going the other way.

I moved to the right to get more space and let the two forwards catch up. That drew one defenceman out farther and I passed the puck slightly back to Gary, who had his stick back ready to one-time it. The second defenceman went down to block the shot and Gary passed it to Daniel, now wide open. He made no mistake as he picked off the top corner and scored the opening goal. We congratulated him on his goal and went back to the bench.

We kept the pressure on the rest of the period and the scoring chances were about eight to two when the period ended, though the score remained one to nothing. We were quiet when we entered the room; we knew this wasn't over by a long shot.

"Good work so far, our strategy has them baffled and they're making mistakes," Fred said. "They'll adapt quick enough so we have to keep the pressure on them and don't let them take the initiative. Keep changing things up but keep the special plays that we've been holding back, for the last period. Let's try and be more physical this period, they can't be thinking about what we're doing if they're worried about getting hit."

The second period stayed in our favour as we continued to switch things up while adding extra checking where we could. I had the opportunity to hit a couple of forwards hard into the boards, sending one wincing back to the bench.

I did have a scare about three quarters way through the period, when we got caught on a bad change and I was left dealing with a one on one against a small, very fast forward. He came free from centre ice with the puck at full speed as I hurried to get into the middle of the ice while skating backwards. He put one deke on me, then another before trying to go around the outside. I made my turn to get back to skating forward and he had half a step on me as he tried to cut back into the net. My longer reach saved me as I swept the puck off his stick before he could make his last deke on Mark. I pulled my stick over top of him and raced to the puck as he had to avoid hitting the net. I wheeled around with the puck and sent it up to Rob, coming on for Mat as the forward gave me a check.

"You got lucky Stewart, I had you beat," he said with a grin.

I grinned back at him and replied as we skated back to our benches, "You didn't get a shot Mitchell, that's what counts in the end."

He laughed and went off the ice at his bench and I continued onward to change up with John.

"Good defence there Mike, he's a tricky little bugger," Mat said.

"And fast!" I replied. "He had me beat there at the end."

"It wasn't by much, and you had the longer reach, so it was a tie," he told me. "You did fine, there wasn't anything else you could do; he always has the advantage of knowing what he's going to do. He's too small to hit so just keep him in front of you as long as you can."

I nodded as I reached for a drink and watched the action. The Fighting Irish started to push the play back at us and had a few good scoring chances as the second period closed out. Mark had to make a great save on a screened shot just before the buzzer sounded to end the period, with the game still one to nothing.

Fred let us catch our breath and get some drinks before speaking up.

"Another good period gentlemen, but they're pushing back now, he said. "One bad change and we almost gave up the lead, so pay attention to what's happening before you head off and leave a rookie defending the fastest college player in the country."

He looked around and continued, "They're starting to get their chances, so we have to switch things up again, keep them guessing. It's time to use those plays we have in reserve; watch for an opportunity and then surprise them. On defence, let's pull back from the aggressive forechecking for a bit and let them think we're trying to protect the lead. Sam will tell you when to pull it out again."

"This is it men, we have twenty minutes to finish and take a win back to our building," he said as he stared at several older players. "Dig deep and pull this one out."

We went back out when it was time and startled them with our intensity. They were back on their heels for a bit and Gary even hit the crossbar with a shot before they could finally clear the zone. The second line, along with Mat and I, kept up the pressure, pinning them in their zone for almost the whole shift. The forwards had the puck pinned against the boards and wouldn't let them get to it as they moved it deeper behind the net. I snuck into the slot slowly from the point, in case a pass came from a forward.

Unfortunately, their defence double teamed Henry and the puck was retrieved by a forward and carried back up the ice, before dumping it in our zone. Both teams changed on the fly and play continued.

Disaster struck with about five minutes left, or I should say that Mitchell struck. Mat and I were on the ice and were at the point in their zone, with the first line in deep, carrying the play to them still. The puck hit a skate and their defenceman wristed it high out of the zone. Mitchell was covering Mat at the point and took off the second he saw his defenceman get the puck. Mat and I turned and gave chase as the puck was in air. Mitchell soon outpaced Mat and I had the only shot of stopping him as I took the angle to cut him off.

Just inside our blueline, our paths intersected as we were both going full out. I went to hit him and amazingly he ducked under the check and slipping behind me. I whipped my stick and body around as I put on the breaks but he had a step on me now. I chased him as he went in on Mark and tried to lift his stick from behind, but he had the puck in front and his body was shielding it from me. I put everything I had into the next few strides and hit his shoulder as he shot, sending him sprawling past the net. His shot had eyes as it squeaked between Mark's arm and chest, to roll just past the goal line as Mark sprawled back to grab it. I ended up just missing the other side of the net and slamming into the boards hard. I saw the red light come on and punched the boards in disgust at myself as the crowd roared and their team rushed to pick up a smiling Mitchell.

I skated over to Mark who scooped the puck out of the net and shot it back up to centre of the ice.

"Sorry Mark, my fault," I told him.

"We almost had him," he replied. "I should have stopped that shot as well."

I hit his pads with my stick and skated to the bench.

Steve was coming on and said, "Shake it off Mike and get ready to get back out here and get it back."

I nodded as I skated by and sat down on the bench. Frank came over and bent over to speak into my ear.

"You have to watch that guy Mike, he's the slipperiest little son of a gun I've ever seen," he said. "Don't commit to anything with him, just keep up to him and lean on him while using your stick to get at the puck. Don't try and hit him, even when you think you have a clear shot. Now, rest up, you're going back on with John next shift, we need that goal back. John will cover you."

I nodded and took a drink and watched the play as Frank went to Mat and John and explained what was up. We were a bit back on our heels as the Irish were pressing for the go ahead goal. Mark had to stop a couple of shots before Chris could gain control and move it up the ice to Henry. He crossed centre ice and flipped it in deep before peeling off for the change. The first line, along with John and I, stepped on the ice and went into an aggressive forechecking trap on the tired defencemen. They just lobbed it high in the air and went off on a change.

Mitchell was back on the ice and came in deep to forecheck as I rounded our net with the puck. I let him come in close and passed it off to John and took off up the ice. John passed it up to Daniel up the boards at centre ice and he hit me on the fly as we executed one of our last special plays. I drew their last forward to me as I angled a bit to the right side while Mitchell was on my tail. I passed it to Chris waiting at the blue line at the right side boards and continued to the blueline.

Chris took the pass with his stick just inside the blueline and we did the old give and go and he passed it back to me as the defenceman concentrated on him. I took the pass going full out and went in on the lone defenceman, with Mitchell trying to hook my stick from behind. I shielded him from the puck with my body and my left arm as I came in from the right side. Using one hand on the stick, I drove into the defenceman and slid the puck over to Gary, who was wide open as the defenceman and Mitchell concentrated on me. Gary redirected it over the sprawling goalie for the go ahead goal as the three of us slid into the net after the puck went in.

The red light came on as I untangled myself from the defenceman and Mitchell.

"Nice play Stewart, very unselfish," Mitchell said as I got up.

"Can't have you showing me up every time you're on the ice, Mitchell," I replied as I skated away.

He laughed and got up off the ice. I went and congratulated Gary before we lined up at centre ice. Gary won the draw and John retreated back behind our net with the puck. Mitchell finally chased him out and I took John's pass up the ice, not rushing, but keeping an eye out for the short centre. I waited until he was close and flipped it high into the opposite corner, letting Daniel go in and tie up the defenceman to burn off more time. The first line did such a good job that John and I changed with Steve and Albert while the puck was still in play down low.

"Ok, rest for a bit and then Mike's back out with Mat," Frank said. "No more rushes, stay back and watch out for speedy forwards behind you."

We nodded and I sucked in air and Gatorade while the first line kept them pinned down with their furious forechecking. Finally, the goalie froze the puck when it came out and everyone changed up again.

Henry took the face-off and tied the puck up in his feet as the wingers came in to get at it. It squirted free and Ron tapped it back to Mat, who waited until their forward came out to him and then dumped it back into the corner. It worked its way around behind the net and up to the half boards on my side. I debated going in but backed out instead as their right winger gained possession and sent their centre a pass up the ice.

Both Mat and I were back and while this new centre was fast, he wasn't Mitchell fast. His right forward came with him and we had a two on two develop. The centre moved to his left, over to my side, isolating me one on one as Mat shadowed the winger, who moved over to give his centre more ice. I gave him the outside if he wanted to take it, keeping to the centre to block the direct path to the net.

He faked an inside move and then tried to go wide on me. I quickly turned with him and was with him stride for stride, not letting him get the angle needed to cut into the net. We both rounded the net and I ran him hard into the boards when he ran out of room. I followed the puck and whipped it up to centre ice to catch the rest of the Irish on a change.

Their goalie had to make a good save and the ref blew his whistle to stop the play so the centre could get looked at behind our net. Mark was bent over him and waved to the bench for a trainer as Mat and I went to sit on the bench for a rest.

"Nice play Mike," Mat said, hitting me on the shoulder. "You gave him just enough space to think it was open before you closed it down."

"He wasn't Mitchell," I stated.

"True, but you just have to play Mitchell a half step deeper and it's all equal," Mat responded.

We got a couple extra minutes rest as they tended to the wounded player before they got him up on his feet. A couple of players helped him off the ice and down the tunnel. The second line went on with the first pair of defence with about a minute and a half left. Frank warned Mat and I to be ready to change on the fly if necessary.

We held the puck in their zone for twenty seconds and then they broke out, only to come up against our left wing lock in the neutral zone. They dumped the puck in and the goalie raced to the bench for an extra attacker, Mitchell.

Chris reached the dump in and rapped it hard up the boards, trying to clear the zone. The defenceman trapped it and shot it back down into the corner. There was a scrum in the corner and another twenty seconds elapsed before the puck squirted free. Mark jumped on it and froze it for a faceoff.

The first line and Mat and I went on the ice and then they called a time out to rest their top players with thirty five seconds left in the game. We crowded around the bench and Fred came across the bench to talk to us.

"Ok, tight umbrella coverage if they get the draw back to the point." He said. "If we win it, either lob it out or hard around the boards. I don't care if you ice it. Everyone collapse if it goes in deep, the defence stay on either post; don't get sucked to the corners or behind the net. This is it gentlemen, thirty five seconds and then it's all yours."

The horn sounded and we went to line up in our zone. Gary tied up the other centre, with the puck in their feet, until another pair of forwards joined the battle. The puck went to the left boards and then back to the point. A shot came in and hit Mat on his leg and bounced to the left corner. I tied up Mitchell's stick in front of Mark while shadowing another forward with my body.

The puck came out front and hit a leg and then dropped in between the three of us. I hip checked the forward out of the way and slapped at the puck as Mitchell got his stick down. The puck shot to the side as I pushed Mitchell to unbalance him. He took the opportunity to bump Mark, who got tied up with him and fell down. Their defenceman on my side slid down the boards and put a shot on net while Mark was trying to get untangled with the centre. I slid in front of the net and took the shot off my right hand as I tried to play goalie for a second.

The puck deflected off my hand and into the netting above the glass, forcing a whistle with ten seconds left as I gasped for breath, bent over with my stick resting on my knees. Fred called a time out and sat Mat and I down, going with Steve and Albert for the last few seconds.

We watched as Gary expertly tied up Mitchell and the horn blew before they could get another shot off. We all cheered and raced out to congratulate Mark before heading to the locker room. I quickly got in the shower and was dressing when Fred came in.

"Fantastic effort, everyone," Fred said with a smile. "I knew we could do it with a total team effort. Congratulations on a job well done. Now let's get out of here as quick as possible and head back home to finish this off. Captains, let's make it a quick one."

I finished getting dressed and walked over to Chris and Wendy.

"Hey guys, when we get on the bus, can you look at my hand, that shot bent my finger a bit, but I don't want anyone to know," I said quietly.

Chris looked at it with Wendy covering us from any prying eyes.

I hissed as he bent the pinkie one my right hand. It was worse when he rubbed the joint in my palm.

"Ok, you can bend the finger joint, so it's not broken, but you at least sprained it up by the knuckle," he said. "We'll have to ice it on the way home and keep it immobilized. We'll get you to the x-ray at the hospital when we get back. Just put it in your pocket when we walk out and we'll wrap it on the bus."

"Thanks Chris, looks like I get Wendy for a partner on the way home," I said with a grin.

"Great," she said with a frown.

I pouted at her and she hit me in the stomach before gathering up her stuff. I moved to John and let him know about the hand.

"You just want to sit with a woman," he said with a grin.

"Well, she is much better looking than you," I agreed.

We walked out in a bunch, with John on my right side to help hide my hand as I kept it in my pocket. We sat together in our previous seats and I eased my hand out and put it on my lap while we waited for everyone to board. Wendy came on and crooked her finger at me and I went up with my book bag in my left hand, while she had Jesse go sit with John.

"Ok sit down and we'll ice it for a bit," she said, trying to push me down.

"No way I'm sitting inside, I need the aisle for leg room," I said.

"You're such a big baby," she replied as she frowned up at me before slipping in first.

"You have better access to the hand on that side anyway," I told her as I sat down and stretched my legs out beside the seat in front.

She plopped a bag of ice onto the hand and I almost yelled as it jarred my finger.

"Watch it damn-it, what's wrong with you tonight?" I asked.

"I wanted to sit with Jesse tonight, and you had to ruin it all," she whispered fiercely.

"I'll move back and he can sit here, I don't need this kind of care anyway," I said. "Come back when you want to wrap the hand or bring more ice."

I stood up and switched places with Jesse again.

"That was quick," John said.

"She and Jesse must be an item, she nearly broke my hand with the bag," I told him.

"You didn't know? They've been for about a month," John said.

"I guess I haven't been paying attention," I told him.

"You have been busy," he acknowledged.

I settled down and waited until Fred and the captains came on board and we got under way.

"Ok, we have a three hour ride back home so enjoy some food and then try and get some sleep cause we won't be back until at least two am," Fred told us. "We'll meet tomorrow at four thirty for team dinner so take it easy in the morning. Good work tonight people, we pulled it out against the number one team in the country. I'm proud of every one of you."

They passed out box lunches with sandwiches, chips, a big pickle and a water bottle. I ate with gusto, using my left hand exclusively. I still finished faster than John, though him making sure his appendages were clear at all times might have slowed him down somewhat.

I threw my garbage away and then settled down in the seat to try and get some rest. I must have fallen asleep because Wendy had to shake me to look at my hand before replacing the bag with another one.

"Sorry for snapping at you Mike, we had things to discuss," she whispered.

"It's ok, just tell me next time, rather than re-breaking my hand," I said with a grin.

"Sorry about that too," she replied. "I'll see you at the arena."

I nodded and went back to sleep.

Eventually we did get home and I threw my book bag and my suit jacket in the SUV before heading inside with Chris and Wendy. They got the staff going on the equipment cleaning and then joined me in the training room.

I showed them that I could bend the finger at the first two digits but it hurt at the hand joint. The hand was swollen but the ice had kept that down. It hurt when Chris manipulated the joint and the finger, but it wasn't excruciating.

"So Doc, do I get to keep my hand?" I asked in a western drawl.

"Not if you keep talking like that," Chris replied. "I'm debating getting x-rays tonight or wait till the morning when the swelling goes down."

"I'm game for tonight, if I have a choice," I said. "I can head over there myself if you just set it up. It's not like I can't drive or walk."

"Alright, but no practicing in the morning, no matter what they find," he said.

I agreed and he called over to University hospital and made the arrangements. I drove myself over there and presented myself to the nurse on duty.

"Yes, Mr. Stewart, we're expecting you, come on in," she said.

I was brought right into x-ray by the nurse and she handed me off to the technician. I got right in and he had me put my hand on a table and moved a small machine over top of it. He spread the hand out, which hurt like hell, and then took one that way. He flipped it over and took another and then one more on the side.

Ten minutes later I was in a room in the emergency department when the attending doctor came in with the x-rays.

"Mr. Stewart, you really should let the goalie stop the shots," he said with a grin. "Though, since you saved a goal, I guess it was a good trade off."

"An act of desperation, Doc," I told him. "So what's the verdict?"

Nothing broken, ripped or torn that I can see, you just got bruised and strained," he said.

"That's good, I'll be able to play tomorrow night, I guess it's tonight actually," I replied.

"I'm not sure on that, you're not going to have good use of that hand for about a week," he said.

"Am I going to damage it if I used it?" I asked.

"Probably not, but it will swell up and hurt like hell," he replied.

"How about I tape the little finger to the next one and ice it between periods?" I asked. "Then I can rest it for the next week; even skip a few practices if I have to."

"As your doctor, I wouldn't advise that," he said.

"I'll have Chris check it out before the game," I told him. "If it's too bad, I won't play, or just play the power play or something."

"Mike, one game won't make the difference in the season or your career, but if that hand goes bad, it could mean your career," the doctor told me.

"Alright Doc, you're the expert, I'll only go on if the swelling goes down enough for me to use it without pain," I told him.

"That's the smart move," he agreed.

"Thanks for your time Doc, have a good night," I said.

"You too Mike, and good luck the rest of the year, I hope I don't see you back here," he replied with laugh.

"You and me both," I agreed.

I drove home, shut down the alarm and got out of my suit and hung it up. I poured some water and took a couple of aspirin and then crushed some ice into a zip-lock bag. I quickly brushed my teeth and then flopped down on the bed in my underwear. I was asleep in minutes.

Saturday morning I woke up with a headache and a throbbing hand. I looked at the clock and saw it was nine and wondered why I woke up so early. I used the washroom and walked to the kitchen and grabbed a diet coke before going to look out the big windows. It looked cold even though the sun was shining.

My phone rang and I grabbed it from the counter.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Hey Mike it's Katie, you all set for Trisha's visit?" she asked.

"Yep, just going to have some breakfast and then do some cleaning before she gets here," I replied.

"Good, have fun," she said. "The reason I called, is that I can get you on Live with Regis and Kelly Tuesday from nine to ten and then Letterman at five thirty that evening. You ok with doing two shows, since we lost Ellen?"

"I guess so, I'll be there anyway, but then that's it right?" I asked.

"Yep, unless you want to do any for your own reasons later," she replied.

"Yeah right," I said. "Ok, book me for those two and we'll get them done in one day," I said. "Make sure they don't have an overly sensitive singer as another guest, I'm not making another trip for a while."

"I'll do some digging and let you know who's on with you," she assured me.

"Ok, email me my itinerary by tomorrow so I know when and where," I asked her.

"Will do; ok I've got to go, enjoy Trisha and get some good pictures," she said.

"Alright, talk to you later," I replied and hung up.

I plugged the phone back in and made myself some toast. I put in a load of laundry to make sure I had enough to wear for the trip next week and then cleaned the kitchen. After that was done, I made my bed and generally cleaned up my bedroom and then tackled the washroom.

I finished up the laundry and then had a shower and shaved. After getting dressed, I called the arena and talked to Chris about the hand. It was still swollen, so it looked doubtful for tonight, but I would keep ice on it and we could look at it before dinner. He said he would pass it on to the coaches and told me to keep my phone close by.

Finally it was getting close to noon. I paced the living room and then checked to make sure there were enough drinks in the fridge. I looked to see what we could have for lunch and decided on heating up a frozen lasagne, or cabbage rolls perhaps.

I heard the buzzer from the foyer and ran to get it.

"Hello?"

"Hi Mike, it's Trisha," she said cheerfully. "I made it!"

"Great, I'll be right down to get you, just sit in the lobby for a sec," I told her.

"Sure thing," she said and then I buzzed the lock on the door.

I grabbed my keys and slipped on some runners and rushed to the elevator. It took a minute to get up to the floor and then another long minute to get down. I stepped out and looked for her at the chairs. She turned at the sound and had a big smile on her face when she saw me. Damn, she was gorgeous, especially with that smile. She had taken off her winter long jacket and was in a simple tee and slim jeans. Her blonde hair fell around her shoulders and her blue eyes sparkled with her smile.

"Wow, that smile lights up the whole lobby," I said as I walked up to her. "Your pictures don't do you justice, Trisha."

"Flattery will get you everywhere," she said with a laugh. "Thanks Mike, I feel welcome already."

"Good, because you are," I told her. "Come on, let's go on up and get you settled in."

I draped her garment bag over my right arm and then picked up her suitcase in my left hand before turning back to the elevator. The door opened right away and I punched the up button and the doors closed.

"So, did you have a good flight?" I asked.

"Yes I did, Katie sent me first class," Trisha replied. "She even had a small limo bring me here instead of a cab."

"That's good, she wants you in a good mood, even though you have to travel to meet with me, ' I told her.

"Don't worry about that, I'm very happy to be here," she said. "I'm sure we're going to get along great and look fantastic together. You're not going to regret picking me first Mike."

"Of course I won't, I'm looking forward to it," I replied as the door opened.

We got in the condo and I hung up the bag in the closet in the middle room and put the case on the bed.

"So, are you hungry?" I asked her. "We can decide what to eat and then you can freshen up if you like while I get it started."

"I could eat," she said.

"Ok, let's go see what we can find," I said as I led the way to the kitchen.

"This is a great condo Mike," she said. "I love the view. Is that the university?"

"Yep, it's a great campus," I said as I entered the kitchen and then opened the fridge.

"I have some chicken in here we can heat up, or I can cook a lasagne or come cabbage rolls," I suggested.

"Any salad makings in there?" she asked.

"Salad? That's the green stuff right?" I asked with a grin.

"I take it that's a no," she laughed. "Soup and sandwiches perhaps?"

"I think I can open a can and butter some bread," I said, opening a cupboard. "I have Tomato, chicken noodle or cream of potato soup. Do any of those suit your fancy?"

"Chicken noodle sounds good," she replied.

"Then chicken noodle it is," I said, pulling the can from the shelf and setting it near the stovetop. "What kind of sandwich?"

"Tuna is fine with me, if you have it," she replied.

"I have a can, so you're in luck," I said. "I mix it with a bit of mayonnaise and salt and pepper and then put it on toast. That ok?"

"Since you don't have any green stuff, that will have to do," she replied with a dramatic sigh.

"Ok, you go do whatever you have to do and come on back in ten to fifteen," I told her.

"You sure I can't help?" she asked. "You don't have to treat me like a special guest Mike."

"I'm an expert at soup and sandwiches so don't worry, I won't poison you," I said with a grin. "I'll see you in a bit."

I got the can opened and simmering on the stove and then got the bread in the toaster. I then mixed up the tuna with some mayonnaise and salt and pepper and then started making sandwiches. I stirred the soup a few times and then set the table. I had just put the plate of sandwiches on the table when Trisha came back in.

"Wow," was all I could say as I stared at her.

She must have had a quick shower, as her hair was slicked back. She had put on a short silk robe that was tied up but showed a bit of cleavage and lots of her long legs. She was in her bare feet and had a comb in her hand.

"I hope you don't mind that I took a quick shower?" she asked.

"Not at all, my castle is your castle," I said, still staring at her.

"Good, I wanted to feel fresh when we started posing," she explained. "This looks good, I'm getting hungry."

I tore my gaze from her and went to get the pot of soup as she sat down. I ladled out some in each bowl and asked her what she would like to drink. After she said water, I grabbed a couple water bottles and then joined her at the table.

"You're staring Mike, should I go put some clothes on?" she asked with a small grin.

"No!" I said quickly.

Her grin got wider.

"I figured I was going to be changing a lot so why get into something and maybe spill on it," she said.

"Good thinking," I replied.

"I thought you might see it that way," she said with a laugh.

"Ok, I apologize for staring, but you are very beautiful," I told her.

"Thank you kind sir, a girl never gets tired of getting compliments, especially from a handsome man," she said. "And don't worry about staring, if I didn't want you to look, I would have put on a sweater and baggy jeans. We are going to be seeing a lot more of each other in a bit."

"I guess that's true, I'm still new to all of this, so please bear with me ok?" I asked. "I still stare at beautiful women and I don't know a thing about posing except for what we did that at that first photo shoot. Please let me know right away if I offend you in any way."

"You're blushing, it's so cute," she said with a smile. "And here I thought I was going to be the novice, I've only done three shoots so far. We'll have to muddle through the shoot with help from your PA. As to your staring, I'm flattered you find me attractive and I'm not offended at all."

We ate for a bit and then I decided to explain what was up for the day.

"So, we have about three hours to take some pictures; I'll call up Barb from the floor below to take them," I told her. "She's promised to be on her best behaviour; a few of my friends are very jealous of you. I have to leave by four to go to the arena and I can leave you here alone or with Barb and the girls downstairs."

"Can't I just come with you and watch the game?" she asked.

I might not play, it depends on my hand, but I need to be there anyway to watch and support the team," I told her. "If I play, I would have to leave you with Amanda, my defence partner's girlfriend. If I don't play, I have to be in the player's suite and you can't be in there either. I'm sorry about this, but I have most of Sunday free to spend with you."

"Ok, I'm holding you to that," she smiled.

We finished up lunch and she helped clear the table, giving me glimpses of her cleavage as she bent over. I admired her legs as well when she bent to put the leftovers in the fridge. She caught me staring at her butt when she turned around.

"It's like you haven't seen a women in weeks, Michael," she grinned.

"I told you I stare," I reminded her. "In my defence, that robe doesn't cover too much. I think you better put something more substantial on when Barb comes up. You can go back to it when we get busy switching from outfit to outfit."

"Alright, you better call her up so we can get started," she suggested. "I'll get into something decent for now. Don't worry, I'll win her over. Is she pretty?"

"No, she's beautiful, she could be a model if she wasn't so smart," I said. "She's in engineering."

"Ok, even better," she said. "I'll go change and put her at ease when she gets here."

She kissed me on the lips, gave me a grin and then turned around and left the kitchen, her robe getting undone as she went.

I called Barb and asked her if she was ready to come up. She said she would be at the stairway door in five minutes. I walked to the bedroom and found Trisha in some skimpy underwear, quickly putting on makeup in the mirror.

"Oh sorry," I said, turning away. "Barb will be up in five."

"Mike, you're going to see me in this soon enough," she said with a laugh. "Don't worry; I'll be ready for Barb."

I turned and looked at her and admired her lean model's body, her breasts not large but firm and upright. She had a surprisingly muscular body for such a thin woman; I could see stomach muscles tightening as she leaned forward to put on her eyeliner. Her legs showed good definition as well.

"You're in great shape Trisha; do you work out or play sports?" I asked.

"I swim a lot and work out every day," she replied. "It gives me more opportunities to get jobs; some models can't do sports clothes or underwear ads because they don't have the muscle tone required. I've been really working hard for the last few weeks to get rid of the last bit of body fat."

"It's certainly paid off, you look great," I assured her.

"Thanks Mike, I think we'll look good together," she said.

"I'll go let Barb in, I'll be back in a minute," I said, closing the door as she grinned.

I grabbed my keys and walked down to the stairway and opened the door. She wasn't there so I walked down the one flight and met her coming up the hallway. She had her hair looking shiny as it framed her face. Her makeup was flawless and she had on clingy tee and tight jeans that showed off her fabulous body.

"Wow, you look hot Barb, how am I supposed to concentrate with you looking like that?" I asked.

She smiled and said, "Just reminding you what you have here already."

"How could I ever forget you darling?" I told her. "Listen, she seems like a nice girl, don't jump to conclusions in there. You might even like her."

"I promised to be professional and I'll play nice as long as she doesn't hump you right in front on me," she stated.

"Try and be real; don't put on a fake nice," I warned her.

"Yes Sir!" she replied.

I opened the door and we looked around the living room to see where to shoot. We moved a couple pieces of furniture from the long wall and found a blank section that we could shoot against. We set up a couple of lamps to make the area brighter and she took a couple of pictures of me to test it out.

"They look ok to me on the screen," Barb said.

"Good, we have a set then," I stated.

"We'll probably use one more, maybe your bedroom," Barb said.

Trisha came out in a tee shirt and baggy pants and said, "Mike, I thought I was the only model coming here today? Who is this gorgeous creature with you?"

"Trisha, this is Barb; Barb this is Trisha," I made the introductions.

"Barb, you look like you should be in front of the camera, not behind it," Trisha said as she walked up and gave Barb a hug. "Mike said you were beautiful and smart, but I didn't think I had anything to be jealous about."

Barb looked a bit taken back from all the praise.

"Thanks Trisha, but you're the gorgeous one," Barb said.

"Ladies, I'll settle the argument, you're both gorgeous, intelligent and hopefully kind to this hockey player," I told them.

"I guess I can live with that," Trisha said. "So, Barb, you're in charge, I need to know what you want me to wear when and then you get to pose us. Come on, I brought a bunch of CK stuff and we have to use most of it."

Barb was pulled into the bedroom and they shut the door behind them. I walked over to it and said, "You need to let me know what I should wear too, so I can be ready. Remember, I need to leave by four."

"Fine, get into your CK suit to start, we'll go with a gown in here," Barb said through the door.

So the shoot started. We got into our fine clothes and Barb took a bunch of pictures with Trisha draped on me. We proceeded down the scale, good casual for me and short dresses or skirts and blouses for Trisha. Next came jeans and tees and then we took a short break while we had some water.

I downloaded the pictures to my laptop and we looked at them.

"Those are very good Barb, you've made us look great together," Trisha said, hugging her close with one arm around her.

"You two make it easy," Barb said blushing.

"Nonsense, you're making us look great," I told her. "Thanks for working so hard. You can add talented to beautiful and smart."

"I'm not beautiful, not like Trisha here," she argued.

Trisha looked at Barb and said, "I think you're just as gorgeous. In fact I'll prove it. You and Mike up against the wall, I'm going to take a few pictures and you'll see what I'm talking about."

"No, I'm no model," Barb replied, shaking her head.

"Come on, it will only take a few seconds," I said, pulling her up and over to the wall.

Trisha followed with the camera and I hugged Barb to my side and Trisha quickly took a couple of pictures. She then directed us how to stand and pose and for the next ten minutes we had a bunch of pictures taken of us.

"Ok, let's see how they turned out," Trisha said, leading the way to the laptop.

When they came up, we were all surprised.

"Wow, now I'm officially worried, you two look great together and Barb, you look fantastic," Trisha said.

Barb broke out into a smile as Trisha hugged her and replied, "Thanks Trish, you make me look so different than what I'm used to."

"Ok, we have to keep moving, Mike only has an hour and a bit before he has to go," Trisha said. "What's next boss?"

"It's time for the underwear shots," Barb said. "Let's get you into some white ones while Mike is supposed to be in black."

"Ok, let's go," Trisha said, leading the way.

"Mike, I like her," Barb said, falling back beside me. "She's being nice and she's easy to talk to," Barb said.

"See, I told you so," I told her. "I'm glad you're getting along."

She hurried to catch up and I went in to my bedroom and stripped down and found a black pair of underwear. I put on my robe and went back out.

The girls came out with Trisha in her short robe and Barb had us take a couple pics with her in the robe. Then off came the robe and Barb had Trisha up tight against me in various poses.

"Ok, the next on the list is for Trisha to take off the bra and we'll take a few of Trisha's back while she hugs you in various poses," Barb read the list from Katie. "Are you ok with that Trisha?"

"Sure, you're here and I trust you to make sure nothing shows," Trisha said and reached back to undo her bra.

She wasn't self conscience at all as we both looked at her.

"Do I look ok?" she looked down to see what we were looking at.

"You look wonderful," I said, staring at her.

"Of course you would say that, I need a woman's opinion," Trisha said with a laugh. "Barb, do I look ok?"

"You're gorgeous," Barb said. "I can't believe how comfortable you are right now."

"We undress in front of people all the time, I was terrified the first couple of times," she admitted. "Now, it's easier, especially with you here. There usually isn't many men at the shows. Ok, let's get going, it's cool in here."

Trisha moved close and plastered herself to my chest and I felt her hard nipples against me. I put an arm around her and she looked up with passion on her face.

"Wow, you two look hot together," Barb said as she snapped off a couple of pictures.

Trisha moved to my side and hugged me, her arm supposed to cover her breast.

"Trish, I can see most of your breast," Barb said.

"Come and help, I don't want to mess up the rest of the pose," Trisha said.

Barb came up close and moved her arm around to hide the side view of her breast. I liked how intimate things were getting and Trisha's leg was moving a bit as it was between the two of mine.

"Ok, that should do it," Barb said and walked back to look through the camera. "Yep, that's good."

She took more pictures and then we moved on to a couple more poses, each one more risqué and intimate.

"Ok, let's take a break," Barb suggested.

I downloaded the pictures and was impressed. We looked good together.

"Wow, you two look great," Barb said.

"You are making us look great," Trisha said and gave her a hug and as kiss on the cheek. "Thank you for being so kind to me Barb."

Barb blushed and hugged her back. Trisha looked at her for a couple of seconds and then looked at me.

"I think we need a few pictures of Barb and you again," she said.

"What! Me and Mike like that?" she asked. "No way Jose."

"Mike, give us a minute will you?" Trisha asked.

"Sure," I replied and walked to the kitchen for more water bottles. I waited for a couple minutes and went out to find them gone.

They came out of Trisha's room with Barb in Trisha's robe and Trisha still not in her bra.

"Ok, Mike, Barb is obviously nervous, so you have to calm her down," Trisha said as she pulled her close.

"Sure," I replied.

Trisha undid the tie and slid the robe from Barb's shoulders and revealed some sexy green underwear. She guided Barb to me and I pulled her in close and gave her a hug.

"You look gorgeous Barb, very beautiful," I told her. "You're going to look great, I promise."

"You sure?" she said looking up at me.

"I'm positive," I said with a smile.

Trisha was already taking pictures and had us posing for about fifteen minutes before calling for a break. I downloaded these pictures and they were very good.

"Damn girlfriend, you're smoking hot," Trisha said. "I'm so jealous right now."

"They don't look half bad," Barb admitted.

"They look great," I told her.

"Ok, Barb, off with the bra and we'll finish up for the day," Trisha said.

"I don't think so Trish," Barb said, looking nervous.

"Mike, go back over by the wall," Trisha directed me.

I left them alone and saw them whispering. Trisha was rubbing Barb's back and said something that had Barb looking over at me. Barb nodded and then Trisha undid Barb's bra and took it off. She rubbed her back and shoulders for a bit and then led her to me.

"Barb, you look so beautiful right now," I told her as I held out my arms.

She moved to hug me and I wrapped her up. She put her arms around me as well. Trisha moved back and took some pictures like that and then skilfully had Barb move around a bit. She felt just as good as Trisha did, especially when her leg came up to go across my thighs. Trisha snapped a few more as I started getting an erection.

"Ok, hold that pose for a second, I'm putting this on a timer," she said, before setting it down on the table.

She rushed over and got on the other side of me and I put my arm around her as well. The camera took a couple pictures and then Trisha had them both get in front of me so their bums were to the camera as they looked at each other. Next she turned them both to face the camera and had me drape my arms over their breasts to hide them. The camera took three pictures of that.

"Ok Mike, you go and work the camera, I want a couple with just the two of us," Trisha said.

I moved out from behind them and grabbed the camera. I shut off the timer and started taking pictures as Trisha backed them to the wall. They mimicked each other for a few pictures and I got some great shots. One I especially liked was them both stretched high on the wall with their great asses pointing at me.

Trisha made them progressively more erotic as she upped the contact between them. The final shots had their breast pressed together and their legs intertwined. Trisha kissed Barb and she returned the kiss for a bit and I got a couple of those before Barb pulled back.

"Sorry Barb, I got carried away," Trisha said quickly, letting loose a bit. "Please don't get mad, I was just going with the mood."

"It's ok Trish, it just surprised me a bit," Barb said. "But I think we better let Mike go, or he'll be late."

I looked at the clock and it was ten to four.

"Ok, I gotta run, I'm going to get dressed," I said and left them alone.

I quickly got into some casual clothes and packed my suit in my garment bag. I quickly hit the washroom and then went out to say goodbye. They were gone again, so I went to her bedroom and was going to knock when I heard them through the door.

"Trisha, that feels good, but I like guys," Barb said.

"So do I Honey, but I also am very attracted to you," Trisha responded. "As long as you like it, why does it matter who is doing it? Just close your eyes and imagine Mike was the one with you."

Barb moaned and there wasn't any more talking for a bit.

"Girls, I have to go now, do you want me to walk you down to the others?" I asked.

They were quiet for a few seconds and then Barb replied, "No, we'll stay here and meet up with them in a bit. Good luck and we'll see you at eleven or so."

"Good luck Mike," Trisha said.

"Ok, have fun tonight," I said.

I chuckled as I walked away. Trisha certainly had won Barb over. It was going to be an interesting night.

I locked the door and took the elevator down to the garage and drove to the arena. I carried my garment bag on my shoulder and put it in the locker room before going to find Chris. My hand was feeling better and I could bend the pinkie about half way before any pain hit. I could make a fist with some pain and the swelling had gone down as well. I was planning to play.

I found Chris in the training room, working on Ralph's left leg.

"Hey guys, how's it going?" I asked.

"Getting better," Ralph replied. "How's the hand?"

"Getting better," I said with a grin.

"I'll be done with Ralph in a couple, Mike," Chris said. "Have a seat and relax for a bit."

I sat down at the other side of the room, grabbing a stick on the way. I found I could grip it with four fingers and leave the picky straight and it didn't hurt too bad. I would have to try it with a glove on.

"I'll be right back Chris," I said, heading to the locker room.

I grabbed my gloves and my stick and went back to find Ralph off the table and heading out slowly with a cane.

"I'll see you Ralph," I said.

"Yeah, good luck Mike," he replied.

Chris saw me with my equipment and frowned, "I hope you don't think you're playing?"

"Hey, it's gotten better, the swelling has gone down and I can grip a stick," I told him.

I put the gloves down and showed him what I could do.

"First of all, get on the table and let me look at it," Chris said.

I leaned the stick on the table and sat on it before showing him my hand. He looked it over and felt the joints and manipulated the finger. He slowly closed the finger and noted my reaction as he made a fist.

"It still hurts you Mike, and the swelling isn't all the way down," he told me.

"Nothing is broken, and it hurts a ton less than last night," I said. "The doctor said if the swelling went down it should be ok; nothing should get damaged any further. I have a week to rest it after tonight's game."

"Mike, I don't recommend you play tonight," Chris stated.

"How about I at least try out the hand in practice, see if I can shoot?" I asked. "If I can't get much on the shots I'll have to sit it out."

"Fine, but I'm letting the coaches know now," He said. "You know we have other players Mike, it's not necessary to play hurt."

"I would rather play than watch, as long as I can contribute," I told him as we walked up to the cafeteria.

I joined my teammates at dinner while Chris joined the staff, letting them know about my hand, I'm sure. I grabbed some salad and some pasta and joined John at his table.

"How's the hand?" he asked.

"Better, but not healed," I told him. "Chris doesn't want me to play but I'm going to try it out in practice to see if I can shoot."

"I hope so, we need everyone, even you," John said.

"Thanks," I replied.

We ate in silence for a bit and then when we were done we got up and put our dishes away.

"Alright, I'm going to ice my hand down for a bit," I said.

"I'll see you there in a bit," he told me.

I found Wendy in the training room and she gave me an ice pack to use. I got dressed in the locker room and then sat on a stool while icing my hand. The others joined me in the dressing room and eventually we got on the ice. I did my usual stretches and skating and then joined the team in shooting on the goalies. I started off light and flipped a few at the net, thankfully without much pain. I stepped into one after that and winced as it hurt. I took about five more shots, gradually upping the power until the last couple were at full power.

My hand hurt when I shot but then the pain faded and I could still grip the stick afterwards. I stick handled for a bit around centre ice and there was only slight pain so I felt good enough to play, depending on how much the hand swelled.

I had the coaches waiting with Chris and Wendy at my locker. I took off the glove and the hand didn't seem any more swollen then before.

"It looks about the same," I said. "It hurts a bit to shoot, but it fades soon after so I can handle it. I can stick handle fine without much pain, so I vote for me playing."

The coaches looked at Chris who frowned and said, "It's a tossup, we don't know how much he's damaging his hand when he shoots. His hand will probably swell up and he'll be out the week from practice, but might be healed for next game. He could cause further damage and be out for weeks. Nothing's broken right now, but you know Mike, he'll take it to the extreme if we need a goal. I'm recommending he sit out."

They all looked at Fred who looked at me and then at Chris and asked, "What if he doesn't shoot much; just carries the puck in and passes it or dumps it off?"

"It would help, but he could still hit it or get hit on it," Chris said. "I know we're down one starter already, but this isn't the end all be all game of the season. It's much safer to not play him and if I have to make that official, I can get the doc in here."

"Ok Chris, you win," Fred said. "Sorry Mike, sit this one out and let the hand heal up. Frank, get Ian ready."

"Shit!" I said, throwing my gloves down.

"Sorry Mike, I'm here to look after the athlete's best interests long term," Chris said before leaving.

Wendy mouthed sorry and left as well.

John piped up, "Sorry Mike, we could have used you out there, but Chris is right, it's not about this one game, it's about the season and your career."

"Yeah I know, but I don't have to like it," I said bitterly.

I got out of my equipment and got back into my suit. I sat on my bench in a foul mood and waited. Fred got up to talk a few minutes later.

"Ok, Mike's hand isn't healed enough to let him play, maybe next time he won't push someone into Mark, just so he can play goalie," Fred said. "Ian will be taking his place, but will play with John on the third pair. Rob will move up to play with Mat for this game. We're going to have to support the defence more so we'll use the left wing lock to get three back across centre ice and give support all the way back to our zone. Ian and Rob, you're not to go in at all, chances are you'll get burned by their speedy forwards if you do. Play it safe and head back at the first sign of trouble."

Fred continued after getting nods from the both of them.

"Centres, don't go down deep; instead keep to the high slot so you can get a pass and shoot, or support the defence if they break out," He continued. "We'll play things by ear after the first few shifts. Frank will discuss the special team's defence pairing with you guys."

"Chris and Steve move up to first pair and John and Rob will be second pair on the power play, while Mat and Rob will be second pair on penalty kill," Frank said. "We might mix and match as the game goes on so be prepared to go on at any time."

"Ok Gentlemen, we're in for a fight tonight, so prepare to give it your all!" Fred concluded and led the team out of the room.

I walked upstairs and entered the suite reserved for us, joining the other guys not playing.

"Hey Mike, they didn't let you play eh?" Brian Smith asked.

"Nope, Chris put the kybosh on it," I replied. "So I get to eat and drink my fill up here."

"Welcome to our humble abode," he said with a grin.

I went over and grabbed a diet coke and then filled a plate with some veggies and cold cuts from the buffet table that a cute girl was standing behind. I smiled at her and she smiled back with a blush. I went and sat down outside beside Brian and he grinned.

"I see you've made Dina blush already," he said with a grin. "Try not to hit on her though, Paul Snider has a thing for her but he's too shy to approach her."

"No problem, I have enough women problems, I don't need any more in my life right now," I said.

"He better get his ass in gear or someone else will catch her, she's too pretty not to get picked up," he said.

We stood up for the national anthem and then watched the game for the first period. The Fighting Irish were better from the get go and had us pinned in our zone early. They had several good scoring chances and Mitchell figured prominently in at least three of them. With about five minutes left in the first period, the Irish made our slower speed on defence pay as Mitchell skated around Samuels like he was a pylon and easily deked out Mark to score. The crowd booed and hissed as they celebrated.

They almost added another with Ian getting burned by a nifty move by the forward coming out of the corner, but Mark made an incredible save with his glove to rob him of a sure goal. The period ended with the score one to nothing.

"Ok, go tell Paul he's going to lose Dina if he doesn't grow some balls," I told Brian. "I'll make sure she knows what's up before I start my act."

"He's really shy, he might not take the hint," he said.

"You better make him or some other ass will scoop her up," I said, standing up.

I moved to the buffet and whispered to Dina, "Dina, I'm Mike, I've been told a nice guy named Paul really likes you but is too shy to ask you out. Do you know him?"

She nodded.

"And do you like him?"

She nodded shyly.

"Good, I'm going to make him jealous and you need to look at him for a bit of help ok?"

"Ok,"

All the while we were whispering I was just filling up a plate but now I looked up at her.

"Hi Dina, I'm Mike," I said in a normal voice.

"Hi Mike," she replied politely.

"So, you're very beautiful, I would have gotten hurt earlier if I'd known you were here," I said.

"Thanks, I guess," she said, sounding uncomfortable.

"So, I was wondering if we could go out sometime, see a movie, have dinner?" I asked with a grin.

"I don't think that's a good idea, you don't have a good reputation," she said, looking at Paul for help.

"What, who told you that?" I said, looking hurt. "You believe everything you hear?"

"About you, yes, now please leave me alone," she said, looking at Paul again.

He walked over and stood by me and said, "Stewart, leave Dina alone, she obviously doesn't want anything to do with you."

"And what does this have to do with you?" I asked him.

"She's a nice girl and I won't have you bothering her," he said.

"Well Dina, what do you think? Is he worth getting to know better, he did just stand up for you pretty well?" I asked with a smile.

"I think so Mike, if he can be man enough to stand up to you, he should be able to ask me out," she said with a grin.

Paul looked at her and then me with surprised look.

"Paul, turn to Dina and say – Will you go out with me?" I fake whispered to him.

He turned to her and asked, "Dina, will you go out with me?"

"Sure Paul, I've been waiting for you to ask me for a month," Dina said with a big smile.

"See, that wasn't so tough, now was it?" I said, clapping him on the back. "Now, you two can name your first born after me and we're even."

They both blushed red as I grinned and walked over to the pop dispenser and got another diet coke.

I went back out and sat out on the balcony overlooking the bleachers and people watched for a bit. The crowd was mostly students and there were more than a few lovely ladies in the crowd.

"That was a good thing you did for Paul, look at them now," Brian said.

I looked over to see them talking together, with Dina standing close to him and smiling up at him as he answered a question. He was still nervous and shy, but she was obviously encouraging him and being patient.

"She looks like she'll be good for him," I said. "The poor boy just needed some motivation, she'll do the rest."

"Yeah, we've tried to get him to talk to her, but he's always frozen up when he looks at her," Brian responded. "She's a nice girl; she'll lead him on gently."

"We've done our good deed of the day Watson, I must now partake of my snackage," I said with an English accent.

"Very good Holmes, I will join you in partaking," he replied.

We ate our food and girl watched until the second period started. Our team changed our tactics somewhat, playing a more up-tempo game from the puck drop. It nearly got us a goal in the first twenty seconds as Gary and Daniel went forward with the draw. Unfortunately, Daniel's shot bounced off the crossbar before going out of play. The crowd groaned at the almost goal.

The ice was sloped to their end most of the second period and Henry eventually scored on a nice deflection from a point shot from Steve to tie the game. The second period ended in a one all tie.

I used the washroom located in the hallway outside the suite before going back inside. I filled up another plate with some food and grabbed another pop before sitting down at a table inside the suite. After eating, I joined Brian and the others outside on the balcony for the third period.

The game was now pretty even, with the teams trading goals in the first half of the period. The coaches were playing just the first two pairs of defencemen, with John switching off with Rob or Mat on the second pair. Both teams tried hard to get the go ahead goal but the third period ended in a two-two tie, forcing overtime.

After a short break, the five minute overtime period started and unfortunately for us, Mitchell gained a step on both Mat and Rob and slipped the puck past Mark on his breakaway. The game ended in a three to two loss. The crowd, including all of us in the suite, groaned and we quickly cleaned up our stuff before heading down to the locker room. We all went down together and crowded into the locker room to hear Fred's quick speech.

"Gentlemen, we played a very good game tonight; down a couple of starters we still took them to overtime and only one of the fastest players in the country beat us," Fred said. "We have nothing to be ashamed about and it just proves we can play and beat the best in the country. So hold your heads high and we'll continue to ride this great play into next week against Lake Superior. Captains, let's get this over with."

I left with John and wished him a good weekend, whatever was left of it. I drove home and went up to the condo and let myself in. Trisha was lying on the couch watching TV, dressed in a long, red, sexy negligee that had a slit in it to show off her long legs.

"Hello there gorgeous, you by yourself?" I asked as I hung up my coat.

"Hi handsome, the girls left about a half hour ago to give us some privacy," she replied as she shut off the TV and got up.

Trisha walked towards me as I took my shoes off. I smiled at her as she came up close and reached up to put her arms around my neck and pull me down to her level. She planted a kiss on me as she moulded herself to my front. I held her hips as the kiss deepened and then caressed her back through the satin gown. I reached her bare upper back and shoulders and explored her silky skin.

"Wow, now that's how a guy likes to be greeted after a long day at the office," I said with a grin when we finally broke the kiss off.

"We looked for you on the TV and saw that you didn't play, so I decided you needed cheering up," she said with a smile.

"I'm officially cheered up then," I replied.

"Oh, this is just the beginning," she said with a smirk. "Come with me."

She grabbed my hand and pulled me to the hallway and down to my bedroom. The bed was turned down and she had a couple of candles lit, making a nice romantic atmosphere.

Trisha turned to face me and started helping me take off my suit jacket. She hung it up in the closet using an empty hanger and then returned to loosen my tie and pull it from my neck. Next came the shirt and I started feeling some arousal as she lightly caressed my chest and abs before pulling the shirt from my pants. She walked to the closet and hung up the shirt and put the tie around the hanger as well.

I watched her as she glided back to me with a sexy smile on her face until she was in front on me again. She cupped my face and then slowly trailed her hand down my chest and abs until she hit my belt. That was next to be undone and slipped from around my waist. After dropping it on the bed, Trisha took a deep breath and unbuttoned the top of my pants with slightly shaking hands.

"Hey," I said softy. "You don't have to do this, if the head office likes the pictures, you got the gig in Jamaica, Trish. Sleeping with me isn't a requirement to get the job. We should get to know each other better before we go much further anyway."

Trisha looked up at me and the smile had disappeared, leaving a nervous look on her face.

"Don't you want me?" she asked, worried.

"Honey, a blind, ninety five year old comatose Tibetan monk would want you right now, so of course I do," I told her. "I just don't want you doing this simply to win the job, so I'm taking that out of the equation for you. So, if you're not ready for this, let's just take things a bit slower. I can put some shorts on and then maybe we can slip into bed and just sleep together."

"Either way, these are coming off," she stated, pulling down my zipper gently.

She pushed my pants down and I stepped out of each leg as she held them up for me. After folding them nicely, she moved to the closet and hung them on the hanger that had the jacket already on it. She shut the sliding door as I took off my black socks and threw them on the nearby chair.

"There's no need for shorts, I've seen you like this before," she said. "Now, I think I'm wearing a bit too much for sleeping, so if you would be so kind as to help?"

She grabbed my wrists and lifted my arms to her shoulders. My fingers lightly grabbed the thin straps and then she pulled my hands to the sides and then let go so I could pull the straps down her arms. The negligee slipped down, slowly exposing her perfect breasts and then the rest of her torso. She wiggled and helped get it past her hips and let it pool around her feet.

"Damn, you gorgeous," I said, staring down at her, clothed only in a tiny thong.

"So are you," she replied, giving me a slow once over. "Come on, it's cold, let's get under the covers."

Trisha pulled me around to the side of the bed and then got in, moving to the centre of the king size bed. I followed and lay on my back after moving close to her. She was on her side and just draped her leg and arm over me as I put my arm under her neck. She rested her head on my shoulder as we looked at each other.

"Now, this is very nice," I told her, giving her a soft kiss on the lips.

"Yes it is," she agreed with a smile as she rubbed my chest. "Thank you for wanting to go slow. All of this is so new to me, and I'm more comfortable with girls. My agent and Katie thought that sleeping with you would seal the deal, but I think they didn't mean actually just sleeping."

She giggled as I rubbed her back with one hand and her shoulder with the other. Her breasts were pressed to my side and she lightly moved her leg on mine.

"So, you and Barb hit it off?" I asked.

"I really like her and we had a nice time I think," she said. "It was kind of new for her and I played a bit on her feelings for you. But I didn't force her or anything and she said she enjoyed what we did. I would love to continue with her but I'm not so sure she will want to."

"So, what have you done with guys?" I asked.

"Oh, not much," she replied. "I had a boyfriend or two in high school, but they weren't very experienced so it was easier to stick with a couple of my girlfriends. You're the first guy I've actually been in a bed with."

"I'm honoured," I said with a smile.

"You should be," she said with a grin as she made little circles on my abdomen. I hissed as she went down close to the top of my underwear, the sensation somewhere between a tickle and sensual.

"Oh, someone liked that," she said with a giggle. "You don't mind if I explore a bit, do you?"

"Ah, no," I said.

"I didn't think so," she murmured.

Her fingers travelled along the band of my underwear while she kissed my chest and neck. I started getting an erection as she guided her hand downward along my hip. Her wrist brushed my erection as she reached my thigh and explored my leg until she came to hers across mine.

"You can caress me too Mike, I'd like to feel your touch on me," she whispered.

I started exploring her body more, my free hand moving down her back and across her hip to explore her thigh. I eventually rested my hand on her hip, my fingers just touching her bare cheek. Trisha moved her hand back to just above my underwear.

"I thought you would be all over me by now," Trisha said, looking at me. "I didn't expect this from you."

"Hey, I'm not going to just roll on top of you and go at it willy-nilly," I responded.

"And don't get me wrong, I do appreciate that," she said with a giggle. "But you do have an almost naked woman in your arms who is starting to get a complex that the almost naked man she is with doesn't find her appealing."

"I was just being a gentleman, easing you into a new experience," I explained. "There's no rush to get down to business, we could just lie here like this all night and get to know each other better. For example, I have no idea what your last name is, where you're from, what kind of family you have, nothing at all. You probably don't know much more about me. I guess if this is going to be a onetime thing we don't need to know much about each other, but we are going to see each other again in March."

"That's so sweet of you," she replied, but we can get caught up on all of that in the morning, because I'm not going anywhere for a bit. So, Michael Stewart, I'm Trisha Smith, now unless you find me revolting for some reason, I expect a bit more enthusiasm or I'm going to be a little put out."

"Your wish is my command, my lady," I said as I rolled her onto her back.

She shrieked into my mouth as I kissed her, sliding my tongue inside her open mouth. Her arms came up to pull me tight as I moved my hand to one of her perfect breasts and started caressing her.

"Oh God, that's what I've been waiting for," she said as she broke away from the kiss.

"You ain't seen nothing yet," I told her and lowered my head to the other breast.

Her hands held my head as I licked and sucked the nipple as it hardened in my mouth. I eventually moved to the other breast as I let my hand wander down her stomach to trace all around her tiny thong.

"Oh yeah Mike, that feels so good," she moaned as she pulled my head tighter to her.

I lowered my hand to caress her through her thong as her hips started to move. Her legs shot out wide to allow me access and I lightly ran my fingers over her pussy. She gasped and pushed her groin up to get more pressure on her.

I spent the next ten minutes caressing her until she was panting and her thong was soaking wet. I lowered my head down and licked her through the thong and tasted her sweet juices. Her legs pulled me in tight as I moved the wet fabric to the side and feasted on her. It didn't take long to put her over the top and she almost smothered me as she pushed upwards into my mouth while pulling me in with her legs.

She finally collapsed her legs back onto the bed and I moved to the side and grabbed a condom and put it on. I got back in between her legs and hovered over her as she caught her breath with her eyes closed. I got myself situated and lightly rubbed Big Mike through her soaking wet pussy to hit her clit a few times.

"Oh my," she said, opening her eyes to see what was up. "That was so good Mike, and now it feels even better."

"Are you ready for round two?" I asked with a smile.

"Slowly, you're entering territory unexplored in a couple of years," she said, biting her lip.

"I'll be gentle," I told her as I found the right angle and slowly slid in.

"Oh, oh, easy, that's it Mike, nice and slow," she said, widening her legs. "Ok, are you going to stop anytime soon?"

"I'm just half way in," I told her.

"Damn, you're big everywhere," she observed. "You're definitely in unexplored territory now!"

I pulled back and made some short in and out strokes to get her juices flowing and to let her get used to me. When she finally got into it, I started stoking in deeper and she moaned in appreciation each time. It took five minutes to finally get in all the way.

"That's all of me Trish," I said as I stayed in deep.

"I feel so full," she said. "You're so hard and hot and so, so deep."

I slowly pulled back and then thrust back in all the way.

"Oh, that feels good," she said.

I continued and she started to react, pushing up as I pushed in, making her clit rub on me when we met. Her mouth opened and she started gasping at the end of each thrust, her hands urging me on faster. I complied and soon we were at a nice pace and her legs wrapped around me and pulled me in at the end of each down stroke.

"Well, you've lasted longer than both of the boys put together," she said with a grin.

"That's not really saying much there Trish," I responded dryly. "And in their defence, you were probably pretty hot back then too and fifteen and sixteen year olds aren't known for their staying power."

"True, but this is so much better," she said with a smile.

"So, shall we switch it up a bit?" I asked. "Would you like to get on top for a bit?"

"Sure, that'll be cool!" she responded.

We switched positions and she eased herself down slowly and grinned when she hit bottom. Then she really took off, raising and lowering her body using her well toned muscles to full advantage. I caressed her wonderfully firm breasts as she bounced on me and she held my hands to her as she sat up straight.

We went on for ten to fifteen minutes until she tired and collapsed down on my chest, her hips still moving up and down on me.

"This is hard work," she said into my chest.

"How about I take over and finish us off?" I asked.

"Sounds good to me," she replied.

"Ok, on your hands and knees and move back near the end of the bed," I told her as she eased herself off of me.

She did as I instructed and wiggled her butt at me as I stood behind her. I slid back into her and went in all the way in one stroke, causing a moan.

"Oh Mike, that's the way I want you," she said, looking over my shoulder. "I think you just came out of my mouth for a second."

I grinned and pulled out while holding her hips. I waited for a second and watched her face as she pouted.

"Mike, don't tease, put it back in where it belongs," she instructed.

"I'm sorry, but I don't work well on demands," I said with a smirk.

"Oh, and what will work?" she asked. "Bribery? Begging? A little dirty talk perhaps?"

"All good places to start," I replied as I rubbed her clit with the tip of my cock.

"Oh, that's nice, rub my clit with your huge cock, Mike," she said. "I want you to fuck me until I pass out. Please fuck me, I need you so bad. I promise I'll be your love slave forever if you do."

"Wow, all three of them in a couple of sentence, that deserves a reward," I said, plunging back into her.

Soon she was pushing back as I thrust into her and she was getting into it. She had to eventually put her head down on the bed and grab the sheets and she moaned each time I went in deep. I loved this position as she gave herself up to me, her ass in the air and just letting me fuck her as hard as I could.

Eventually I reached critical mass and sped up for the final explosion. She started moaning 'Oh Yeah' every second and then shrieked into the mattress as I thrust hard a few more times before cumming hard into the condom as I tried to push myself even deeper into her. After a few final strokes I stayed in deep and held her hips as I gasped for air.

"Damn, that was so fucking hot," she moaned. "Now I know what I've been missing all this time."

She lowered her ass down and I quickly grabbed the condom before she pulled it off of me. I walked into the bathroom and cleaned up, returning with a cool washcloth and a warm one. She was still lying on her belly, her world class ass and legs looking spectacular.

I put the cool washcloth on her face and used the warm one to wash her pussy a bit.

"Mmmm, that feels nice," she purred.

"I'll be back with some water," I told her as I walked out of the bedroom.

I was quickly back in the room with a couple of bottles and rolled one down her back, causing her to shriek and turn over.

"Michael Stewart; is that the way to treat the lady you just turned to mush?" she asked.

"I had to get you to move somehow," I said with a grin. "Ok, scoot up and we'll get under the covers."

"You could have just asked, you big Meany," she pouted as she got the covers pulled down below her butt.

I handed her a bottle and then had a big drink before joining her in the bed. She put her bottle on her night stand after taking a drink and then snuggled up close to me.

"That was something else Mike, I must admit," she said. "I was a bit worried that I wouldn't like it, but I loved it. Thanks for making it so wonderful."

It was my pleasure Trish, you were fantastic as well," I told her.

"Oh, I don't know, I really didn't do too much," she said.

"Nonsense, you were terrific when you were on top of me and I loved your reactions at the end," I told her.

"I was so wound up, I just reacted," she said with a blush.

"A guy likes a girl that gets passionate and a bit wild, it shows she's enjoying it," I informed her.

"Well, that's what you got then," she said. "I really enjoyed it."

"Good," I replied and put my head back on my pillow. "I don't want to be rude but I might fall asleep on you soon, it's been a long day. Feel free to sleep in; I might head out at around six to go work out at the arena. I should be back by eight or nine."

"Ok, I'll probably be asleep soon too, I got up early to catch the flight," she informed me. "I'll see you when you get back from the arena. Be careful with your hand ok?"

"Yes Ma'am," I replied with a grin.

"I'm no Ma'am, I'm barely a Miss!" she replied primly and jabbed me in the ribs.

I chuckled and gave her a hug before saying, "I had a wonderful day with you Miss Smith, a fantastic night and I hope to continue to have a great week with you."

"Mr. Stewart, I also have had a great day and night with you and hope to continue to have a wonderful week with you," she said, giving me a kiss.

"Good night Miss Smith," I said.

"Good night Mr. Stewart," she said.

Sleep came pretty quickly for her as she snuggled to my side and I lay there listening to her slow breathing. It was a bit of a shock to be sleeping with such a beauty after just one day of knowing her. She seemed very eager to be with me and I definitely enjoyed the sex. I wanted to get to know her better outside the bedroom, starting tomorrow.

I fell asleep soon after, loving how she felt next to me, both of us naked and as close as two people could get.

I was awakened Sunday morning by some wonderful sensations on Big Mike. I looked down to see Trisha smiling up at me as she was licking around the head. As soon as she saw me, she took the whole head into her mouth and sucked on it as her tongue licked the bottom.

"That feels fantastic Trish," I told her.

She winked and proceeded to lower her head and take more of me into her mouth. I moaned and reached down to hold her head lightly. She coughed when my little head hit her throat and she lifted her head until just the head was in and gasped for breath.

"You're so big, I can hardly get any of you in," she said. "In the couple of porn films my girlfriends and I watched, they seemed to be able to get all of it inside their mouths."

"They're professionals honey; just do what's comfortable for you, it all feels good," I told her.

"You like it so far?" she asked with a grin.

"I love it so far," I replied. "It's a very pleasant surprise."

"You did it for me, and I know guys like this so I thought I would try it," she said as her hand jacked my lower shaft. "Ok, make sure you warn me when you're ready to blow ok? I'm not sure I can handle that the first time."

I nodded as she lowered her head again. Soon she was bobbing her head up and down while providing suction. It felt fantastic and I was soon as hard as a rock and very turned on.

She stopped when I was very getting very excited and near the edge. I looked down at her and she grinned.

"Why did you stop honey, I'm so close?" I asked.

"How did you put it? Bribery, begging, and talking dirty," she said.

"Please honey, I'm begging you to continue," I said. "I'll buy you jewellery and clothes if you suck my cock into you sexy mouth until I cum."

"Well, not bad Mike, but I also want some quid pro quo later," she said with a giggle.

"It's a deal," I told her.

Trish lowered her head again and took me in as I moaned in appreciation. She soon had her hand and mouth working together to bring me back up to a fever pitch. I held her head as I started thrusting up with my hips and she had to hold on with her hand to make sure I didn't go to deep.

"I'm real close Trish, I'm going to cum soon," I told her.

She pulled back against my hands and I let loose so she could pop her mouth off.

"Damn Mike, loosen up a bit," she said, looking up with a frown.

"Sorry, got carried away, it feels so good," I told her as she kept up her hand jacking.

She took just the head in her mouth and sucked on it as her hand blurred on my cock.

"God, I'm going to cum Trish, Oh shit, I'm cumming!" I shouted as I thrust upward and let loose with a shot right into her mouth.

She pulled away and the next one landed on her chin and then on her chest before the rest dribbled onto my groin.

"Oh Damn, that was fantastic," I said as I sucked in some air while looking up at the ceiling.

"Ahem," I heard from below.

I looked down to see her a bit dishevelled, with my cum on her face, chest and hands.

"Oh shit, sorry honey, I couldn't control myself, it was so good," I said sitting up. "Let's get you cleaned up."

I got up and quickly went into the washroom and got a couple of washcloths wet and came back to wipe her face and chest off.

"Let's get you in the shower and get the rest off," I said, pulling her up.

"That wasn't very nice Michael," she said.

"I'll make it up to you, promise," I replied as I started up the shower.

Once the water was warm enough, I pulled her in and put her underneath the water. I got her hair wet and then shampooed her hair, using the lather to lightly wash her face and chest as well. After rinsing her hair and face I got a washcloth soaped up and proceeded to wash her from top to bottom. When I was done, I rinsed her off, turning her a few times and running my hands down her body to make sure she was squeaky clean.

I kissed her lips and then went lower to her neck and then made my way down her body to her breasts and proceeded to give them the attention they rightly deserved. I felt her hands on my head, ready to direct me should it be needed. I had her moaning as her nipples were hard enough to poke an eye out. Trish's hands went to my shoulders and pushed me down.

I spent the next twenty minutes licking and sucking her pussy and clit while my hands helped take her over the top twice and almost to a third before I stood up.

"Please don't stop Mike, I'm almost there again," she begged.

"I want you again, Trish, I'm hard as a rock," I told her.

"Oh my, so you are," she said, looking down. "Are you going to put it right inside me now?"

"I would love to, just let me get a condom," I told her.

"You know I'm on the pill, and I was checked out and everything was good," she said.

"I know, I just have to be extra careful," I told her. "I'll be right back or we can get out and get back into bed."

"Let's get out, I'm already turning into a prune," she decided.

I shut off the water and we grabbed a towel each and quickly dried off, helping each other out until our passion took over and I picked her up. She wrapped herself around me and I carried her to the bed and dropped her down on the bed as she shrieked.

I quickly grabbed a condom and put it on me as she scrambled to get away from me.

"Stay away from me you brute," she said. "I don't want you anymore, you're such a savage."

"I'll show you savage," I said as I got on the bed and made my way towards her.

She made an attempt to get away and I caught her easily and started tickling her until she shrieked and begged me to stop.

"Now where were we?" I asked. "Oh yeah, I was eating this sweet, tiny pussy of yours until you just about to cum. I guess I better get you back in the mood."

"No, don't you dare," she said. "I didn't like it a bit."

I grinned and had her legs spread and my mouth on her still wet pussy before she could object further. I found her clit and sucked it into my mouth while my tongue flicked at it furiously.

"Oh God, don't you dare use your fingers in my pussy, your mouth is bad enough," she said.

I slipped one finger into her pussy and curled it up to find the ridges up at the top. She bucked her hips up as I rubbed her G spot while nibbling on her clit.

"Oh damn, that's so bad, I can't believe how much I hate that," she moaned. "I won't cum for you for hours."

In a short five minutes she was forcing her pussy into my mouth as she pulled my hair to get me in deeper.

"Oh yeah, oh yeah, that's it, that's the spot, I'm going to cum, damn it," she shouted. "I can't believe you're doing this to me again. Oh God, that's it, I'm cumming!"

She nearly broke my neck as she arched her back and pushed her pelvis off the bed, forcing my head back. I grabbed her legs and pulled her down while I licked her juices up as they flowed out, soaking my face.

She finally collapsed back onto the bed and I sat up between her legs and watched as she caressed her breasts and then her stomach.

"So good, so good," she muttered as she had her eyes closed. "You're still a beast, but such a good beast."

"The beast still wants you, my little lamb," I said with a chuckle.

"I'm too tired to fight you off," she said, opening her eyes. "I'm sure you're going to take this poor defenceless waif no matter what I say."

I gave her an evil grin and moved over top of her and slid right in as she kept her legs wide until I was all the way in. She wrapped her arms and legs around me and squeezed me tight.

"You've fallen into my trap and now I've got you right where I want you," she said as she found my neck and started sucking on it fiercely as I pulled my hips back.

I pushed back in as she proceeded to give me a hickey to mark me as hers. I lowered my head to her breast and did the same thing, leaving a purple mark in the inside top of her left breast.

"Oh God, you're so bad, marking my poor body like that," she moaned.

"I'm not done yet, you're getting one on your neck just like you did to me," I said with a laugh. "Try and explain that to your Mommy and Daddy when you get back."

"No, you can't do that Mike, please, please don't, they would kill me if they saw that," she said, pushing at my chest.

"Well, well, well," I said, still driving into her with my hard cock. "Someone is still Mommy and Daddy's little girl? You're eighteen now, what's the big deal?"

"Could we discuss this after you've finished shoving your telephone pole inside me," she said, gasping each time I drove in deep.

"I'll probably be at this all day, you took the edge off earlier remember?" I said with a grin.

"Oh no," she wailed. "You're such a sasquatch, a horrible brute of a man. I'll be ruined for life, you animal."

She kept her legs around my butt and helped push me in every time while she was bemoaning her treatment.

After about ten minutes, she pushed me away and loosened her leg's death grip on me. I pulled out and she turned over.

"This way seems to get you off, maybe we can actually get something done today," she said with a sigh.

I knelt behind her and slid back in while holding her hips. She groaned and pushed back at me as she put her head on a pillow. I quickly got up to speed and had her moaning into the pillow after every thrust. I finally had enough friction on my cock to get excited and I increased my speed and my depth of thrust into her. She noticed and bit down on the pillow as her hands grabbed at the headboard and held onto a couple of the spindles. She pushed back to me faster until she screamed and came around my cock, which triggered my orgasm.

It took almost a minute for us to finish and for her to collapse onto the bed. I looked down to see the condom stretch and just got to it before it split. I moved off the bed and went to take care of it, returning with a washcloth and a couple of water bottles.

Trisha had turned over and watched me as I came in, offering her the bottle and the washcloths. She put the bottle on the nightstand and used the cool cloth to wipe her face and chest. I climbed back into bed and lay on my back.

"I suddenly don't feel the need to skate this morning," I said, looking over at her.

"I should think not, you expended enough energy this morning to keep you in shape for a week," Trisha remarked. "I'm not going to be able to move from this bed for a week either you Brutus."

"Good, we can get to know each other better in between love making sessions," I said.

"God, you're a fricking machine," she said. "You have to give me a break or I'll end up in the morgue. Death by fucking is supposed to be a myth."

I laughed at her and relaxed for a bit. I felt her hand grab mine and hold it tight. I looked over and saw her smiling at me.

"Well Miss Smith, I think we better find out a few things about each other if we're going to be this familiar," I said with a grin. "I don't have much to tell, I'm an only child and my only relatives are an Aunt and uncle and their two young daughters who are my cousins. I play hockey, study computer science and model for Calvin Klein. Now it's your turn."

"I have a mother and father, two step brothers older than me, and two brothers younger than me," she said. "I have lots of relatives, grandparents, aunts and uncles, and loads of cousins. I've graduated high school and hope to become a Calvin Klein model."

"Where is home?" I asked.

"LA with my folks and my younger brothers," she replied.

"Oh, I just assumed you were from New York," I said. "So, do they know you're here?"

"God no; they think I'm in New York, working on a shoot and going around to drum up more work," Trish said. "This is the first time they've let me be on my own away from them. Usually my mother comes with me, but I insisted on going by myself."

"So they wouldn't be pleased about their little girl being here all alone with a guy?" I asked.

"No, they would probably shoot you and lock me up in a convent," she said with a laugh. "So let's make sure they don't find out ok?"

"You should be safe from that, but what about modeling?" I asked. "You're going to be in some pretty risqué shots and commercials in a month."

"They'll have to get used to it because I'm not quitting," she replied, sounding very determined. "I've worked too hard to get to this point and I'm not going to throw this all away."

"Good for you," I said. "Ok, enough about us, let's talk food. Are you hungry?"

"I'm starving, making love to you is exhausting," she said with a giggle.

"Alright, I'll get started on some breakfast then," I told her. "How do you like your eggs?"

"Over easy with some toast is fine," she replied, sitting up as I did.

"Hey, you can stay here and rest up," I suggested.

"Nonsense, I can help and I like the company," she responded, standing up and walking naked over to the chair where her negligee and robe were draped over.

She put on the robe and grinned when she saw me staring at her. She looked down my naked body as I reached for some shorts and slipped them on.

"Aw, I was hoping for a show," she pouted as I pulled a tee shirt on.

"I'm not frying eggs and bacon naked," I stated as I led the way to the kitchen.

"That's true, can't have that splattered with hot grease," she said. "That could put you out of action for a couple of days and that would be a disaster of biblical proportions."

"Human sacrifice! Dogs and cats living together! Mass hysteria!" I quoted from the Ghostbusters movie.

She laughed and gave me a kiss on the cheek before saying, "That's what I like about you the most; we have the same sense of humour."

"You're the first woman who's gotten my jokes," I said. "Will you marry me?"

"Hmmm, that's very tempting but I'm not sure if two people with this type of humour should co-inhabit the same building, let alone the same condo," she replied with a laugh.

"The consequences could be catastrophic," I stated as I got out a couple of frying pans.

I got some eggs and bacon frying in separate pans while she started the toast. In between, we set the table while giving each other little caresses and kisses. I enjoyed our extra closeness, even though we'd only known each other a day. In about ten to fifteen minutes we were sitting down at the table eating breakfast.

"So what would you like to do today?" I asked after finishing a mouthful of egg and toast.

"After another shower and getting dressed, we should see what Katie said about the pictures we sent and see if she needs anymore," she stated. "If she does, we get them done and then we can relax and see if the rest of the girls want to come over."

"Sounds like a plan," I agreed. "I have to fit in some studying and homework as well I'm afraid."

"No problem, I can hang out with the girls then or go shopping or something," she replied.

We finished up breakfast and quickly had the dishes washed before I powered up the laptop. We did get back an email from Katie.

Hi Mike:

I got the pictures and you and Trisha look great together, and so did Barb with both of you. I passed them upward and they're very happy as well. I'm going to book Trisha and Barb for Jamaica so you can tell her she's in. I'll talk to Barb and see how we can handle that mess, since she's under contract already.

So, good work and I'll see you Monday evening. I've attached your itinerary to this email so you should be all set. A limo will meet you at the airport again and take you to the Waldorf Astoria and I'll meet you there.

Katie

"Good news Trish, they loved the pictures," I told her. "You'll be booked for Jamaica and so will Barb. Congratulations!"

"Really?" she asked.

"Really, really," I responded.

She shrieked and then hugged me tight before kissing me passionately.

"You are going to get so lucky Mister," she said. "Thank you so much for picking me and working so well with me yesterday."

"You're very welcome, Miss Smith," I replied with a grin.

"Oh, I wish I could tell my Mom, she would be so happy for me," she said with a pout.

"Why can't you tell her?" I asked.

"Because I'm not in New York," she replied. "She'll call back and catch me not in the room, or have my Dad call the room later. It's just better if I wait until I'm back there."

"Well, you can come with me tomorrow night and we'll use Tuesday as the day you officially found out after we took some pictures together," I suggested. "Who knows, Katie might want you to join me at the shows."

"You would take me there?" she asked. "I'd love to go with you, but I probably can't get a ticket this late."

"Nonsense, I'll get Katie on it and she can make the arrangements," I told her.

"You are so good to me, and you barely know me," she said, giving me another hug.

"I've known you when you're bare so that counts for something," I said with a grin.

"I knew you were going to say that the second it was out of my mouth," she responded, hitting me in the gut. "You better not say things like that with other people around, I'll go beet red on you."

I laughed and responded back to Katie and asked her to get Trisha on the same flight and a room at the hotel. I suggested that we could have Trisha come on the Live with Regis and Kelly show in the morning, if she thought it was a good idea. I told her to call me when she had more information.

"Ok, she'll handle it from here," I told Trish. "How about you have a shower and then I will before we call the girls."

"How about we both shower together and I can express my appreciation?" she suggested.

"You're sore, remember?" I told her as I caressed her bum.

"True, but I can still take care of you," she said with a giggle.

"You've taken care of me just fine," I told her. "But I'll join you anyway and make sure you're squeaky clean again."

"Goody," she said and dragged me to the bathroom.

She had a nice long shower and we both helped each other out with our mouths before rinsing one more time. This time she swallowed most of my cum and beamed up at me while she was doing it. I made sure she had two more orgasms before letting her finish washing.

We got out and were drying each other off when we heard the phone ring. I raced and got to it before it stopped.

"Hello?" I said.

"Hey Mike, it's Katie, I think it's an excellent idea to have Trisha come to New York with you," she said. "I'll run it by the boys upstairs, but I think they'll love it if she can go on Live with you."

"Good, so you'll handle the arrangements and email them to me?" I asked.

"Sure thing, are you sure you don't want her in your room?" she asked with a giggle.

"She needs to be able to get calls to and from her parents, so get her a room," I said. "Put it on my account if you have to."

"Nonsense, CK will pay for it, she's going to be one of ours on Tuesday," Katie replied.

"Thanks Katie, I appreciate it," I told her.

"No problem, you should see the information later today," she replied. "You have a good day with her and I'll see the both of you tomorrow night."

"Ok, you have a good day too," I replied before hanging up.

Trisha melded her bare body to my back and asked, "Well?"

"You're coming with me and she's going to try to get you on the morning show with me," I told her as I looked over my shoulder at her.

"Mike, if you want to ask that question you asked me earlier, I'll think I'll say yes now," she said, kissing my neck with little kisses.

"And which one would that be Miss Smith?" I asked teasingly.

"The one where you asked me to marry you," she whispered.

"As much as I would love to have you here permanently, you're going to be a supermodel soon enough and there isn't a market for them in Ann Arbor," I said gently.

"So, move with me to New York then, or LA," she suggested. "We could get an apartment together and you could go to school and model."

"Honey, I can't just leave here in the middle of the school year or during the hockey season," I said. "But, we can still see each other often; we'll get an apartment in New York for you and we can visit each other often. It's only a couple of hours flight from here."

"I suppose, but I'd get so lonely there without anyone to be with me," she said.

"Get a girlfriend, Katie will be there and you'd get along great with her," I said. "Listen, we don't have to make any life altering decisions right now, the shoot won't be for a month and I'm sure you're going to go back to LA for a bit."

"True, unless I can use this to get gigs in the meantime," she said excitedly, "especially if I go on the show with you."

"I think you will get on," I told her. "Ok, enough about business for a bit. I think we better take you shopping for some clothes to wear."

"What's wrong with my clothes I brought with me?" she asked.

"You're going to be a CK model now, you have to wear our clothes," I replied. "And I happen to have an account at the nearby CK store, so get your exquisite derriere clothed and I'll take you there."

"You sure you don't need a wife?" she asked with a grin.

"I'll keep you in mind when I decide that I do," I told her. "You're the only one on the list right now so don't worry. Now put some clothes on and we'll head out," I said, swatting her bum.

She shrieked and ran to her bedroom, with me hot on her tail. She managed to get the door shut to her bedroom before I got there and I continued on to mine. I slipped into some CK jeans and a tee shirt after putting on underwear and socks. I quickly combed my hair and brushed my teeth and then walked to her bedroom and opened the door.

"Almost ready?" I asked.

She was in a tiny string pair of underwear and a tight tank top, sitting at the mirror doing her makeup.

"Does it look like it?" she asked primly.

I moved to stand behind her and caressed her bare shoulders.

"Mike, that feels good, but it's distracting me," she said with a smile. "Someone promised shopping and that's almost as good as sex to a girl."

"I'm glad it rates below it or I would be hurt," I replied with a grin. "So, do you want to invite the girls along?"

"That would be cool," she said, looking at me in the mirror.

"Alright, I'll see if they want to come," I told her as I walked out the door. "How much more time do you need?"

"I'll be ready in fifteen," she replied.

I called down to Barb and she said ok and would call the trio in the dorms and let me know in a few minutes. I looked out the dining room windows, admiring the campus in the bright sunshine. Eventually she called back and said that the others would be coming with us and we should be at her door in about fifteen.

I let Trisha know and then turned on the TV and looked around for highlights of last night's game. I ended up watching NHL highlights and Trisha came out before anything else came on. I shut it off and looked at her, dressed in simple jeans and a tee shirt.

"You look gorgeous," I told her.

"You're too biased now," she said with a smile as we walked to the closet.

I helped her with her coat and we headed down to the floor below using the stairs. I knocked on the door and it opened after a few seconds and the red haired beauty smiled at us as she joined us in the lobby.

"You two look in good moods," she said with a grin.

"And you're looking beautiful this morning," I replied.

We walked down the hall as the two girls whispered behind me and continued as we waited for the elevator to come up. I looked over at them after pressing the down button and they giggled at me.

"Ok, what's up ladies?" I asked.

"Oh nothing," Trisha said.

"Yep, nothing at all," Barb agreed.

"Sure," I said dryly.

They looked at each other and laughed out loud.

"You're going to give me a complex, ladies," I told them with a frown.

"Sorry Mike, we were just having a girl talk," Trisha said. "Don't worry; you have nothing to be embarrassed about."

"Then why all the giggling like little school girls?" I asked.

"Because, unlike you, Trisha is funny," Barb replied with a grin.

I let them get in first and then followed as Barb pressed the button to the garage. Soon we were on the road to the university. The trio were waiting at the curb and piled in, with Asuka in the front and the other four in the back.

"Hello ladies, how was your evening?" I asked.

"Not as good as yours, I'm sure," Mitsy said with a grin.

All five of them laughed as I turned red. I saw Mitsy and Casey huddle with Barb and Trisha in the rear mirror and shook my head.

"So, you used protection?" Asuka asked quietly.

"Yep, every time," I replied as the other in the back laughed again at something Trisha said. "Don't you want to join in back there?"

"Let them have their fun, they're all very interested in how it went," she replied with a grin. "I'm sure she's being very complimentary about you."

"I hope so, she seemed to enjoy it," I said quietly.

We quickly drove to the mall and headed into the store. I asked for the manager but she wasn't there. I explained who I was and the girl knew about the account. I told her that Trisha's clothes were on the account but the other four's choices would be paid by me.

"Ok ladies, shop till you drop in here, it's on CK and me, so don't worry about cost, just get what you need and want," I told them.

"Let's go ladies," Trisha said with a big grin.

I sat down near the door and pulled out a book from my pocket and started reading the Dan Brown novel. I looked up from time to time and saw them flitting from one rack to another, with five separate piles of clothes growing at a table beside the counter.

Barb came over and sat down beside me.

"I just got a call from Katie; she says they want me to be a model with you and Trisha," she said quietly.

"That's fantastic Barb, I told you that you were beautiful enough to be a model," I replied with a smile. "You don't look enthused though."

"One, Carroll wants to do it under the existing contract and two, I don't want to give up school for modeling," she replied.

"I'll handle Carroll through Kate and two, you don't have to give up school," I told her. "You just come down for the week like you had to anyway. I'll make sure you come back with me and stay here."

"Ok Mike; I'm trusting you to take care of everything," she said, giving me a kiss. "You know what this means don't you?"

"No, what does it mean?" I asked.

"I'm going to have to spend a weekend with you now, just like all your other models," she said with a grin. "Don't book anyone for next weekend, you're all mine."

I looked at her in shock as she stood up and walked away. Trisha was watching and she laughed at the look on my face as Barb walked back to her. I shook my head and went back to reading, not really seeing the words on the page for a few minutes.

I must have closed my eyes and dozed off because Asuka was shaking my shoulder when I woke up.

"Michael, we're done," she said. "You would think five women choosing skimpy outfits would keep you awake."

"Sorry, I must have dozed off," I said.

I stood up and we walked to the counter where the rest of the girls and the staff were waiting for me. I handed my credit card to the smiling girl behind the counter and noticed the piles were all gone.

"Where did everything go?" I asked.

"Already in your vehicle Michael," Asuka said. "You sleep like a hibernating bear."

The girls all laughed at that, including the ones behind the counter.

"And we all know how a bear acts when he's awoken early from hibernation," Mitsy added. "Grouchy!"

"So what's his excuse the rest of the year?" Casey asked to more laughter.

"Ladies, you really shouldn't make fun of him until he signs the bill," Trisha said.

I signed the bill for Trisha's clothes and then the credit card slip for the other four ladies and then thanked the sales clerks for their time with a couple hundred dollar bills. I led the way to the SUV and asked if the girls were being dropped off at the dorms or the condo.

"The condo silly, we have to continue our girl talk with Trisha," Mitsy said.

"Silly me, how could I have missed that?" I asked. "Shall we pick up lunch or are you going to fend for yourselves?"

"What? You're not going to cook for us?" Casey asked.

"I'm going to be doing homework and studying, so if it's my turn, I'll pick up some take-out before we get there," I replied.

They talked amongst themselves and Barb announced, "James, take us to Taco Bell."

I looked at her in the mirror and they all started howling at my expression. I just shook my head and changed course for the fast food joint. When we pulled in, I parked the car and gave them sixty bucks to go get the food rather than try and give the order through the drive-in. Asuka stayed in the car with me.

"How is the hand?" she asked, taking my right hand into her two.

"The swelling is down, but not gone," I told her. "It still hurts to close it so it will probably be a few more days until it's healed."

She lightly traced the ligaments and tendons in the hand and then bent the pinkie finger while holding her fingers on tendons below the knuckle.

"Ah, I see the problem," she said. "Is that not a beautiful sight?"

I looked over to where she was looking and she took the opportunity to press hard on a sore point on my hand while pulling on my pinkie.

"Ouch!" I shouted as I looked down to see what she had done. "What the hell was that for?"

"I have fixed the problem with your hand, it should be much better starting tomorrow," she said simply, letting the hand go. "The tendons and ligaments were not aligned as they should have been, but it has been corrected."

"You could have warned me!" I said.

"You would have tensed up and made it harder," she said. "I will send you my bill in the morning."

"I'd like to spank you in the morning," I mumbled, rubbing my hand.

"I'm not into such deviant behaviour Michael," she said primly. "I would hope you weren't planning to use such techniques on the girls, they probably wouldn't appreciate them either."

"Ha, Ha," I said sarcastically. "While they all could use a bit of paddling, you know that I'm not into that either."

We drove back to the condo and I grabbed a bag of food and left them to their gaggling in their condo while I went upstairs. I worked on assignments and the philosophy paper for a couple hours until I needed a break.

I decided to do my stretching and forms for a while to stay limber and in practice. Even after my exercise, my hand felt better as the day went on. Asuka certainly knew what she was doing, even if her bedside manner left much to be desired.

I went back to the paper and got another couple pages done before my phone rang.

"Mike, it's Trisha, we want to know what's up for supper?" she asked.

"Don't have a clue; are you eating with the girls or with me?" I asked.

"How about we all eat together, maybe go out to a nice restaurant before you go to martial arts?" she suggested.

"We don't want to eat too much before training," I told her. "It's almost five thirty, so we don't have a lot of time before we have to be there. Maybe we can go for some soup and salad somewhere, maybe Olive Garden."

"I'll see what they say and get back to you," Trisha replied and hung up.

I finished up the paragraph I was working on and checked my email. Katie had emailed our new itinerary so I plugged in my printer and printed out two copies.

Katie called back and said, "Ok, Olive Garden it is, we'll be ready in ten minutes and the girls will bring their workout clothes with them so we can go directly to the Dojo. See you here in a few."

She hung up before I could get a word in edgewise. I shut down the computer and got my stuff ready and then got myself ready. I was outside the sisters' condo exactly ten minutes after I received the call.

"You are right on time," Asuka said. "I like that you're punctual most of the time."

"And I like the fact that you're always ready as well," I replied. "Thank you for the treatment on the hand, it feels much better and the swelling is almost gone."

"You're welcome, Michael," she replied. "It is nice to be able to help you. You are usually pretty self sufficient."

"I like your outfit, you look very beautiful," I told her.

She was in a tight blouse and dress pant combo that looked new and she had on some low heels that added to the overall sophisticated look.

"Thank you for the compliment and the outfits you have paid for," she replied. "The girls are making me a project to Americanize me while also raising my level of style and sophistication."

"And she fights us tooth and nail," Mitsy said, coming up behind her and giving her a hug. "She wants to blend into the background but sometimes the background is chic and classy and she has to be able to look that part as well. Besides, she deserves to be pampered and fussed over."

"No, I do not," Asuka replied. "But she has a point on blending in; Mitsy's family and friend's tastes require an upgrade of my wardrobe as well as my social skills if I am to protect her and the others."

"You're getting to be very graceful as well as beautiful," I told her. "And you do deserve it."

"Aw, I think Mike's falling for you too," Mitsy said. "You can't have us all Mike, we're not going to be your own little harem."

"Darn, you've discovered my evil plan," I responded.

The others came up behind the two ready to go so we walked down to the elevator. They were all in good casual dress and were all looking hot.

"You ladies outdid yourselves tonight, you look gorgeous," I told them all.

"Thank you Michael," they all said, almost in unison.

The elevator arrived and we rode down to the parking garage and piled into the SUV. My co-pilot was Casey this time and she had decided to put on a skirt and blouse combo that she had got earlier at CK. I found it hard to concentrate with her showing so much of her sexy legs to me. When I looked up at her face she had a small smirk on it and arched an eyebrow at me.

Eventually we arrived at the restaurant and a couple tables were put together for us. We ordered the all you can eat salad and soup combo and were soon chowing down on salad.

We had a nice dinner and everyone was chatting away happily. I mostly just listened to the two or three conversations that were going on at the same time while slurping soup or eating salad.

I paid the bill when we were done and this time Barb sat in front, showing off her nice legs. I nearly missed the turnoff to the Dojo when she crossed her legs in her short skirt.

"Damn woman, you're going to cause an accident," I said as she chuckled.

The girls in back laughed at my antics as we exited the SUV and the girls marched into the front door. I waited for Asuka to change and then come out and we walked around to the back. The sensei was waiting and I changed into my sweats while Asuka explained about my hand.

We all stretched and did some forms to warm up and then they started teaching me footwork and simple kicks. After a break they worked on simple blocks using legs on legs and then called it a night. I reminded them of my trip Monday and Tuesday and said I would see them Thursday night.

Asuka and I picked up the girls and Mitsy joined me in the front. She had changed back to her good outfit and I admired her legs on the way back to the dorms. We dropped off the trio and everyone wished each other a good night before we headed to the condo. After checking our mailboxes, we took the elevator to Barb's floor and made sure she was in her condo before Trisha and I used the stairs to get to mine. I turned off the alarms and hung up our coats.

"Did you enjoy your day with the girls?" I asked.

"Yes I did, with four boys in the family I don't get a lot of girl time, so it was nice to hang out with them," Trisha replied. "Did you get lots of work done?"

"Yep, thanks for giving me some alone time," I told her. "I'm going to catch the rest of the Superbowl if you care to join me."

"Ah no, I think I'll take a shower," she replied. "Enjoy."

I watched the rest of the game and the Steelers won against the Cardinals. I saw the twins in a couple of commercials and one of our CK ads was shown as well. They were probably at the game but I thankfully missed any coverage of them. I turned the TV off when it was over and had a shower myself before slipping in behind Trisha in bed. She snuggled her back to my front while we lay on our sides and I draped an arm around her.

"So, enjoying your stay so far?" I asked.

"Very much so," she replied. "It's not going to be easy to leave you and the girls."

"You're welcome back any time you can make it," I told her. "I know you're life will get hectic, probably right after you do the TV show, but remember you have friends here if you need to unwind."

"I will, and I expect you to visit me as well, "she replied.

"As often as I can," I assured her.

We talked a bit more and then we slowly fell asleep.



-------

Chapter 42


I woke up to the alarm and snuck out of bed without waking Trisha. I left her a note telling her I would be back at two thirty to spend some time with her before going back for afternoon practice. I put the itinerary beside the note on the dining room table and left her my cell number as well as Katie's in case she needed either of us.

I drove to the arena and hustled in to get out of the cold. February was deciding to come in and make January feel balmy by comparison. I got suited up and did my usual stretching before skating longer than usual, just holding my stick lightly. After I had enough of skating by myself, I stick handled with a puck and started some light wrist shots close in to test the hand. It felt fine and there wasn't any pain so I started shooting harder. After a dozen shots, I checked the hand out and there didn't seem to be any swelling, which was a good thing because Chris and Fred came out of the tunnel looking pissed.

I smiled and skated over to them and, before they could say a thing, said, "Before you get mad, the swelling is gone and there's no pain at all. Take a look."

Chris looked at the hand, turning it over and bending the finger down to make a fist. I just smiled and let him try and torture me.

"It looks ok," Chris said to Fred. "Either he's a fast healer or it wasn't as damaged as bad as it looked Saturday night."

"You guys should have let me play Saturday night, I could have helped," I said, shaking my head. "C'est la vie."

"I'm sure you would have, but we don't take chances with our athletes," Fred replied. "Ok, let Chris know if you have pain or it swells up again."

I nodded and skated back to my line of pucks and started cranking shots off Patrick. My teammates joined me and I had to stop so they could skate. I joined them for a bit and then rested on the bench.

"So the hand's better?" John asked, skating up to the bench.

"Yep, good as new," I replied.

"That's good news, we needed you Saturday night," he stated. "No offence to Rob or Ian, but they can't keep up with a guy like Mitchell."

"No one can keep up with him," I replied. "You have to give yourself a head start."

"True, but you know what I mean," he responded. "Anyway, it's good that you're ok."

Fred gathered us together soon afterwards and started his speech.

"Gentlemen, we had a good weekend," he said, once he had our attention. "We beat the number one team in the nation in their building and took them to overtime here. I'm proud to say that we've jumped up to fourth in the nation, so congratulations!"

We all cheered and pounded our sticks on the ice for a bit.

"Ok, so we have the Lake Superior State Lakers in here this weekend for two games," he continued. "Two games we should and need to win, so we're going to continue with our mix and match style to confuse our intentions. Let's keep up the intensity and make sure we don't let these two slip by."

We broke apart and practiced all aspects of our game. I was paired with Mat again and enjoyed being the puck carrier of our duo. It felt good to be back on the ice after a couple days off.

After practice, I had to have a quick shower and walked up to algebra. I handed in my assignment and found a seat. The professor went a bit slower than last week and only tackled one chapter before assigning a bunch of questions for the next assignment. I packed up and went to calculus.

Professor Hiller outdid herself, wearing a clingy blouse and short skirt under a matching jacket. She was a bit kinder on us as well, reviewing parts of the last chapter and only going through one new one. She even took it easy on us for the assignment. As usual, I stuck around to the end.

"Miss Hiller, I must say you look simply ravishing," I told her. "I'm sure I can get you a modeling contract if you wish."

"Why thank you Mr. Stewart, that is so kind of you to say," she replied. "You played well on Friday night but I missed you on Saturday. They say you hurt your hand saving that last shot. How is it?"

"It's almost healed," I said, showing her the hand. "It was too swollen to play Saturday. I'm surprised you're watching hockey so often. Do you like it that much?"

"I like a certain player enough to watch," she said with a grin. "My girlfriends don't quite know what to make of me lately. I've stopped going out to the pub with them."

"I'm flattered Miss Hiller, but you shouldn't give up your friends just to watch hockey," I told her. "You're a beautiful young lady who should be out enjoying herself."

"I do enjoy watching you play," she replied. "I don't like going out that much anyway; the men are juvenile, the music is too loud and the air is too smoky. I get into my pyjamas and bundle up on the couch with some snacks and a glass of wine and watch you play. It's the next best thing to having you there with me."

"It sounds boring to me," I told her. "I think we better get together when I get back from New York. I'm going there tonight and I'll be on Live with Regis and Kelly Tuesday morning and on Letterman that night."

"Really, I'll be sure to record them both," she replied. "We can't get together though, it's too dangerous."

"We live in dangerous times," I replied with a grin. "If you think you can tell me you lie around in sexy lingerie watching me play hockey and not do anything about it, you're mistaken."

"I said pyjamas," she corrected me with a smirk on her face.

"I heard lingerie and I'm picturing you in a sexy, short tank top and matching thong, sipping on a glass of wine," I told her. "I'm sure you look gorgeous with your long, bare legs stretched out on the couch. I can't wait to see you for real."

She blushed as she fiddled with her briefcase for a few seconds before looking up at me and said, "You're very tempting Mr. Stewart, but we'll have to be good for both our sakes."

"I know, thought it's good to fantasize," I said. "So, I will see you in class on Wednesday."

"Ok Mike, you have a safe trip and I'll see you Wednesday," she replied.

We went our separate ways once out the door and I made my way to the cafeteria. I worked on my new math assignments while having some chicken wings and fries. When it was time, I packed up and walked over to the philosophy class and found a seat. It looked like Nora had moved on as she was sitting with another good looking guy.

The lecture was a bit dry and it took a bit of concentration not to let my thoughts drift to other, more delectable topics. It was finally over and I checked my messages as I walked to the arena to get my SUV. There was one from Trisha.

"Mike, we had a change in plans. I'm going to head to New York now, it's just after one," she started. "I have to let my agent know and she happens to be a friend of my Mom, so I need to be in New York in case my parents want to get hold of me or even come and watch. Katie helped me get on an earlier flight and I'll be at the hotel with her when you get in. Sorry for the change but I'll see you tonight."

I continued on to the arena, as I still had to go home to pack. It seemed a bit strange why she couldn't just call home from her cell and tell her parents she was staying at the Waldorf hotel, but out right now. I was sure something was up, but for the life of me, I couldn't figure out what it could be.

It didn't take long to get home and throw some clothes into a suitcase and a garment bag. I gathered up my toiletries and then made sure to grab the itinerary and my passport before heading back to the arena. I got in a quick workout before getting into my gear and getting into position to watch the skaters. They were all in a group, standing around the benches listening to the head coach talk, while the other coaches stood around her. It looked pretty serious and I wondered what was up as the girls were looking very upset.

The meeting broke up and they filed past me, most of them too upset to even attempt a smile at me. Mitsy and Casey, looking just as upset, came up to me.

"What's wrong?" I asked. "Everyone looks really upset."

"They just told us that they're dropping the figure skating program from the athletic department at the end of the semester," Mitsy told me.

"Oh no, how could they do that?" I asked.

"They say it's not generating enough revenue to justify it anymore," Casey replied. "So we either transfer to another school to skate or join a local club using our own money."

"Luckily we won't have to sit out a year like a normal transfer, the NCAA is willing to forgo that because the program is ending here," Mitsy informed me.

"What about school?" I asked.

"The scholarships end with the end of the program, so either we get new ones from another school or we have to pay tuition," Casey responded. "I can't afford that so I have to hope another school will give me a scholarship."

"If you want to stay here, I'll help you," I said.

"And so would I," Mitsy added.

"Thanks guys, but what would we do about skating, we can't give that up?" she asked.

"Join a club if you want, but you have a bit of time to explore all your options," I replied. "Mitsy, what are you thinking of doing?"

"I'm not sure, but I think I want to stick with Casey, so like you said, we need to explore all our options," she replied. "But if we go to another school, we need to get on that quickly or their scholarships could be all awarded. Most of them probably are but they sometimes keep a few back for situations like this."

"That sounds like you better start on that right away then," I agreed. "Let me know if you need any help with anything. Just know you have options and I'll make sure you don't have to worry about the financial end of things."

They both gave me hugs and told me they would see me Wednesday and wished me luck in New York. I watched as they drudged down the tunnel and turned the corner without looking back. That really stunk and knowing Casey, she would want to be self sufficient and do it on her own.

Practise was more of the same from this morning, concentrating on defence for the most part. Frank had additional defensive non-starters getting some time with the forward lines in case someone else got hurt. We ended with a scrimmage and Fred let me go even earlier than last week. I thanked him and quickly got out of my stuff before having a shower and was on my way to the airport by twenty to six.

At the airport, I parked in the garage and made my way to the first class line to check in my bags. Just like last week, I got through quickly and carried my book bag to the security checkpoint and waited in line. After passing through the scanners with no issues, I located the gate for my flight on the nearest electronic board and then moved to the correct concourse. Ten minutes later I got in line at the small desk at the gate and showed them my boarding pass. The man behind the counter looked me up in his computer and then sent me down the walkway to the plane.

I was guided to my seat by the prettiest of the attendants and asked for a diet coke when she offered refreshment. I relaxed and people watched as the plane filled up. I received three or four smiles from pretty women as they walked by and I returned every one of them.

A guy in a fancy suit stopped and said, "Hi, I think you're in my seat."

"My boarding pass says 3B, which is the aisle seat," I replied. "Yours?"

"Shit, I'm 3A, be a pal and slip over will you, my legs can't fit in there," he asked.

"Sorry, mine are longer than yours, so maybe someone else can change with you," I suggested.

He looked around the small first class area and went to a couple of the people in the aisles to see if they would change with him. Apparently someone did from behind me as I heard him thanking someone profusely.

"Hi, I'm your new seatmate," a female voice said.

I looked up to see a cute black haired woman looking down at me with a grin.

"Hi yourself and welcome to the row," I replied, standing up with my bag to let her pass.

She put a carryon into the overhead compartment and then moved in to the window seat with a briefcase. I sat down beside her and slid my bag under the seat in front of me.

"I'm Isobel," she said, holding out her hand.

"I'm Mike, it's nice to meet you," I replied.

"Hi Mike, so are you travelling for business or pleasure?" she asked.

"I'm on business, and you?" I asked.

"Going home from a business trip," she replied.

I nodded and smiled and sat back in the seat, and watched the last few stragglers hustle in from the walkway.

"So what do you do?" Isobel asked.

I looked over and replied, "I work for an apparel manufacturer, and you?"

"I'm in finance," she replied. "I try and make well to do people richer by managing their extra money and investing in the right companies."

"And you travel to see these people?" I asked.

"Not usually," she replied. "I do however travel to companies and rate them on how good an investment they are for my clients."

"It sounds interesting and challenging," I commented.

"I think so, and I guess that's what counts the most," she agreed. "I've been at it for three years now and I've grown my client base from a dozen to seventy five people, and starting from an investment lump sum of two million, I've grown it up to forty five million."

"Sounds like you're good at you job then," I said.

"I'm always learning something new, but I like to think I'm better than the average bear," she said with a grin.

We got to talking more about what she did, and I got to thinking I should be doing something with the money I had sitting in the bank. She told me that she needed clients to provide her with at least one hundred thousand dollars and her biggest clients had half a million with her now.

The attendants came around with dinner and we stopped talking about it for a while. After dinner, I finished my algebra assignment and started on my calculus one.

"I thought you worked for an apparel manufacturer?" she asked. "What's with the homework?"

"I also go to college," I said. "I multi-task better than the average bear as well."

She laughed and said, "What are you taking besides math?"

"Computer science," I told her.

"That's a tough major," she remarked. "What else do you do besides school and work?"

"That's not enough?" I asked with a grin.

"Handling two things isn't multi-tasking," she replied.

"I play hockey for the university team," I admitted.

"Ok, that's enough to be considered good at multi-tasking, if you're doing well at all of them," she said.

"Well enough I think," I admitted.

"Good for you, I like to see people working hard and making something of themselves," she said. "Here's my card, give me a call when you're ready to invest and we'll make sure that hard work pays off."

I took the card and asked, "Do you work with Canadians with Canadian money and keep it out of the U.S.? I'm on a student Visa so I can't make any money while I'm here."

"We have Canadian branches in Toronto and Vancouver that I can refer you to," she replied. "Are you telling me you have enough money to invest already?"

"I might, but I would have to see additional information to confirm your rate of returns and any losses that you've had," I told her. "How old are you?"

"Twenty four, but that shouldn't be a factor in your decision, I've out performed everybody in the main office and my experience outweighs my youth," she said quickly.

"Well, I was thinking you might be too old for me but I like your enthusiasm, Isobel," I told her with a grin.

"What are you, twenty, twenty one?" she asked.

"Eighteen actually," I replied. "So you can see that six years is a big difference between us."

"I'd be investing for you, not going out with you," she said, exasperated. "Besides, I have a boyfriend already."

"Damn, that was cruel," I said, holding my heart. "You better make sure that the person you hook me up with in Toronto is just as beautiful and young as you are, on top of being just as good an investor."

"Just a word of advice, you don't want to get your investor mad at you or you'll find yourself losing money real quick," she advised. "Perhaps mixing personal life with your financial one isn't such a good idea."

"You know, you have a point there Isobel," I said with a laugh. "And I'm sure to piss off just about every woman that deals with me sometime. Ok, find me the best investor in your Toronto office and I'll highly consider investing if you oversee it and get the credit for it."

"You have the money right, this isn't your idea of a joke, is it?" she asked, looking serious.

"I have the money, but I'm going to start low with just with a hundred thou to start," I told her. "If things go well, I'll put more into your fund."

"Ok, I'll need some information from you and then I'll get in touch with the Toronto office and find out who would be best to handle you," she said.

I wrote my information, including address, email and phone, on a piece of paper and handed it over.

"I'll be in New York just for the day tomorrow, so leave a message on my cell if you need to get a hold of me," I said. "If you can send any information to my email address I can review it during my downtime tomorrow."

"Ok, I'll get on it first thing," she said. "Do you have time to meet for lunch tomorrow?"

"Not sure, I'll call you by eleven if I do," I told her.

"Our office is downtown, near Wall Street," she told me.

"I'm at the Wardorf Astoria hotel and around that area all day," I said. "Don't plan on anything though, I'm pretty busy and will be meeting a few people."

"It's ok, just call if you get free," she said as we packed up for the landing.

We landed about ten minutes later and I followed her to the baggage claim area and waited for our bags. She was right in there grabbing her bags so I concentrated on mine. Once we had our bags I walked over to a guy holding a sign with my name on it.

"Hi, I'm Mike," I told him.

"Hello Mr. Stewart, I'm Roger and I have the car waiting outside," he said.

"Isobel, can we drop you off somewhere?" I asked.

"I'm going in a different direction Mike, thanks anyway," she said. "I'll be in touch tomorrow and call me if you get some free time."

"Ok, have a good night," I told her and she headed to a taxi stand while I put my bags in the truck of a small limo.

I got in the back and grabbed a water bottle out of the fridge and watched the city go by. Roger wasn't very talkative which was fine by me. We pulled up to the front entrance and a bellhop came to help with the bags. He led me slowly through the front lobby to the desk as I admired the elegant decor. There wasn't a line-up so I approached the clerk who looked up and smiled.

"Hi, I'm Mike Stewart, I'm checking in for one night," I said.

"Hi Mr. Stewart, I'll need to see some ID please," she replied as she typed my name into the computer.

I showed her my passport and she looked at it and then at me for a second and then said, "Thank you Mr. Stewart. We have you in an executive suite on the twenty eighth floor. I have a note to let Miss Dunn know when you've arrived so I will do that now. Here is your key card, and Jarrod will lead you to your room."

"Thanks," I said, before turning to follow Jarrod.

He hopped into an open elevator and I stepped in beside him.

"So first time here?" he asked.

"You can tell?" I asked him.

"The new guests look around a bit more in awe than the regulars," he explained.

"It is a beautiful hotel," I remarked.

"The best in New York, maybe the country," he replied proudly. "Wait until you see your room and the view."

We finally reached the twenty eighth floor and he led me to the 2815 suite and used my card to open the door. He walked in and placed the suitcase on the provided holder in the bedroom and hung up the garment bag in the closet. He quickly explained the TV and asked if there was anything he could get me.

"No, I'm fine," I told him and pulled out my wallet and grabbed a twenty. "Thanks for your help."

"Thank you sir and enjoy your stay," he responded as he handed me my card.

I locked up behind him and flopped down on the bed.

About ten minutes later there was a knock on the door and I got up to go answer it. I opened it to find Katie and Trisha standing there with smiles on their faces.

"Hello ladies, don't you look in good moods," I said, moving to the side. "Come on in."

They walked by as they said hi.

"Like the suite?" Katie asked.

"Yeah, it's very elegant," I said. "You know you don't need to pamper me like this, a simple room with a queen bed is fine for me. The rest of it is wasted on me."

"Don't worry about it, it's in the contract so just enjoy it," she replied as we sat on some fancy couches.

"So Trish, are your parents happy for you?" I asked.

"I think my mom is, but my dad isn't happy about me being in the CK ads," she said with a grin. "He still thinks of me as his little girl."

"If only he knew," Katie said, giving Trish a hug.

"Aw, isn't that cute," I said. "You two have certainly hit it off quickly."

They had the courtesy to blush and Katie said quickly, "I didn't think you would mind if we got to know each other better, Michael."

"I still want to be with you tonight Mike," Trish said right after. "You did tell me to get to know her better so I wouldn't be lonely."

"I didn't think you would get lonely in five hours," I said dryly. "Look, I'm not jealous or anything, we're not a couple and I don't think anything is wrong with the two of you getting together."

"You look a bit angry though," she remarked. "I'm sorry if we upset you, I should have checked with you first."

"It's ok, it's been a long day," I told her. "I'm not upset, I have no right to be upset about you two getting together. I'm happy for you, really."

They both looked at me and then at each other. It was quiet for a bit and then Katie spoke up.

"Ok, we have to be at their studios by seven for a nine o'clock show start," she informed me. "How about we meet at six am for breakfast and then take a taxi over to their studio?"

"That's fine with me," I replied.

They looked at one another and were quiet for a bit.

"Ok, what else is on your mind?" I asked. "You two look nervous."

Trisha sighed and looked at Katie for a second and then spoke up, "I haven't been totally forthcoming with you Mike."

"On what exactly haven't you been forthcoming?" I asked warily.

"My last name isn't Smith," she replied.

"Ok, that's not so bad, here I thought you were going to say you were younger than eighteen, an escaped convict or something worse," I said with a grin. "So what's your real last name?"

"It's Hanks," she said.

"Ok, it's nice to meet you officially, Trisha Hanks," I told her. "Why didn't you say that in the first place?"

"I wanted to get this on my own, not with my name," she said.

"Hanks isn't a real popular name, why would I think that your name should get you the job?" I asked. "The only Hanks know that's popular is Tom Hanks the actor and you don't look anything like him, thank God."

"I take after my mom," she said quietly.

I looked at her in shock.

"I'm sorry Mike, I didn't want you to treat me any differently than any other model; I wanted to win this by my looks and personality, not because I have famous parents," she said.

"I applaud you for that, but the job is one thing, the personal stuff is something different," I said. "I had a right to know who I was sleeping with before it happened."

"Do you mean you wouldn't have slept with me if you knew?" she said surprised.

"Probably not right away," I answered. "We shouldn't have done it so quickly, no matter whom you were, but I would have wanted to get to know you better and be more up front about things before getting involved."

"We can still play it that way Mike, I can introduce you to my parents and we can act as if we just met and do the whole dating thing," she said, grabbing my hand.

"Maybe, but I have the feeling I won't be too welcome in the Hank's house because of the modeling you're going to be doing with me," I said. "And you're parents are pretty powerful people that could not only stop you from modeling but also come after me as well. Katie, how long have you known and what do you think?"

"She told me this morning as I had to arrange her flight," Katie replied. "CK has no problem with her, far from it. But I'm sure they would agree not to use her if Mr. Hanks put up too much of a fuss. I don't think they would agree to stop using you, no matter what he tried."

"I'm surprised your parents are even letting you go on the show in the morning if they're against it," I said.

"They tried to stop me from going on but I told them it was too important to my career," Trisha said.

"Well, let's handle one thing at a time," I stated. "You and your parents figure out the modeling and if there's a future in that first; only then we'll discuss our relationship. Because if you're going back to LA permanently, I know I won't be welcome at your house."

"I guess you're right," Trisha said. "I'm sorry for deceiving you, I only wanted something normal."

"I know, but starting anything with a lie isn't normal either," I said.

"Ok, it's getting late, why don't we call it a night and meet up in the morning downstairs?" Katie asked.

"Ok, you two have a good sleep and I'll see you at six," I said, standing up.

"Can't I spend one more night with you Mike?" Trisha asked.

"How about you two have some fun, I'm pretty tired," I told them.

"Ok, but please don't give up on me, I really like you and I think you like me too," she responded. "I'm not trying to pull anything with you, I promise."

"Let's see how things go," I replied. "Now, go get your beauty sleep, you have to look rested and happy tomorrow."

"Good night Mike, sleep well," Katie said.

"Good night Mike, have a good sleep," Trisha added.

"Good night ladies," I responded as I let them out of the room. I made sure they were ok until they got on the elevator and then shut the door.

I brushed my teeth and hit the hay, setting the alarm for four thirty to get in a workout. I was asleep five minutes after my head hit the pillow.

I banged on the alarm Tuesday morning and groaned as I got up in a strange bedroom. After wetting down my bed-head hair, I got into some sweats and took the elevator down to find the exercise room. I stretched for a bit and then rode an elliptical before using the weight machines they had available. When I was finished, I went back up and had a shower and shave before putting on some good casual clothes.

I headed back down to the lobby and looked in the three restaurants for the girls. They weren't down yet apparently, so I stood where I could see the elevators and the restaurants. A few minutes later the two of them came out of an elevator and walked towards me with smiles.

"Morning Mike, did you have a good sleep?" Katie asked.

"It wasn't too bad, how about you two?" I replied.

"We had a good night, right Trish?" Katie said.

"It was a very good night," Trisha answered. "You should have joined us Mike."

"Maybe next time," I replied with a grin. "Now how about some breakfast, I'm a growing boy, you know."

"We would have had you growing last night!" Trish said with a grin. "Right Katie?"

"Yes, I think we would have," Katie agreed.

I shook my head and led them to the restaurant with the most casual décor and we were soon seated at a window table. The girls had coffee and I ordered an apple juice. After looking at the menu, we ordered breakfast, the girls going with a fruit and muffin plate while I went with eggs and bacon.

"So, you two ready for this morning?" Katie asked.

"I'm ready," Trish said. "I've been waiting for this for almost a year."

"I just want to get this over actually," I said.

"That's not a good attitude Mike, you have to be cheery and happy on TV," Katie said.

"Don't worry, I'll be my normal happy self on camera," I assured her. "Besides, they'll be looking at this beauty beside me."

"True, but the women will be looking at you," she replied.

"I'll make sure to be in a great mood," promised.

The food arrived soon after and we ate quickly. After breakfast was over, we went back up and packed our stuff. We were checking out before we went to the show, with Trish not sure if she was sticking in New York or going back home to LA.

We took a taxi over to Lincoln square after we checked out and Katie guided us to the appropriate backstage area when we arrived. We were split up and worked on by their professionals. Katie and their wardrobe lady picked out my attire for the show and then we met up with Trisha in the green room.

"Wow, you look hot," I told her.

She was in a short skirt and matching jacket with clingy blouse underneath. Her hair and makeup made her look over twenty one and very sexy.

"Thanks Mike, you look handsome," she replied.

A lady came up and said, "Hi everyone, I'm Paula, the assistant director. Mike and Trisha will be on as the first guests, so they go on about nine fifteen after the second commercial break. Regis and Kelly will ask both of you questions about modeling, how you got started, what's going on with the new shoot and maybe a bit about yourselves. Just talk in a normal voice, the clip-on mikes we attach to you will pick you up fine. You'll be facing Regis and Kelly at a forty five degree angle, so the audience and the cameras can see you and you still are talking to them. Just remember to smile a lot and let Regis or Kelly tell the jokes and laugh at theirs."

"Ok with me," I said.

"Sounds good to me," Trisha added. "Who sits where?"

"Good question, does it matter to you Katie?" Paula asked.

"Not really, as long as we can see them both well," Katie replied. "Mike's a big guy so maybe put Trisha so she's not covered up by him."

"Sounds good, she can sit on the outside seat then, closer to the audience," Paula said. "Trish, you're wearing a short skirt, so be mindful of the legs, my dear. You don't want the audience or the cameras getting an inappropriate view."

"Should I change?" Trisha asked worriedly.

"No, you look marvellous, just either keep them closed or crossed right away, and keep your hands in your lap," Paula said.

"Ok, I can handle that," Trisha replied.

"Mike, sit up straight, keep your knees close together rather than spread out, and try to smile a bit," she told me.

"I'll try," I replied with a grin.

"Ok, we go live in fifteen, so you have half an hour to relax," Paula said. "I'll be back to get you."

"Thanks Paula," I replied.

When she left, I got up and went over to the table and grabbed a diet coke and some fruit on a plate. The others joined me and grabbed a coffee and some fruit or a muffin.

About ten minutes later, a couple came in and helped themselves to some food and coffee and sat in another corner of the room. I didn't recognize either of them but they obviously were the next guests, one or both of them. Trisha shrugged her shoulder when I gave her a raised eyebrow and so did Katie.

We sat quietly and watched the monitors to see the start of the show. The hosts came out and chatted for a bit and then were doing some entertainment news when Paula came to get us. She brought us close to the stage and we saw Regis and Kelly going over some notes and having a sip of coffee. The director gave them the thirty second signal and they straightened up and the audience was hushed.

Regis waited until he was signalled and then said, "Welcome back; Our first guests are young models, he got his first break filling in for a male model at his then girl friend's photo shoot in December, and she's just got her first break yesterday, getting signed to a shoot with him next month. Kelly has been looking forward to this morning for a week."

"Yes I have," she said. "Please give a big hand for Michael Stewart and Trisha Hanks, the new CK models!"

We walked out from behind the wall and walked down to their chairs. Trisha gave them both hugs and I shook Regis's hand and gave Kelly a hug before they had us sit down in high chairs.

"Welcome you two, you look beautiful and handsome, I must say," Regis said.

"Thank you Regis, both for the compliment and for having us on the show," Trisha said.

"Yes, thank you," I added.

For the next five minutes we told them about how we both got started, I having to explain about Vicky and the first CK shoot and Trisha told them about her start and how she was just picked.

"Wonderful story and we understand that you're a computer science scholarship student and hockey player at the University of Michigan on top of being a model, Mike," Kelly stated. "It must be difficult to fit everything in such a busy schedule."

"Yes, it is Kelly, I'm up at five and go to bed by midnight and every spare minute I'm not in class or in practice, is either for homework or working out," I said. "I've had to fit the photo shoots into school and hockey holidays during the year."

"And who says our youth today don't have a good work ethic," Regis remarked as the audience clapped. "Ok, we're going to take a short break and be back with more about Mike and Trisha."

"And we're out," the director said. "You guys are doing great, just keep up the smiles and Mike, stop shaking your knee."

"Sorry, nervous habit," I replied.

"Don't be nervous Mike, you're doing great," Kelly said with a smile. "You too, Trisha."

"Thanks," we both said.

A stage hand brought out two more chairs and put them on Kelly's side while we had a sip of water from bottles that a girl brought us while another one checked our hair and make-up. Soon enough the director shouted thirty seconds and everyone scattered, the girl taking our water bottles.

"We're back with two beautiful young people, new models for Calvin Klein, Mike Stewart and Trisha Hanks," Regis said. "I'm sure a lot of you have seen Mike's ads in print and even during the Super Bowl last Sunday with the Waters twins. Trisha has just been picked to be one of the new models in next month's CK shoot with Mike in Jamaica and you can see why, they look terrific together."

"Thank you Regis, that's nice of you to say," Trisha said with a smile.

"Trisha is no stranger to the limelight, but she earned her new job without any help from her parents, correct?" Kelly asked.

"Thanks correct, I used Smith as my last name to interview with Katie and Mike," she said.

"Well, your parents found out about this and they flew in last night to join you," Regis said. "Please welcome Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson."

Trisha looked surprised as we all stood up as her famous parents came from around the wall. They waved to the cheering audience and then hugged and shook hands with the hosts and then with their daughter. I did get to shake their hands as well, which was neat.

"Welcome Tom and Rita, it's been a couple of years since you were on last," Regis said. "You must be so proud of your beautiful daughter, getting her big break all on her own."

"Of course we are, and surprised too," Rita said. "She kept this from us until after she already got the job and we had to take the redeye here last night."

"And they kept this visit from me too!" Trisha said. "What are you two doing here?"

"We had to come and congratulate you honey," Tom said. "We're proud of you!"

"The Hanks came here right from the airport and we kept it secret from these youngsters," Regis explained to the audience. "So, how do you feel about your daughter's big break, working with Mike on the next CK shoot?"

"We're proud of her obviously, but a bit concerned about some of the more risqué shots that CK is famous for," Tom replied. "Mike is so much older and experienced than Trisha."

"Actually, I'm only eighteen as well Mr. Hanks, and I've only done the one shoot," I corrected him. "So we'll be learning the ropes together. I'm sure we'll keep the shots as modest as we have to so that everyone can be used to things on the first shoot."

"That's sounds like a good plan," Rita said with a smile.

Regis and Kelly directed the discussion to Trisha's family for a bit and they discussed her life with her parents and what her plans were. Finally our time was almost up.

"Well thank you all for joining us, Mike, Trisha and the Hanks for a great visit," Regis said. "I have just one last thing to say to Mike here. I'm very vexed with you on how well your team played my Fighting Irish last weekend. Luckily we're still number one but the Wolverines are now up to fourth in the country. I'm sure we'll meet up again in the playoffs."

"A Notre Dame fan I see," I replied with a laugh. "You have a great team to root for, let me tell you. I think we're pretty evenly matched, so it's going to be a great last couple of months for sure."

"Congratulations on the great season so far and we hope to see good things continuing for both of you," Regis replied.

"Thank you," I said.

"We'll have to have you back after the shoot to see how it went and look at the pictures," Kelly added.

"Thanks for having us, it's been fun," Trisha said.

"After the break, Dr. Milton Miller will be joining us, so stick around," Regis said.

"And we're out," the director said.

We shook the hosts' hands and then got off stage and were led to the green room.

"Mom, Dad, what are you doing here?" Trisha asked.

"We wanted to be here to make sure everything was ok with this new job you just got," her dad said.

"And to congratulate you honey," her mom said, giving her a hug.

"And going on the show?" she asked. "You took the focus away from Mike and Calvin Klein."

"I'm sure Calvin Klein doesn't mind having us as part of the proceedings," Mr. Hanks said, looking at Katie. "Mike's career won't be hurt either. I'm sure that's why they picked you."

"Maybe you didn't catch what was said before you came on, but your daughter didn't use her name with us, we thought we were getting Trisha Smith as our new model," I told him. "I'm sure CK doesn't mind having a model who's your daughter, but it doesn't affect me in the least. No offence, I'm just glad she looks like her mother, not her dad."

The women laughed while Mr. Hanks scowled at me.

"Mr. and Mrs Hanks, I'm Katie Dunn, I manage Mike's shoots and activities for Calvin Klein," Katie introduced herself. "I have given Trisha a contract to get reviewed by her agent and you are welcome to review it as well. Since you put some restrictions on us on live TV, we're going to have to rewrite the contract a bit to fit them in. They will necessitate a minor reduction in the compensation but we have other models that are willing to do the more risqué shots with Mike."

"I'm willing to do those shots," Trisha said. "Mom and Dad, you had no right to meddle on live TV with my contract!"

"What are you talking about, of course we have that right, we're your parents and you still live with us!" Mr. Hanks replied.

"I'm eighteen and you have the right to advise me, not dictate what happens with my career," she said angrily. "I'm sure I can find a place to stay here in New York if you don't respect that."

"Trisha! Don't talk like that!" Mrs. Hanks said. "We only want what's best for you and to make sure you're not taken advantage of. We have a certain influence that can help you."

"I want to do this by myself, and I have an agent that makes sure I'm not taken advantage of," Trisha retorted.

"Mr. and Mrs. Hanks, I'm not trying to take advantage of Trisha," Katie said. "Mike made a choice from a group of models I presented him that we thought might be a good fit with him. The contract is our standard for a shoot of this type. We will have up to four models coming down to Jamaica with Mike to provide a variety of looks. Since Trisha is new, we probably wouldn't have had her in the more artistic shots anyway, so nothing is lost. I can make the reduction so small it's meaningless. Why don't we go somewhere where we can sit down and talk things over without causing undo stress in your family?"

"That sounds very reasonable," Rita said. "Where do you suggest?"

"Let's go back to the Waldorf, we had rooms there and I'm sure we can get one to talk," Katie offered.

"Ok, let's go there then," Rita agreed.

Katie led the way out of the backstage and we grabbed a couple of cabs back to the hotel. She grabbed a suite from the clerk at the counter of the hotel and we went up on the elevator.

"So, let's get some things straightened out," Katie said, once we were inside and put down our suitcases, including the elder Hanks. "We're not trying to take advantage of Trisha in any way. She came to us and put her name and picture in as a candidate as Trisha Smith. Mike was given about twenty pictures to choose from and she was the first one he picked. She was approved by me and then informed of the decision and given a standard contract. She had to tell me her real name so the contract would be legal at her end."

"She didn't tell us a thing about this," Mr. Hanks said.

"I didn't have to, I'm an adult now," she said. "Besides, you knew I was here trying to get work for the whole week. Now that I actually got it you come here to ruin it for me?"

"We're not here to ruin it for you, just to make sure you're being treated fairly, and it sounds like you are," her mom said. "Michele will look at the changed contract and we can too to make sure you're covered. Then we can go home and wait until it's time to go to Jamaica."

"I'm sure to get more job offers from today's show," Trisha said. "I'm thinking of staying in New York to take advantage of the opportunities."

"Listen, this should be a private discussion between family members," Mr. Hanks said. "Could you give us some privacy please?"

Katie looked at me and I nodded so she said, "Sure we'll wait in the lobby for a while. It's ten thirty, how about we meet for lunch at noon downstairs?"

"Sounds like a plan," he replied.

Katie gave them her card with her cell on it and I grabbed my book bag and the two of us left them to talk.

"What a mess," I said. "I'm starting to regret having anything to do with her."

"It's not her fault, her parents aren't letting her grow up and be responsible for her actions," Katie said as we walked back to the elevator.

"This could end badly if she tells her parents that she was with either one of us," I told her.

"First of all, she wouldn't do that, and second, she's an adult that initiated the encounters," Katie reminded me. "Relax a bit; they just have to work things out."

We went down to lobby and I told Katie I was going to do some homework if she wanted to do something else for a bit.

"I'm going to go my office at corporate, it's only five minutes away on 39th street just off of Eighth Avenue," she replied. "Call me if they come down before noon ok?"

"Alright, see you in a bit," I said.

I settled down with my laptop and worked on my philosophy paper, getting a few more pages done. I had the made great progress on it when Katie finally came back, about ten minutes to twelve.

"Still no sign of them?" she asked.

"Nope," I replied.

"Well, the powers that be think it would be great if she became a model for us, so we're to do whatever we can to make it happen, even offering her a place in New York to stay at," she told me.

"I'm staying out of this, and I would suggest you do the same until you figure out what they come up with," I said. "You say the wrong thing and it could get ugly."

"I know, I'll be careful," she said. "Ok, here they come."

I looked up to see the three of them approaching from the bank of elevators. I quickly saved my work and powered down my laptop, packing it into my bag as they came up to us.

"How is everyone?" Katie asked, looking at the three of them.

"Well, I think we worked things out to everyone's satisfaction," Rita said, looking at the other two. "Do you want to tell them Trisha?"

"I'm going back to LA between now and the shoot in Jamaica but Mom and I will come back to New York if any more jobs come up," she said. "If things go real well then I'll get my own apartment here, maybe with another model or a friend who wants to come here."

"That's good news," Katie said. "The best compromise for the situation, I think. You get some more time with the family but also lets you to come back if you get more work, which I think will be coming quickly. The higher ups at CK like your look and will probably get you to do some more modeling by yourself or other women."

"That's great!" Trisha said. "Would it be before or after the Jamaica shoot?"

"We can do it the next time you're in New York, we have a studio just five minutes away from here," Katie replied. "So, I'll get with your agent and you decide when you're coming back and we'll schedule something."

"Thanks Katie, I won't let you down," Trish said. "Mom, how soon do you think we can come back?"

"Let's talk about it when we get back, but probably in a couple of weeks," Rita answered.

"Try and give me a weeks notice if you can, so I can schedule photographers and models," Katie told them. "Ok, shall we have lunch? I reserved a table just in case."

"Sounds good to me," Mr. Hanks said.

Katie led the way and we had a fantastic meal in their elegant dining room. We probably weren't properly dressed but the manager of the restaurant wasn't going to stop the Hanks from entering.

After getting my luggage from the room, we left them there while we went to the corporate offices to wait until the Letterman show. The Hanks were going to stay over and fly home tomorrow. We wished them a good flight and Katie told Trisha she would be in touch. I told her that I would see her in a month.

We were in her office by quarter to two and we didn't have to be at the Ed Sullivan Theater until three thirty; so Katie showed me around a bit and we watched a photo shoot in the studio they had set up in large room. The ladies were all welcoming and pulled me in for a few shots until Katie rescued me.

I rested for a bit on a couch in her office while she took care of a few things. When it was time, we took a taxi over to the Theater and walked in the back entrance, where a few people hung out to see the celebrities come and go. A few paparazzi snapped some pictures as well before we were in the door.

A security guard took us to the right person and she got us set up in a dressing room. I had my hair and makeup done again and then Katie chose a more casual set of pants and a shirt. I rested while she scooped out who else was on the show.

"Ok, it's a big show tonight, they have Emma Watson of Harry Potter fame, and Katy Perry to sing her new song Hot N Cold," she said when she came back in.

"Great, I'll probably be bumped again," I said.

"I don't think so, we do a lot of advertizing with this show and Mr. Carroll called the head producer to make sure you weren't bumped," Katie responded.

"That's good, but either way I'm glad this is the last one," I told her. "I'm not cut out for this stuff."

"I know Mike, and I appreciate you being such a good sport about it," Katie replied.

Eventually we were led to the requisite green room and this time I was introduced to both Miss Watson and Miss Perry by the assistant. He explained that sometimes Dave kept out all the guests on the couch, so it would be good to know a bit about each other beforehand.

Both of the young women, Emma was eighteen like me and Katy was probably in her low to mid twenties, were very nice and easy to talk to. I didn't try to pick either of them up but just told them I liked their acting and singing. I didn't tell her, but I had a bit of a crush on Emma since the first Harry Potter movie came out back when I was about ten or eleven. It was nice to meet her in person.

All too soon she had to go out after Mr. Letterman did his monologue and his Top Ten List about the impeached Illinois Governor. Katy and her team warmed up in the corner while Katie and I listened and chatted a bit about what to say to certain questions if they came up.

Eventually, Katie and I moved out while Katy Perry was singing and then she joined David and Emma. Finally he introduced me and I walked out and waved to the crowd as they clapped and the girls screamed a bit more than I thought I deserved.

"Welcome to the show Mike, I see you're popular with our female audience members," he said with a laugh.

"That's good to hear," I replied. "I'd worry a bit if it was the guys."

"So would I," he agreed with a chuckle. "So, you're the new CK guy right?"

"That's what they say, I seem to see pictures of me in my underwear way too much lately," I replied.

"And that's a good thing," Emma said from the end of the couch.

"Amen sister," Katy added.

"I see the ladies approve," David said dryly. "So how has this changed your life?"

"It's certainly made it busier, and I'm definitely recognized way too often," I replied.

"That's right; you're also star defenceman on the University of Michigan hockey team correct?" David asked. "I heard tell you're rated to be drafted in the top five in June for the NHL."

"I don't think I'm a star but yes I do play hockey and I'm taking computer science at the U of M," I told him.

"How do you fit it all in?" he asked.

"I'm trying to fit the modeling during holidays and breaks as hockey and school take up all of my time during the school year," I said. "I just spent the few hours I had in between the two shows today doing a paper and working on a program. I guess there is no rest for the wicked."

"I commend you for your work ethic," he said. "Now, I seem to remember seeing a video of one of your fights a while ago. Is that a big part of your game?"

"No, it can't be, you have to miss a game for each time you fight in college hockey," I told him. "I enjoy being physical in a game but the coaches don't want me fighting."

"So do you think you'll play pro and continue with modeling?" he asked.

"I'm not sure how it will work out, but I have a bit of time before I have to choose," I replied.

"So, I know you broke up with your last girlfriend, but you were seen today with a beautiful blonde on my friend Regis's show this morning," David said. "Is she your new girlfriend?"

"Trisha Hanks is going to be one of the new models with us when we shoot in Jamaica in March, but I just met her yesterday," I told him. "I'm single right now and, with my schedule, it's almost impossible to fit a girl into the mix."

"I'm sure there will be plenty of women that would like to try and fit themselves into your schedule," David said to cheers and clapping from the audience.

"I suppose there might be a couple," I said with a blush.

"Well it was nice to have you on the show, and you'll have to come on again after the NHL draft to see where you're going," he said.

"I'd be honoured, thanks for having me," I said, shaking his hand.

"Thank you Emma Watson and Katy Perry for being on the show and have a good night everyone!" David said.

I shook Emma and Katy's hand before getting back to my room and washing off the makeup. I grabbed my stuff after putting on my Michigan leather coat and we headed out, meeting Emma and her manager at the back door. We walked out to the waiting limo for her and cab for us and there were a lot more people lining the railings, waiting for us to exit. The paparazzi were taking pictures from both sides and the people were crowding the barricades on either side. Emma's manager was carrying her coat for the photo op.

I was carrying my suitcase in one hand with my garment bag draped over that arm. Katie was beside me and Emma and her manager were slightly ahead of us, with Emma directly in front of me. I just happened to be looking ahead at the people on our side when I saw a guy take a lid off what looked to me like a quart sized can of paint. I dropped my stuff and took a couple of quick steps to get beside her as the guy started swinging the can in an underhand motion.

I took one more step forward and put myself between him and the two women, hopefully blocking any of the paint from getting to them. I had my back and left side to him and pushed Emma backwards with my hands.

"Mike! What are you doing?" she shouted as she staggered back, before she heard the crowd gasp and heard the splash of the liquid.

Luckily nothing got on her or her manager, but I felt it dripping down the back of my coat onto my pants which were already wet. My left leg and butt check started hurting and I turned to see what was going on. Apparently the asshole had thrown some concentrated acid at them, not paint. My pants had already been burned through and the acid was on my skin.

"Oh shit!" I yelled as I tore off my coat and unbuckled my belt to get my pants off. A quick thinking security guard came over with a water bottle and poured it on my butt and leg and soon others were helping dilute the acid as I gritted my teeth from the pain. The girls and the security guards helped me limp back inside as they tried to cover me up. The pain became excruciating and I held out until I was guided to a room with a couch. I collapsed onto it and everything went dark.

The next time I woke up, I was lying on my stomach in a brightly lit room and a nurse was checking out the readings on some machines while a second was changing bags hanging from the pole. I lifted my head and tried to speak but it came out more of a croak then any known word. It did cause the closest nurse to jump and look around.

"Oh, you scared me there for a second Mr. Stewart, but I'm glad to see you're finally awake," she said. "How do you feel?"

"Dry," I replied hoarsely.

"Of course you are," she said as she grabbed an insulated cup from the night stand.

She placed the bendy straw in my mouth and I took a sip to wet my mouth before swallowing. I took a couple more before pulling away.

"Thanks," I whispered. "Where am I?"

"You're in the burn unit of Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City," the pretty nurse replied. "It's early Wednesday morning, February eleventh; you've been out since they brought you in last week, Tuesday evening I think."

"I've been out for eight days?" I said. "What the hell happened?"

"You got in the way of a mad man who was throwing acid at Emma Watson and her mother after the show. You suffered third degree burns on your left buttock and back of your thigh," the nurse answered. "You passed out and went into shock when they got you back in the theater, but luckily the emergency team got you stabilized before you were brought here. It was decided to keep you in a medically induced coma while the burn team grafted new skin over both large areas. The doctors kept you under until the grafts took."

"Why don't I feel anything?" I asked.

"You're on some pretty heavy pain meds right now," she said. "We've dialled down the drug that kept you under and we're going to slowly decrease the pain meds over the next few days to make sure you don't get addicted."

"Yeah, my head feels like I'm thinking through cotton balls," I said. "Did anyone else get hurt? How are Emma and her mother?"

"Everyone else is fine, you blocked all the acid from hitting either one of them," Stacey answered. "Lucky thing, they would have gotten it in their faces and could have died from the burns and the shock. It almost killed you and you're much more robust than either of them. You saved their lives, Mr. Stewart."

"Call me Mike please," I said. "I'm glad they're ok. How is my manager Katie?"

"She's fine and working hard handling the media storm along with the hospital spokeswoman," Deb answered. "The attack was the top story for a few days both here and internationally. They're calling you a hero, Mike."

"Nothing heroic about it," I retorted. "I just got in the way of what I hoped was paint. Did they catch the guy who did it?"

"Yes, he's a real nut case, they have him in isolation in a mental hospital somewhere," she answered. "Ok, the doctor will stop in on his rounds around eight thirty to check you out. Just press this button if you need anything and one of us will come running."

"Thanks," I said. "Sorry, I didn't get your names."

"I'm Deb, and this is Stacey," Deb responded while Stacey looked over at me and smiled.

"I appreciate all the excellent care, Deb and Stacey," I told them.

"It's our pleasure Mike, just let us know if you want anything and we'll make sure you get it," Stacey said.

They smiled and I watched their wonderful derrieres sway as they left the room. I put my head back down on the pillow and fell back asleep until I was woken up a while later.

"Hey Mike, sorry to wake you, but we have to check the skin grafts," the doctor said as he shook my shoulder.

"Hi Doc," I said, rubbing the sleep out of my eyes. "Can I get a drink of water before you start?"

"Sure," he replied as Deb, standing beside him, reached for the cup.

I took a couple of big sips and then thanked her. I nodded to the doctor and they started removing the bandages. I felt a bit of pain when they stuck to something they shouldn't have, but all and all, the pain meds were still doing their thing.

"Ok, things are progressing on schedule, the grafts have all taken and are starting to develop scabs at all of the connections to the surrounding skin," the doctor told me. "We'll cover them back up and let in your manager. "I'll see you this afternoon, Mike."

"See you later Doc, and thanks," I said, putting my head back down.

The nurses gently re-bandaged my burns and then gave me a quick wash before leaving me alone. I closed my eyes and rested for a bit until I heard the door open and looked up to see Katie walking quietly to the bed.

"Hey Katie, sorry for making you have to deal with all of this," I said. "One of the nurses said that you're dealing with a lot of media."

"Hi Mike, you don't have anything to apologize for," she said, shaking her head. "The big push has settled down for now. How are you feeling?"

"They've got me on some strong pain medication, so I'm not feeling much pain," I told her. "I'm trying to get my head cleared but I'm still pretty fuzzy."

"I'm so sorry you got hurt Mike, but I'm proud of what you did to save Emma and her mother," she said.

"I'm just glad I got there in time, the nurses said they could have died if it hit them," I responded.

"Yeah, it would have been horrible," she agreed. "I couldn't imagine either one surviving what you went through. We almost lost you, and you're such a big, rugged guy. They would have been in agony and their systems wouldn't have been able to take it."

"Better me than them, then," I said. "So, how is everyone else taking it?"

"Everybody is all worried obviously, but I've kept them up to date at least twice a day. I convinced your aunt to stay up in Toronto until you woke up; she's your medical power of attorney so she had to sign a couple of things but we got it all worked out. The girls back in Ann Arbor all send their best wishes as did Kristen and Trisha from LA. Emma and her mother went back to England but have plans to come back as soon you're awake."

"Thanks for helping with all that, Katie," I said. "I owe you big time."

"Nonsense, it's my job and my pleasure to help out," Katie replied. "That could have easily been me getting attacked instead of those two. I'm so proud of you for what you did and so are all of your friends, teammates and a good portion of three countries. The media coverage has died down for a bit while you were out of it and Emma was gone, but it will start up again now that you're awake and she comes back. You're a hero Mike, and everyone wants to see you and interview you. Both countries want to give you medals."

"Katie, I'm no hero, I thought he was throwing paint at her, not acid," I told her. "It's not heroic to save someone from paint. I probably would have run the other way screaming like a little girl if I knew it was acid."

"You don't fool me Mike Stewart, you couldn't have done anything else than what you did," Katie said, leaning over and giving me a kiss. "Now, you rest and I'll let some worried people know you're awake. I'll keep it from the media for as long as I can, but I'm sure someone will leak it for a few bucks. I'll come back this afternoon with your new phone and we'll let you talk to a few people, if you're up to it, that is."

"Ok Katie, that sounds fine," I replied. "I'm too fuzzy headed to talk to anyone right now. Listen, stop the Watson's from visiting until I feel better and I'm back on my feet again. I don't want anyone to see me like this."

"They won't be happy about that, they really wanted to come and thank you for what you did," Katie told me.

"They can phone and email if they want," I replied. "I feel and look like crap, so just keep people away, ok?"

"Ok Mike, if that's what you want," she agreed.

"Thanks, I'll see you later," I said.

"I'll see you this afternoon," Katie replied before heading out.

I put my head down and succumbed to my body's needs and fell asleep. I was dead to the world for a few hours until a new nurse woke me up when she changed out the bag on the pole.

"Hey there," she said. "Sorry to wake you. How are you feeling?"

"Dry again," I croaked.

She held the cup for me for a bit until I had enough and then put it down.

"Are you hurting anywhere?" she asked.

"My head is a bit clearer but the burns hurt a bit," I told her. "I'll take the trade-off if it doesn't get worse."

"They dialled the pain meds down so it's to be expected," she explained. "The doctor should be here shortly to look at your skin grafts again."

"Thanks," I replied as she smiled.

She filled out my chart while we waited for the good doctor to arrive. He came in a few minutes later with a few other people in standard white lab coats.

"Hey Mike, how are you feeling this afternoon?" he asked.

"I bit of pain in the burn areas, but my head is much clearer," I told him.

"Good, just what we were looking for with the decrease in pain meds," he told me. "These bunch of layabouts behind me are doctors in training, they do rounds with me every afternoon. We're going to look at your skin grafts now and then we'll leave you alone. Do you have any questions before we start?"

"A couple actually," I replied. "Do you have some timing when can I get up or at least be able to lay on my good side?"

"Let us look at the grafts and then if they look ok we can help you get on your side for a bit," the doctor replied. "In regards to longer term, you should be up and walking in about a week or two and back to full activity in about a month to a month and a half, depending on how fast you heal."

"Really, that's a long time," I said, disappointed.

"It's ten times better than what the ladies would have endured, if they even survived the shock," he reminded me. "We'll get you a TV and some books so you have something to occupy your time."

"I know, it's just a bad time in the hockey season and for my next modeling gig," I replied. "That is if they still want me after they see the scars."

"I think you'll be surprised on how well you heal up," he replied. "Ok, let's take a look at your grafts."

The team helped take off the bandages and I took a quick look before lying back down. It wasn't a pretty sight, areas where the new skin met the old were all scabbed and the new skin still didn't look particularly well attached or that healthy, at least to me. They took some pictures and sprayed something on the skin before bandaging them back up.

"Ok Mike, let's see if we can help you onto your side," the doc said.

I had a couple people help me push myself onto my good side as I was pretty weak.

"Thanks everyone, that's a bit better," I said. "I'm feeling pretty weak though, any chance for some food?"

"We're feeding you through the tubes right now, but we can start you on some soft foods tomorrow morning," he told me. "I'll give some orders to the nurses out at the station to get it started."

"Thanks doc," I said before he and his team left.

I was feeling sorry for myself when Katie came in an hour later.

"Hey Mike, how ya doing?" she asked.

"Crappy, I'm out of commission for at least a month and then it will probably take me at least a couple of weeks to get back into game shape after that," I told her. "Looks like the Jamaica shoot is out too."

"Don't worry about the shoot Mike, we'll just do one across the border on a weekend sometime," she said. "We're getting so much free publicity that Mr. Carroll is practically jumping for joy. I'm sorry about hockey and school though, maybe we can at least have you keep up with your schoolwork somehow. I'll talk with your coach and I'm sure he can have someone help with that."

"Thanks Katie, and sorry for being so cranky," I told her.

"Don't mention it, I'd be crying my eyes out if our roles were reversed right now," she said.

"You're a pretty tough lady," I said. "You'd be handling things from this bed without missing a beat."

"Why thank you Mike, I'll take that as a compliment," Katie said with a grin before getting down to business. "I have your new phone with all your old contacts in it. You have a few phone calls to make when you feel up to it. Kristen is panicking in LA and even Vicky and Stephanie here in New York both left messages. John and Amanda called wishing you well as did all the girls back home. Even your cousins left a cute message."

"Thanks Katie, I'll get on that in a bit," I told her. "Can you bring me my book bag tomorrow? I might as well get working on my assignments and keep up with my reading while I'm lying around doing nothing."

"Sure thing, Mike." she agreed. "I'll get with your Coach and Barb and work out how to get all your assignments to you. Ok, I've got a press conference to run, so I got to go. Call me if you need anything, day or night."

"I will, thanks again, Katie," I said.

She smiled and headed out. I rested for a bit and then listened to all of my messages before I started making phone calls.

I called Kristen first and calmed her down, assuring her that I was going to be ok. I discouraged her visit due to the media circus and promised to call every couple of days with updates on my condition.

I chatted a bit with each of the girls back in Ann Arbor, even Asuka, and told them the timeframe and thanked them in advance for any help they could be in getting assignments and tests as they worked with whomever the coach assigned to help.

I left a message with John letting him know how I was doing and warning him that the trip to Jamaica was off for now.

Finally, I reassured my aunt that I would be ok soon and she didn't have to make the trip. I talked to both of my cousins and thanked them for the great message they left me. They told me that they saw me rescue Hermione from the bad man and that I was a hero. I thanked them but told them I wasn't a hero, not like real policemen and firemen who saved people every day.

"Cousin Mike, you're our hero and that's it," Mary stated.

"Yeah Mikey, you're the best hero ever!" Ellen shouted.

"Well thanks girls, I appreciate your support," I said. "I'll be out of here in a week or two and try and come up to see you. You take care and make sure to keep sending me drawings."

"Ok Mikey, I'll do that right now!" Mary said.

"Me too!" added Ellen.

"Bye girls," I said.

"Bye Mikey," they yelled and we hung up.

I felt a bit better about things after talking to everyone. I knew I had a bunch of people that cared for me. Over the next couple of hours I had a TV hooked up and the hospital librarian came in and dropped off a couple of books and magazines as well as today's paper. The nurses came in and checked out the machines and recorded stuff on the chart while I watched an entertainment show.

The twins came on the screen and I found out that they were on the cover of the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition that had come out yesterday. They had done Letterman and then flew to LA to do Jay Leno's show and then a couple of the morning shows today. They were looking very good standing beside a blown up picture of them on the cover. I was happy for them and missed them a bit.

I shut down the TV and got back on my stomach to fall asleep. It didn't take long until I was in dreamland again.

Thursday was a better day as I had tubes and the catheter taken out and was given some solid food to eat. Katie brought me my book bag and I got to catch up on my emails and send some back to assure people I was awake and functioning somewhat.

I talked to the coach who let me know Pam would be helping get my assignments and tests to me. He let me know that they had won both games against Lake Superior State and didn't foresee any problems this weekend against Nebraska-Omaha either. I wished him luck and asked him to pass it on to the team.

I talked to John for a bit in the morning and Pam in the afternoon. She sent me my assignments for the week I was unconscious and for this week as well. She had the four professors talking amongst themselves on how to allow me to write the midterms and would get back to me tomorrow.

I actually got some work done in the afternoon, starting on calculus and algebra from last week. It took longer than usual but it felt good to get something done. After supper, the nurses came in and gave me a sponge bath and even washed my hair and let me brush my teeth. They helped me into a tee shirt and sweats and then got me back up onto my side. I thanked them before they left with smiles on their faces. Ten minutes later the door opened and Katie came in.

"Hi Mike, how are you feeling this evening?" she asked with a smile.

"Not too bad actually, how are you?" I replied.

"I'm good thanks," she responded. "I thought I would drop in and just discuss a couple of things."

"Sure, go ahead," I said.

"First of all, I've been getting a ton of requests for interviews but I know you don't want to do any of them from in here, so I've put them all off for now," she started.

"I probably won't do any, even when I'm healed up either," I told her.

"Just so you know, you would get really big bucks for some of them, even if you donated the money to charity," she informed me.

"I've always disliked it when people went on an interview spree after they did something remotely special," I told her. "I don't want to talk about what I did in public."

"Ok, it's totally up to you," she replied. "On to the next item, which I think I know the answer to as well. The British and the U.S. governments want to give you a medal for what you did. They want to coordinate their ceremonies for when you're able to walk."

"Tell both of them thanks but no thanks, I didn't intend to do anything but save the women from some paint, so there was nothing special about what I did," I told her. "I won't show up to any ceremony or accept anything for doing it."

"Mike, you saved their lives, it was special," Katie argued.

"The result was, but the intention wasn't and that's what counts," I replied. "I won't accept anything for what I did."

"Ok, I'll let them know," she said with a sigh. "Next on the list is Emma, she really wants to come see you; she doesn't care how you look."

"No, she can wait until I'm healed up if she really needs to see me," I said. "Really, an email will do just fine."

"As I figured," Katie replied. "Finally, both the hospital and Calvin Klein headquarters are getting mail for you. It seems that you have fans now. We have a fairly big box full in my office and another one here as well. What do you want to do with them?"

"For Pete's sake, I can't believe people have nothing better to do with their time!" I said. "I don't want them, just throw them away."

"We can't do that; that would be tampering with the mail," she replied. "We'll save them for you and you can dispose of them yourself when you're better."

"Fine, I'll handle it when I can get up," I said. "I'm sorry if I'm sounding so negative about all this, but I don't think what I did was anything special and I won't take credit for it."

"So we don't have to go over the list of people that want to visit you in here, do we?" she asked with a grin. "I gather a simple 'Mike will not be seeing any visitors while in the hospital' will suffice for everyone?"

"Now you're on board with the program!" I replied. "I just want the whole thing to fade from everyone's memory so I can go home as soon as I can travel."

"Alright Mike, we'll play it that way," Katie said, getting up. "I'll come see you at least once a day until you get out."

"Thanks Katie for handling all of this," I replied. "I'm going to owe you big time when I get out, so start thinking where you want to go on an all expenses paid vacation on me."

"Mike, you don't have to do that, I'm just doing my job," she protested.

"You're going above and beyond, so just enjoy the time off," I told her.

"I'll see you tomorrow Mike," she said as she got up.

"Ok, you have a good night," I replied.

I worked a bit longer on my homework and then fell asleep, dreaming about what happened at the theatre.

Friday and the weekend went by slowly, though I did get most of my assignments caught up and sent back to Pam. She sent back an email stating that the professors were willing to let me write the midterms when I got back.

The team won both games against Nebraska-Omaha without much trouble as coach predicted.

Other than school work, I mostly slept or read my textbooks. After another round of calls to a few people Sunday night, I dropped off to sleep hoping that next week would be better.

The following week, the week of February sixteenth, 2009, was a relatively quiet week, as I worked on the week's assignments and kept up with the class in terms of reading chapters for each subject. I basically finished my second paper for philosophy class, on the French philosopher Descartes.

Katie came every day to see me and we chatted about things that were happening. The bidding war for my first interview had skyrocketed to over a million dollars, even though she had told everyone that I wasn't going to do any. The two governments also refused to stop the plans for awarding medals to me.

Emma Watson sent me an email thanking me for saving their lives and hoping I was starting to feel better. She expressed her desire to come see me, but respected my wishes and would plan to see me back in Michigan once I felt up to visitors.

The doctor told me on Friday that I should be able to get out of bed on Monday and start the rehabilitation process. If things went well, I could go home by next Friday and continue the treatments and exercises through the University of Michigan Hospital burn department.

The hockey teamed played Ohio State that weekend in Columbus Ohio and came away with a four to one win on Friday, but lost two to three on Saturday night. We were still ranked number three in the nation.

Sunday was a long day, anticipating the chance to finally get out of bed on Monday. I emailed all my completed assignments to Pam and went through my paper looking for mistakes and fine tuning the wording. Eventually it was time to call it a night and a week.

Finally Monday was here. I eagerly awaited the doctor and his team after eating breakfast.

"Hey Mike, today's the big day," he said with a smile. "I see you're ready to get started so let's take one last look at the grafts before we get you up on your feet."

"Morning Doc, I'm definitely ready to get out of this bed and on my feet," I agreed.

They took off the bandages and the grafts looked pretty much healed and seemed to be holding up well from what I could see looking over my shoulder.

"They look good, I think we can get you up now," he announced. "Just remember that you've been off your feet for three weeks, so don't expect miracles."

The team and the nurses all helped me get onto my side and then sitting up on the bed. My pressure on my butt felt ok, so that was a good sign. I felt a little light headed for a minute but they had anticipated that and let me sit there for a bit.

"Ok, let's try standing you up," the doc said. "Hold on the bed railing and we'll be right here to catch you if you fall."

They helped me slide down to the floor and pulled me off the bed. I held on tight to the railing as the room swayed a bit. After a few moments I felt better and let go of the railing, keeping my hand nearby.

"How are you feeling?" the doctor asked.

"Ok now, the earthquake stopped after a few seconds" I told him.

He grinned back at me and replied, "That's to be expected. Now try and take a few steps while I watch how the grafts react."

They had a walker in front of the bed all ready for me, so I took a step forward while holding onto it. All I was wearing was a hospital gown, so the doc stood behind me as I slowly took a few steps towards the door.

"Ok, looking good so far Mike," he told me. "I need you to bend your left leg for me so I see how the new skin reacts."

I pulled the leg off the floor slowly and the bent the knee as I raised it up. The skin pulled tight on my butt and back of my leg but nothing tore that I could feel.

"Ok, lower it slowly please," the doctor asked.

I did as he directed and brought it back down onto the floor.

"Everything looks good Mike, no tearing or separation and, where the new skin meets the old, the scabs are flaking off with new skin growing underneath," he announced. "I think we have a winner here folks!"

"Fantastic!" I said as the others clapped.

"So, feel free to walk around the room and up and down the hallway, taking it slowly with the walker for a day or two," the doctor instructed me. "We'll send physiotherapy up to start working with you to get you back moving again properly, but I don't think you'll have any problems getting back on your feet. If everything goes well over the next few days, you should be able to go back home by the weekend or even sooner. You can even start showering as long as the nurses cover up the new skin for this week."

"That sounds great Doc," I responded. "Thanks for the great work, all of you. I really appreciate all that you've done for me."

"You're very welcome, we're happy to help out our resident hero get better," he replied.

"I'm not a hero, but I thank you for your efforts," I corrected him.

The nurses decided to get me into the shower, so they taped up some plastic over my leg and helped me get into the shower. One of the nurses stayed nearby but I seemed to be balancing ok. I didn't reach down to wash my lower legs but used my feet to scrub them a bit.

I felt a hundred times better after I was done and dressed in some silk boxers as well as some loose track pants and tee shirt. After some lunch, I started walking around the room and even ventured down the hall, using the walker just as a safety device. I went super slow and kept to the side of the hallway, but I made two trips up and down before resting on the bed.

A pretty physiotherapist came in around two.

"Hi, I'm Tracey, you're Mike Stewart right?" she asked with a smile.

"That's correct," I replied. "How are you this fine afternoon?"

"I'm doing quite well, thank you for asking," she replied. "I won the draw to be your physiotherapist while you're here. So, the nurses tell me you've been walking up and down the hall, which is great news. I'm here to check out all your muscles and make sure you're getting back into active mode properly. Then we'll work on that leg for a bit to make sure the muscles are all ok and that the skin gets stretched slowly."

"Sounds like a good plan to me," I told her.

She led me to the elevator and we took it down to her floor. We entered a large room with all sorts of exercise machines and she had me move onto a large open area covered in mats. The next hour she led me through all sorts of stretches and exercises to get me moving again. The last twenty minutes she had me take off my track pants but left my underwear on as she stretched out my leg while watching the skin react.

I was bushed when she was done and was glad she went with me back to the room.

"Ok Mike, that was a very good first day," she said with a smile. "You're still in good shape after a three week stint in bed, so you shouldn't have too much trouble getting back to normal activities. Keep up the walking this evening and in the morning and I'll come get you at two tomorrow."

"Thanks Tracey, it feels good to be active again," I told her.

"You're welcome Mike," she replied.

I rested for a while on the bed and then walked the hallway a few more times before dinner. After supper, Katie showed up and was happy to see me up and about.

"Looking good there Mike," she said with a big smile. "How do you feel?"

"It's slow going but it feels great to be out of bed," I replied. "The new skin is tight and my muscles are all a bit weak but I'm sure I'll get back to normal soon."

"So what's the schedule?" she asked.

"If things go well, I can go home on Friday," I replied. "So you can plan on me going home on Friday. Can you book me something for the afternoon just in case?"

"Sure, I can do that," she agreed. "I'll make it later in the afternoon so we have enough time to get you to the airport if they don't let you out early. I'll make all the arrangements to have you picked up. Barb got your SUV from the airport two weeks ago on so it's at the condo."

"Thanks Katie, for everything," I told her. "So are you going to Hawaii or maybe the Caribbean for your holiday?"

"Nowhere until we get the first photo shoot done," she replied. "Then we'll see what's up."

"Ok, but don't forget about it," I said. "So why are you here so late?"

"I had some meetings to attend to this afternoon," she told me. "They're going to be using your ads in the U.K. as well as in North America, so we're going to be bringing in some supermodels from Britain to model with you. Also, they're going to upgrade the models for here as well. We have every modeling agency pushing their models to work with you at fraction of their normal cost, just because you're so famous."

"Trisha and Barb still get their shot, as well as the Canadian model right?" I asked.

"Oh for sure, we're just adding more models," Katie said. "It might take a bit longer for each shoot, so Mr. Carroll is going to double your money for each shoot and I've been instructed to tell you that if you want anything, and he means anything, to just ask and we'll get it for you."

"That's certainly generous of him," I said. "Please let him know that I thank him for the raise and if I do think of anything I'll let you know."

"He also mentioned that if you wanted to do one interview, on any show that you would pick, he would match their offer, no matter how high it was," she informed me.

"I'm sure you told him about my reluctance to do any interviews," I said. "I haven't changed my mind on that."

"I told them it was a long shot but he wanted me to tell you just in case you changed your mind," she admitted. "So, we need to talk about when you think we can reschedule the first shoot. It's February twenty third today and you'll be home by Friday, just in time for your March break week. We figure you need two to four weeks to fully recover your strength and get your body back into shape which takes us somewhere between mid March to the beginning of April. Unfortunately, you could still be playing hockey then and then you have a couple weeks of final exams. We're probably looking somewhere in the last two weeks of April and then we run into the second scheduled trip for the first week of May. We have to move it from Hawaii as it's a U.S. state and you can't work there."

"We can fit in as many days after exams as possible, and just do it over in Windsor or Toronto to save travel time," I told her. "Maybe we can fit in two full shoots before we go somewhere for the first week of May. When I get home, I'll to get my schedule out for hockey and exams and the new spring semester and we can dial everything in."

"Ok, we'll hook up on Saturday via a web conference and at least get some tentative dates down so I can start scheduling models and book a studio in Windsor or Toronto," she agreed.

"Is there anything else?" I asked.

"Just the usual requests for interviews and appearances, with the bidding continuing to go up," she responded. "It appears that both governments are going ahead with their plans with awarding you medals, even with your refusal to attend a ceremony to accept them. I'm not sure what we could do to stop them from awarding the medals, other than not go and not accept them when they deliver them."

"I'm sure they will try and pull a fast one somehow," I said, shaking my head. "Like you said, there is nothing I can do to stop them."

"That's about it for now, I'll get started on travel arrangements for Friday and get you some new CK duds to wear home," Katie finished up.

"Ok thanks Katie," I said as I got up. "I'm going to walk the halls for a bit more before settling in for the night."

"I'll join you for a bit, if you don't mind the company?" she asked.

"You're always welcome," I replied.

We walked up and down the hallways, slowly but surely, for the next half hour or so. The other residents that could walk were also burn victims but seemed to be in good spirits for the most part. We exchanged greetings with them and their families as we passed each other. I had to sign a couple of autographs for people which was a bit embarrassing for me, but Katie told me that I had better get used to it as I was pretty popular right now.

Finally I had enough exercise for the day and she helped me into bed after I used the washroom. She gave me a kiss on the cheek and left for the night. I was asleep soon after as my body was tired from all the activity of the day.

Over the next three days I slowly regained my strength and flexibility as I went through my martial arts stretching in the morning before going through Tracey's routine in the afternoon. I even started some simple resistance training on the machines in her lair for all my muscle groups, though at very light weights. I was raring to go home Thursday night as I fell asleep.

Friday morning I was up early, did my stretches and showered before the Doc came in at eight thirty to do a final assessment. I showed him my leg and butt and did some stretches and walking around in the room.

"You look in much better shape than I thought you would be in," the doc commented. "I'm going to process your release papers and you should be free to go home this afternoon. I've taken the liberty to send your file to Dr. Seidenberg at the University of Michigan Hospital and you have an appointment for Monday morning. You just need to keep up the exercise and increase the weights as you feel your strength returning. Dr. Seidenberg will be able to clear you for hockey when you both feel you're back in shape and the skin can take the more rigorous punishment."

"Thanks Doc, for everything," I responded, shaking his hand. "I appreciate all that you and your team has done here."

"You're quite welcome, we appreciate what you did for Emma and her mother," he replied. "You should be out of here by noon if you want to let Katie know."

"I will," I replied. "Can you try and keep it a secret so I can sneak out of here without going through a media circus?"

"We'll do our best and I'll work with Katie on how to get you out of the hospital unseen," he agreed.

"Thank Doc," I replied.

I let Katie know the time table before having some breakfast. I then studied for a bit in anticipation of writing some of my midterm exams next week. I packed all my stuff up just before noon and had some lunch waiting for my release papers to be filled out. Katie came in as I was finishing up lunch, carrying a garment bag.

"Hey Mike, are you ready to go home?" Katie asked with a big smile.

"Yep, just need to hit the washroom and get changed and I'll be all set," I told her.

"Good, cause we'll getting you out the back door in twenty minutes," she said. "The good doctor will lead us to an inside garage where we have a van that has tinted windows so you won't be seen. I've even got the airport to let in through a secure back entrance so we can avoid a media circus there as well. They're going to provide a cart to get you to the gate; I used the excuse that you were still a bit weak to walk through the airport to get you in the back way. So just pretend you need it and just go with the flow."

"Ok, let me get ready to go, I assume those are the clothes you want me to wear?" I asked.

"Yep, just in case you do get recognized and photographed, I want you to look good," she replied with a grin.

I took the bag to the washroom and, after brushing my teeth and using the toilet, got dressed. She had a nice shirt and dress pants in there as well as good shoes, socks and silk boxers to protect my skin. She whistled as I came out.

"Looking good Mike," she said with a smile. "You're definitely a bit thinner and pale, but you still look very handsome."

"Thanks," I said.

"Ok, the doctor should be here any minute to guide us through the hospital," she said.

The doctor came in soon after and their plan worked like a charm. We went right down to the basement and they bundled Katie and I into a van and we were quickly on our way without the media being the wiser. We pulled into the airport forty minutes later and drove around to a back entrance where we were stopped and inspected. A security guard checked out our passports as well as the vehicle and then pointed to a building that we were to drive into. Once inside, we were met by an airport official with a four passenger cart, and were whisked away.

"Ok, we've got your boarding pass all set, Mr. Stewart and we're going to keep you in a private lounge for about half an hour until the first class passengers start boarding. Then we'll get you in the plane and on your way. I'll take your bags to get checked in and you should be met in Detroit with a cart as well."

"Thank you for all your help," I told him.

"No problem Mr. Stewart," he replied. "We don't usually do this, even for celebrities, but with you being hurt while saving that girl, we couldn't have you mobbed by those damn paparazzi, and chance you getting further injured. I would just like to say that what you did was truly heroic; saving them from that madman. Anytime you need something from us, don't hesitate to call us and we'll get you through, no questions asked."

"Thank you for the compliments and the kind offer," I said, embarrassed. "I don't consider what I did heroic, but I'm glad that they were spared from going through that pain."

"Mr. Stewart, of course it was heroic, your actions saved them from horrible burns and probably death," he said, looking at me like I was an idiot. "I've watched the film of what you did probably twenty times and it was amazing how fast you got there and you knew just what to do to save them while minimizing the affect on you. Let me tell you, it was better than what a secret service guy could do, at least that's what the experts are saying."

I looked at Katie who said, "You never wanted to talk about it and didn't seem interested in seeing the video footage. You were amazing Mike, you really were. It was all over before I knew what was happening, you were that quick. Nobody else even saw the guy pull out the can until he threw it at you. I know that you don't think you did much, but only a few people in the world would have reacted in time to save them, whether it was paint or acid."

"It didn't seem that quick to me," I replied. "Whatever the case, I'm glad I could save them from what I had to go through."

Katie gave me a cap and some glasses to wear as we entered the public portion of the terminal. We quickly drove to the appropriate concourse and then our guide quickly had us in the private lounge. The driver took my bags to get loaded while a hostess offered drinks and snacks. Soon enough it was time to board the plane.

"Ok Mike, I'm going to say goodbye here so we don't attract attention," Katie said. "We'll talk tomorrow to get our schedules straightened out and then I'll come see you in a week or two. The people at the Detroit airport will meet you with a cart and help you with your bags. They will do the same thing to get you to your ride home. Call me if you have any troubles in the airport or when you finally get to the condo."

"Thanks Katie, for everything," I said, giving her a hug.

"You're welcome," she replied, kissing my cheek. "You're like my younger brother now, so take care and get back into shape."

"Ok big sis, you take care of yourself as well," I said with a laugh.

She grinned and watched as I left the lounge in the company of the airport official. He got me to the counter and made sure I was first to be put on, along with an expectant mother and another person in a wheelchair. I made my way down the walkway slowly as it was slanted downward to the level of the plane.

The hostess was all smiles as she led me to my seat. She asked me if I would like anything and brought me a diet coke and some peanuts. I kept on my cap and buried my face in a textbook as the other passengers came on board. The seat beside me was taken by an older woman who thankfully wasn't social.

Soon we were taxiing to the runway and were in the air. The flight was uneventful and we touched down just before four. There was a cart waiting for me and they took me to the baggage claim and we retrieved my bags before driving to the restricted area and getting me into another van. I gave the driver my address and we were on our way to Ann Arbor.

An hour later we were at the condo front entrance and I used my card to open the door. The driver helped me with my luggage and I passed him a twenty for his trouble. Soon enough I was opening the door to my condo.

"Surprise!" the girls shouted as I stepped in with a suitcase and the garment bag in my hand, the book bag on my shoulder.

"You nearly gave me a heart attack!" I said as I put my stuff down and shut the door. "Hi everyone, it's good to see you."

Casey, Barb, Mitsy and Asuka all came up to me and gave me a gentle hug and a kiss before leading me to the couch and sitting me down. Barb went to the kitchen while the rest sat down with me.

"How are you feeling?" Casey asked.

"So-so, sore and tired from sitting so long, and my grafts hurt some," I answered.

Barb came back with a couple trays of veggies and dip, cheese and crackers and other assorted snacks. Casey went into the kitchen and got a tray of drinks with glasses and ice and set it down on the table.

"Supper will be ready in about thirty minutes, so we have some snacks and drinks to celebrate your homecoming," Barb said.

"It's good to be home, sorry I'm not real good company," I told them.

"It's ok, we understand," Mitsy stated.

"We wanted to see you as soon as you got back and make sure you had a good home cooked meal," Casey said.

"We're all very proud of what you did for Emma and her mother," Barb added. "We know you don't think you did much, but we think you did a very, very good thing saving them."

"Just so you know, I thought the guy was throwing paint, so my intentions weren't very heroic," I told them.

"Katie told us what you think about it, but it was how fast you reacted and how well you protected them from harm that was special," Asuka replied. "Not to mention saving them from a certain maiming and probable death. It was a very noble, selfless act and I am very proud of your actions, as is Sensei. It is good that you are modest about it, but don't demean their lives by dismissing your actions."

"I thank you all for your kind words on what I did, and of course I'm happy that I could save them from harm," I told them. "But I really hope to put it behind me and get back into shape as soon as possible."

"Ok, we won't mention it again, after tonight," Barb stated. "So, you've lost a lot of weight and you look so pale. How long before you're back to normal?"

"I've been stretching and working out lightly all week," I told them. "I'm getting stronger every day and I just need to eat some good home cooked meals and keep stretching and exercising and I'll be back to normal in a week or so. It will take a bit longer to get into hockey shape."

We talked about what was up in their lives while I was gone and they told me about their upcoming trip tomorrow to Columbus to find a house for the three of them to live in while going to Ohio State. Barb let me know that she had a photo shoot in New York with Trisha next week as well, so she was leaving tomorrow to spend a couple days with Katie and Trisha before the shoot. The four of them had a mystery guest arriving tomorrow who would be staying with me for at least the weekend while they were gone.

"I don't need a babysitter, ladies," I told them. "I don't need a stranger here taking care of me. I need to study for exams next week and start getting back into shape. Call this guest and tell her not to come."

"Michael, you need..." Mitsy started to say.

"No, I don't," I interrupted her. "I need peace and quiet without someone hovering over me like a mother. I won't be letting in anyone so don't have anyone show up."

"Fine, but she's going to be so angry," she told me.

"Then maybe you'll learn that you need to check with me before trying to schedule my life for me," I told her.

"Why are you being so mean to me?" she asked. "We're just trying to make sure you're ok."

"I'm tired, cranky and sore and you're the only one I can take it out on," I said to her. "Imagine how someone new will take it when I'm like this with her."

"She would be hurt and get angry at you," Casey said. "Ok, we'll cancel the visit."

Mitsy got up and made the call and had to do some fast talking. She came back and sighed.

"She's upset now, I hope you're happy," she told me.

"No, I'm not happy, that's the point," I said. "From now on check with me before you do things like that."

"Fine, I'm going to check on the food," she said, stomping off.

The others got up to help and I stretched out on the couch and closed my eyes.

"Ok Mike, time to eat," Barb said, shaking my shoulder.

I got up with her help, as I had stiffened up and the couch was pretty low. I made my way to the table and sat at the head chair. The others sat down as Barb came out carrying a large roast on a platter.

"This looks good, ladies," I told them. "I'm sorry I'm not in the proper mood to appreciate it properly but thanks for going to all this trouble."

"It wasn't trouble at all," Casey responded. "We all like to cook and it was the least we could do for you."

Barb got busy slicing up the roast and put some on each plate as Asuka held them out for her. After everyone had some, we passed the rest of the bowls around and filled up our plates. We dug in and we were pretty quiet while we ate. I made sure to eat properly and slowly.

"That was the best meal I've had in a while," I told them, while got me some big smiles in return.

"It's not over, we have cherry pie and whipped cream for dessert," Mitsy informed me.

"We're going to have to wait a bit for that, I'm stuffed," I told her.

"No problem, we don't have anywhere to be tonight," Casey said. "Why don't you go lie down and we'll clean up and put the food away. There should be enough leftovers for a couple meals for you."

"Thanks ladies," I said as I got up. "I don't deserve all this."

"Nonsense, our lives would be much different if you weren't here to take care of us," Barb said. "We just wish we could do more for you."

I just shook my head and sprawled out on the couch and reached for the TV remote. The local news just ended and an entertainment show came on. The female host was standing by a large screen and their logo faded to a picture of me.

'Good evening America, our top story is about Mike Stewart, the CK model that saved Emma Watson from that horrible acid attack three weeks ago. Entertainment Nightly has learned that Mike was snuck out of Mount Sinai Hospital in New York and is now back in Ann Arbor Michigan in his condo, successfully avoiding all the paparazzi and media hoping to catch a glimpse of him. He has refused all interview requests since he has awoken and his only contact with the outside world is his CK manager, Katie Dunn, who is acting as his spokeswoman. The rumoured bidding war for the coveted first interview has exceeded one million dollars, but Miss Dunn has repeatedly informed us that Mike will not be conducting any interviews about the incident.'

While she was talking, a clip of the incident was running on the screen beside her and I finally saw the whole thing from another perspective. The film was taken from the other side of the walkway and it showed me moving to Emma's side and pushing her as the man threw the acid at my back. Thankfully my bare ass was pixeled out as the security personnel and the three ladies helped me get back into the building.

"You were very observant and reacted very quickly," Asuka said, standing behind the couch. "Your training served you well."

"I have you and Sensei to thank for that," I said, looking up at her. "I didn't have to think, I just reacted."

"That is why we go over the forms and practice until it becomes second nature to you," Asuka responded. "Your body reacts before your conscious mind does. You did a good thing Michael, the world is a better place with those two ladies still in it."

"Amen to that," I agreed.

The other girls came over as the show went on to other stories.

"We've been putting a scrap book together from all the newspaper and magazine articles about you," Casey informed me. "Barb has also been recording anything on TV as well. Anytime you want to see it, we'll bring them up."

"You know me, I'm not much on my own press," I told them. "Thanks anyway."

I turned the channel and found the Wolverines playing Ferris State. We were already up two to nothing ten minutes into the first period. I muted the sound and looked at the girls.

"Are you going to sit down?" I asked.

"No, we're going to leave you alone now, unless you want some company," Casey replied. "We're all leaving early in the morning."

"No, you go ahead and get some sleep, I'll be fine," I told them. "Have a safe trip and a good week, all of you. Thanks for the great meal, it was nice to see you all again."

"So, before we leave you alone for the night, do you need any help with anything?" Mitsy asked. "Do you need to shower tonight?"

"I had one this morning so I'm good for tonight," I answered. "I'll have one in the morning, but you don't have to worry, I'll be fine."

They all put on fake pouts as they walked them to the door. I got up and joined them as they put on their shoes. I received some very nice hugs and kisses from all four of them before they left.

I went back to the couch and turned up the sound on the game and watched as we easily won the game six to one. I shut down the lights and headed to the bedroom. After brushing my teeth and getting into some shorts, I slid into the cool, clean sheets and stretched out. It was good to be home.

Saturday morning I started my new routine to get back into shape. I was up early and ran through my stretching routine before working on my forms. After a shower, I listened to all the messages on the condo machine.

Most of them were either well wishers or interview requests. I erased all of those, noting who had called to wish me well on a notepad. Pam left a message telling me that she was able to schedule my midterms for me, one a day starting Tuesday, to be administered by Professor Hiller for the two math exams first and then by Dr. Albert for both computer programming exams. She asked me to confirm with her if the schedule was ok.

I called her and left a message on her machine letting her know that the schedule was fine and thanking her for all her help.

I continued with the final couple of messages and found one from Professor Hiller.

"Hi Mike, its Professor Hiller. I received word from Pamela that you would be back this weekend and that you wished to write the midterm next week. First of all, I wanted to welcome you back and tell you that I'm proud of what you did for those two and I'm glad that you're recovering. Second, I would like to offer some tutoring time if you need it for your two math courses, as you have missed almost three weeks of class. Please call me when you get this message and we can arrange to meet to get you up to speed."

I thought about it for a minute and decided that it would be a smart move to review with her what she had taught in class. I called her back right then.

"Hello?" she asked.

"Professor Hiller, it's Mike Stewart, I hope I didn't wake you?" I asked.

"Actually you did, but it's not a problem, Mike," she said. "It's good to hear your voice. How are you feeling?"

"Better this morning, I was pretty cranky last night when I got home," I told her. "I was calling to accept your offer for some tutoring help with both my math classes if you have any time to spare."

"Sure, just let me get cleaned up and we can meet, say in about an hour?" she asked.

"Sounds good to me, I'll bring the coffee and donuts," I said. "Where should we meet?"

"My office would be best," she suggested. "We need to be very careful right now with all the publicity surrounding you. The department head warned me when I volunteered to handle your exams."

"No problem, Professor Hiller, we'll leave the lights on and the door open," I responded with a laugh. "Just don't wear anything too tempting, at least not on the outside."

She laughed as well and replied, "I'll be the model of decency and let you guess what I'm wearing underneath. I'll see you there in an hour. I take my coffee with two creams and two sugars."

"I'll meet you there," I agreed before hanging up.

I listened to two more messages and was finally through. I went in to my bathroom to shave and brush my teeth before getting dressed in some jeans and a tee shirt. I grabbed a couple cans of Diet Coke and then gathered up both my algebra and calculus notes and textbooks. They all went into my book bag and I was set to go.

I took the elevator to the parking garage and drove to a popular coffee shop and purchased a large coffee for her, a hot chocolate for me and a box of donuts. The parking lot near the math building was empty so I took the closest spot to the building and then walked to the front door. The doors were locked and so were the side doors when I tried them so I went back to the front and leaned on the low wall to wait for her. It was a sunny morning and the temperature was already in the high thirties so I wasn't uncomfortable.

I could see the parking lot from where I was standing and she pulled in about ten minutes later, driving a used Ford Focus. She got out and grabbed a battered leather briefcase before shutting the door and heading towards me. She was wearing a long winter coat, a hat and mittens and tall boots.

"You look like you're expecting a blizzard, Professor Hiller," I said with a grin as she walked up to me.

"And you look like we're in the Bahamas," she replied with a shiver. "Aren't you cold in just a coat?"

"This is spring time where I come from," I told her with a laugh. "Thank you for braving the cold to help me get ready, Professor Hiller."

"It's my pleasure Mr. Stewart," she replied. "Let's take this discussion inside before I turn into a block of ice."

"I hope you have a key," I responded.

"No, I don't rate one yet," she replied. "Bloody hell, no one will be here to open it for us either since its March break."

"We could head over to a cafeteria or to the library," I suggested.

"I guess it better be the cafeteria or we'll have to leave the donuts and coffee in the car, and I'm not going to do that," she said.

"Cafeteria it is then," I said, slinging my book bag over my shoulder. "You can warm up your hands by carrying your coffee."

I handed it to her and picked up the donut box and my hot chocolate and we walked over to the nearby building. Luckily the building was open, as was the sitting area for the cafeteria. The cafeteria itself was closed but there were a few vending machines along the wall if we wanted something else other than donuts. We picked a table and got out of our outer coverings. Professor Hiller was dressed in a pink sweater and jeans and looked cute. We sat down across from each other and she took a sip of coffee and grabbed a donut. I helped myself to an apple fritter and opened up my hot chocolate.

"Hmmm, that hits the spot," she said. "So, how are you feeling?" she asked. "You look like you lost weight and you're so pale."

"I'm recovering, the skin grafts are healing nicely and I'm starting to stretch and exercise," I told her. "It's going to take a couple weeks to a month to get back into hockey shape though."

"I'm just glad you're going to be ok, it looked horrific when I saw it," she replied. "I was very worried for you and you were in the coma for a long time."

"I'm sorry that you were worried," I replied. "I thought about calling when I woke up but I didn't have your number and I didn't want to stir anything up by trying to find it."

"That's ok, they announced it to the world when you woke up and then Pam called and let me know that you were getting better," she told me.

"So, how do you want to proceed?" I asked after we finished our donuts.

"Do you have a preference which one you want to write first?" she asked.

"I guess algebra to get it out of the way," I said.

"Ok, we'll do a quick review of the chapters that you had covered while you were still here, letting you do a few questions from the back of each," she told me. "Once we're done that, we'll spend more time on the last ones so you feel comfortable with those as well. As a final review, I brought last year's midterm for you to practice on."

"Sounds ok with me," I agreed.

We got through six chapters, reviewing the concepts and doing some of the harder examples in the book, before we took a break.

"Shall we go grab some lunch?" I asked.

"I am hungry and contrary to popular opinion, a donut is not adequate nutrition for a growing boy," she replied. "Let's get you a good meal to get your strength back up."

We packed up before we walked to the parking lot and she jumped into my SUV. Professor Hiller decided on Italian so I drove to a small restaurant a bit away from the college and we asked to sit in the back.

After ordering a panzarotti for me and some chicken Alfredo for her we talked for a bit.

"So, how do you like living in Ann Arbor?" I asked.

"It's colder than London, that's for sure," she said. "Less crowded and has a lot less pollution though, so it's a good trade-off in that respect. I miss my friends and family though, so I'll probably go back either at the end of this semester or in another year, depending on if I can find work over there."

"That's too bad, I think you're a great professor," I told her. "We need more women in math and sciences."

"I'll still be in math and sciences, just across the pond," she replied with a grin.

"I know, but I meant here," I elaborated. "You've made friends here, haven't you?"

"Yes, but its more about my parents, they're getting older, and both their health and their finances are doing poorly," she said. "I can stay with them and help out on both fronts."

"Family is most important," I stated. "Let me know if I can help in any way, they seem to want to throw money at me and I already have more than I need."

"That's very generous of you Mike, but I couldn't take money from you," she replied quickly. "I didn't mention it for you to feel sorry for me, just to let you know it was why I need to go back."

"I know that, but if you ever need help, just give me a call," I said.

"Thanks," she replied.

"So what do you like to do besides solve incredibly hard math problems?" I asked.

"I dabble in coins and I like to do yoga," she said. "How about you?"

"I'm taking martial arts three times a week and I think I'll be dabbling in some extracurricular programming in the summer, I have this idea for a computer game but I need to learn more about graphics before I can start," I replied.

We talked all the way through our meal and it was with some reluctance that we ended it and drove back to the college. Once there, we worked on the rest of the chapters, including the five that I had missed while I was laid up. It was after five when we wrapped up for the day.

"Thank you for your help today, it made it so much easier to get through it all in one day," I told her. "I'll get up early and write the exam and maybe you can look at it Monday morning."

"I'll look at it tomorrow silly, we have to go over calculus tomorrow," she replied.

"Oh, I can't have you working on Sunday too," I said.

"Nonsense, you need help and I don't have anything planned," she responded. "Time yourself when you write the exam so you do it within an hour and twenty minutes so you're prepared for the real one on Monday. So, when and where should we meet tomorrow?"

"I'm not sure if this building will be open tomorrow, but we probably could find a small room in the library to work in," I suggested. "I can be here by ten if you're up by then on a Sunday."

"Ten in the library it is," she agreed.

"Now, can I take you out to dinner to pay you back for all of your help?" I asked.

"As much as I would love that, I'm going to have to pass on that," she said with a smile. "We can't be seen out together, it would ruin us both. I'm going to pick something up on the way home. Thank you for the offer though, and believe me, it's not that I don't want to go out with you, we just can't."

"I appreciate you letting my fragile heart down gently," I replied with a grin. "Hopefully you won't leave right after the semester is over so we can get together without any consequences."

"You provide a very good reason to stay a bit longer," she said with an answering grin.

We packed up our books and walked back to our cars. I made sure she got away safely before heading back to the condo. I noticed a couple of news vans in the visitor's parking lot but avoided them by scooting into the parking garage and taking the elevator directly up to my floor. After heating up some leftovers from the great meal that the girls made for me, I called Katie and we went over the schedule for the last couple of weeks in April and the first week of May. Finally I watched a hockey game and headed to bed early.

Sunday morning I was physically tired but still got up and did my stretches and forms before writing the old algebra test. I had it done in just over an hour and checked it over for the next twenty minutes. I had a quick shower and drove over to the college and parked near the library.

We met in the lobby and found an empty room on the main floor. I passed over the completed old midterm and she pulled out her copy and started marking mine against it.

"Congratulations, you just got ninety six on your algebra midterm," she said with a grin.

"Too bad it wasn't the real one," I replied dryly.

"It was the real one, I thought you were ready so I didn't bother with the old one," she told me. "So you've got one down and only three more to go."

"That's great professor, thanks for doing it that way," I said.

"Mike, when we're alone, you can call me Jenny or Jen; Professor Hiller is a bit too formal for me," she told me.

"Sure Jen," I responded with a grin.

We moved on to calculus and Jen had me do sample questions from each chapter after explaining the relevant topics quickly. We took a couple of breaks and finished the last chapter on the test by six, again taking a break for lunch.

"You're ready for the exam, you know the theory and you can do any question in the book," Jen told me as we packed up. "How about we have you write the exam tomorrow afternoon in my office so people see you there at least once?

"Sounds good, I'll go to my morning appointment at the burn specialist and then go see Chris at the arena to start my recovery workouts," I told her. "How about one pm in your office?"

"Sounds good to me," she replied. "I'll see you then."

We packed up and, after she turned down my offer for dinner again, split up at the parking lot. I drove home, grabbed my mail from the lobby and went upstairs. I ordered a queen sized pizza for supper and flipped through the mail and the answering machine messages until it got there.

I let the driver into the lobby and went down to get it. When I got there, I was surprised to see a very cute girl waiting for me with a smile.

"Hi there, you're a nice upgrade from the previous guy," I said with a grin.

"Mr. Stewart, I presume?" she asked.

"Yes, but call me Mike," I answered. "And you are?"

"I'm Daphne," she replied.

"Well Daphne, how much do I owe you?" I inquired.

"Twenty two fifty," she replied.

I passed over forty and said, "Keep the change, Daphne."

"Really? That's a pretty big tip and I didn't even have to go up to your floor to deliver it," she protested.

"No problem, I'm sure you could use it," I said.

"I sure could, I'm saving up for college in the fall, so every bit helps," she said. "It's so expensive for even one of the smaller schools. But between this and my other jobs, I hope to earn enough so I don't have to take out a loan."

I was curious about her so I asked, "What other jobs do you do?"

"All sorts of things," she replied. "I drive some older folks to the grocery store and help them shop and put the groceries away; I do deliveries, I clean and do laundry and just about anything someone needs doing. Here, let me give you my card and you can hang on to it and give me a call if you need anything done."

She pulled out a card holder and handed me one of her cards.

"How do you find time to do your homework?" I asked.

"I do most of it before and during school," she said. "No use working my butt off if my grades aren't good enough to get in."

"I like your attitude Daphne, I like to help you out," I told her. "Can you shop from a list by yourself?"

"Sure, if you tell me what brands you want and give me the money up front," she replied.

"Good, now when are you free to do a grocery run once a week and clean my condo and do laundry another day?" I asked.

"I get done school at three, so I can be here by quarter after," she said. "Monday and Wednesday are open for me, as is Sunday."

"Ok, I'm not back here until six thirty; can you work later in the evening?" I asked.

"Usually I'm at the pizzeria at five most nights, but I can arrange to have a couple nights off if you're going to hire me on a weekly basis," she responded. "I could shop earlier and meet you when you get done. You could email me your shopping list and if you give me the money now, I'll be able to get it done earlier."

"That sounds good for now," I admitted.

We exchanged emails and cell numbers and I handed her two hundred dollars. I figured it was a good test to see if she could be trusted before I let her into my condo to clean.

"Ok, I'll see you at six thirty tomorrow night, Mike," Daphne said. "Thanks for the tip and for the extra work. You won't be disappointed in me."

"I hope not, Daphne," I said. "I'll work on the list tonight and you can call me if you have any issues. I'm in practice or in classes a lot, but leave a message and I'll try to return the call. I have practice from four to six every afternoon, so if you run into trouble while shopping, just use your best judgement and we'll work it out tomorrow night."

She agreed and then had to take off. I watched her nice bubble butt in her tight jeans as she walked out the door and then headed back up to my condo. Once inside, I ate a few slices while checking out what I needed and making a list. I got out my laptop and typed it up so she could actually read it before sending it to her address. I figured I would let her clean and do my laundry another night if the grocery thing worked out tomorrow.

I got in a couple of hours of studying for my programming course and then called it a night. It was good to be back to a normal routine.



-------

Chapter 43

Monday morning was the official start of my March break. I still got up early and was stretching at six and then moved on to my forms for martial arts before having a shower. I studied my calculus until it was time to go to my doctor's appointment.

I drove to the hospital and found a spot to park before taking the elevator to the fifth floor to find Dr. Seidenberg's office. A very cute receptionist smiled as I approached the window in the waiting room.

"It's nice to see you Mr. Stewart, Dr. Seidenberg should be done with a patient in a few minutes and can see you then," she said. "I just need you to fill out an information form; we already received your medical file from Mount Sinai."

"Sure thing," I said, taking a clipboard from her.

"I'm Bridgette by the way," she said. "I'm a nursing student here at Michigan."

"It's nice to meet you Bridgette," I replied. "I'm Mike, I'm in computer science."

"It's very nice to meet you, Mike," she said with a big smile. "What you did for Emma Watson and her mother was so brave and I'm happy to see that you're up and about."

"Thank you Bridgette, that's kind of you to say," I responded. "I'm happy to be out of the hospital and getting back to normal."

I walked away and sat down in a chair to fill out the form. It just asked personal questions as well as how I was going to pay. It took about five minutes and I handed it back to her. She quickly looked it over and told me that the doctor should be done soon.

A man came out of the door that led into offices and Bridgette appeared in the doorway a minute later.

"Mr. Stewart, the doctor will see you now," she said, with a smile.

I got up and followed the nursing student back to an examination room. She had on a short tartan skirt over dark tights with a white blouse on top. A white lab coat made her look professional and her shoulder length brown hair was cut in the latest style.

"The Doctor will want to examine the burns, so if you could get into this gown now it would speed things up," she said. "I'll be at my desk if you need any help."

"Thanks Bridgette," I replied.

I got out of my pants but left my tee shirt and underwear on and pulled the gown on overtop. I sat on the table and soon there was a knock on the door. It opened and a woman in a lab coat came in. She looked to be in her early forties and was still an attractive woman.

"Hello Mr. Stewart, I'm Dr. Seidenberg, how are you feeling today?" she asked.

"Hello Doctor, it's good to meet you," I replied. "I'm doing well thank you, and yourself?"

"I'm fine for a Monday morning," she replied. "I see Bridgette has you in a gown already. Shall we do an examination of your skin grafts and we'll get you back into your clothes before she can come in and sneak a peek. She's been talking nonstop about you since we received the medical file last week."

I got up and turned to let her see the back of my leg.

"So, the back of the leg and the left buttock area had skin grafts about four weeks ago," she said, looking at the file before pulling up the gown.

She looked at the back of the thigh and then pulled up my underwear leg to look at my butt.

Can you bend your leg for me please?" she asked.

I pulled the leg up and bent it at the knee. She checked out the skin on the leg and butt again.

"Looks good, have you been stretching?" she asked.

"Every morning for a week now," I said. "I also do my martial arts form routine as well. I haven't had an issue with the leg once."

"That's good news, I think you can be cleared for normal activities and you can start your weight training again," she said, taking out a pad. "Skating should be ok, but no checking or hard contact on the skin itself or it might tear. Give it a couple of weeks to fully heal and you should be able to play. That should give you enough time to get back into playing shape anyway."

"That sounds great Doc; can I get that in writing?" I asked.

"I'm way ahead of you," she replied, as she sat down at a small desk. "Go ahead and get dressed while I write you a note."

I slipped on my jeans and then took off the gown and hung it up.

"Make an appointment with Bridgette for two weeks from now and we'll make sure everything is ok before releasing you for full contact," she told me as she handed me the note.

"Can we make it for the Friday morning before that?" I asked. "If everything is ok then, I can play in the game that night."

"I suppose so," she replied. "Let me redo that note then."

She ripped up that note and wrote me another one.

"Ok, here you go, just don't overdo things in the beginning or you'll rip those grafts and you'll be out for another month," she cautioned as she handed me the new note.

"Thanks Doc, I appreciate it," I said as she opened the door.

Bridgette was at the nurse's station nearby and pouted at us when we came out.

"Sorry Bridgette, but I was never going to let you sneak a peek at a patient," Dr. Seidenberg said with a laugh. "You're going to have to settle for his CK ad."

"Mom, you got to see him, it's not fair," Bridgette said.

I looked between the two of them and saw the resemblance.

"A more beautiful mother-daughter team will never be found," I said with a smile. "Sorry Bridgette, but you're not missing much; I'm not in the best shape right now anyway."

"He needs an appointment in two weeks from last Friday, so there's still hope," her mother said with a grin.

"Fine, but I help with the examination then or your laundry will be all pink and shrunk," she warned her mother with a frown, before turning to me. "You had better be in good shape by then Mister, so no slacking off."

"Yes Ma'am," I answered with a grin.

"Come with me and we'll get you an appointment slip," she said, grabbing my hand and pulling me to her desk.

"Sit," she said, pointing to a chair beside the desk.

I sat down and grinned at her as she looked up the schedule in the computer and then looked at me.

"I have Friday at nine, ten or eleven thirty," she said.

"Eleven thirty is the best," I said.

She clicked on that time and typed in my name and then grabbed a piece of paper and filled in the date and time before turning it over. She wrote a couple of lines on the back and then handed it to me.

"Ok, Friday at eleven thirty in a little less than two weeks, Mike," she said.

"Thanks Bridgette, I'll see you then," I said, standing up.

"I put my cell number on the back in case something goes wrong with your leg in the meantime," she said. "Give me a call and I'll come help you out."

"Ok, I'll keep it in mind," I said. "Thanks for the concern."

"You're welcome," she said. "Be careful in the meantime."

"I will," I replied. "See you in a couple of weeks."

I left the office and started walking down to the elevator when I heard someone walking quickly behind me.

"Do I have to ask you?" Bridgette asked, looking perturbed.

"Ask me what?" I asked, puzzled.

"Geez, I gave you enough hints," she said, exasperated. "Are you going to ask me out or do I have to ask you? I've never had to ask a guy out before, especially in this outfit."

"Sorry Bridgette, I'm seeing someone so I didn't take the hint," I said, lying to her with a smile.

"Oh, I didn't know that," she said, looking deflated.

"I do like the outfit and you're a beautiful woman," I said. "If things don't work out I'll give you a call."

"Ok, please do," she said, looking happier. "I'll see you in a couple of weeks."

"See you then," I replied.

I got into the elevator and left the hospital, driving over to the arena with my note. I parked and got out, carrying a gym bag in.

"Hey Mike, welcome back," said George, the daytime security guard in the lobby.

"Thanks George, it's good to be back," I replied, shaking his hand.

I went upstairs and popped my head into Pam's office and thanked her for her help. I slipped an envelope to her and told her to buy something nice and have a nice dinner out. She told me that I didn't have to do that but I just smiled. I handed her my completed Descartes paper on a memory stick and asked if someone could correct it for me. She assured me that someone would get right on it and have the changes back to me tomorrow. After grabbing a snack in the cafeteria, I headed down to see the coaches and then Chris.

I leaned on the door frame of the Coach's office and said, "I don't think you guys need me at all anymore. You're doing quite fine without me."

"Mike! How are you feeling?" Coach Benson asked, getting up and coming over.

"I'm doing fine, just got the clearance from Dr. Seidenberg to get back to workouts and skating," I told him. "I just can't have contact for a couple of weeks. If things go well, I should be able to be in the next game."

"That's great news, I'm glad you're recovering so well," he replied. "And how are you mentally?"

"I'm great, happy to be back and doing a lot of studying," I told him. "I'm writing exams this week and then I'll be all caught up."

"That's good to hear that you're almost caught up," Coach said. "Well, we're all real proud of what you did, saving those two, and I'm just as proud on how well you've recovered and got caught up. If you need anything just let Frank or I know and we'll try to accommodate you."

"Thanks coach, but I should be fine," I replied. "I'll work with Chris in the weight room and then get some skating in if the ice is open. I have an exam at one so I can't be too long. Starting tomorrow, I'll be here at my usual times."

"Sounds good, but don't try and do it all in one day," he warned. "You have two weeks before our next game, so pace yourself."

"I will," I promised.

"You better talk with Angie Dawson, the A.D. spokeswoman, she's been getting lots of requests for interviews and information," Coach informed me.

"I'll call her but I won't be doing any interviews," I replied. "I haven't done one yet and don't plan to."

"I heard that, but she's probably going to be insistent," he said. "Between you and me, I think she hopes to land a better job from all the publicity surrounding you. She has the AD wrapped around her little finger so watch out."

"I'm afraid she's going to be disappointed then," I told him. "Ok, I better get started with my workout or I'll be late for my exam. I'll see you later Coach."

I headed down to the training room but didn't find Chris there, so I just left him a note before changing into my sweats and walking to the weight room. I stretched a bit and then started my full routine, at one quarter my normal weight limits. My muscles protested every rep so I took it slow and easy. Chris came in about half way through.

"Hey Mike, how's it going?" he asked, when I finished a set of arm curls.

"It's slow going, I'm using about quarter of the normal weight and it's still pretty rough," I replied.

"You probably should have started at ten percent," he chided me. "Have you done your legs yet?"

"I did those first and didn't have any issues with the skin," I told him. "I'm going to skate a bit afterwards to see how that goes."

"Ok, I'll be around if you need me, just take it easy for the first few days," he warned.

I nodded and he left the room while I continued working out. It took another half hour before I finished up and went in to get my skates, stick and a few pucks. A pick-up game was being played on the ice so I watched the last ten minutes or so. The participants, mostly guys with a few girls sprinkled in on both teams, seemed to be having a lot of fun. There was some checking between the guys, but no one hit the girls.

One of the guys and one of the girls were obviously better than the rest of the bunch on the ice. They were playing on opposite teams but they looked similar enough that they could be brother and sister. They made it a point always defend each other and grinned when they bested the other somehow.

The horn sounded and the players all groaned as they wanted to play longer. I stood in the tunnel as they walked by, the two good players at the end of the line.

"Hey, you on next?" the girl asked.

"Yep, just need to get in some skating and shooting," I replied.

The pair looked at each other and she said, "Can we join you? We won't bother you; we just want to get a bit more ice time in."

"I don't mind," I replied.

"Thanks, I'm Jaime and this slowpoke is my younger brother, Jake," the cute girl informed me.

"Yeah, by ten minutes," Jake added.

"Older is older, little brother, let's not argue semantics," Jaime said loftily.

"I'm Mike," I responded with a grin.

We waited while the Zamboni driver cleaned the ice. They both took off their helmets and the similarities became more pronounced. They both had reddish blonde hair, about the same height, and were good looking. I watched as the girl ran her fingers through her hair to get it out of her face.

"You two were pretty good out there, I'm surprised you haven't tried out for the teams here," I said.

"Oh, we're not students here," the guy said. "Our grandfather is Coach Benson; we're just visiting from Traverse City for the March break."

"It looks like you've inherited your Grandfather's skill," I said.

"Thanks," Jake said. "Our mother was a good skater too, but she never played hockey. We always have a rink in the back yard every winter up there. We both play for our high school teams."

"I had a rink in the back yard too, up in Dryden," I told them. "My dad and I would be out there every night after school and work."

"You're Mike Stewart right?" Jaime asked. "You're the guy who saved Emma Watson from the acid and who plays defence for the Wolverines."

"Yeah, I am," I answered.

"What you did was so cool," Jake said. "I couldn't believe how easy it was for you to put yourself in the way of that acid for a total stranger."

"It was easy, I thought he was throwing paint at her," I told him. "It doesn't take much to get in the way of paint. It really wasn't all that special."

"Of course it was," Jaime said emphatically. "You saved their lives and nearly died in the process. Don't belittle what you did; it was a very brave and noble act."

Her intensity startled me and I looked at her in surprise.

She blushed and said, "Sorry, I didn't mean to bite your head off, but what you did was heroic. I don't like it when someone says differently."

"You should have heard her tear into a couple of guys in the cafeteria last week who were calling you a wimp when you passed out," Jake said with a grin. "She almost got into a fight with one of them."

"Thanks for your support Jaime, but you don't have to get in trouble defending me" I told her. "It's not that big a deal what others think of me."

"It is to me," Jaime retorted. "They were trying to act cool for some girls who were looking at your CK ad. They were jealous that the girls were all drooling over you and not paying attention to them."

"It's ok, boys will be boys," I said. "You should hear what entire arenas say about me sometime. I think the entire city of Lansing wouldn't have minded a bit if I didn't survive the attack. The entire state of Ohio was probably dancing for joy as well. So what two guys think of me in Traverse City is hardly grounds for you getting in a fight and possibly marring that beautiful face."

She blushed as Jake laughed and said, "Great, now she'll never shut up about you."

Jaime smacked his head with her hand before he could react and said, "Shut up little brother or I'll tell him about your crush on..."

"Shutting up," Jake said quickly, interrupting his sister before she could say anything further. "No need to bother Mike with that."

She smirked at him and turned back to me and said, "Did you get to spend some time with Emma Watson?"

"I met her before the show for the first time, but that's it," I responded. "She had to go back for school and then I didn't want her to visit me when I was in the hospital."

The Zamboni drove off the ice and I skated down to him to help him get Patrick on the ice and attached to the net. Once he had closed the doors, Jake started shooting against the cut-out while Jaime accompanied me while I skated on the other three quarters of the rink.

"So, are you planning on coming to U of M in the fall?" I asked.

"Yep, I've got a scholarship for the women's hockey team and Jake has one for the men's team," she said proudly.

"Good for both of you," I congratulated her. "I bet you can't wait to get here."

"For sure," she agreed. "If I could come now I would, high school is so lame. The teachers don't give a crap for the most part and half the students are being passed though just to get rid of them."

"Well you only have three or four months left, you'll get through it," I said.

"It's going to be torture, the girls are so superficial and vain and the guys are all immature and juvenile."

"That's usually the case with all high school guys," I said with a laugh. "Surely there must be one or two that strikes your fancy. Hasn't someone asked you to the prom?"

"I've had several guys asked but they're either empty headed jocks or pretty boy wimps," she said. "The nice guys are all too shy to ask and don't inspire any confidence in themselves. I'm probably going to pass on the prom."

"That's too bad, I didn't go to mine, I was one of the shy ones and pretty geeky back then," I said. "You should pick one of the nice guys that you like and ask him. Sometimes that little nudge from a girl is all that a guy like that needs to get his confidence."

"I'll think about it," she said. "Now, let's speed up a bit, you're skating slower than an old woman."

I grinned at her and sped up a bit, but kept the acceleration gradual rather than trying to keep up with her. Eventually I had to stop to catch my breath as I was in horrible shape. I crouched over with my stick on my knees and sucked in air.

"You're pathetic," she said with a grin as she sprayed me with ice while stopping. "Look at you, panting like a four hundred pound polar bear. You'd think that you were lying on your back for the past four weeks."

"Give the guy a break, you heartless wench," Jake said. "It's probably his first time out on skates in a month."

"That's no excuse," she replied. "I bet he shoots like a baby too."

I stuck my tongue out at her while standing up and slowly moved to the end with Patrick on the net. I started wristing pucks at the cut-outs and only about a quarter went into their targets.

"Boy, you're rustier than a hundred year old nail," Jaime said with a grin.

"I may be a bit out of shape," I agreed. "It's not very ladylike to point that out however."

"I'm not a lady on the ice," Jaime retorted.

I laughed and began shooting with a bit more power, as all three of us took turns shooting at poor Patrick. My accuracy improved over time as did the power of my shots.

At twelve I called it a day.

"It's been a pleasure meeting the two of you," I said. "Will you be here for the week?"

"Until Saturday," Jake answered. "I'm sure we'll run into each other again."

"When will you be practicing again?" Jaime asked.

"In the morning for the next couple of days, pretty early," I told her. "Then again in the afternoon, probably four to six. Thursday and Friday will be later in the morning after I write my exams. Maybe I'll see you again."

"Count on it, I need to see if you get any better with practice," she replied with a grin.

"Alright, I'll see you then," I told her and headed off the ice.

I had a quick shower and found Jaime all cleaned up and in jeans and a tee shirt.

"You clean up nice," I said, admiring her trim body.

"You're a bit skinny for my tastes," she replied, looking up and down at mine.

"That's what happens when you're on your back for a bit," I said. "Don't worry; I'll be back in shape in no time at all."

She handed me a piece of paper and said, "Here's my cell and email info so you can get a hold of us if you need practice partners this week."

"I'll be here from six to nine in the morning, so just show up," I told her.

"Keep it anyway, maybe you'll want some company in the evenings," she said, looking hopeful.

"We'll see, I have studying to do and some martial arts training, so I'm pretty booked this week," I told her.

Her face dropped and I felt bad for her, but I didn't want to lead her on.

"I'll see you on the ice tomorrow Jaime," I said and left her there as I started walking down the hallway.

I heard footsteps coming up behind and turned back to her.

"Look, I'm sorry if I crossed the line out on the ice, I was just teasing you," she said. "I really like you and thought maybe we could see if the feeling was mutual. Could we maybe go out to dinner this week and get to know each other better?"

"Jaime, I'm flattered but I'm seeing someone right now," I told her, lying again. "Sorry, but it's not you. I'm not that good a catch anyway; you should pick a nice guy from your school to ask out."

"Really, no one has said that you're going out with anyone," she said, obviously disappointed. "Are you that attached to her?"

"Sorry Jaime," was all I said.

"Well that's a real bummer," she said. "Keep me in mind if you become available, ok?"

"Ok, I will, but try and find a guy back at school instead," I told her.

I continued down the hallway and made my way out of the arena and drove up to the main campus, finding a close parking spot because it was March break. I grabbed some lunch and then walked to Jenny's office, getting there about ten minutes early. I knocked on the door and entered when I heard her say to come in.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Stewart, how are you today?" Jenny asked.

"Fine Professor Hiller, thank you for allowing me to write my exam during your March break," I answered.

"No problem, I was in town so it wasn't an issue," she replied as I shut the door.

Once the door shut, she put a finger to her mouth and said, "Ok, here is the exam, you have an hour and twenty minutes to complete it. Read it over first carefully before starting. Any questions?"

"No Ma'am," I said with a grin.

"Then begin," she replied before leaning in and whispering, "The walls have ears so watch what you say."

I nodded and started the exam. The questions were similar to what were in the textbook so I had no problem with the first four pages. The next two pages required some thinking to figure out what was needed but I soon had the solutions down on the paper. The final page was one last question and it was a doozy. It took me twenty minutes to figure out what she was asking for and then put down the solution. I glanced up at her from time to time and she grinned back at me over top of her novel.

I did a thorough review of my work and found a silly mistake in one of the answers before handing it over to her.

"How do you think you did?" she asked.

"Not too bad, the last question was pretty difficult," I noted.

"That's the one that separates the boys from the men, as they say," she said in her lovely accent. "I'll mark your exam now and you can call me for the results later in the day or tomorrow."

"Thank you Professor Hiller, I appreciate your time," I said.

"Not a problem, have a good afternoon," she said as I got up.

I left her office and a beady eyed, skinny little man opened the door in the office next door and stared at me as I walked by. I guessed that this was the eavesdropper she was worried about. He looked like the type to cause trouble and we would have to continue to be professional.

I grabbed a quick bite to eat before heading back to the arena. The ice was empty so I got on early and did my stretches and warm up skating before the twins came out. We tried some two on one drills as well as one on one breakaways and then just shot against Patrick for a while. My accuracy slowly improved as we went along as did theirs.

We called it a day just before six and I bowed out when they asked me to dinner, saying I had to be somewhere in a bit. I showered and walked outside, only to be ambushed by a TV crew from the local TV station.

"Hi Mike, I'm Tracy Hemlock from Channel 5 here in Ann Arbor, we would like to ask you a few questions," a tall dark haired woman asked as the cameraman shown a bright light into my eyes.

"Sorry, I'm not allowed to talk to the press," I told her as I shielded my eyes and kept walking.

"How are you feeling? Are you back skating?" she asked as they followed me to my SUV.

I unlocked the door and quickly got in. Luckily I had backed in and could quickly drive away while they scrambled out of the way. I drove back home to find a couple more in the visitor's parking lot and what looked like a few people waiting for me in the small alcove where the buzzers were. I drove into the parking garage and called Daphne on her cell.

"Hello?" she said.

"Hi Daphne, its Mike Stewart," I replied. "I just wanted to warn you that there are a bunch of TV crews in the parking lot and in the front entrance at my building. Where are you at?"

"I'm just on my way there," she said.

"Pull into the parking garage instead and I'll open it when you get close," I said. "You can park in number 16, it's one of mine."

"Ok, I'll be there in a few minutes," she said. "I'll call you when I pull onto your street."

Our plan worked like a charm and she helped carry the groceries up to the condo.

"Wow, nice condo Mike," she said. "You have a great view."

"Thanks," I said as I led the way to the kitchen.

She helped put things away until we were done and then sat down at the kitchen table, pulling out the receipt and the left over cash, including some coins.

"Ok, the groceries came to one hundred and forty five dollars and twenty nine cents, so your change comes to fifty four dollars and seventy one cents," she said, passing it over.

"Sounds good, now how do you charge?" I asked, "By the hour or by the job?"

"I'm not sure, it took two hours so how about twenty bucks?" she asked.

"No way!" I said.

She looked disappointed and said, "Fifteen then?"

"Daphne, you deserve more, not less, silly," I said. "Let's say forty an hour because you're using your car and gas so your base will be eighty. Now, you helped carry them up and put them away so I figure an extra twenty for that so an even one hundred should do it."

I slid two fifties over to her and she looked at me in shock.

"That's what I make in two days delivering pizza, it's too much Mike," she said, trying to push one back.

"Nonsense, I'm very particular who I let into my condo and part of the extra is for your discretion," I told her. "Now if you want to continue to be my Girl Friday, I suggest you put that money away pronto and call me Mike."

"Ok Mike, and thanks, it's going for a good cause," she said, rolling it up and putting it into her jean's pocket. "So, is there anything else I can help you with? Maybe some cleaning, laundry, cooking, deliveries?"

"I'm thinking of letting you clean and do my laundry Wednesday night if you want, starting about this time," I stated. "Interested?"

"Sure, do you have all the cleaning stuff or should I get it?" she asked.

"Let's look and we'll see," I suggested.

We took a gander under the kitchen sink and in the laundry room and found most of what she needed to clean and do the laundry.

"Ok, I'll bring anything else I'll need," she said. "I'll see you Wednesday, thanks for hiring me, you won't regret it."

"You're welcome," I said. "I'll get you down to your car and out of the parking garage."

As we were descending in the elevator, she turned to me and said, "You're the guy who saved Emma Watson right? That's why the TV crews are here right?"

"That's correct," I said.

"I saw what you did on TV, it looked like it really hurt," she said. "How are your burns doing?"

"They're mostly healed now and I'm slowly getting back to normal," I replied.

"That's good to hear," she said. "Don't worry, I won't tell a soul that I'm working for you."

"Good, that means you'll get to work for me as long as you want," I said.

She got out of the parking lot without any issues and I picked up my mail from the lobby. I peeked around to find a few people waiting for me to appear or answer the buzzer. I snuck back to the elevator and went back up to my condo.

I got myself a diet coke and opened my mail, dividing it into three piles, bills, junk mail and other. I started opening the others first and found my official invitation to the medal ceremony in Washington for both countries. They were planning it for the July fourth weekend, along with other medal ceremonies that they usually did at that time. I put it aside and moved on.

There were invitations to several parties, in Ann Arbor with the mayor, in Lansing with the governor, and a couple in Washington from the senators from Michigan. There were a couple more from the British and Canadian embassies for a formal dinner, both in late June prior to the medal ceremony.

Booting up my laptop I checked out my emails and found a couple interview requests and a few well wishes from acquaintances and strangers. I quickly read through them and then shut the laptop down. After checking the messages on the answering machine I made some spaghetti and then studied some more, hitting the database course this time. At eleven I hit the hay and was soon asleep after the long day.

Tuesday was mostly hockey practice and studying in between. Jake and Jaime joined me about eight am on the ice after I had been there for a while. I let them warm up and then joined them in doing some laps and then shooting. Neither one was enthused about being there that early but eventually got into it. I had them practice two on ones against me as they both were forwards. Then they went one on one against me, trying all their moves to get around me to shoot on Patrick.

I called it a practice at quarter after nine and told them I would see them at four if they were up to it.

"What are you doing now, maybe we can hang out?" Jaime asked.

"I'm going to work out and then study for my exams, neither of which is very interesting for me, let alone you two," I told them. "Go have some fun, explore the campus or something."

"Don't you ever have fun?" Jake asked. "You're always busy it seems."

"Unfortunately, between school, hockey and modelling, my plate is pretty full," I agreed. "I try and have fun playing hockey, but its serious business here; you have to stay in shape and work hard or you don't get to play."

"Man, that sucks, I was hoping to have some fun when we came here," he said.

"There's always some time for fun, but less if you're an athlete," I told him. "But you're getting a great education for free and get to play at one of the top colleges in the country. You don't get to party and slack off like some of the regular students, but there are benefits."

"I guess, but I know it's going to suck," he said as he skated off the ice.

"He's not as dedicated as you are," Jaime said quietly. "I worry that he'll get caught up in the party scene and not apply himself to his studies or his hockey."

"The coaches or the tutors won't let that go on too long before they rein him in," I told her. "You might want to mention it to your granddad on the sly so he can take steps right away. It's for his own good."

"I guess, but he'll be angry if he finds out that I did it," she said.

"I won't tell and I'm sure your granddad won't either," I assured her.

I parted ways with her at the locker room and got into some sweats before heading to the weight room. I did a full workout again, bumping up every weight a bit.

I was exhausted when I was done and could barely climb the steps to get to the cafeteria. I grabbed a big meal and some extra snacks before camping out at a table. After eating the meal and some of the desserts, I took out my books and continued to study for the database midterm. I got into my deep concentration mode and it was two o'clock before I knew it. I just had the chapters I missed while in the hospital to cover so I took a break and finished my extra snacks. I got up and put my dishes and tray away after throwing my garbage out.

I studied for another hour and then went to Pam's office to get my edited Descartes paper. I slipped her another couple hundred for her troubles and then went back to the locker room to get ready for afternoon practice. The ice was empty so I went on right away and got to stretching. Jake and Jaime came out a few minutes later, this time dressed in just sweats for Jake and a sweater and tights for Jaime. They had on their helmets, gloves and skates and carried their sticks.

"We figured we didn't need all the equipment out here," Jaime said when I looked at her.

"I suppose not," I agreed. "I'm just used to it."

They stretched and I got to see Jaime's impressive flexibility as she did the splits and then arched her back to almost touch the ice. I admired her lovely body as her tights showed off her legs and butt. I quickly looked away and got up before I was caught looking at her. I began skating some laps and they soon joined me.

Practice was more of the same for the first hour but their granddad came out and joined us on the ice and we had spirited two on two game using half the ice and shooting against Patrick each time. Coach Benson wasn't as fast as any of us but he was always in the right place on defence and his passes on offence were always right on the receivers stick. We had a lot of fun for the next hour and the twins had a great time with their Granddad.

I finally had to go and get ready for martial arts so I left them on the ice and had a quick shower. I got dressed and drove to Wendy's and got a combo to eat on the way to the dojo. I parked in back and entered and was surprised to see Sensei waiting for me.

"Ah Michael, Asuka thought you might make it tonight, even though she would be out of town," Sensei told me. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm pretty much healed Sensei, I just need to get back into shape and get my strength back," I told him.

"I was impressed with your actions to save the two ladies in New York," Sensei said. "Your vigilance to your surroundings, your quick reaction time and your bravery to put yourself in harm's way has made me very proud to be your teacher. You are a credit to this school and have brought much honour to Asuka, myself, the school and to yourself."

He ended by bowing to me. I bowed just as low to him and then said, "I appreciate your compliments but I must confess that I thought it was paint he was throwing at the women. It does not take much bravery to get in the way of paint."

"That is true up to a point, but the deed was honourable whether you saved them from water or acid," he replied. "The fact that you got hurt saving someone is a noble sacrifice, especially when they would not have survived the attack. Your training must continue as you seem to be in the wrong place at the wrong time much too often."

"It's been the right place at the right time from the ladies point of view," I replied. "But I agree, the better prepared I am, the better I'll feel."

We stood across from each other and went through the stretches and the forms and then practiced every defensive and offensive move that they had taught me. Sensei corrected any minor errors in technique and then we took a break before he started attacking me to work on my defences. He varied his attacks from simple single punches or kicks to multiple combinations at different speeds. We went on for almost fifteen minutes before he called for a break.

"You are progressing well, even with your month long absence," Sensei complimented me. "When you are rested we will continue, but this time you will counterattack and even start an attack at any time."

I nodded as I sat on my heels and tried to catch my breath. After a few minutes we got up and continued sparring.

I let him attack and then tried different counterattacks as they seemed to fit. I never actually hit him but I did force him off his attacks. I followed up with combinations which he blocked and I had to be aware of his countermeasures as he used them to stop my attacks.

We got into a sort of rhythm of attack and defend, counterattack and defend, with both of us doing a good job of keeping the other away. Sensei called a halt when I got tired and reacted too slow to a kick to the stomach and had the breath knocked out of me.

"Sorry Michael, you were doing so well that I forgot to pull the punch," he said. "Are you ok?"

"I'll be fine in a minute," I said, trying to straighten up. "At least it was not six inches lower or I'd singing soprano."

He laughed and patted me on the back.

"Why don't we call it a night," he suggested. "You look very tired."

"Ok Sensei, thank you for being here to train tonight," I said, bowing to him.

"You are most welcome, Michael, it is a pleasure to work with you," he replied. "You keep me on my toes out there."

I smiled and left the training room and got my shoes on. After wishing him a good night, I left the dojo and drove home. After a quick shower, I hit the hay and fell asleep soon after my head hit the pillow.

Wednesday was similar to Tuesday with hockey practice bracketing studying in the cafeteria again. I called Dr. Albert after working out and we agreed to meet in his office at ten each morning the next two days to have me write the exams. I told him that I would like to write the database exam first as I was ready for that one now. He had no problem with that and we hung up.

After finishing studying for database programming by noon, I started on the other class, the second semester of first year computer programming. The studying for that went much quicker and I was finished all but the last few chapters before it was time to head back on the ice.

Coach Benson joined us from the start this time and we didn't have much time for shooting before he had us practicing all sorts of skating and passing drills. Then he had the twins practice two on one breaks on me and showed them how to get me out of position by slowing down sometimes or one of them speeding up. I got a good workout and much needed defensive practice.

The last half hour we had fun again, playing two on two before Coach called it a day. I wished them a good night and headed to the showers. Coach came in as I was getting dressed.

"I just wanted to thank you for letting my grandkids practice with you," he said. "They're learning a lot and having some fun."

"No problem Coach, they're great kids and it makes the practices go by faster," I replied.

"I would also like to thank you for keeping Jaime at bay, I know she's got a crush on you but you've handled it well, not taking advantage of her but not making her upset that you won't go out with her," he continued.

"She's a wonderful young lady, but she should stay a young lady a bit longer," I said. "I wouldn't be a good boyfriend to anyone right now and I'm a bit too old for her."

"Oh, she's eighteen and I wouldn't have a problem with her dating you, but with the distances involved right now it's not a good start to a relationship," he corrected me. "I would have no problem with the two of you dating in the fall if you two decide to."

"Really?" I asked, surprised.

"Mike, you're one of the best young men I know, my granddaughter would be in good hands if you decided to go out," he said with a laugh. "She's no shrinking violet and she would tell me to mind my own business if I tried to keep you apart. So, don't worry about my opinion if you do want to date her. Just treat her right."

"Thanks Coach for your not so deserving high opinion of me," I said. "We'll see how things are in the fall."

"Ok, before I go, I've had another request from Angie Dawson to set up some interviews," he said. "You better give her a call tomorrow and set her straight before she sets them up without your approval."

I'll do that tomorrow for sure," I told him. "It slipped my mind with all the studying."

"Ok, I'll let her know you'll be calling when she asks," he said. "Have a good night."

"You too Coach," I replied as he walked out.

I finished getting dressed and drove home. I picked up the mail in the lobby and found Daphne waiting for me with a big shallow glass pan covered in tinfoil. I let her in and grabbed a bag from her hand.

"Hi Daphne, that smells way too good to be cleaning supplies," I said with a grin.

"I had time to kill before coming over here so I made you a lasagne," she replied.

"Why thank you Daphne, this is a pleasant surprise," I said.

She beamed a nice smile at me as we got in the elevator and made our way up to the condo. I shut off the alarm and she took the pan to the kitchen.

"Are you ready to eat now?" she asked.

"Sure, are you going to join me?" I asked.

"No, I ate already, I'm going to get started on the laundry and then the cleaning, it's going to take a while," she replied. "I'll get you a slice before I start."

She unwrapped the lasagne and dug around a drawer to find a spatula and a knife before cutting a piece and placing it on a plate I pulled from the cupboard. She put the tinfoil back on the pan while I grabbed a diet coke.

"Ok, where's your laundry?" she asked.

"It's in the far bedroom on the left," I told her.

"Alright, enjoy while I get started," she said. "Let me know if I'm disturbing you at any time."

She left the room and in a few minutes I heard the washer going while I ate in the kitchen. It was very good lasagne, and I made a note to myself to have her make me one every week so I could freeze it for later.

I transferred the rest of the lasagne to a plastic pan and put it in the fridge. I washed her pan and my dishes and put her pan near the front door so she would remember to take it with her.

I went back out to the dining room table and reviewed for tomorrow's exam for a while before switching to my first year programming course. Daphne would pass by from time to time as she checked on the laundry and switched it around. She dusted the room and then came in with a vacuum a bit later after doing the bedrooms and hallway.

"Is this going to bother you?" she asked.

"Nope, go right ahead," I replied, continuing to read until she came close. I got up and let her do around the dining room while I checked out the bedrooms and bathrooms. Everything looked spotless and she had even changed the sheets on the bed.

I went back and she had moved into the kitchen with the vacuum. I went back to studying and she spent another hour finishing up before she came back to me.

"All done?" I asked.

"Yep, sorry it took so long, but the first time is usually the longest," she said. "The next time should go quicker as it shouldn't get so dirty in a week."

"No problem," I said, looking at my watch. "It's just after ten so we'll call it four hours. This should cover it."

She looked at the three hundred I gave her and tried to hand back some of it, saying, "Mike, you must be failing math, it should only be one sixty at the most."

"Nonsense, you worked making me the lasagne, which was delicious by the way," I told her. "So you get an hour for that and the other hundred is for doing such a great job. So, grab your stuff, it's getting late."

"Thanks Mike, but you don't have to give me a bonus for doing a good job, that's to be expected," she told me.

"Just put it away young lady or I'll make you take another one before you go," I growled.

We walked to the elevator and rode it down.

"So, I'll see you back on Monday to grocery shop again," I said to Daphne. "We'll just make those two weekly events if that's ok with you. Why don't you bring a lasagne every Monday so I can freeze it and take it out when I want to?"

"Sure, I can do that," she agreed. "I'll continue to book Monday's and Wednesday's off from the pizza place then. Thanks Mike, it's really going to help my college fund."

"No, thank you, you're really saving me a lot of time," I told her as the door opened.

I walked her across the lobby and made sure she got in her car safely and she got on her way. I went back upstairs and propped the rod against the door before heading to bed.

Thursday morning I got to the rink extra early so I could leave early to study before the exam. I had done my stretches, skated and shot on Patrick before the twins showed up, again in regular clothes. Jaime was in a short jersey and tights again, this time her impressive butt was uncovered and I took advantage to look at it at every opportunity.

After they warmed up and shot for a bit, we ran the drills that Coach had put us through and then did some two on ones and one on ones for a bit. For a change, we also did some penalty shots on Patrick, practicing some dekes before trying to put the puck in a cut-out on the fly. Eventually it was time for me to head out for the exam while they stayed on the ice.

Jaime came over as I stepped off the ice.

"Good luck with your exam, Mike," she said.

"Thanks Jaime," I replied. "I'll see you this afternoon."

"Mike, I know you don't want to do anything with me this week, but I was wondering if we could try dating when we come back in the fall?" she asked.

"Maybe, it depends if we're both single and if our schedules mesh," I told her. "I like you and you're gorgeous, so it's more about other things."

"You think I'm gorgeous?" she asked with a smile.

"Very much so," I told her. "I love your outfit too."

She blushed and said, "I was counting on it."

I laughed and said, "You're going to make me fail because I'll be picturing you all day. I better go take a cold shower."

"Me too," Jaime said as she licked her lips.

"Damn girl, give a guy a break, it's half a year before we can do anything," I told her. "I'll see you this afternoon."

She laughed at me and went back to skating. I had a cold shower and then drove up to the main campus and parked in an empty lot. After reading through the last chapter again, I walked to Dr. Albert's office and knocked on the door, entering when he said to come in. After a few minutes of conversation about how I was doing, he got me situated at a table and I got started.

An hour and a half later I finished checking my answers over and got up to hand it in.

"How was it?" he asked.

"Not bad at all," I told him. "Probably the hardest exam I've written here, but that's to be expected of a second year course."

"Then I'm sure you'll do fine on my exam tomorrow, unless you want to write it now?" he asked.

I thought about it and shrugged before saying, "Sure, just let me hit the washroom and grab a quick snack. I can be back in fifteen minutes if that's ok."

"That's fine, it will give us both tomorrow off," he said.

I hit the nearest can and then grabbed a quick bite to eat at the nearby cafeteria. I finished my sandwich on the way back and carried a couple cans of pop back with me.

I handed one over to Dr. Albert and sat down and started the next exam. After writing the earlier exam, this one was a breeze. I finished it in an hour and spent fifteen minutes checking it over before getting up and handing it to him.

He quickly looked over my answers and sighed.

"Everything looks good, even the last one, written especially for you," he said, looking disgusted at me.

I grinned and said, "Sorry Dr. Albert, I had lots of time to read in New York and I saw a similar problem in one of the books I read."

"Good for you," he replied with a grin. "I'll look through this a bit closer and give it back to you on Tuesday. Have a good weekend."

"You too, and thanks for doing this for me, I appreciate you giving up a day of your March break for this," I replied.

"Not a problem at all, I had to be here one day anyway, so this worked out fine."

I left him and drove to my bank with all my bills and got them set up for automatic withdrawal before heading over to the arena to work out. I bumped up the weight again, now about half of what I was doing and did another full workout.

After a quick shower, I grabbed my phone and put a call into Angie Dawson.

"Miss Dawson, it's Mike Stewart, I hear you wanted to talk to me," I said when she answered.

"Hi Mike, thanks for calling," she replied. "I've been getting tons of requests for interviews and for information about you. I was hoping to address all of the interview requests by having one press conference sometime this week."

"I'm sorry Miss Dawson, but I won't be doing any interviews about the attack, the media is just trying to do an end around by going through you," I told her. "If by some miracle that I changed my mind, I would probably do an exclusive interview with one person and donate the money to charity."

"That's not very fair to the regular reporters that cover Michigan hockey, Mike," she stated. "And all of these requests for information and interviews are really taking up a lot of my time. One press conference would solve all of that."

"I am sorry for you inconvenience, Miss Dawson, maybe I can pay for a week's vacation to a sunny island in the Caribbean for your troubles," I offered.

"That's a nice offer Mr. Stewart, but it doesn't solve the issue," she replied.

"I'm sorry Miss Dawson, but I won't be doing any interviews about the attack," I told her. "The only information that you have to give them is about my hockey and they should be able to get that on the team website. In terms of where I am physically, I'm sure that Coach Benson wants to keep that a secret so the teams we play won't know if I'm playing or not."

"Mike, I'm afraid I'm going to have to insist on better cooperation from you on this," she said. "I'll go to the Athletic Director if I have to."

"Miss Dawson, I'm a freshman, I'm not allowed to do interviews according to the rules, so we shouldn't even be talking about this," I said. "The attack has nothing to do with hockey or the University of Michigan, so there is no reason for you to be involved in this personal issue. You should be stating that to the media and ignoring the requests. My CK manager has already handled this with the media. Please do not pursue this farther."

"Mr. Stewart, this isn't over," she said before hanging up.

"Well, that went well," I said to the locker room.

I put on my hockey stuff and met the twins waiting for a couple of figure skaters to finish up on the ice. Jake was scoping one of them out and Jaime gave him a smack on the head.

"Oh it's ok for you to drool over Mike here, but I can't look at her?" he asked.

"I do not drool over anyone," she said loftily. "You're ogling her like she's your favourite meal."

"She's so beautiful though," Jake said, looking at her.

"Her name is Sonya and I'll introduce you to her if you want," I told him.

"Really, that would be so cool," he said.

"Just be cool about it, you're a small fish in a big pond around here right now," I cautioned him. "I'll talk you up and you can take it from there, but don't embarrass me or I'll make sure you regret it."

"I won't, I promise," he said quickly.

The two skaters came off and smiled at me and said hi.

"Hi ladies, these two were admiring your skating out there; this is Jaime and Jake, they both have scholarships to play hockey here in the fall," I told the girls. "I think they both have what it takes to become stars for our teams. Jake and Jaime, this is Sonya and Dina, two of our best figure skaters."

Jaime and I did our best to talk to Dina so that Jake could talk to Sonya. Surprisingly, both twins found that the skaters were interested in them, so I left them to it and went out onto the ice. They came out about ten minutes later and came right over to me.

"They were so cool," Jake said. "They're going to meet us after we're done and take us out to supper and then show us around."

"Dina seemed real nice as well," Jaime added. "It's nice to talk to a girl our age around here."

"I'm glad you made a couple of friends," I said. "I don't know them that well, but you should be fine with them."

We did our usual warm-ups and shooting and the twins told their Granddad all about meeting the girls when he came out. We cut the practice short when Jake spotted the two of them watching us from the seats. I let Coach know about the phone call with Miss Dawson and he warned me about her ambitions again before I headed to the locker room.

I took a quick shower and went back to the condo to have another piece of lasagne before heading to the dojo. I grabbed the mail and checked the messages while I waited for the microwave to heat it up. There was nothing of note on the machine or in the mail so I quickly ate the pasta dish and then left the condo.

The workout at the dojo was similar to Tuesday's with one exception. Sensei spent half an hour showing me how to defend myself with a staff as well as a shorter stick. In his hands both became very deadly items, even though they were smaller broomstick thick pieces. They hurt like hell even when he pulled the hits. He pointed out easy places to hit to incapacitate an attacker while staying out of his reach.

After we were done, I drove home, had a shower and went to bed, finally able to relax as I was caught up with all my school work.

Friday morning I was all alone on the ice until after eight when the twins finally showed up.

"Sorry Mike, we had a late night," Jaime said. "Mr. Romeo and Sonya wanted some time alone so Dina and I had to go to a late show."

"And we're going on a date tonight as well," Jake added as he skated up.

"Luckily Dina is taking me to a party with some of her friends tonight, so I won't have to gag as he tries to put his moves on her," Jaime said.

"Sounds like you both had some fun and will have some more tonight," I responded. "Good for you both. Just be careful tonight, some of the parties around here can get pretty wild. Give me a call if you need a ride home or anything."

Thanks Mike, but Dina is very level headed and she already told me that she wouldn't be letting me drink," she replied.

We just fooled around shooting at the net for the next hour and they told me that they wouldn't be at this afternoon's practice so they could get ready for their big night. I wished them a good night and thanked them for practicing with me the past week. They were heading back up to Traverse City tomorrow so this was the last time I would see them until the fall.

I shook Jake's hand and Jaime gave me a hug and a very sexy kiss before we went our separate ways. I did another workout, bumping up the weights to about sixty percent of what I was used to. After a shower, I headed home to relax.

I had a lunch of cabbage rolls and then called my Aunt in Toronto and had a nice conversation. They got the money issue all taken care of and she thanked me for having that done. I promised to come up and see them as soon as I could.

When we were done talking, I actually had a nap for a couple of hours. I checked my messages and email when I got up and then played on the computer for a bit before heading back to the arena.

I used the first hour to do wind sprints and other skating drills to build up my stamina and then spent the next one shooting from all different angles and distances. I was exhausted when I finally hit the shower. I drove home and took the stairs from the garage up to the lobby. I grabbed my mail and opened it up when I got into my condo.

One of the bigger envelopes was from my Aunt up in Toronto and was filled with a dozen drawings from my cousins. I looked them over and several were of me saving Emma and a few were of them taking care of me in the hospital, with the two of them either as nurses or doctors. I made a note to call them tomorrow and thank them.

Another envelope was from Katie and she had sent headshots and full length pictures of the new models that CK had hired to be in my next shoots. I recognized a couple of them and all of them were tall, skinny and looked a lot different than the ones we first went with. These were top of the line fashion models that regularly walked the runways of Paris, London and New York. I knew that it could turn out to be a fiasco working with these models, but if they wanted to pay me double then who was I to argue. I ordered some Chinese to be delivered and then watched a movie before heading to bed.

Saturday morning was taken up with a solo practice and workout at the arena. I continued to bump up the weights on a daily basis and was about two thirds back to normal weight. I went back to the condo and had heated up some leftovers for lunch.

I drove over to the mall and picked up a few things at the CK store and then went to the electronics store and browsed for a bit. I bought a couple of games for the laptop and then wandered around the mall, window shopping for a while. My cell buzzed around four and I stopped walking to answer it.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Michael, where are you?" a woman asked, her English accent very noticeable.

"I'm at the mall, who is this?" I asked.

"Sure, save a girl from a horrible death and then you don't even recognize her voice?" she said with a dramatic sigh.

"Emma! It's good to hear your voice," I said. "How are you doing?"

"I'm cold and lonely," she said.

"Well get inside then silly and we'll talk for a bit," I said with a laugh. "Let me find a seat and we chat for a while."

"That would be the smart thing to do but I don't have the key to your flat," she said with a giggle.

"And why would you need a key to my flat?" I asked, already knowing the answer.

"Because I'm standing in the lobby of your building right now," she said. "Would you perhaps like to continue this conversation face to face?"

"I suppose so, but I was planning on shopping for some CDs, and maybe some pots and pans," I replied. "I should be back there in a couple of hours or so."

"Michael Stewart, you get yourself back here now or I'll be very vexed with you," she said in her no-nonsense voice.

"Yes Ma'am," I said with a laugh. "I'll be there in ten minutes or so."

"That's better," she said. "I'll be waiting with teeth chattering."

"I'm already walking out of the mall as we speak," I told her as I left by the quickest exit. "So why didn't you call ahead so I knew you were coming?"

"It was supposed to be a surprise, silly," she said. "And I didn't want you to have time to make up an excuse why I shouldn't come again. I'm very angry at you for telling the girls I couldn't come last weekend. So I just decided to come on my own and surprise you."

"Well, we can only talk for about ten minutes in the lobby and then you're going to have to leave," I said. "I'm off to hunt for the elusive Sasquatch in the Arctic for a week or two. I'd offer to let you come, but if you're cold now, you're just not going to last up there."

"Don't give up your day job for a career as a comic, you would be malnourished and grow weak the first week you tried," she said in her dry English accent.

"Oh yeah, well you're short and you talk funny," I said.

"I am not short," she said in a firm voice. "And my accent is certainly not funny. Yours on the other hand, is very funny, eh?"

"Oh, that's a low blow," I said, reaching the car. "I'm going to hang up now and go back to shop for pots and pans."

"Hey wait, you are coming to get me right?" she asked, sounding a bit worried. "This doesn't look like the safest place in the city."

"I'm in my car and will be there in a few minutes," I said, turning on the engine. "I just don't want to crash while laughing at your shortness."

"Humph, just because you're abnormally tall, doesn't mean that I'm short," she said primly. "I'm five seven, which is above average for women."

"I stand corrected," I responded, turning out of the parking lot. "So, how was the flight?"

"It was long but ok," she said. "I'm starting to feel tired, it's almost ten pm back in London."

"We'll get some caffeine to wake you up in a few minutes," I told her.

"I never drink the stuff, it's not good for your body," she replied.

"You're an odd duck," I said. "Not even a spot of tea once and a while?"

"Nope, and no coffee or coke either," she replied. "I suppose you drink tons of the stuff?"

"I like Diet Coke, but not coffee or tea," I said. "Ok, I might lose you in a minute but I'll be there in a couple minutes."

"Ok Mike, I'll see you then," she said.

I put the phone down and found my garage remote and pushed the button to open it. I drove in and quickly parked. Grabbing my packages and the phone, I quickly walked to the stairs and ran up to the lobby.

"Are you still there?" I asked into the phone.

"Yep, though I can't feel my toes anymore," she said.

"I'll have to rub your bare feet to make sure you don't get frostbite," I said. "Of course you'll have to get into the tub so we can warm you up gradually with hot water."

"Not bloody likely," she said. "I think I would rather lose the toes."

"Well, you didn't have to be so mean about it, I was going to wear some swim goggles," I said as I peeked around the corner to look at her.

She was in a winter coat leaning against the wall with a big grin on her face as she stared at the other wall. She had low heels on with nylons so she was wearing a dress or skirt of some sort. She looked beautiful and my boyhood crush kicked back in with a vengeance.

"And how are goggles supposed to defend my virtue?" she asked.

"If the water is hot enough, they'll fog up right?" I said. "You know you should have dressed warmer, worn boots and pants and a hat. It is still winter here."

"I wasn't going to wear all that on the plane," she said. "I'd boil and look like an Eskimo."

"Well, they're your toes, so what if they turn black and fall off, right?" I asked.

"I'll be fine if you ever get here," she said.

"I've been delayed, there's a polar bear blocking the exit, this could take a while," I told her. "Can you build a fire or something?"

"I'm in your building entrance silly, I can't start a fire in here," she said, exasperated.

"Sure you can, grab those papers in the corner there and put them in the middle of the room and light them up," I said. "You could use some of the stuff in those two suitcase you brought but just don't get that long coat too close to the fire, it looks expensive."

She looked into the lobby and saw me standing there and said, "How long have you been standing there? Never mind; let me in before you have to cut off my feet."

"Yes Ma'am," I said before hanging up the phone and opening the door for her. "Let me get those for you."

I grabbed both suitcases and let her carry the small bags I had. She gave me a wry smile as she walked by me into the lobby. I grinned and led her to the elevator and used my key to get the doors open. I motioned her in and then followed.

"You're a big meany, making me stay out there in the cold," she said, looking up at me with a smirk.

"I happen to know that the room is heated so I think you'll survive," I told her. "It's good to see you Emma, but I didn't know you were giving up your British citizenship."

"I'm not, what are you talking about?" she asked, looking at me like I was nuts.

"These two weigh a ton, I just thought you were moving here if you packed all your clothes, books and keepsakes," I said with a straight face.

She laughed for a few seconds and then said, "Ok, that one was good. I'm a woman Michael; we always pack a few extra things just in case. Besides, I'm planning on being here for a week, so one suitcase would never do."

"A week? You're going to miss a whole week of school?" I asked.

"I have March break next week, so no worries," she said.

"I just had one so I'm going to have to go to classes and practices I'm afraid," I told her.

"That's ok, I don't mind tagging along if you don't mind," she said. "Do you have any games this week?"

"Yep, Friday and Saturday evening, if I get the all clear to play," I replied.

"Damn, I forgot all about your injuries, I'm so sorry," she said, looking horrified. "How are your burns? You look like you're walking ok."

"Relax, I'm just about all healed up, I just need to get my strength and stamina back," I told her.

"I feel like an idiot for not asking right away," she said. "But you distracted me with you silly jokes."

"I liked it that you forgot about it, it means we've already moved past that and onto being friends," I responded.

I picked up the suitcases with a groan and led the way to the condo after the elevator door opened. I put them down with a sigh and opened the condo door and carried them in before turning off the alarm. I hung up her coat and then brought her cases into the bedroom beside mine.

"Ok, you can use the main bathroom if you like or, if you want a nice Jacuzzi bath, you can use the one between our two bedrooms," I told her. "You probably want to freshen up a bit after the long flight so feel free to. Are you hungry or thirsty?"

"Michael, I was going to check into a hotel, I can't stay with you in your condo," she said.

"Why not, it's just as nice as a hotel and it's free," I noted. "You're going to be over here most of the time anyway and we can have some home cooked meals here. Everything was just cleaned a couple days ago, so you don't have to worry about anything."

"It's not proper," she said with a blush. "Everyone will think we're sleeping together."

"First of all, no one knows you're here," I responded. "If anyone does find out, we'll just say you're in a spare bedroom. We're both adults, we can be in the same condo overnight."

"I have a boyfriend," she said.

"I thought you broke up with him so you could come to the U.S. to go to school?" I asked.

"We haven't broken up yet," she replied.

"Well, your honour is safe with me, I hardly peek when I wash your back," I said.

"Michael, it's a kind offer, but you have to think about the publicity if it got out," Emma said, ignoring my lame joke. "It would be in every paper in the U.K. and a lot of them here as well."

"You check into a hotel here and it definitely will get out," I retorted. "Someone will blab for sure and the paparazzi will descend on you like flies at a picnic."

"Perhaps, but then they could just write that I'm visiting you rather than making up stories that I'm sleeping with you," she noted.

"I'm sure they would make those up anyway once they found out you're in Ann Arbor," I said. "Listen, we'll talk about it later, it's only just after four o'clock. You freshen up and I'll get you a bottle of water and a snack."

"Fine, but I'm not taking a bath," she said.

"Damn, I was hoping to try out my x-ray goggles," I responded as I pulled the bedroom door shut behind me.

I found a box of assorted cookies and put a few on a plate. I poured her some water from a bottle and put some ice in it before going back to knock on the bedroom door.

She called out to come in and I opened the door to see her struggling to put one of the suitcases on the bed.

"Here, let me do that," I said quickly as I put down the plate and glass on the dresser before going over to help her.

I lifted the case with one hand and plopped it on the bed and then did the same with her second one.

"Go ahead and put things in the dresser drawers and closet or they'll wrinkle," I told her.

"Michael, I'm –" she started.

I put my finger on her lips and said, "I would like you to stay. I'll be the perfect gentleman; you'll have nothing to worry about."

She stepped back and quickly said, "I'm not worried about that silly, it's what people will think and say that is the issue. If either of us were normal people it would be fine, but we're not so we have to be careful. You haven't dealt with this as long as I have; guys lying on the street to get a picture up my skirt as I get out of a car, hounding me as I walk around a fair with a guy or try and go out on a date. We would be hounded every second of the day if they find out I'm with you."

"I didn't know it was that bad for you," I said, putting my hands on her shoulders. "If you really want to go to a hotel, I'll drive you there myself, but everyone will know you're here an hour later and they'll still hound us every time we're out and about anyway. You did say you wanted to come with me to classes and games; they're going to find out pretty quickly that you're here with me. Does your boyfriend know you're here?"

"Yeah, he wasn't happy about it but he knew how strongly I felt about coming to see you," she said. "Listen, let me get changed and freshened up and we can talk more."

"Ok, I'll see you in a bit, there are towels and washcloths in the bathroom," I replied. "Feel free to use anything."

I shut the door behind me and lounged on the couch until she came back out. Emma had changed into some jeans and a tee shirt and had bare feet. She was carrying her water bottle and the plate with a couple of cookies left on it and sat down across from me as I sat up.

"You look refreshed," I said, looking at her make-up free face. "You look great without make-up."

"Thanks, I hope you don't mind, but I need to let my face and feet breathe," she responded.

"Not at all, feel free to let anything breathe that you like," I replied with a grin. "So first order of business is supper, do we eat out, order in or cook here?"

"I'm still pretty tired, so can we stay in tonight?" she asked.

"Certainly, now I have some great homemade lasagne I can heat up or we can order pizza or Chinese in," I stated. "Or anything else you might like."

"The lasagne sounds fine," she replied.

I got up and she followed me into the kitchen.

"Your feet will get cold on the tiles," I mentioned to her.

"It's ok, I go bare foot all the time," she brushed it off.

I pulled out the lasagne and cut two pieces and put them on a plate before heating them up in the microwave. I set the dining room table with utensils and glasses and then went back to get the food. I slid one piece onto another plate and then carried them out while Emma carried out the milk.

After pouring each of us a glass, we both sat down and started eating.

"This is really good," Emma said.

"A girl that helps out made it, you'll have to complement her when she brings groceries here Monday night," I told her.

"You have help?" she asked with a grin.

I told her all about Daphne while we continued to eat.

"So is this your first trip to Michigan?" I asked.

"It actually is," she replied. "They don't hold movie premieres here or have talk shows, so I've never been here before."

"Well, you didn't pick the best time to visit, the fall colours are fantastic and there is lots to do when there is snow," I told her. "But this pre-spring time is cold and wet."

"That's ok, I didn't come to do a lot of sightseeing anyway," she told me. "I wanted to spend some time getting to know you better."

"Well, I'm certainly flattered, but it's going to be a busy week for me so I hope you're not bored," I told her. "I'm sure you're going to want to hang out with Mitsy and the others when I'm at practice."

"I'd like to see you practice a couple of times," she stated.

"Probably best to go to the afternoon ones," I told her. "I leave by six for the morning ones and no one will be there but the team. At least in the afternoon the girls will be there just getting off the ice."

"Ok, I'll sleep in then," she agreed with a grin. "I can meet you for your first class after practice, right?"

"Sure, I'll come back and get you and we can walk to class from here," I said.

We finished up and she helped clear the table and wash the dishes. After we were done, we sat in the living room.

She looked very serious and I had to say something to try and lighten the mood.

"You look like you're getting ready to tell me that I have a week left to live," I said. "If you are; then I don't think I'll go to practice in the morning."

She smiled and replied, "No, I was just getting my thoughts together about what I wanted to say to you in person."

"I know its two thousand and nine, but I'd like to do the proposing rather than have you do it," I responded. "I'm rather traditional that way, I'm afraid."

"Would you be quiet so I can get through this please?" she responded, sounding a bit irritated.

"Listen, don't fuss about it, you forgot my birthday, so what?" I continued on. "Just because I already bought your gift, you shouldn't feel obligated on buying me that Ferrari I've always wanted."

She just looked at me crossly while I grinned at her.

"Oh stop being so serious Emma, just spit it out and we can move past it," I told her. "Here, I'll respond to what you're going to say: 'You're welcome'. Now let's move on to more important topics; like have you decided on where you're going to school?"

"Michael, would you shut up!" she said loudly.

"Shutting," I said with a grin.

"You're impossible," she said. "Now let me get this out. My mom and I want to thank you for what you did for us. I wouldn't be here now if you hadn't jumped in front of that acid. We're so sorry that you got hurt and we'll forever be in your debt."

I sat there and waited.

"Well?" she asked.

"Oh, can I talk now?" I asked.

"Oh for Pete's sake," she replied, clearly exasperated.

"You're welcome," I said. "So, where are you thinking of going to school?"

"Michael, don't treat this so cavalier please, this is important to us," she said.

"Emma, I'm glad I was there in time so you didn't get hurt," I said seriously. "I wish it wasn't the reason that you wanted to come see me but I know you need to get it off your chest. But all I want from you is the thank you I just got so let's move past this and be friends."

"Of course we're friends silly, but we're more than friends," she replied.

"We can't be more than friends, your boyfriend will get jealous," I responded with a grin.

"I don't mean it that way, I meant that you're part of our family now," she said.

"Are we talking like a distant second cousin or the long lost black sheep of the family?" I asked.

"No, more like the dim-witted cousin who can't stop making bad jokes," she replied in a huff. "Could you take this seriously for five minutes and then you can go back to making all the inane jokes you like?"

"You know, you're not as much fun as I thought you would be," I said with a pout. "Fine, I'll let you finish and I won't joke around."

"Thank you," she replied. "As I was saying, we want you to know that you're invited to Easter dinner in April and all of our other holiday gatherings. My dad and younger brother want to meet you and so do our grandparents. If there is anything you need or want, then just ask and we'll get it for you."

She paused for a moment and then continued when I stayed quiet.

"I'm going to get you on the list of invitees to the premiere of the next Harry Potter movie in July," she said. "It's in New York on the eighth, I think, but you'll get an invitation in the mail with the date and time. There will be an afterparty that your invitation will get you into as well."

"What else was there?" she asked herself. "Oh yes, you're invited along on our summer vacation; we're taking a three week cruise in the Mediterranean that drops you off at different destinations every couple of days. Barcelona in Spain, Nice in France, Rome and Venice in Italy, Athens in Greece, Palermo on Sicily, the islands of Crete and Cyprus, and maybe even Cairo in Egypt."

"So what do you think?" she asked when I was still quiet.

"I appreciate everything that you and your family are offering, but my schedule is pretty booked," I said. "I have exams the first half of April, so I probably can't make your Easter dinner. I'm taking a full load of classes for both the spring and summer semesters so the vacation is a no go. The movie premiere depends on the day. If it's a Friday or Saturday I can go, but if it's in the middle of the week, I have classes that day and the next so we'll have to see about that. Sorry to have to turn you down but I'm pretty much have to stick around here except for school holidays, and that is when I have my photo shoots scheduled."

"You're certainly a busy man," she agreed. "It's disappointing that you can't make any of the events that we proposed. We might have to schedule a visit here instead for the family."

"If you like, hopefully we can find a time that suits all of us," I replied.

"So is there anything you need or want?" she asked.

"No, I'm fine, thanks anyway," I answered.

"Hmmm, this is not working out as I planned," she remarked. "You can't meet my family, you don't need anything and you can't go on vacation with us or go to the movie premiere. How am I going to even begin to pay you back for what you did?"

"Emma, you did already, just by saying thank you," I told her. "Nothing else is necessary or wanted. Hopefully we can be friends for a long time but only if we get along without you thinking you have to be friends because of what I did."

"Look at it from our perspective, Michael," she said. "What wouldn't you want to do for someone who saved both your own life and your mother's? Or in case of my mother, her only daughter; or my father, both his wife and daughter? We need to show you how much you did for us. You saved a whole family, not just the two of us."

"I realize that Emma, but I'm not the kind of guy to expect or take a reward for doing what anyone would have done," I told her. "I appreciate your thanks and our offers to attend your family events. Eventually we'll be able to get our schedules synched so that I can attend some. I happen to think that your friendship is very valuable, so I'm getting the better of the deal."

"My friendship isn't very valuable, but you have it," she stated.

"Good, because it's priceless to me," I replied.

She sat there and looked at me and I just smiled back.

"Let's move on," she said after a minute. "I got a call from a senior government official who told me that you are declining to attend the medal ceremony. What's that all about?"

"I'm not going to accept a medal for getting in the way of what I thought was paint," I told her. "It wasn't very heroic and I refuse to dishonour those that have been awarded their medals for actually meaning to do something heroic."

"You don't think that saving two women from horrific deaths is heroic enough?" she said, her tone and expression clearly indicating that she thought I was nuts.

"The intent was to save you from paint, that's hardly heroic," I said. "The result was a bit more dramatic, but how can I consider myself a hero when I was just acting to save you from paint? I couldn't look anyone of the previous recipients in the eyes if I accepted a medal for that. So, there won't be a medal ceremony for me. I don't need a shiny piece of metal or a certificate for what I did."

"You're impossible, you know that?" she asked, throwing up her hands. "You nearly die from your burns saving us from what would have been a horrible, prolonged death, and you refuse to see what you did as heroic. What am I supposed to do with you?"

"Think of it this way," I explained. "You see a piece of metal on a train track and you kick it off before a high speed train zooms by, thereby saving it from a derailment that would kill a hundred people. You cut your foot in the process and it gets infected, causing you to be in the hospital for three weeks. Some reporter sees what you did and writes an article saying that you're a hero. Would you take the credit and the medals that some grateful person on the train wants to give you?"

"It's not the same thing," she insisted.

"It's exactly the same thing; neither of us intended to put ourselves in harm's way or thought that the situation was dangerous," I stated. "At most what I intended was chivalrous."

"What am I going to do with you?" she asked again, shaking her head.

"There is nothing for you to do," I told her. "So, let's drop this subject and go on to a better one."

"Like what?" she asked.

"You," I replied. "Tell me about yourself, what you like, your hobbies, school, acting, everything."

"Only if you do the same," she insisted.

So we learned about each other for the next hour or so, from when and where we were born to what we liked to eat and listen to. As she talked, I found my crush for her, based on her appearance and acting, becoming a more genuine attraction for her personality. She still was beautiful to me, but now I could appreciate the entire package.

At eight she started looking like she would fall asleep on me so I helped her up and led her to the bedroom.

"Michael, I can't stay here," she said.

"You'll be asleep in five minutes, and the door locks so I won't be able to get to you," I told her.

"I'm not worried about that, it's what happens when someone finds out that worries me," she stated.

"You just get your publicist to issue a statement and we'll move you to a hotel or to the girl's condo downstairs," I suggested. "For tonight, just get into bed before you pass out on me and I have to get you in your pyjamas and tuck you in."

"Fine, but just for tonight," she said. "Good night Michael, I had a pleasant evening with you."

"Good night Emma, I had fun too," I replied. "I'll be going to the arena at six and should be back by ten or so. Help yourself to anything in the fridge and make yourself at home."

"If I'm up, I might come with you to the arena," she stated.

"Fine by me," I said.

She went into the bedroom and shut the door behind her.

I went out to the living room and turned on a hockey game and then hit the hay myself when it was over. I used the bathroom and noted that she had shut the connecting door from the bathroom to her bedroom. After brushing my teeth, I got into bed and dreamt about her.

Sunday morning I was up and dressed at my normal time and was surprised when I found Emma sitting in the living room, watching the TV.

"Good morning Emma, you're up early," I greeted her.

"It's already noon back home, so I couldn't sleep past five here," she told me.

"You must be hungry; shall we eat here or get something on the way?" I asked.

"I would love a nice breakfast," she admitted. "Will it screw up your schedule too much?"

"No, I'll just be a bit longer," I said. "What would you like, I can make eggs and bacon with some toast or we can go out and have anything you want?"

"I don't want you to cook, so let's go out," she said. "Give me a couple minutes to get ready."

"I need to wet down this hair as well," I said. "I don't bother showering before I practice in the morning."

We both went back to our bedrooms and I was in the bathroom with my shirt off trying to get my hair to stay flat with lots of water when she came in from her door, carrying her makeup bag.

"Oh, sorry Michael, I should have knocked," she said, looking away.

"No problem, come on in, I'll be done in a minute, if this mop of mine will behave," I responded.

I moved to one side of the long counter and continued to try and get my hair under control, using a handful of water to get it all wet while she watched.

"Why don't you use some gel?" she asked.

"Never use that stuff, usually I just wash and comb it and then let it dry on the way," I told her.

"Surprising," she said. "I thought most models took extra care of their appearance."

"I'm not a model, I just let them take pictures of me and let them pay me money for the privilege," I replied with a grin. "They fix my hair the way they want it to look in the pictures or on a show and then I wash the crap out as soon as I can. I don't waste my time on my appearance."

"You're definitely not a model then," she agreed. "I've worked with a few of them and some are more concerned with their appearance than the women I know."

I grinned and finished up by combing my hair.

"I'll leave you to it then," I said.

"Don't leave on my account," she replied as she moved to the countertop.

I leaned on the doorframe and watched as she put on some eyeliner, blush and lipstick.

"Well, how do I look?" she asked, turning to me.

I frowned and squinted my eyes for a second and then said, "Hmmm, I guess it will have to do."

Her mouth opened in shock and I had to laugh which of course gave it away.

"You're not a very nice person," she said in a huff.

"And you were fishing for compliments," I replied with a grin. "You're beautiful of course, your makeup is redundant."

"Why didn't you just say that?" she asked.

"You should be the last person that needs reassurance to boost your self-confidence," I explained. "I just like to make sure you don't take yourself too seriously."

After more than a few seconds of silence, I said, "I better get a shirt on and get you fed before you starve to death."

I turned back to my bedroom and grabbed a better shirt to wear to the restaurant. When I turned back, she had left the bathroom and the door to her room was shut. I waited for her in the living room and saw that she had put on a nice blouse and good jeans when she came out.

"Maybe I better go change if you're going to get all gussied up," I said with a grin.

"It's just jeans and a blouse, I'm definitely not gussied up," she said. "Let's go before I start gnawing at the furniture."

"You better grab a book and your cell or you're going to be bored silly," I suggested.

She turned around and went back into her bedroom and came back holding a paperback and her cell. After waiting for her to get her shoes and coat on, I opened the door for her and then put on the alarm before following her down the hall. She had to wait for my key to get the elevator to open.

"I can see that's going to get old real quick," she observed. "Do you have an extra key for the elevator and your door?"

"Yes I do," I replied. "I'll get it to you when we get back."

"Thank you," she replied.

We rode down in silence and I led her to my SUV. I opened up her door and helped her in before going around to my side. I drove to a nearby Denny's and ran around to help her out of the SUV. She put her hand on my arm as she walked around over an ice patch. I held the door open for her and we entered the almost empty restaurant.

We were led to a table by the window and I ordered a Grand Slam breakfast while she ordered some waffles. We both had hot chocolate and sat looking at each other.

"So you never answered my question, where are you going to school in the fall?" I asked.

"I had pretty much made up my mind to go to Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, but now I'm exploring my options," she said.

"Options?" I asked.

"I've added a couple schools to visit," she said simply.

"Any schools not on the east coast?" I asked.

"One a bit farther west," she replied.

"So what do you plan to study?" I asked.

"History, English and a bit of creative writing," she answered.

"I'm more into the science and math than those things," I admitted.

"I never did that well in those areas," she responded. "But that's the nice thing about university; you can choose what you want to learn."

"True," I agreed. "So, why come to the U.S. for school, there must be a bunch of good schools in England or Europe?"

"Basically, I wanted a change," she answered. "I've liked my time spent over here so I thought going to school would be an interesting change. How about you?"

"I received a scholarship for computer science so this was the best school to go to," I said. "I really wanted a fresh start as well."

"Oh?" she asked.

I explained my less than wonderful time at high school and my parent's passing until the food was delivered.

"These are really good," she said after taking a couple of bites.

"They do make good breakfast here and you get big portions for the price," I responded.

We ate in silence for a while until she couldn't stand it anymore.

"So, Mitsy and the girls say you're not seeing anyone right now, is that true?" she asked.

"That's true," I replied.

"Surely you must be getting women coming up to you all the time?" she inquired.

"A couple from time to time," I admitted. "I've been telling them that I'm seeing someone to keep them at bay."

"Why would you do that?" she asked.

"I guess to let them down gently, I know how hard it is to go up to someone and then get rejected," I explained. "I'm going to be so busy for the next couple of months that it wouldn't be fair to get involved with someone right now."

"I think that you would find that most women would take whatever time they could get with you," she said with a grin.

"I know, but I also have to think about the media attention as well, there is the possibility that the girl would be hounded by the press," I responded. "I don't want to subject anyone to that mess that isn't used to it."

"So you only plan to date models and actresses or other celebrities?" she pressed.

"No, I don't plan on dating for a while until things slow down, probably in the summer," I said. "Who knows, someone might come along who is simply irresistible."

"But you're perfectly willing to go without female companionship for months," she stated.

"In a perfect world there would be someone who fit into my schedule and would like to spend time with me and could deal with all the issues, but this is reality," I said. "I don't seem to be able to predict what's going to happen day to day, let alone for the next few months. Enough about my love life or lack thereof, how about you?"

"I have a boyfriend, so there is not much to talk about," she said.

"And why are you still together when you know it has to end when you come here?" I asked.

"It doesn't have to end then and certainly not now, just because I'm going to be coming over here in half a year," she replied.

"But he's got a job in London right; he's an older financier isn't he?" I asked. "You're not going to be able to see him for months either. How are either of you going to cope with that?"

"We'll talk on the phone, email and even video chat," she told me.

"And neither of you will want companionship during that time?" I asked with a grin.

"I'm sure we can get together from time to time," she said primly. "It's not really any of your business, now is it?"

"You seemed to be interested in mine just a minute ago," I replied, still grinning.

"My love life is just fine, yours is non-existent right now so as a friend I'm allowed to inquire and help it out," she said primly. "So Kristen is not an option?"

"Kristen who?" I asked.

"Kristen Stewart of course, she called when you were in the coma," she answered. "She was pretty upset so you two must be more than friends."

"Her schedule is even crazier than mine, so we're just friends," I told her.

"And this Trisha Hanks girl?" Emma asked.

"She lied to me about who she was, I'm going to keep that on a professional level from now on," I answered.

"And the four girls here?" she continued to pry.

"Three are off to Ohio and the fourth is planning to go back to New York, all after the semester is over," I informed her.

"This is going to be harder than I thought," she mused. "No one else that you're interested in?"

"It's not your job to try and hook me up with someone," I told her.

"That's what friends are for," she rebutted. "Besides, I can give you the female perspective on what it's going to take for you to win her over."

I just shook my head and finished up my breakfast as she went back to her waffles, thank God. I tried to eat slowly but was still done before she was half way through.

"You're never going to impress a woman eating that fast," she noted.

"I know, I know," I said, exasperated. "I slowed down more than usual, but you're a real slow eater."

Eventually she finished up and we drove to the arena after settling up the bill. The arena was empty except for the Zamboni driver, a kid they used when Rolf was off. At least he knew to put Patrick on the net.

I quickly got into my equipment while Emma waited in the hallway.

"Ok, you can sit on the bench or in the stands close by," I told her. "I usually am out here a couple of hours and then I'll be an hour in the weight room."

"I'll be fine, don't worry about me," Emma stated as she sat down on the bench and opened her book.

I did my usual stretches and then warm-up skate before doing some wind sprints and other skating drills. After about an hour, I skated over to her.

"How ya doing?" I asked.

"Fine, but you're right, it's boring watching you by yourself," she said.

"Well, next week the whole team will be here so it should be a bit more entertaining," I told her. "I'm going to shoot for a bit now."

"I'm all a twitter," she said with a grin.

I grinned back at her and then skated over to the line of pucks and started to shoot. My accuracy was improving as was the power of the shots.

After a while shooting from various places on the ice, I did a bunch of breakaways and then called it quits.

"Ok, time for the weight room," I told her as I stepped off the ice.

She followed me down the tunnel and waited outside while I got into some sweats. She came with me to the weight room and watched me as I did my workout, about sixty five percent now of my normal weight.

"Should you be using so much weight so soon?" she asked as I was on the bench press.

"I'm only using about two thirds of my normal weight," I told her. "I have a week to get back into shape for the next games. I have to push it."

"Not if it means that you hurt yourself and miss another month," she retorted.

"I'm taking it easy, don't worry so much," I replied.

"Humph," was her reply.

I moved on to my legs and she watched closely to make sure I wasn't hurting myself. I grinned at her and she frowned back at me.

I finally finished up and led her back to the locker room. I had a quick shower and got back into my clothes and found her talking on her cell when I exited the locker room.

Emma fell in beside me and kept on listening as we walked down the hall and up to the lobby. I opened her door when we got to my SUV and then helped her get up into the seat. I shut her door and walked around to my side and got in.

I mouthed 'lunch?' to her and she covered her cell and said, "Let's go back to the condo."

I nodded and drove home. As we pulled into my parking spot she said she had to go now and would call back later. I helped her down and we walked to the elevator, getting in when the doors opened to my key.

We rode up and got off at my floor to find that we had four lovelies waiting for us. They all hugged Emma and started walking down towards my condo. I debated going back down and leaving them alone when Asuka looked in.

"You should have made your escape when you had your chance," she said with a smile. "Come, we can talk while the others make their acquaintance with the actress."

"Fine," I said with a fake pout.

The others were waiting with crossed arms when we came up to them.

"And where did you think you were going?" Mitsy asked.

"I was thinking I had to go Sasquatch hunting in the Arctic," I told her.

"Looking for your brother, are you?" she replied. "If we let you stop shaving you would probably be his twin."

"Well, Tinkerbell called and she wants her pants back that you borrowed, Miss Short-stuff," I retorted.

"Lurch wants his brain back," she replied. "You can keep his pants and face though."

I turned to Asuka and asked, "Could you go for a walk for five minutes while I paddle her bum?"

"Certainly, she's been very moody this week, a good spanking will get her out of her funk," Asuka replied.

"Asuka!" Mitsy exclaimed. "You can't be on his side!"

"You've been witchy all week," Asuka replied. "Even I've wanted to paddle your tush a couple of times."

Mitsy stuck her tongue out at her as I opened the door to the condo. After turning off the alarm, I hung up Emma's coat and followed the girls to the living room.

"Is anyone hungry for lunch?" I asked.

The girls talked amongst themselves, including Emma in their pack as if she had been a part of them for months.

"We've decided that you're going to take us out to a nice brunch," Barb spoke for the group.

"Ok, let me get changed into some better duds and we can take off," I said, moving to the hallway and down to my bedroom.

I changed into some good slacks and a collared shirt and then put on some good socks. After brushing my teeth and combing my hair, I rejoined the ladies. They got up and I helped Emma with her coat before we left the condo. After a quick stop at the girls' condo below to retrieve their coats, we took the elevator down to the garage and piled into my SUV.

The girls decided on a brunch at the Weber's Restaurant at the Weber's Inn, so I drove over and let the ladies out at the front door while I found a parking spot in the crowded parking lot. I joined the ladies in line and slipped a hundred dollar bill into my pocket to entice the hostess to find us a table in the crowded restaurant.

"Welcome to Weber's Restaurant, do you have reservations?" the statuesque raven haired beauty asked.

"Hi, Monica, I'm Mike Stewart," I replied, reading her nametag quickly and offering my hand. "No we don't have a reservation but we hoped you would have something for us anyway."

She shook my hand and slipped the bill out of my hand as only an experienced hostess can.

"Let me see what we can find for you, Mr. Stewart, it's for six correct?" she said, looking down at her book and at her hand to quickly check the denomination of the bill.

After a few seconds, she checked off a table in her book and looked back up and smiled, "You're in luck, we had a cancellation just a couple of minutes ago. If you would come this way, please?"

"Thank you, Monica," I replied and followed the girls to the table.

I helped everyone get settled into their chairs and the only open seat for me was beside Emma. Our waitress came and got our drink orders before telling us to help ourselves to the buffet along the wall. The girls got up and headed to the breakfast portion of the buffet while I hit the salad bar and lunch area.

The girls chatted while they ate, talking about the Ohio trip, Barb's New York modeling and Emma's acting. I listened but kept eating, so I was ready to go up again when they were still less than half done with their plates. I just got up and filled up another plate with roast beef, chicken and mashed potatoes before heading back to the table.

"My, aren't we hungry today?" Mitsy observed.

"Got to get my strength back," I replied.

"Just make sure it all doesn't go to your waistline," she remarked.

I just stuck my tongue out at her and the girls laughed. We continued eating and the girls went up for second helpings, now from the lunch portion, while I hit the dessert table.

A couple of young girls came up when we were done and shyly asked Emma for her autograph. Emma went one further and posed for a picture with them. Their mother thanked Emma profusely before they went back to the table.

"Does that happen a lot?" Casey asked her.

"Not so much here in the States, but if I'm out in London, then a few times a day," Emma admitted. "It's not too bad; most are younger kids and they're usually pretty sweet."

I settled the bill and left a nice tip for the waitress before we left the restaurant. The girls didn't want to go back so quickly, so we drove around a bit and then had me take them to the CK store. Emma was forced to try some stuff on and I picked up a couple of shirts and tees as well. Each member of the quartet got an outfit and they made Emma pick out three and had me pay for everything. After that I drove home and luckily they had Emma join them in the condo below while I did some reading ahead for Monday's classes.

The girls left me alone for almost three hours until it was after five thirty. They called me to let them up onto the floor through the locked door. I trotted to the stairway door and let them in.

"You better get me that key before you forget again," Emma said as we walked back into my condo.

I went to the drawer I put them in and handed her the keychain with both the condo and elevator keys on it.

"Thank you, Michael," she said.

"You're welcome," I replied. "How was your afternoon with the girls?"

"Fine, I learned some things about you that I didn't know before, and we also had some girl talk," she answered. "It's nice to just chitchat for a while without having to worry about what you say or how people will interpret your answers."

"Oh, I'm sure they are judging you in their minds and will talk all about you behind your back," I said with a grin.

"Michael, how could you say that?" Barb asked.

"Because it's true," I replied.

"Maybe, but you don't come right out and say it to her face!" Barb responded. "She's supposed to make believe that we wouldn't do such a thing and we pretend she won't talk about us to you."

I shook my head as we stood around in the living room.

"So, where are we going to eat before we go to the Dojo?" Mitsy asked.

"You can't be hungry already? We just ate three hours ago!" I responded.

"It was more like four hours ago and yes, we need to eat before we exert ourselves," Mitsy answered. "Now, chop-chop, we need to bring our workout clothes with us, so we need to leave soon."

"Yes Ma'am," I replied, already moving to my bedroom to get my workout stuff.

"We'll meet you two downstairs at our condo," Mitsy said as the quartet left to get their stuff.

I grabbed my gym bag and stuffed my clothes in it before walking out to the hallway. Emma was looking through her suitcase when I looked into her bedroom and quickly found a sweat suit and some runners. I let her put them in my bag and we left the condo after setting the alarm.

The quartet was waiting for us and we got into the elevator when it showed up.

"So where are we going?" I asked.

"We don't have enough time or we could go to the family's Japanese restaurant," Mitsy said. "Maybe sometime this week though."

"How about Chili's or Friday's?" Casey suggested.

The girls talked amongst themselves for a minute and decided on Chili's. I opened the SUV's doors and got them all in before driving over to the nearby restaurant. We were brought over to a large table when we got there and the girls ordered some appetizers before we figured out what we wanted for our entrees.

After the decision making was all done and the dinners ordered, all five grilled me on who my new help was. I explained all about Daphne needing help with college and letting her shop and clean for me. They all gave me grief over hiring a girl without letting them check her out first. I just grinned at them.

They moved on to the fact that I wasn't accepting the medals and took me to task over that issue next.

"I told you how I feel about that already so no need to hash that over again," I said.

"But you're wrong about it, Michael, you deserve those medals," Casey insisted.

"I appreciate how all of you feel about it, but I don't agree and since I'm the one who will or will not accept the medals, it's my decision," I responded.

"Don't you think Emma has some say in that?" Barb asked.

"Not really," I replied.

"Why not?" Mitsy asked.

"Why?" I asked.

"Because she's the one you saved," she replied.

"And?" I asked.

"That makes her opinion matter," Casey insisted.

"Everyone of your opinions matter, but none of them will change my mind," I said.

Luckily the appetizers showed up and the topic was dropped as we ate the variety of different items. Our meals came right on the heels of finishing the wings, potato skins and other assorted appetizers.

Emma had to pose for a picture with a couple of teenage girls and a trio of younger kids after we finished our meals and then we drove over to the Dojo. Emma decided to take the class with the three girls while Asuka and I walked around to the back. We got changed and started our stretching and forms while we waited for Sensei.

Asuka and Sensei discussed what the Sensei and I did last week and then Asuka and I sparred for a while. After a break, we continued on with the stick attacking and defending, both with one of us with a stick and then with both of us having a stick.

When we were done, we thanked Sensei and then walked back to the front of the building to get the girls. They were waiting for us with a few people hanging around, talking to them.

"Ride's here," Mitsy said, jumping up. "Sorry people, we've got to go."

The four of them made their escape from their admirers and we left the Dojo and got into my SUV.

"How was your workout, ladies?" I asked.

"Emma has been holding out on us, she kicked our butts in there," Barb said.

"Yeah, she's been training for four years already," Casey added.

"She could probably kick your butt, Michael," Mitsy told me.

"I have no doubt that any one of you could kick my butt," I replied with a laugh. "Asuka does it three times a week already."

"Michael is being his usual humble self," Asuka spoke up. "He is doing quite well for only training a few months. Remember, he is training one on one with Sensei and myself and is both a very good athlete and smart enough to remember everything we tell him. In my estimation, only the senior instructors could compete against him."

"What level belt do you have, Michael?" Emma asked.

"I have a white belt," I said.

"You're still a novice then?" she asked, puzzled.

"It's only been a few months since I've started training," I explained. "What about you?"

"I have my brown belt and starting my training for a black belt in Karate," she replied.

"Well then, you probably could kick my butt," I told her. "Luckily we'll never have to find out."

"Oh really, I think the two of you should spar sometime this week," Barb suggested.

"Ah no, that would be a terrible idea," I replied. "I have no idea on how to spar or pull punches. Sensei and Asuka are so good that I can just fight normally and I still can't touch them."

"Your faith in me is astounding," Emma said dryly.

"All I know is that I wouldn't want to get hit by him," Casey said with a shudder. "I've seen what he can do against guys even bigger than him on the ice. Let's just drop it ok?"

"Definitely dropped by me," I said quickly. "So, shall we head back to the condo and dorms?"

"We're bunking with Barb this week, her sister is staying over at her boyfriend's apartment," Mitsy informed me.

"Ok, condo it is," I said.

The girls talked amongst themselves until we got the SUV parked in the garage. We took the elevator to their floor and wished them a good night before Emma and I took the stairs up to my floor. I shut off the alarm and hung up our coats.

"You hungry or thirsty?" I asked.

"Water will be fine," Emma replied.

I grabbed a couple bottles of water from the kitchen and handed one over.

"Thanks," she said. "I'm going to have a shower if you don't mind."

"Sure, but you could have a nice Jacuzzi bath if you like," I replied.

"A shower is fine," she said. "I'm not really a bath type of girl."

"Alright, there should be towels and washcloths in the cupboard," I told her.

She headed off to get cleaned up while I put the rod on the front door and turned on the TV. I watched some sport's highlights for a while before shutting it down after the hockey ones were done.

Emma came out in a long fuzzy robe and wet hair slicked back.

"I'm going to head to bed Michael; the girls are going to take me around the University tomorrow, so you don't have to come back to get me after your morning practice," Emma stated. "I'll see you at the arena tomorrow afternoon."

"Ok, have a good sleep and a good day tomorrow," I replied. "I'm going to hop in the shower and hit the hay myself."

"Good night then," she said and turned away.

"Good night Emma," I responded as I got up.

She had her door shut before I walked by so I just went into my bedroom and moved into the bathroom and had a quick shower. After getting into a pair of shorts, I slipped into bed and thought about the girl next door. She seemed distant and more interested in hanging with the girls than with me. It was nice that she was making friends with them, but it was a shame that we couldn't get a bit closer as well. It took a while before I fell asleep, with Emma getting mad at me in my dreams.



-------

Chapter 44


Monday morning I was out of the condo before Emma made her appearance and was on the ice before any of the team showed up. After the usual stretching and skating warm-up, I peppered Patrick from the point, half boards as well as skating in on him, simulating a breakaway or penalty shot. The team started trickling out onto the ice about twenty minutes later and each of them came over and welcomed me back. John came out about middle of the pack and came over after stretching for a bit.

"Hey Mike, glad to see you back on the ice," he said. "How are you feeling?"

"Pretty good actually, you're looking nicely tanned," I replied. "Did you and Amanda go down anyway?"

"Yeah, it was that or find a new girlfriend," he said with a laugh.

"How was it?" I asked.

"It was great, lots of sun, girls in bikinis and too much to drink and eat," he replied with a grin. "We didn't want to come back."

"I'm glad you had fun, I'll get you some cash to pay back your folks," I said quietly.

"Thanks Mike," he said before skating away to warm up.

Eventually the team was all out on the ice and the coaches joined us and gathered us around.

"I hope you all had a good March break, I think we all needed some time off," Coach Benson started off. "Judging by the tans on a few faces, it looks like some of you had a good time."

There were a few remarks and some laughter from the guys.

"Now it's time to get back to business, we have the Western Michigan Broncos in for two games to start the CCHA quarterfinals, so we need to get ready for them," Coach continued. "They beat Lake Superior State last week to make the quarter finals. We split the series with them back in November, losing the game here so we need to buckle down and get ready for them."

"Mike is back from his extended vacation lazing around on his stomach for a month," Coach added. "He's been working out all last week trying to get back into shape and we're going to see how far he's progressed. Mike will be wearing the red no-hit jersey for the week until the doctor gives him the all clear Friday morning so no cheap shots on him. Alright, let's get busy."

Frank came over and told John and I that we would be paired up for now and would be the third pair again. He handed me the red jersey and I slipped it on before joining John on the ice.

The coaches had us practicing ways to bring the puck up against various neutral zone traps to start. The non starters got into a two-one-two trap and each line and defensive pair started from our zone and tried to get it into their zone. I was a bit rusty with my long passes at the start but it came back pretty quickly. My skating seemed to be ok and I actually found myself a bit faster with being lighter by ten pounds than usual.

After about twenty minutes we progressed into different offensives; dump and chase, puck possession, keeping the puck in deep or feeding the defencemen for screened point shots. I keep out of the rough stuff against the boards but boomed a few shots from the point for the forwards to tip in or screen the goalie.

We moved onto special teams where I participated in the power play at the point but was kept off the penalty kill units as there was too big a risk for contact. Finally, we had a lively scrimmage where I had to use only my stick and speed to stop the forwards as they came in on me. It was good practice for me as I relied too much on my size to overpower my opponents.

I had to shower and dress quickly when we were done in order to make my algebra class on time. I arrived just as the professor entered the classroom, so I quickly found a seat and got ready to take notes as he got out of his coat and prepared for his lecture.

The professor welcomed us back from March break and then explained the compressed schedule for the next month before the final exam in the first week of April. After that news, he launched into the new chapters and when the period was done, he had covered two of the more difficult ones in the book. I packed up went down to the front where Dr. Milan handed me my midterm that Professor Hiller had marked for me last week.

"Congratulations Mr. Stewart, I'm glad to see that you faired so well on the exam with all your difficulties last month," Dr. Milan stated. "Keep it up and you should do well on the final."

"Thank you Dr. Milan, thankfully I had time to study while hanging around the hospital," I explained.

I moved on to calculus and Professor Hiller was just as determined to get through two chapters as was Dr. Milan was last class. She was looking very svelte in a blouse and dress pants and I had to stop myself from staring at her wonderful derriere when she was writing on the board or I would get behind. I stayed behind and she handed over my finished exam from last week with a ninety-nine written on the front page.

"Congratulations Mr. Stewart, it was a very well written exam," she said.

"Thank you Professor Hiller, I worked hard to get caught up," I told her. "Thanks for all of your help with both classes."

"You're welcome, it was a pleasure," she replied as she looked around. "We better not linger here; my stalker is probably around somewhere."

"You need to lodge a formal complaint against him," I suggested.

"I'm low woman on the totem pole around here, so it won't go over well," she explained.

"Let me know if he becomes a bother and I'll find a way to discourage him without him knowing who it is," I told her.

"I might take you up on that if you can guarantee that he won't know who did it or why," she replied.

"Alright, I'll see what I can do," I told her. "I'll see you Wednesday, Professor."

"See you then and thanks," she said as she left the room.

I walked in the other direction and grabbed some lunch while revising the Philosophy paper according to the recommended changes Pam had done. I saved only the corrected version on the memory stick to hand in to the professor. After finishing up my hamburger and fries, I packed up my stuff and headed to class. I found an aisle seat and pulled out my clipboard to get ready to take notes. I got a few looks as the rest of the students filed in; mostly curious or simple recognition expressions though a few girls gave me a smile. Nora made a point to pass by and say hi before joining her latest guy.

The professor came in right on time and got to work right away on the new chapters. It seemed that every professor realized how few weeks were left in the semester and were making sure that they would cover everything they needed to. At the end of the class, I waited until the normal infatuated girls finished up with their questions for the professor.

"Professor, here is my second paper, thank you for allowing me to hand it in late," I said.

"Mr. Stewart, how are your injuries healing?" he asked as he took the memory stick.

"All healed up Sir, just getting back into playing shape for Friday's game," I replied.

"Good to hear it," he responded. "I'll have this back to you on Wednesday."

"Thank you Sir," I replied before heading out.

I walked to the arena and watched the skaters through the lobby glass for a bit before joining Emma and Asuka in the stands.

"Hello ladies, how was your day?" I asked.

"It was good, I enjoyed going to their classes," Emma stated.

"It was an interesting day, I had to be on my toes with this one around," Asuka said, nodding at Emma. "Her fans kept coming up and asking for autographs or pictures."

"And I suppose you were in protection mode the whole time?" I asked her.

She smiled and nodded and Emma looked at her in surprise.

"Really, I'm so sorry Asuka, you didn't have to do that," Emma said. "I don't need protection here."

"I'm sure you never thought you needed protection in New York a month ago either," Asuka said. "I'm already in protection mode for Mitsy, so I just keep an eye on you as well."

Emma had the grace to blush when she looked back at me.

I laughed and said, "It's ok, it comes natural to her and to me as well," I told her. "So you had a good day?"

"Yes, it was interesting to experience university life with them, I can't wait until I get to go," she replied.

"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself," I remarked. "Ok, I'm going to work out before practice and leave you in good hands. I'll see you at six. Oh, I forgot, Daphne will be coming with the groceries at six thirty. Do you have anything that you want this week? I can email her and she can pick it up."

"Nope, I'm fine with whatever you have," Emma responded.

"Ok, I'll see you both in a bit," I said before heading down to the locker room.

After changing, I had a good workout, using about sixty five percent of my normal weight. I found the weight not to difficult but didn't raise it this time, wanting to go a bit slower this week. I had a quick shower and got into my hockey equipment when I was done.

Emma and Asuka were waiting for me in the seats by the tunnel.

"Have a good workout?" Emma asked.

"Yes I did," I replied. "I'm finally starting to feel like I'm getting back to normal. I still used sixty five percent of the weight but it feels comfortable now."

"You're looking better, even from Saturday," Emma remarked. "Your colour is better and you don't look as thin."

"Well, you're going to have to stick around then, you're obviously good for my health and well being," I said with a grin.

"I've hardly been with you the last couple of days, so it can't be me," she retorted.

"Just imagine if you spend the whole day with me, I'll be back to normal in a day or two," I told her.

"Or you'll have a relapse," she replied with a laugh.

"I'm willing to take that chance, and I'm sure the girls won't mind you spending some time with me," I said.

"I have been neglecting my hero, haven't I Asuka?" Emma asked.

"I'm sure he would like your company, but he's not going to fall apart if you leave him alone," Asuka replied.

The figure skaters came off at that time and Casey and Mitsy came over to us.

"You two skate beautifully," Emma told them. "You're both so talented and graceful."

"Thank you Emma, I'm glad you liked it," Casey said.

"Yes, thanks Emma, that means a lot to us coming from you," Mitsy added. "Michael, how was your workout?"

"It was good," I replied. "I'm finally starting to feel normal."

"That's good to hear," she replied. "So what have you two been talking about?"

"I've been neglecting Michael the last couple of days, but Asuka thinks he won't fall apart because of it," Emma said with a laugh. "I'm not so sure, so I might spend tomorrow with him."

"Oh, you probably should spend a full day with him and find out how annoying he can be," Mitsy advised. "Then you'll be begging to stay with us the rest of the week."

"You're just saying that to steal my guest from me, I think Emma wants to get away from you," I rebutted. "I'm surprised you haven't changed her hair style, wardrobe and her accent already."

"Unlike you, Emma is a nice person with impeccable manners and grace," Mitsy responded. "You however, are in serious need of professional help."

"Well you're short and very annoying," I replied, sticking my tongue out at her.

"And he proves my point, yet again," Mitsy said with a grin.

"I don't have to stand here and take this abuse, I have a whole team that wants to abuse me on the ice," I replied. "I'll see the rest of you later and maybe you can lose the shrimp in some puddle somewhere."

I went on the ice to set up Patrick on the far net. I started my usual stretches and warm up skating and then shot on Patrick until the rest of the team joined me. Practice was similar to this morning's and we were let go just after six. After a shower and getting dressed, I joined the girls out in the seats.

"Ladies, I see you couldn't lose the tick," I said in greeting.

"Nope, because she arranged for dinner tonight," Casey said with a grin. "So let's get going back to the condo so we can get changed."

I led the way to the SUV and unlocked the doors with the remote. Emma got in the front passenger seat and the others took the back seats. We drove home and marched up to the lobby to check our mail and found Daphne in the lobby with a pile of groceries around her. I let her in and grabbed most of them while the others all helped. Daphne carried the lasagne into the lobby.

"Hey Daphne, these are some friends of mine, Mitsy, Asuka, Casey and Emma," I made the introductions.

"Hi everyone, are you all models like Mike?" she asked. "You all look so gorgeous."

"I like this girl already," Casey said. "No, we're just friends except for Emma here. I'm sure you know what she does for a living."

"Holy Shit, you're Emma Watson, the girl Mike saved last month!" Daphne said. "I can't believe it's you! I watched every Harry Potter movie and you're the best one in them."

"Thanks Daphne," Emma responded. "So, you've been taking care of Michael here for a bit now. How is he to work for?"

"Mike's the best, I've only been working for him for a week, but I try hard to do a good job for him," she replied. "He insists on overpaying when I just want him to pay for what I do. I don't want charity from him."

We got into the elevator and the girls lightly interrogated Daphne all the way until we were in my condo. Everyone pitched in to put the groceries away and the girls told me to go get dressed for dinner while they had some girl talk with Daphne.

"Ok, but don't leave until I pay you," I told her.

She nodded and I left them in the kitchen. I quickly went to my bedroom and put on some slacks, a good shirt and socks before heading back to the kitchen. When I stepped in, I saw Daphne laughing along with the others so I was relieved.

"Not bad," Emma said, looking me over. "Shall we go dressed ladies?"

"We'll see you downstairs in twenty minutes," Casey said as they got up.

I pulled out my wallet and slipped Daphne two hundred dollars.

"Mike, we agreed on a hundred for Mondays," Daphne argued.

"The other hundred is for your discretion," I said. "As hard as it's going to be, I don't want you to tell anyone about Emma being here. If anyone asks you, you tell them that you're cleaning Barb's condo, ok?"

"Mike, I wouldn't tell anyone," she said.

"Not on purpose, but I know how hard it is to keep a secret like this," I told her. "You might be just having a conversation with a girlfriend and you let it slip. I'm hoping the extra money will jog your memory before that happens."

"I like all those girls, I won't hurt you or them," she said firmly.

"Good, now take the money and put it in the bank," I told her. "I'll see you Wednesday afternoon."

"Ok Mike, but I want to earn the money, not be given it," she said as she got up.

"And you will, I promise," I responded. "Now follow the girls down to the next floor and you can catch the elevator there without a key."

"See you Wednesday and thanks Mike," she said, running to catch up to them.

Emma had carried a garment bag with her downstairs so I watched some TV for the next twenty minutes. Eventually it was time to leave and I put on a good coat and headed downstairs. I knocked on the door and Asuka opened it, wearing a short, form fitting red dress that had a distinctive modern Japanese style.

"Wow, Asuka, you look marvellous," I said. "I love the dress and how you look in it."

"Thank you Michael, I'm glad you like it," she said with a smile. "You better come in; the other four are still getting ready."

I walked in and we sat in their living room to wait for the others.

"Your hair looks wonderful pinned up like that," I told her. "It shows off your wonderful neck and shoulders."

"Thank you Michael, I'll have to wear it up more often for you," she said with a grin. "That is if the other ladies don't get jealous."

"And we will get jealous," Casey said as she came into the room. "She's not only beautiful, she gets ready in half the time we do."

She was wearing a clingy short dress in silver and her blonde hair was also up on her shoulders to show off her beautiful neck.

"Jesus, are you all trying to get me killed tonight?" I said. "I'm going to have to fight off the entire city if you all go out looking so gorgeous!"

"Why thank you Michael, we just decided to dress up for dinner," Casey said sweetly. "So where are you taking us?"

"We should probably upgrade from McDonald's I guess," I admitted. "Frankly I don't have a clue what would be acceptable the way you two are dressed."

Barb came out in a short. light green dress, followed by Mitsy in a sexy black one.

"What are we talking about?" Mitsy asked.

"Michael doesn't have a clue where to take us," Casey said.

"In my defence, there probably isn't a place in the state that would do justice to how you ladies look," I said. "You two look gorgeous as well."

"Thank you Michael, you look handsome this evening," Barb replied.

"We're going to my family's restaurant of course," Mitsy stated before turning to shout down the hallway. "Come on Emma, I'm sure Michael will love it."

Barb whispered to me, "She's really wants to knock your socks off so she's going all out."

"Really, I thought she was avoiding me the last couple of days," I whispered back.

"She's been asking all sorts of questions about you," Casey added. "It would have been sickening but she's so nice we can't get mad at her."

"Well, I can get mad at her if she isn't out here soon; we have seven fifteen reservations and only ten minutes to get there," Mitsy stated before shouting down the hallway again. "Emma, we're going to be late and that's an insult to my family. I'm sure you look wonderful."

Emma came out a few seconds later, carrying a small purse. She had on the requisite short, clingy dress, in blue and black. Her hair was piled up on top of her head and she looked more beautiful than I had ever seen her in any magazine or movie premiere. I stared at her as she walked up to me and pushed my mouth shut with a finger.

"Michael, don't you know it's impolite to stare?" she asked with a grin.

"I can't help it, you look utterly beautiful," I said. "Wow, I think I've died and gone to heaven."

"Well ladies, we've managed to impress the hottest model in the country, I'd say we've ready to go," Emma said to the other four.

"He's probably not the best judge as he's also a hockey player who gets hit on the head once in a while," Casey said. "But I do believe we are pretty damn hot tonight."

The girls put on their high heels at the door while I watched their sexy legs in their short dresses. I had a big grin on my face as they finally stood back up.

"I think he enjoyed that," Barb said with a smirk.

"We probably couldn't get that grin off his face with a sandblaster," Mitsy added.

They got their coats on, insisting I help each one with them. I stood behind them as they all backed into the coats and rubbed their bodies against mine.

"Well, it looks like the CK ads weren't airbrushed to enhance him in any way," Emma said, looking down at my growing erection.

The girls all laughed while I blushed and pulled my long coat away from my body.

"Nope, I've seen him in his underwear while we were modeling and that's all Michael," Barb said with a smirk. "He's not an underwear model just for his body, you know."

"I didn't know actually," Emma responded, looking at me with a look that I couldn't fathom.

"Ok, let's go people," Mitsy insisted.

I followed the girls out the door and we took the elevator down to the garage. I drove over to the restaurant and had to drive around to find a parking spot.

"Why is this place so crowded on a Monday?" I asked.

"This is a very popular restaurant, not only in the city but the state as well," Mitsy answered. "I couldn't even get a private room for us, so we'll be out in main room tonight."

Mitsy led the way inside, stopping at the hostess station.

"Miss Matsuda, it is a pleasure to see you tonight, my apologies that we could not honour your request for a private room this evening," the hostess said as we approached. "We are extremely busy this evening for some reason."

"That is ok, Etsuko," Mitsy replied. "This was a last minute decision."

Etsuko bowed guided us to the coatroom and, after we had checked our coats, led the way to a large circular table as the girls were all admired by the men as we passed. The diners were a mix of Japanese and Caucasian but every man in the building, regardless of race, watched as the ladies glided through the crowded restaurant. Not that I blamed them; the girls would garner that much attention even if we were in a room of supermodels. I helped each of the ladies with their chair and then sat down between Emma and Mitsy.

"I'm going to order a bunch of dishes and we can all sample them," Mitsy told us. "There will be rice, soups, seafood and other meat dishes that you can all try. We'll even try you out with chopsticks."

We talked amongst ourselves until our waitress came and took our drink order and then talked to Mitsy in Japanese for a minute. She nodded after listening to Mitsy rattle off our meal order and left to go put it into the kitchen.

From time to time people came up to the table to talk to Mitsy in Japanese. Some we were introduced to and some she only spoke to them for a short while. Her cousin Hiroto and Kiyomi came by after our drinks arrived and stayed for a while.

"Michael, we were both worried when you got hurt saving Miss Watson, I'm glad you're looking so well," Hiroto said to me.

"Thanks Hiroto, I'm feeling almost back to normal," I replied. "Emma, Hiroto helps run Mitsy's family businesses and Kiyomi is their corporate lawyer and Hiroto's girlfriend."

"It's nice to meet you both," Emma said.

"I must correct you my good friend, Kiyomi has consented to be my wife; she is my fiancée now," Hiroto said, beaming with pride.

"Congratulations to the both of you, I hadn't heard," I said with a smile.

I got up and shook his hand and gave Kiyomi a hug.

"Well it's thanks to you that we're together at all," Hiroto stated. "You let me know if you need anything and I'll try my best to get it for you."

"Nonsense, you did all the hard work, I just got the two of you together for lunch," I replied. "I'm happy for the both of you."

"I see you have surrounded yourself with five beautiful women for tonight's meal," Kiyomi said with a grin. "Are any of these wonderful ladies your date for this evening?"

"These gorgeous women are my good friends," I replied. "You know Mitsy and Asuka, and this blonde beauty is Casey, Mitsy's skating friend and roommate, while this redhead beauty is Barb, Melanie's sister. Last but not least is Emma Watson, an English goddess and actress extraordinaire."

"Of course we recognize Miss Watson, it's so good to meet you," Kiyomi responded. "You're more beautiful in person than you already look on screen. I'm glad Michael was able to keep you from harm."

"Believe me, so am I," Emma said with a smile. "I must say, every woman Michael knows is very beautiful. I love that dress on you, Kiyomi."

"Why thank you Emma, I love yours as well," Kiyomi responded.

"We should leave you to your meal, I see they're starting to bring out some dishes," Hiroto said. "We'll talk to you later and it was nice to meet all of you."

"Yes, enjoy your meal and make sure to take care of Michael," Kiyomi added.

"Oh we will," Mitsy replied with a grin. "I ordered enough food for ten people, so he should be happy."

The girls all laughed as I smiled and patted my stomach. Hiroto and Kiyomi laughed as well and then left to go back to their table. Several waiters and waitresses soon had rice and soup in front of each of us and then brought another round of dishes; seafood, both raw and cooked, grilled chicken on skewers, breaded pork and some barbecued beef. We all looked to Mitsy and Asuka to guide us.

"Ok, we start with the soup and then mix in the meats with the rice in small bites," Mitsy said, looking at me at the end with a raised eyebrow. "After we're done with the soup, we'll get you all practicing with the chopsticks."

So it was with some relish that we all dug in to the meal. Everyone was eager to try every dish at least once and we quickly found out what we liked and didn't like. I tried my best to eat slowly and appreciate the tastes and none of the girls had to hit me in the ribs or glare at me, so I assumed I did a decent job.

After the dinner dishes were all cleared, we were offered tea, plum wine and traditional desserts. I stuck to my Diet Coke but enjoyed sampling the various desserts as did the girls.

A group of four Japanese young men, probably in their early twenties, came up to the table, dressed in expensive suits. They pulled chairs from the neighbouring tables and sat down between the girls; one between Mitsy and Casey, the second between Casey and Barb, a third between Barb and Asuka and the fourth between Asuka and Emma. Asuka usually sat beside Mitsy as a matter of course, but had switched to help the girls with the Japanese cuisine.

The men helped themselves to a glass of plum wine and to the desserts as they put an arm around the women. I made to get up as I looked to Mitsy but she held me down with a hand on my knee. She looked mad and said something in Japanese to them. The leader, the oldest guy sitting between her and Casey, said something back to her that made her look furious. She spat something out, again in Japanese as she pushed her chair back in preparation to getting up.

The leader got angry and rattled a sentence in Japanese as his arm came back to smack her. I pulled her chair back further and got up to get between them. My arm went up and I blocked his slap and pushed him back, causing him to stagger a bit.

"That was a mistake, gaijin," he said. "You should have stayed in your seat. Now we're going to have to make you pay."

The other three laughed at his posturing.

"I suggest you leave before things get out of hand," I replied. "This is hardly the place for this type of behaviour."

"Pretty boy, I suggest you sit down and keep quiet until we're ready to deal with you," the leader said as he pulled up his sleeves to show his tattoos. "You don't know who you're dealing with."

"I'm afraid I'm not up on my tattoos, am I supposed to be impressed with them, little man?" I asked.

"Typical gaijin, thinking size is everything," the leader snarled. "I'm sure your Japanese whores can tell you who you're messing with."

"Oh man, you just blew any chance of getting off easy," I told him as I shook my head before looking behind him. "Mr. Matsuda, I'm sorry that this has caused a disturbance in your restaurant."

Mr. Matsuda Senior was standing with another older Japanese man and the two were flanked by Mitsy's father, her two male cousins and another two very capable looking men. Surprisingly, it was the old man standing beside Mr. Matsuda Senior who spoke first. He rattled off a few sentences in Japanese that had the four young men standing up quickly and bowing to him.

The leader said a few words in Japanese to him and the old man responded with a few sentences in a harsh tone, pointing to Mitsy and then at her father and her grandfather. He then pointed at me and spoke for a bit more. Finally, he pointed at Asuka and must have told them about her because the four of them got shocked looks on their face and shuffled away from her. Asuka nodded to the old man and then looked at each of the four young men with a look that made them cringe.

The old man gave the four some obvious instructions and then looked at the two men that accompanied their group. The four were marched away to one of the private rooms by the two men while the Matsuda men and the other old man sat down in the chairs vacated by the four, with Hiroto standing behind his grandfather.

"Michael, it seems I must thank you again for defending my granddaughter," Mr. Matsuda senior spoke for the first time. "Ladies, I apologize to you all for this unfortunate incident; for you to have this happen in our restaurant is most disgraceful. Rest assured that those four will be dealt with most severely for their behaviour."

I nodded as did the girls.

"My oldest and dearest friend here, Mr. Yamamoto, has come here for a visit and employs some men for security," he further explained. "These four are new trainees and the honour of joining his security team has unfortunately made them arrogant and foolish. I assure you that you were in no danger; Asuka and Michael would have easily handled any physical confrontation. What I am appalled at is their touching of the ladies and their verbal attacks on all of you. Rest assured that you will be compensated most generously for this incident."

"Thank you Mr. Yamamoto for defusing the incident so quickly," I said, bowing to him and then to Mr. Matsuda.

"It is I who must thank you Michael, for defending the honour and body of my friend's granddaughter," Mr. Yamamoto replied. "He has spoken very highly of you when we saw you enter with the ladies earlier tonight. Again, your actions justify his opinion of you and I must add my admiration to his. It takes great courage to stand up to men such as them."

I nodded and kept quiet.

"We have some unfinished business that must be attended to," Mr. Matsuda Senior said. "Mr. Yamamoto and I will leave you now but rest assured you are quite safe now. Mitsy's father and Hiroto will stay with you for a bit, perhaps his lovely fiancée can help with the young ladies?"

"Certainly Grandfather, I will go get her now," Hiroto said, bowing to the table before leaving.

We all got up as the men stood and we bowed to Mitsy's grandfather and Mr. Yamamoto before they left with Takeru, Mitsy's elder cousin. Hiroto came back with Kiyomi and a couple other women and she insisted the girls all accompany her to the washroom and then to a private room.

"Michael, thanks for handling this situation discreetly," Mitsy's dad said. "While my father and Mr. Yamamoto are old friends, they are also business partners and a more violent incident would have led to loss of face. As it is, we will use this to our advantage in our negotiations. Now we owe you another debt, one we're happy to have as we will all benefit from it."

"Mr. Matsuda, you don't owe me a thing, nothing really happened to me," I replied. "The girls weren't treated well, but you arrived before anything really bad happened."

"You're being modest again," Mr. Matsuda responded with a smile. "Rest assured that the girls will be very well taken care of; those two old men will fight over who handles the compensation so it will be very generous. As for you, my young friend, it will be interesting to see what they come up for you."

"Please let them know I thank them for their kind thoughts, but I can't accept anything from them or it will affect my eligibility for hockey," I replied. "Your family has done so much for me already, nothing more is needed."

"We'll see," was all he said. "I must leave you in Hiroto's capable hands and return to the meeting. We'll talk soon Michael, have a good evening, what's left of it anyway."

"Thank you Mr. Matsuda, you have a good evening and sorry to disturb your meeting," I replied.

He just shook his head and smiled before heading back to the private room.

Hiroto spoke up, "Michael, one question, why was Asuka on the other side of the table from Mitsy?"

"Mitsy wanted them to split up to help the other girls with dinner as it was their first time eating Japanese cuisine," I informed him. "We didn't expect anything to happen here. Please don't be angry with her; I'm sure she was ready to take out the other three at any time. It was a delicate situation to be in, I'm sure; how to act from across the table without causing a major scene."

"Of course we won't be angry with her, especially with that as the reason," Hiroto replied. "I'm sure she will be angry at herself and won't let Mitsy dictate her placement again."

"I'm sure Asuka will take it out on me tomorrow night at the dojo," I said with a laugh.

"Perhaps," Hiroto responded with a grin.

The ladies came back soon after and we stood up and helped them with their chairs.

"So cousin, I trust that those four will be dealt with and won't bother us again?" Mitsy asked.

"Oh, you can be sure of that," Hiroto replied. "I'm sure after their chastisement, they will be sent back to Japan in disgrace. Are you and your friends ok?"

"We're all a little shook up, but we'll survive," she replied. "I think we're going to head back to the condo now and get cleaned up. Can you make sure the wait staff and the chefs get compensated generously; the food and its presentation were both superb."

"Of course cousin, I will handle it myself," Hiroto replied.

"Michael, could you take us home please?" she asked.

"Of course Mitsy, I'll bring the SUV to the front door," I replied as I got up. "Hiroto, Kiyomi, thanks for your help this evening. I'm sure the ladies appreciated your kindness."

"You're most welcome, Michael," Hiroto said.

I shook his hand and Kiyomi gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek before I walked to the lobby. The girl had my coat already at the counter of the coat check room, so I slipped it on and put a five in the tip jar before heading out to get the car.

It was parked in the back forty and was a tad nervous as I walked in the dark to get to it. Thankfully, no boogie men jumped me and I got in and had the SUV started quick enough. I pulled the car to the front just as the girls came out, with Hiroto and Kiyomi escorting them. I got out to open doors for them and helped them up into the vehicle. I quickly had us heading home as the girls stayed quiet. It was such a change from their usual behaviour I had to say something.

"Are you ladies ok?" I asked. "You're awfully quiet."

"We're all a bit upset about what happened," Mitsy said.

"I'm sorry I couldn't do more at the start of things," I apologized to them. "I wasn't sure when to stand up and how to handle things in your family's restaurant. I got real angry when they touched you but I was taking my cues from you and Asuka."

"Michael, you did fine," Mitsy replied as she reached over to pat my arm. "None of us are disappointed in your actions; far from it actually, right girls?"

"Right!" Casey stated.

"That's for sure!" Emma added.

"Damn straight!" Barb practically shouted.

"You handled yourself very well, we're all proud of you," Asuka said at the end. "I counted on you to protect Mitsy from harm and you got involved at the right moment."

"I'm glad to hear it," I replied, breathing a sigh of relief.

"Michael, you were actually worried that we were mad at you?" Mitsy asked in surprise.

"Hey, those creeps touched you, I'm still angry about it, so I know you're upset about it," I responded. "I would be angry at the person who let that happen to you so I know that you should be mad as well."

"We're mad about it but you're not to blame," Emma spoke up. "It happened so fast and you protected Mitsy, the first one they were going to hit. Those guys putting their arms on our shoulders was nothing; I'm sure we've all fought off dates that have tried more than that on a first date."

"And we knew that Asuka and you would protect us if it got worse," Casey said. "So just relax Mike, you done good."

We travelled in silence and made good time back to the condo. I parked in my spot and got out quickly to assist the girls out of the SUV. Asuka and I were on heightened alert as we walked to the elevator and only relaxed when we were on our way up to their floor. Emma and I accompanied them into their condo and I helped them all take off their coats. Mitsy pulled me down and gave me a big kiss as she hugged me tight while the rest of the girls were grinning behind her. Each of the others took their turn giving me a kiss and a hug, even Emma.

"Thank you ladies, that was wonderful," I said with a grin. "I'm going to have to hire guys to bother us again so I get that response from you more often."

Casey hit me on the back of the head while Barb hit my shoulder.

"You're a bunch of bullies," I told them, rubbing the back of my head.

"Ok, let's get out of these dresses and into some comfy clothes," Casey said, ignoring my comment.

All five girls headed down the hallway to the two bedrooms and left me standing in the living room. I sat down and closed my eyes to rest for a bit.

"Come on Michael, let's get you up to your condo," Emma said, shaking me awake.

"I must have dozed off, was I out long?" I asked.

"About half an hour," she said standing up, helping me up.

"Where are the rest of the girls?" I asked.

"They decided to have showers so a couple are through and getting ready for bed while the last two have their turn," Emma replied. "Just say goodnight down the hall and we can go."

I walked over to the hallway and said, "Good night ladies, it was a great meal and you all looked beautiful tonight. I'll see you tomorrow."

"See you later Michael," Casey shouted back.

"Goodnight Michael and thanks," Mitsy added.

Emma and I went upstairs and she had a bath in the Jacuzzi tub while I got changed into shorts and a tee shirt and did some stretches and forms. Emma came out as I finished up, bundled up in a long fluffy robe.

"Exercising again Michael?" she asked with a wry smile.

"I had to burn off some excess energy," I told her. "I'm done now. Can I get you a hot chocolate?"

"No thank you, I'm still full from dinner," she replied.

"Ok, I'm going to have a quick shower," I told her. "You ok for a few minutes?"

"I'll just watch the telly for a bit," she replied.

I nodded and left for the bathroom. After a quick shower, I put on some shorts and a tee shirt on and went back to the living room, combing my hair with my fingers as I went.

"Anything good on?" I asked.

"It looks like the media has found out I'm here," she said, looking up at me. "All the entertainment shows have the same picture of me with the girls at the school cafeteria. They've connected Mitsy with you and by association you and I."

"I'm sorry, I hoped you wouldn't be bothered here," I responded.

"I knew it would happen eventually, I'm just glad it wasn't a picture from tonight," she said with a laugh.

"Do you want to move to a hotel, we can get you into one tonight if you want?" I asked.

"No, unless you want me to leave?" she asked.

"Of course not, you're welcome to stay as long as you want," I told her quickly.

"Then I'll stay here the rest of the week," she stated with a grin.

"Good," I said.

We sat in silence while she watched a story about one of the latest Disney stars to grow up too fast.

"It's the same with every girl they make into a big star," Emma observed. "They keep them looking two years younger than they are and are shocked when the girl wants to be seen as a mature teenager or a young woman. Do you know that I have a clause in my contract that I can't cut my hair or change my hairstyle until the final movie is done shooting? It's nothing compared to what they make some of them go through."

"You seemed to turn out ok," I said. "I haven't seen anything drastic from you or some of the other child stars."

"Some do well and some rebel," she admitted. "I have a good family to support me and keep me in check, even though I've had too much freedom and could have gotten in a lot of trouble."

"It's made you mature for your age," I remarked. "It's not a bad thing."

"I put on a good act with the adults and for the cameras," she said with a grin. "I keep my silliness for my friends in private."

"Well I haven't seen too much of it yet," I responded with a grin.

"You're too serious for me to act up around you," she said. "You're much more mature than any guy our age I know."

"Come on, I'm always trying to make you and the others laugh," I protested.

"I meant more in terms of how you behave, you're very dedicated to your school work, practices and attending classes," she explained. "The girls haven't seen you skip a class, a workout, a practice or not hand in an assignment. You read ahead and are so focused on what you have to do."

"I'm sure there are others just as dedicated to their schoolwork," I said. "I just figure I might as well get the most of the opportunity. I do have a pretty full extracurricular life, you have to admit. It's just not partying or goofing around. Face it, if I didn't work hard at that portion of it, I would never have met you, so the extra time in the gym and on the ice has paid off in spades."

"True, I guess I'm glad you were so dedicated or I wouldn't be around," she mused. "Now I feel like I've haven't tried hard enough in some areas of my life."

"Nonsense, you're juggling school, being an actress, model and fitting all of your TV and magazine appearances and you do everything so well," I chided her. "Add time with your family and friends and you probably couldn't fit anything else in, except spending time with that boyfriend of yours."

"You sound like you don't approve," she observed.

"Oh, he's probably a nice guy and all, but he's going bald already," I said with a grimace. "He's probably ten years older than you. I'm not judging or anything, but it seems like maybe he's part of your rebelling phase, going out with an older man."

"Maybe you're right, but we're not talking about me," she said primly.

"Actually we were, so you don't get to change the subject," I replied with a grin.

"Look at the time, we should get to bed, you have to get up early," she responded as she shut off the TV and got up. "You have a good sleep Michael and I'll see you here after nine."

"Emma, I'm sorry, your boyfriend is your business, not mine," I said as I got up. "I'm sure he's a great guy and you probably care for each other a lot. Maybe I'm just jealous of him; he's got a great girlfriend. You have a good sleep."

She looked at me for a few seconds and then nodded and turned to the hallway. I locked up the condo and quickly brushed my teeth before getting into bed. It took a long time to fall asleep, the night's events playing through my mind.

Tuesday morning I was a bit sluggish but still did my stretches and forms again before having a quick shower and heading to the arena. I really pushed myself in my skating warm-ups and then ramped up the power to my shots until I turned to see that I had an audience of the coaches and some of the team.

I skated over and said, "Sorry guys, I didn't know it was that time already."

"Oh it's still early, we just came out to see what was making all that racket," John said. "I'm thanking my lucky stars I don't have to stand in front of the net to screen the goalie. A shot like that could put a hole clean through someone not wearing the proper equipment."

He patted Peter and Adam, two of our sophomore forwards, on the shoulder before walking back to the locker room, chuckling. The rest of the guys laughed at the look on their faces and followed him back to the locker room.

I shot at Patrick for a bit longer and then rested while the rest of the team did their warm-ups. Practice was intense as the coaches worked us over, running skating and passing drills before concentrating on offence for the bulk of the morning. I had to rush through my shower and decided to drive back to the condo to get Emma to save some time.

I called her cell while on the way and told her to meet me down in the lobby in five minutes. She said she was ready and would head on down now. I reminded her to bring a book and her cell to keep herself occupied before I hung up. A couple minutes later I was parking the SUV and running up the steps to find her sitting in a chair in the lobby.

"Good morning Emma, how did you sleep?" I asked.

"Good morning Michael, I slept passably," she replied as she got up. "How was practice?"

"It was passable as well," I responded with a grin. "Shall we mosey on down to the campus?"

"I think we shall," she agreed.

"So I have two classes today, both are computer programming classes," I told her as we headed out. "Have you ever done any programming?"

"I'm afraid not, it's not really my thing," she responded.

"Well, you're going to be bored during the lectures then," I said. "Each is an hour and twenty minutes; one in ten minutes and the next class one after lunch."

"I'll just read then if the professors don't mind," she replied. "I knew what I was getting into today."

"Alrighty then," I said.

We walked quickly to campus and I led the way to the correct building. We got into the classroom with a couple minutes to spare and took a seat in the back where Emma wouldn't disturb the lecture. Dr. Albert continued the trend of covering more than usual in his lecture. I was busy taking notes most of the lecture and Emma listened for a bit and then pulled out her book and read. When the lecture was over, I packed up and went down to talk to Dr. Albert, with Emma following.

"Mike, I have your midterm for you," he said, digging in his leather briefcase for it. "Here it is; like I suspected another hundred percent. Congratulations and good work as usual."

"Thanks Dr. Albert, I appreciate you taking time out last week to let me write the two exams," I told him.

"You're quite welcome, Mike," he replied. "Dr. Delany will give you his exam back this afternoon."

"I wanted you to meet Emma Watson, she's here to see how university life is like; she's coming to the States in the fall to attend school," I explained. "Emma, this is Dr. Albert, he's been my professor for computer programming all year and I'm going to be attending his graduate artificial intelligence class in the spring semester."

"It's nice to meet you Miss Watson, I have two daughters that love reading everything about you and have watched all your movies," Dr. Albert said.

"It's nice to meet you Dr. Albert, and it's nice to hear that I have fans here," she replied. I'll give Michael some things to bring to next class to pass on to them."

"Oh, they would love that if it's not too much of an inconvenience," he said.

"It's no trouble at all, just tell me their names and I'll put on something for them if you like," Emma responded.

"Patricia and Emily are their names," he said. "I do appreciate it."

"Thanks for letting me sit in on your lecture," she replied with a smile.

"I'll see you Thursday Dr. Albert, have a good day," I piped up after I put away my exam.

"You two have a good day, and have a great visit on campus, Miss Watson," Dr. Albert replied.

We left him packing up and headed over to the cafeteria.

"Did he say another one hundred percent again?" Emma asked.

"Yeah, he did," I answered. "Remember its first year programming and it is my major."

"So smart, athletic, handsome and well off," she mused. "And you don't have a girlfriend because?"

"Time," I answered. "And the fact that I've been in the hospital and recuperating for the past month."

"Hmmm," was all she said as I held the door open for her.

We got in line in the cafeteria and she had a salad while I selected the pork chop meal. I paid for both of our meals and we found a seat at an empty table. We ate and made small talk while people watching. When we were done, I carried the dishes and trays to the garbage and recycling area and through our stuff in the proper receptacle.

I got busy on my next programming assignment while Emma read until it was time to go. We packed up and headed to database programming, finding a seat near the back as Dr. Delany walked in. He welcomed us back from March break and then proceeded to try and break the record for most boards written on in one class. After he was done for the day, and the class had all finished catching up to him, I went down to get my midterm from him.

"Mr. Stewart, it's good to see you back in class, how are your injuries?" the professor asked.

"All healed up and just about back into shape," I responded. "Thank you for letting me write the midterm during March break, Dr. Delany."

"No problem, let me find it for you," he responded as he looked through a very full briefcase. "Ah, here it is. A ninety five, a very good mark. Congratulations."

"Thank you Doctor," I replied as I took the paper from him. "Have a good day professor."

"You two Mr. Stewart, keep up the good work and good luck this weekend," he replied.

I nodded and we left the classroom.

"So, do you want to come with me to the arena or go back to the condo?" I asked as we exited the building.

"I'll go to the arena; I can sit with Asuka and watch the girls skate while you work out," Emma replied.

"Sounds good," I replied as we started walking to the arena.

Emma was quiet for a bit and I kept silent as well, though I looked at her a few times to make sure she was ok.

"You're being unusually quiet this afternoon," I finally said.

She looked up and replied, "I'm doing some thinking about some things."

"And do I get to know what has you in such a reflective mood?" I asked.

"Nope, now hush," she responded and went back to her deep thoughts.

I grinned at her but kept quiet as we continued on to the arena. It was actually strange to have a girl remain quiet for that long. We entered the building and I guided her to Asuka.

"Hi Asuka, how are you today?" I asked.

"I'm fine, how are you two?" she responded.

"I'm ok but this one is in deep thought," I told her. "Maybe she will let you know why while I go work out. I'll see you two later."

I walked away quickly and headed down the tunnel to the locker room. After dressing, I worked out for an hour, bumping the weight up a bunch. I had a quick shower when I was done and was waiting in the tunnel when the skaters came by.

"Ok, what did you do now?" Mitsy asked. "Emma looks pretty serious up there."

"I'm not sure," I replied. "Maybe you two can find out from her. She wouldn't tell me what she was contemplating."

I moved out onto the ice to help out Rolf, leaving them in the tunnel. I stretched while he drove the Zamboni around and then got the nets situated. The team came out and we had an easier practice than normal, concentrating on special teams and with a longer scrimmage. I looked up into the stands about half an hour after it started and the girls had disappeared.

After practice I looked for the girls but they must have gone home. I drove back to the condo and had some leftovers before getting ready to drive to the dojo. With about ten minutes left before it was time to go, Mitsy finally called and asked me if I was going to pick them up. I went down the stairs to their condo and they were all ready.

"Hello ladies, I missed you this evening," I said as Asuka let me in.

"We had some things to talk about so we left," Mitsy said. "We figured you wouldn't get in too much trouble without us for one hour."

"It's not me that I worry about," I replied dryly.

"It's not your job to worry about us," Casey said. "We're perfectly capable of defending ourselves now."

"I'll always worry about you," I replied simply. "Shall we go?"

They followed me out the door and we got in the elevator. I looked at Emma to see how she was doing and she gave me a small smile in return.

"Are you feeling better now?" I asked.

"A bit better, thanks for giving me some time to work some things out," she replied.

"No problem," I said with a grin. "I don't mind peace and quiet, I rarely get it hanging around this bunch."

Of course Mitsy and Barb both hit me in the stomach from either side of me for that comment but luckily I was expecting it. I grinned wider as they were the ones to feel some pain.

"Ouch, you big bully!" Barb exclaimed as she held her wrist.

"You hit me and I'm a bully?" I asked with a smirk.

"Damn, you wearing armour under there?" Mitsy asked.

"Nope, some of us work out around here you know," I responded as the doors opened.

I led the way to the SUV and opened the doors and helped them up into their seats. We drove to the dojo and Asuka and I made sure the ladies got in safely before walking around to the back. When we entered, Sensei was waiting for us and watched as we removed our coats and shoes before entering the training room. The two of them started talking in Japanese while I started stretching.

"I hear you had a run in with members of a Yakuza gang at the restaurant yesterday, Michael," Sensei stated when they came over. "Asuka tells me you handled yourself well and defended Mitsuko from harm again. I am proud of you."

"Thank you Sensei, but it was a simple block of a slap," I replied. "I guess ignorance is bliss, I didn't know that they were part of a gang."

"The Yakuza are Japan's version of the mafia," Asuka stated. "The four you met yesterday are low level thugs but those are the most dangerous because they have something to prove and are usually young and stupid. An older member would never have embarrassed his master like they did or bothered to get into a confrontation with you."

Sensei continued, "Mr. Matsuda called me today and asked me to add weapon defence to your training so we will start some unarmed avoidance training as well as using simple objects to help in your defence against knifes, batons and firearms. After defence is second nature, we'll teach you some basics on using knives, various batons and even some swords."

"Really?" I asked in surprise. "Do you think I need to know all that?"

"It is better to know and not need it then find yourself wishing you had it when you don't," Sensei said with a small grin. "Like your boy scout's motto, 'be prepared'."

"I guess that's good advice," I responded. "I seem to be involved in more than my share of troubles."

"Very true, Michael," he replied. "Now let us get to training."

He moved out to the side and had us go through the forms and warm up with some sparring for a few minutes. After about ten minutes Sensei had us take a break and, while we were resting, brought out a set of four knives.

For the rest of the night they showed me moves to defend against various knife attacks using rubber knifes that left a blue chalk mark on me if they hit. Even going quarter speed, the knives left blue lines all over my clothes and skin. It was so much different than blocking punches as you were supposed to use your arms to contact the other person. In the case of a knife attack, any touch could be deadly so you had to avoid the slashes and stabbings and only hit the arm after the knife was out of the way. They showed me how to deflect the arm to the side or down with small controlled taps to the wrist, forearm or elbow of the attacker, all the while trying to avoid the knife.

At the end of our time I was exhausted, my arms were like jelly and my legs barely held me up. I wished Sensei a good night and followed Asuka out the back door. We collected the other four girls and drove home.

"Emma kicked butt again tonight," Barb told me. "She laid out the instructor when he picked her to demonstrate something to the class. It was awesome."

"Good for her," I replied. "I'm glad I'm not in her class, though Asuka killed me about forty times tonight."

"I see you're all marked up with blue stripes, what are they from?" Casey asked as we got out of the vehicle in the garage.

"They're marks from a practice knife," I answered. "Sensei and Asuka are starting to teach me how to protect myself from armed assailants. I'm afraid right now I wouldn't do to well against them."

"A knife? You're practicing with knives now?" Barb asked, clearly shocked. "Asuka, how can you do put Mike in danger like that?"

"It is a rubber knife, the blue marks just show where he would have gotten cut if a real knife was used," Asuka told them. "Michael is now getting advanced training so he can protect himself and whoever he's with."

"Oh, sorry," Barb apologized. "Just the thought of Mike in danger again makes my stomach curdle."

I saw the others nod in sympathy and I was reminded on how much these ladies cared for me, just like I cared for them.

We drove home and went up to the ladies' floor and dropped them off in their condo. The quartet all hugged Emma before we left which I thought was a bit odd. I looked at her with a questioning look and she just shrugged as we walked up the stairs.

Once inside the condo with the alarms turned off and coats hung up, she told me that she was going to take a shower and disappeared down the hallway. I checked the voicemail and my email messages and found one from Katie. She wanted to talk to me about the possibility of a quick one day photo shoot with Ellen Bradshaw from Toronto this Sunday over in Windsor. Mr. Carroll would consider it one of the six photo shoots I owed them and he would still pay the double amount that he agreed upon. They had a large conference room booked in one of the hotels overlooking the Detroit River and would be using the Detroit skyline in some of the shots.

I thought that it might be ok as Emma would be leaving on the Saturday so she could get adjusted to England time on Sunday before she went back to school. I emailed her back and told her I would be available from seven to five thirty Sunday and to let me know if that was ok and if so, provide the address and what room to go to.

"What you doing?" Emma asked, looking over my shoulder.

"I just agreed to a quick modeling gig on Sunday," I answered. "They're going to make it one of the six that I owe them and pay me double for it as well. They're bringing down their Canadian model from Toronto and we'll do the shoot in Windsor, across the river from Detroit."

"Is she gorgeous?" Emma asked.

"She's pretty of course, but a few years older than us," I told her. "Don't worry; I'll be back in time to go to the dojo with the quartet."

"I wasn't worried about your training, more about you propensity to sleep with your models," she said as she crossed her arms below her chest.

"I wasn't planning on sleeping with her and I'll only be there for the day," I told her as I stood up. "I have to do six shoots in about ten months, so if I can get one out of the way in one day, then it's really good for my schedule. It's going to be all business. They'll want to get a lot done in the short timeframe so they'll keep me hopping."

"I'm sure she wouldn't mind getting you alone for a quickie if she could," Emma responded waspishly. "And you wouldn't turn her down her advances when she puts the move on you."

"Emma, I don't know her at all and I don't want any more casual affairs, so please don't get mad," I tried to assure her. "Katie will be there and maybe even Barb as my assistant. Nothing is going to happen."

"It better not Mister," she said, still not mollified. "You better go shower, you have blue chalk all over you."

She walked away and went into the kitchen. I shook my head and headed to my bedroom and grabbed some clean underwear and shorts before moving to the bathroom. After a longer than usual shower to scrub the chalk off my body, I slipped into the underwear and shorts and went back to the bedroom to grab a tee shirt to slip on while I made sure the condo was locked up and Emma was ok.

After putting the rod on the front door and making sure the balcony sliding doors were locked, I grabbed a couple of water bottles from the fridge and went back down the hallway.

"Emma, you want a bottle of water?" I asked through her door.

"I got one already," she replied.

"Ok, have a good sleep then," I said. "Are you going with the girls tomorrow?"

"I'm not sure, call me when you're done practicing," she instructed me.

"Ok, good night," I responded.

"Good night," she said.

I walked down to my room, got out of my shorts and tee shirt before climbing into bed, muttering 'Women; can't live with them, can't shoot 'em'. I didn't have a clue why she was acting so jealous when she had a boyfriend of her own. It took a while but eventually I fell asleep, dreaming of the five of them berating me for taking the modeling job.

I woke up during the night when I felt someone get into the bed. I found out that it was a she when she moved close and backed into me when she found me on my side. She laid her head on my bottom arm and pulled my other one overtop of her and then held it tight to her stomach.

"Emma? What's wrong?" I asked, hoping I was right.

"Bad dream," she mumbled as she burrowed her back closer to me.

"Oh, ok I guess," I replied as her flannel covered legs backed into mine.

I pulled the covers overtop of us and put my head back down on my pillow as her breathing slowed and she seemed to fall asleep. I was content to hold her in my arms and listen to her breathing for a while. To have her in my bed and in my arms made me smile in the darkness. Only exhaustion made me fall asleep a long time later.

Wednesday morning found me on my back with Emma now resting her head on my chest as her leg was draped over me. Her arm was on my torso and her hand was just above my underwear on my lower stomach. My arm was around her and my hand was on her bare lower back as her pyjama top had ridden up a bit. Her skin was soft and warm on my palm and her hair smelt wonderful as I took a deep breath. I glanced over at the clock and saw it was ten minutes before the alarm would ring, so I reached over and shut it off.

I laid there for the next ten minutes, simply enjoying having her in my arms, before I slowly slid out from underneath of her, leaving a pillow for her to hug in my place. She mumbled for a minute and went back to sleep as I grabbed some clothes and got dressed in the bathroom. I snuck out the door and headed to the arena.

After my usual warm-up and shooting practice, the team practice was particularly brutal as the coaches worked on skating drills before moving on to various passing and defensive drills. Then they ran us through the offense, defence and special team's plays, leaving no time for a scrimmage.

I had to rush through a shower and called Emma on her cell as I walked down the hallway.

"Hey Emma, are you coming with me to my classes or with the girls?" I asked when she answered.

"Before I answer that Michael, how about you tell me what I was doing in your bed this morning?" she asked.

"You were sleeping in it obviously," I said, trying hard not to laugh.

"And why was I sleeping in your bed and not my own?" she asked.

"You came in during the night after you had a bad dream," I told her. "You moved right up next to me and then fell asleep less than a minute later."

"Really? I've never done that before," she mused. "Why didn't you wake me up?"

"I didn't mind and I was half asleep myself," I told her. "So, do I come get you or are you going with the girls?"

"Neither, I'm going to stay here for a bit," she answered. "Why don't you call me after your second class and maybe I'll meet you for lunch."

"Ok, I'll call you just before noon then, have a good morning," I said.

"Ok, you too," she replied before hanging up.

I left the car at the arena and hoofed it up to the main campus and was just in time for algebra class. Again, the professor rushed through a chapter to squeeze as much in before the end of the semester.

After class, I moved to calculus and Professor Hiller also went through a chapter as if her life depended on finishing it before the buzzer. Quite a few people stayed late to finish copying her notes from the various blackboards so I didn't have a chance to talk to her privately. I reminded myself to talk to Asuka about her stalker problem and see what she suggested.

I called Emma once I left the classroom and she told me that she was going to meet the girls for lunch and that she would see me at the arena. After hanging up, I walked to the nearby cafeteria and grabbed some lunch before finding a seat. Eating my burger and fries with one hand, I worked on my calculus assignment with the other until someone sat down in front of me. I looked up to find a very cute girl smirking at me. She had shoulder length strawberry blonde hair with a button nose and small mouth. She seemed to be tall, at least her torso was. She was wearing a simple red tee shirt and jeans with very little make-up.

"Hi," I said, putting down my burger on the plate and wiping my hands and mouth with a napkin.

"Hi," she said. "I was watching you eat and do your work at the same time and had to come over and meet you. I haven't seen a guy multi-task like that when it's not exam week."

"Just keep your fingers away from the food and you should be safe," I replied with a grin.

"I have a couple of younger brothers so I know enough to keep a safe distance," she told me. "This must be due next period right?"

"No, next week actually," I corrected her. "Just trying to stay ahead of the game."

"So why couldn't you have taken the one extra minute needed to finish your lunch before starting it?" she asked, still grinning.

"Too much to do and not enough time in the week, so I tend to multi-task whenever the opportunity presents itself," I admitted. "You, on the other hand, look very relaxed and bereft of any books whatsoever."

"My stuff is in my dorm room where I go after I finish eating, rather than get it all food stained while eating a burger and fries; not that I would eat either actually," she responded with a small grimace.

"I take it that you disapprove of my gourmet choices today?" I asked.

"You seem to be in decent shape but that stuff will make you fat and clog your arteries," she told me.

"I'm actually eating to put on weight, I lost a fair bit in the last month," I told her.

"I see, but you might want to eat chicken and turkey to skip the fat and still get all the protein you need," she suggested.

"But this tastes so much better," I replied with another grin as I took another bite of the burger.

"Boys," she said, shaking her head.

I chewed the mouthful until it was gone and washed it down with a sip of Diet Coke while she watched. I glanced at the problem I was working on and saw the solution.

"Hang on a sec, I just figured out the answer to the one I was working on," I told her as I picked up my pen and jotted down the answer.

It took about a minute to finish and then I looked up to see her looking at me with a puzzled expression on her face.

"You look very puzzled right now," I said. "What's up?"

"While I don't consider myself a potential beauty pageant contestant, I know I'm decent looking enough that guys usually are a bit nervous around me the first time we meet," she stated. "You however, not only seem perfectly at ease with me, but take the time to work on a math problem while I'm sitting across from you."

"And that makes you perturbed? I asked.

"No, just even more curious," she admitted. "You're obviously in a technical field of study so I'm thinking you're a bit of a science guy, but you're too good looking to be a nerd so you shouldn't be sitting alone."

"I'm studying computer science so I am a bit of geek I guess," I told her. "What are you into?"

"Music and art," she replied.

"Very artistic and creative then, and comfortable enough with yourself to approach a total stranger," I noted.

"I'm smart enough to know that just about any guy sitting alone wouldn't mind talking to a decent looking girl if she came up to him," she said. "You, on the other hand, are something of a conundrum. You're good looking enough to be popular and be a part of a group, but here you sit all alone, working on math homework not due for a week."

"And this bothered you enough that you just had to come over and discover all my secrets?" I asked.

"Like I said, I'm curious," she responded. "So, tell me why do you sit alone just about every day in here?"

"I'm used to being alone, I don't have a problem sitting by myself," I told her. "It lets me get my work done, leaving me time for my other activities."

"So what are you into besides math and computers?" she asked.

"I play a bit of hockey," I told her.

"A computer nerd that plays sports, is that even allowed?" she teased.

"I'm a bit of an enigma, aren't I?" I asked.

"Very much so, I'm intrigued," she admitted. "I would think as a computer nerd, your interaction with women would be rare, but you seem to be perfectly at ease with me sitting here. That leads me to think that you've been around a few gorgeous women in your day or that you're actually gay. Sorry, didn't mean to make that rhyme."

"And which do you think is the right answer?" I asked.

She looked at me for a few seconds and replied, "I don't think you're gay, so it must be the other one. If that's the case, why aren't they around you now?"

"Maybe I've just been waiting for one to come sit across from me," I suggested. "And look what my patience has brought me."

She blushed a bit and shook her head before saying, "I don't think so, you probably have a girlfriend and that's why you don't feel the need to try and impress me right now."

"You're very good at reading people, which I find surprising for an artist," I told her. "While I'm currently single, I do have a gaggle of women who seem to think they need to look after my life. All of which are as beautiful as you are."

A quick look of disappointment crossed her face and disappeared just as quickly as she heard the last statement. A smile appeared on her face and she looked radiant.

"Wow, that smile is a potent weapon," I told her.

"Every girl likes to hear she's beautiful from a guy," she told me. "So why are you single if you have a bevy of beauties looking after you? Are they friends with benefits?"

"Nope, it's just a very complicated situation," I answered. "And I'm sure that you sitting down today has made it even more complicated."

"Oh? And why is that?" she asked.

"I have no doubt that they either know about it already or will before I see them in a couple of hours," I explained.

"Really?" she asked.

"Really really," I said with a smirk.

"So I should leave now before I get you in trouble," she stated.

"Too late for that," I responded. "You might save yourself, but probably not; they're very good at finding things out."

"But you know nothing about me, how could they find me?" she asked, looking around.

"They have their ways," I said. "One of three things will happen."

She waited for a few seconds and then asked, "Well, what are the three things?"

"One, I never see you again, not even in passing," I started, "or two, you become part of their group."

"And the third thing?" she asked.

"You become my girlfriend," I said.

"What? It's either no contact, join them or become your girlfriend?" she asked in amazement. "Of all the arrogant, pompous things I've heard from a guy, that takes the cake."

"Hey, it's not from me, it's what you and they will do," I told her. "I may be interested in getting to know you better, but you'll either say screw it or be curious to see what happens. If you're curious, then you'll have to deal with them and they are part of my life right now. If they like you then you get to hang out with them and me."

"So how does someone become your girlfriend then?" she asked.

"Frankly, I'm not sure anymore," I admitted. "If you find out, let me know."

"You're definitely weirder than I ever imagined," she said. "I think I'll pass on getting to know you any better."

"Too late, they're here," I replied as I looked behind her to see the quartet and Emma bearing down on us.

She saw me looking over her shoulder and turned to see them almost there.

"You weren't shitting me, were you?" she said as she looked back at me.

"Nope," was all I had time to say before they arrived.

Mitsy and Emma sat on either side of me while Casey and Barb sat on either side of her. Asuka took her customary spot beside Mitsy.

"Michael, who's your friend?" Mitsy asked.

"I actually don't know her name," I admitted. "And I think she was just about to leave."

"Nonsense, we just got here," Casey responded. "We haven't had a chance to get to know her yet. Hi, I'm Casey and that's Barb sitting beside you. Asuka is on the end, Mitsy is beside Mike and you probably recognize Emma Watson. That just leaves you."

"I'm Gwendolyn," she said. "I'm sorry if I encroached on your territory ladies, I think I'll be going now."

"No need to leave Gwendolyn, none of us own Michael, we just look out for him," Mitsy stated. "That is a beautiful name for a very beautiful lady. I can see why Michael likes you."

"I just met her fifteen minutes ago ladies," I reminded them. "Unless she's a very good actress, I don't think she knows who I am."

"Unless she's been hiding under a rock, of course she knows who you are Michael," Barb replied sarcastically.

They all looked at her and she looked between Emma and myself and her mouth opened in shock.

"You're Michael Stewart, the guy who saved her from the acid, right?" Gwendolyn said. "You play hockey for the university and model for Calvin Klein!"

"And you didn't know that before now?" Emma asked, looking doubtful.

"He was just sitting here all alone, eating and working on his math at the same time," she said. "I was just curious about him. I never made the connection, I swear."

"You couldn't even take a minute to eat your lunch before doing your assignment?" Mitsy asked me, looking a bit disgusted.

I just grinned and ate another fry before packing up my books. I knew I wouldn't be doing any more homework in the next half hour.

"Well, I better get going, it's been, um, interesting to meet you all," Gwendolyn said as she started to stand up.

"Gwen, why don't you wait a bit, Michael needs to go to class soon but we can stay and get to know each other better," Emma suggested. "Do I detect a bit of the Welsh in you?"

"My grandparents came from Wales," Gwen admitted.

"Well, we have some things in common then," Emma said with a smile before looking at me. "Shouldn't you be getting off to class Michael?"

"See what I mean?" I asked Gwen with a grin. "They know that I have half an hour to get to my next class and only need a couple minutes to walk there. I'm sorry but they'll know your innermost secrets before the hour is up. Ladies, what are the odds that I'll see Gwendolyn again?"

"Oh, I'd say seventy percent right now, if she's been honest with us," Emma stated. "Do you want to see her again?"

"I think I'll leave that question unanswered so you're not biased against her," I said, getting up and shouldering my backpack. "I'll see you ladies at the arena and I'll just say it's been interesting meeting you Gwendolyn."

A chorus of 'Bye Michael' followed as I walked away, taking my tray with me to the recycling area. I disposed of my trash and looked back to see them all looking at me, including Gwen. She had a slightly desperate look on her face as she watched me abandoning her to her fate. I smiled at them all and turned to the exit.

I worked on my assignment in the philosophy classroom until the lecture started and then tried to stay awake through the lecture on another philosopher's viewpoint. After class, I walked quickly to the arena and found Gwen sitting with Emma, Asuka and Barb, who usually didn't make it to my practices. Gwen seemed to be in a good mood, talking to Emma and Barb, who in turn seemed to be getting along with the equally pretty girl.

I moved through the door and four sets of eyes locked on me as I made my way to where they were sitting.

"Hello ladies, I see we have two new members to the observation crew," I said as I got near enough to speak without shouting.

"Hi Michael, Gwen and Barb decided to come see what all the fuss was about, seeing that three of our group seem to congregate here," Emma replied.

"So you've already coerced her into joining your group?" I asked with a grin.

"Coerced is such a strong word, it was more advised her of the benefits of membership," Barb replied with an innocent smile.

I looked at Gwen to see her smiling back at me. I arched an eyebrow and she grinned at me.

"They were very nice and not at all like you portrayed them to be," Gwen said. "You had me half scared to death that they were going to take me to the back alley and leave me in a dumpster. We had a nice talk and they convinced me to at least come see you practice and maybe hang out with everyone afterwards."

"Well you got lucky, the last girl they didn't like still hasn't been found, let alone the last few guys that bothered any of them," I said. "Mitsy is a holy terror when she gets mad."

"Oh, I thought it was Asuka I had to worry about," Gwen said.

"Asuka's pretty tough, but short stuff is the one we're all scared of," I said, shuddering to make my point. "She's utterly vicious. Did they tell you what happened Monday night?"

She shook her head and looked at the others who nodded back at her.

"What happened?" Gwen asked.

"Four Japanese gang members came over to our table at the restaurant to bother the girls and she got right up in their leader's face, telling him off in Japanese," I explained. "She had them in the back room for punishment just like that and then sent back to Japan for further discipline. They looked like scared little kids when they left."

Barb hid her face with her hand so she wouldn't laugh while Emma and Asuka both nodded solemnly when Gwen turned to make sure I wasn't giving her a line.

"She was so sweet and friendly, it's hard to believe," Gwen said, looking down where Mitsy was skating.

Mitsy saw us looking at her and waved with a big smile. We waved back and I nearly broke out in laughter at my own joke.

"Ok, you ladies have fun up here while I go work out before practice," I said, standing up.

Gwen had a worried look on her face so I said, "Just stay close to Emma; not even Mitsy can make her disappear. You like her movies right? You saw them all?"

"I did, she was great in them," Gwen said, looking at Emma quickly.

"Michael, don't scare Gwen like that, I'm not a big meany," Emma chastised me. "I wouldn't give her to Mitsy just because she didn't see all my movies."

"Well there you go, I'm sure you'll be fine," I told Gwen. "I'll see you soon."

I walked over to the tunnel and jumped down over the glass. I snuck a peak at the girls and Gwen was being reassured by Emma and Barb, while Asuka actually winked at me. I grinned and went down the tunnel.

After changing into sweats, I did a full workout, upping the weights to about seventy five percent of what I was up to before the attack. I didn't have too much trouble with it and felt better than I had since the accident. After a quick shower, I met the girls coming off the ice and they all were in good moods.

"I like her, Michael," Mitsy said. "We all do."

"That's nice, she seems like a pleasant girl," I replied.

"I think we'll take her out with us for dinner," Mitsy told me. "Emma thinks she'll be good for you when she leaves."

"So what's the deal with sleeping with Emma last night?" Casey asked.

"You should be mad at her, she's the one who came into my bedroom," I told her. "I was the one wronged, not her."

"You're the big strong man here; I'm sure you could have carried her back to her bed quite easily," Casey said, folding her arms under her breasts.

"Like you would have kicked out Johnny Depp if he came into your bed on his own," I retorted. "Nothing happened so go be angry with her if you must."

"Well, I'm getting my turn with you soon enough," she said. "We all want one. If you're nice, we'll let Gwen have a turn as well."

"As you know I just met her so let's leave her out of things for a while," I said. "I'm surprised you invited her along; the five of you are aren't exactly welcoming of other women."

"I like her and she brings something new to the group," Casey replied.

"Oh? What may that be?" I asked.

"You'll have to wait till later to find out," she said with a grin.

The left me there looking after them as they walked down the tunnel. They were both wearing tights and short sweaters that showed off their wonderful derrieres. They turned and grinned at me, knowing full well I had been staring at them. I grinned back and watched them until they turned the corner.

I did some stretching while waiting for the ice to be cleaned and then helped set up the nets. The team joined me soon after I had started skating some laps and some of them commented on the girls up in the stands. I let them speculate on their own and tried not to react when their comments went on the wrong side of appropriateness.

The practice was strictly to work on set plays and then we had a longer scrimmage than usual. A couple of the guys were playing for a spot in the game this weekend so it got pretty intense in the battles for the pucks along the boards and in the corners. I got hit a few times even though I wore the red no-hit jersey. One hit put my leg into the boards but it didn't hurt, much. I did take the opportunity to hit the guy a minute later and put him on his ass before I took the puck and passed it to a streaking forward.

Other than that one incident, nothing major happened in terms of hits on me. I did get a few shots from the point that had both my forwards and their defencemen moving out of the way quickly. I also intercepted a pass to a forward that let me race their defenceman to their net. He took the wrong angle and I had a small breakaway on Bob, the back-up goalie. One quick fake to his glove side and I moved over to the left and buried the puck in the top of the net using a backhand shot over his stick side arm.

The coaches called it a day soon after and I looked up to see the girls still there. Mitsy and Gwen didn't look too pleased but the others all waved at me. I had a quick shower and joined them in the lobby. Mitsy looked mad but I was looking at Gwen. She towered over the other girls at probably six feet tall but she was still slim and sexy.

The others were all grinning when they saw me looking at her as I approached. Gwen herself was trying to look mad but then looked worried as I moved to stand in front of her.

"This is a pleasant surprise, I would never have guessed you were so tall Gwendolyn," I said with a big smile.

"You're the first guy that liked my height in a long time," she said, smiling back. "I definitely won't feel awkward standing next to you."

"Damn, it's all over but the crying," Barb said ruefully. "We haven't got a shot at him now."

The others all laughed at her and Gwen blushed as I grinned at Barb's comments.

"All of you deserve someone so much better than me, so pity the girl who ends up with me instead of envying her," I said. "And you, my dear, should run away as fast as you can before they get their claws sunk into you."

"I'm very tempted to after the trick you played on me before practice," Gwen replied, trying to scowl at me but not really pulling it off. "You had me almost peeing my pants when Mitsy came up to sit beside me."

"She's just fooling you with her kindness so she can find out all your secrets," I fake whispered.

I got a jab in the side for my troubles.

"Michael Stewart, how could you possible scare her like that?" Mitsy said as I looked down at her. "I'm a holy terror and utterly vicious?"

"Well, you did take down those four Yakuza members all by yourself," I defended my comments.

"You saved me from getting hit doofus, just like you saved me from that guy in the parking lot and Barb and Melanie from the CK guy and Emma from the acid," she said. "And don't forget the fights you had on the ice. So who's the holy terror around here Mister?"

"It's still her," I whispered to Gwen. "I think she just broke a rib."

Gwen tried not to smile but she lost the fight and her face lit up as she laughed.

"Wow, that smile is something else," Barb said. "Maybe we need to keep her for ourselves."

Gwen look puzzled for a couple seconds and then blushed when she caught on.

"Don't worry, we're all into guys," Casey assured her as she gave her a quick hug. "It's just sometimes we help each other out when the only guy we want won't take care of our needs. I don't think you'll have any problem getting him to take care of you, especially if you keep smiling at him like that."

"Some of the girls in the dorms are like that, but my roommate has a boyfriend now," Gwen said and then blushed again when she realized that she had given away more than she wanted to.

"This isn't exactly the right venue for this topic," Emma interjected. "Why don't we head to dinner?"

"Excellent idea," I responded. "I'm starving."

"You're always starving," Mitsy replied dryly. "We're going to let the two of you have a nice dinner alone so you can get to know each other better. You have reservations at my family's restaurant in twenty minutes."

"No, you have to come with us," Gwen insisted. "I wasn't looking for a boyfriend today, I was just being friendly. All of you have more right to be with him, Mitsy or Emma for sure. I think I'm going to head back to the dorms now."

I felt my smile leave my face and my stomach lurch after I heard that from her. The girls quickly had me pushed aside and pulled her to a nearby bench. Asuka led me over to another bench where we watched as the other four took turns talking to Gwen.

"She is a very kind person, and somewhat naive for her age," Asuka told me. "She's only had a few dates and one encounter with a boy, at her senior prom. I think you will find that she is very talented in what she does and probably lives a bit in her own little world. You'll have to be patient and careful with her Michael."

"Of course, I'm patient and careful with every woman I know," I replied. "Maybe it's best that we let her go and don't bring her into our world."

"It might be for the best but you know those four," Asuka said. "I'm sure they think they know best."

"You got that right," I agreed. "While I have you alone, I have an issue that you might be able to help me with."

"Of course I'll help, what is it?" she asked.

I explained Professor Hiller's problem with her colleague while we watched the four of them try to convince Gwen to stay.

"I should be able to convince him to leave your professor alone," Asuka said after hearing the story. "It will be done by Friday."

"You don't have to do anything, I just wanted some suggestion on how to handle it," I responded. "I don't want you to think that I came to you to use you and your talents."

She smiled and said, "Michael, you could never use me, I'm happy to be of help in this trivial matter."

"I really appreciate this, please let me know what I can do for you," I said with a smile.

"I owe you for helping out with Mitsy, so don't worry about it," Asuka replied. "Now we should rescue the poor girl and escort her to her dorm. She isn't looking any more convinced than when they started. She'll have to be a long term project for you."

I looked up to see Gwen looking unhappy so I stood up and walked over to them.

"Ladies, I think we need to give Gwen some time and space to think things over," I stated. "Maybe we can have lunch once and a while and get to know each other better before we see if we have anything in common except for our height."

She gave me a relieved look and nodded quickly.

"Ok, why don't we drop you off at your dorm before we head to dinner?" I asked as I held my hand to pull her up.

"Thanks Mike," she said as she took it and stood up.

"No problem," I said. "These wonderful ladies mean well but sometimes come on a bit strong. If nothing else comes of this, at least you know you have some potential new friends if you want."

"I could use some friends," she admitted, looking around at everyone.

"Of course we're friends now," Barb spoke up. "But we're sorry if we pushed too hard. We'll back off and let you take some time to think things through. You can call us anytime if you want to talk or get together."

"I appreciate that and I'll be in touch soon," Gwen promised.

I led the way out of the arena and Mitsy had to sit on Gwen's lap to fit them all in. Everyone insisted on walking Gwen to her building and they exchanged contact information with her before they all gave her a hug before looking at me. I stuck my tongue out at them before moving in front of her.

"You know where to find me if you ever need to talk," I told her. "If you don't want to be part of this wacky group I would completely understand and I'll just say that it's been a pleasure meeting you Gwendolyn. If you do want to see any of us, for any reason, then give them a call or I'll see you at lunch."

"It's been an interesting day to say the least, but I definitely want to take it slow," Gwen replied. "I'll come see you next week to talk."

"I understand completely," I said. "You have a good night."

She smiled at all of us before heading into the building.

I turned and led the way back to the SUV.

"Michael, why did you stop us from trying to convince her to come with us?" Mitsy asked as we got in.

"We saw that Gwen was getting upset so I decided that we need let her have some time to see how she feels before we put too much pressure on her," I responded.

"I agree about Gwen, she wasn't happy at the arena at the end but I think she'll want some friends," Casey agreed.

"So, I need to go and let Daphne in so we have to swing over to the condo before we go out to eat," I said as we got rolling.

I parked in front of the building and left them in the vehicle while I walked into the lobby where Daphne was waiting with a bucket of supplies and a smile on her face.

"Hi Daphne, you look in a good mood tonight," I said to her as I opened the inner lobby door and let her in.

"I had a good day, got a science test back and aced it," she replied with a grin.

"Good for you," I praised her as we got in the elevator. "Keep it up and you might get a scholarship to help you out."

"I hope so, I could use all the help I can get," she replied. "So, is Emma still here?"

"Yes, but she's waiting out in the SUV, so I'm going to just let you in and head back down if that's ok," I told her.

"That's fine, I'll let myself out and walk down to the next floor to catch the elevator if you're not back in time," she responded.

"Good, but let me pay you now just in case," I said as I pulled out my wallet.

I handed her a few bills folded up and when she went to open them up said, "Don't you know it's impolite to count money that someone gives you? Just put it away in your pocket."

She looked at me for a few seconds and then gave me a smile and slipped it into her front pocket of her snug jeans. She moved up close and rose up on her tippy-toes and gave me a soft kiss on my lips before lowering herself down.

"You are a very sweet and kind man, Mike," she said softly. "If you didn't have so many women already, I would love to throw my hat into the ring."

"If I didn't have them, I wouldn't wait until the hat left your head," I told her. "But you deserve someone who can be there for you and I'm not that guy right now. So, we'll keep this semi-professional ok?"

"Ok, but I want a promise that you look me up if you ever become unattached," she said. "After all, I've already cooked, cleaned and done your laundry for you. I'm willing to take care of the rest of you. And I know you like what you see and will love what's left to be seen."

She stepped back and sashayed down the hall, her very cute bum holding my attention. I followed her a few steps behind and had to react quickly when she stopped suddenly. I looked up to see her grin and gave her one back. I moved around her and opened the door and turned off the alarm.

"Ok, go have fun with your ladies and I'll have this place looking good as new by the time you get back," she said. "I'll see you Monday evening if I get done before you get back."

"Ok Daphne, thanks for all of your help," I replied. "I'll see you later."

I left her to it and rode the elevator down, thinking about her offer. She was really cute and had a great body but it wasn't going to happen in the near future.

I was still thinking about her fantastic butt when the doors opened in the lobby and I made my way over to the SUV. I got into the vehicle and found the five women sitting quietly.

"Where would you like to go for dinner?" I asked, turning around to look at them in the back.

Mitsy spoke up, "I got us a private room at our restaurant so we can talk."

"Ok," I acknowledged before starting up the car and pulling out of the parking spot.

The trip to the restaurant was very quiet and no one gave any hint of how they were feeling. I let them out at the front door when we arrived and then parked in the back. The girls had disappeared when I got into the wonderful lobby but the hostess led me to the back and I entered after taking off my shoes. The girls had been talking amongst themselves but stopped when I entered.

"You guys are going to give me a complex if you keep giving me the silent treatment," I said. "What's going on?"

"Come and sit down first, we can't be shouting across the room like children," Mitsy instructed.

I moved to the one end farthest away from them and started to sit down.

"Michael, we're not going to bite, come sit on this side of the table," Barb said, clearly exasperated.

I grinned sheepishly and moved to the other end of the table and sat down, with Emma and Barb sitting at either side of me.

"Good, now let's order our food before we get into it," Mitsy suggested and pulled a thick rope hanging from the ceiling. "I'm going to order a bunch of stuff for appetizers and Asuka and I can help you order your main course."

A hostess came in and Mitsy had a conversation in Japanese with her. The hostess left, leaving behind small menus for each of us. Mitsy helped Casey and Barb while Asuka first helped Emma and then came to me.

"Michael, for you I suggest a medium steak with steamed vegetables and noodles as a side dish," she said. "It will provide you with protein and healthy vegetables."

"That sounds good to me," I told her with a smile.

She smiled back and went back to her seat at the end of the row facing the door, but still beside Mitsy.

"So Asuka told us about you wanting to help out Professor Hiller with her stalker problem," Mitsy opened up the conversation.

"Yes, she helped me out a lot with both math exams so I wanted to return the favour," I explained.

"Helping with homework isn't quite the same as dealing with a stalker," Barb stated.

"And?" I asked.

"We're worried that you're getting involved with your professor, which is a big no-no," Casey replied.

"That's why I wasn't going to be doing anything myself," I told them. "Asuka volunteered to take care of it and you know she won't be caught or traced back to me."

"Why do think you have to help her? She's a professor, she should be able to deal with it through the department," Emma asked.

"She's the low woman in an all men department so no one is listening to her," I explained. "Listen, I thought you ladies would be supportive of helping a fellow young woman before something bad happens."

"I don't like that you asked Asuka to do this for you," Mitsy said.

"I asked her for suggestions, not for her to do it," I corrected her. "She volunteered to take care of it."

Asuka said something to Mitsy in Japanese and the two of them had a spirited conversation for almost a minute. I didn't like them fighting about it so I spoke up.

"Hey you two, stop fighting about this," I told them. "If this is such a contentious issue, then I won't have Asuka do anything about it and I'll handle it another way."

"How?" Mitsy asked angrily.

"It's none of your business anymore," I told her.

Everyone was quiet after that for over a minute and a couple of the girls jumped when the door slid open and two waitresses and a waiter came in with trays of food. They weren't as friendly as usual, in fact the two women looks very nervous. I kept my eye on the guy as he moved around the table and behind Asuka and Mitsy, who were still both looking at each other angrily.

He nodded slightly to one of the waitresses and she dumped her tray of appetizers onto Casey's lap, an obvious distraction ploy. I threw the plate I had in my hand at his face when I saw him pulling a knife from his waiter's short waist jacket. I followed the plate as it smashed into his face, surprising him so much that he let the tray of food go, hitting Mitsy and Asuka. I was on him a second later, smashing his face with a punch as I grabbed the wrist of the hand with the knife. I smashed the hand against the wall and the knife went flying as I held him up by the neck with the other hand. I slammed him into the wall, avoided a punch and then hit him again in the jaw. I felt something give and he slumped back against the wall, his eyes rolling up into his head. I let him go and he crumbled to the ground.

I turned around to find the two waitresses standing away from the table and the others looking at me in shock.

"Michael, what did you do?" Mitsy asked, getting up to look at the guy.

"Stay back, he was going to stab one of you, he had the knife in his hand and nodded at that one before she dumped her tray," I said, looking hard at the girl who started to cry and fell to the ground.

Asuka got up and retrieved the knife and then bent over the man.

"Yakuza," she spat out, showing us his tattooed arm.

Mitsy got up and pulled a different cord in the corner before starting to question the two waitresses. Asuka had the man's hands and feet tied up and had moved over beside Mitsy when two burly men entered the room with guns drawn.

Mitsy stood up and had a short conversation with them, pointing to the man and the two women. She pointed at me and must have explained what had happened because they both nodded to me before moving to collect the man from the floor. One of them spoke harshly to the two waitresses and the one on the floor got up and then led the way out of the room.

"Mitsy, don't take this the wrong way, but I don't think I want to eat at your restaurant anymore," I said with a grin.

There was relieved laughter from the other Caucasians in the room.

"So because we were arguing, you had to save our lives again," Mitsy said, looking miserable. "Asuka and I aren't safe in our own restaurant and you were all put in danger again. I am so ashamed that this has happened."

"Well, I need to go get cleaned up but I'm not going anywhere that Michael isn't at," Casey said.

"I will call my family and get us more protection," Mitsy said as she pulled out her phone.

Barb and Emma helped Casey get most of the food off of her clothes and used some water and napkins to clean her up. Asuka stood between the door and the rest of us and she had two knifes in her hand. I moved to stand beside her and she looked up at me with haunted eyes.

"Hey, don't beat yourself up about it, the two of you were distracted," I told her.

"I've failed her twice now," she said. "We would both be dead if it wasn't for you."

"Five minutes before or after, you would have handled it without breaking a sweat," I said. "It's my fault for getting you involved in the first place. I'll tell her family what happened and I won't let anything happen to you. This was my fault, not yours."

"Michael, you are sweet to say that, but even you can't save me now," she said. "They won't let me near her again."

"If that happens, you're just have to become my bodyguard then, but if you think Mitsy will allow that, you're nuts," I told her.

Mitsy hung up the phone and came over to us.

"My father will be here shortly, he is increasing security for the rest of the family as we speak," she informed us. "He is furious of course but sends his thanks. He told us to stay in the room until he gets here."

"Ok, now before he gets here, you talk to Asuka and calm her down," I replied. "I'll not have her sent away, it was my fault she was distracted."

"She won't be going anywhere, you have my word Michael, we owe you that much," she told me.

I sat down facing the door and the girls helped Mitsy and Asuka get some of the food off of them. We waited for about fifteen minutes until Mitsy's phone rang. She answered and had a twenty second conversation in Japanese before hanging up.

"My father is here, he's coming in now and just wanted to warn us before he did so we didn't overreact," she announced. "Asuka, please don't kill my father."

Asuka almost cracked a smile as she nodded but kept her eye on the door and her knives in her hands as I stood up beside her. The door slid open slowly and her father came in first and looked around before nodding to Asuka and I.

"It's ok, I have ten men in the restaurant and another ten outside," he said.

Asuka nodded and made her knifes disappear without me ever finding out where she hid them. Her father nodded out the door and two men turned and stood just outside the door as he closed it.

"Ladies, again I must apologize to you for the ruining your dining experience in our restaurant," he said as he stepped closer to the ladies. "Our security has failed twice in three days and I have no idea on how to make it up to you."

"You can start by letting us go to the bathroom," Casey said. "But I want Michael to check out the room and then stand guard while we're in there."

"Certainly, and I can't fault you on your choice of bodyguard," Mr. Matsuda said. "Before we do that, we need to talk. Please, all of you; sit down."

We moved to the table and sat down.

"Mitsy's grandfather and I are very concerned for your safety after this attack," he stated. "Mitsy and Asuka will need to come home where we can protect them better until we can determine who is after them. Miss Watson, I think it would be best if you cut your visit short and head back to England early. You can always come back again when it's deemed safe. Barb and Casey, you can either come with Mitsy and Asuka or we can try and get you protection at school. Mike, I know you won't miss school or hockey, so we'll get you protection."

"Why can't we stay in school and have protection as well?" Mitsy asked.

"We know you're the target and I don't think you want someone hurt at school if they come for you there," her father answered.

"How long are we talking about?" Barb asked.

"I don't know, I suspect at least a week," he replied. "It could be much longer but we'll work with the school to make sure that you don't lose the year."

"How much danger could we be in?" Casey asked.

"You're not the target obviously, but they might try to get at us through you and we don't want that to happen," he said. "You are important to Mitsy and Asuka so we want to keep you both safe. We're also making sure that Barb's sister is protected as well as the rest of our employees and extended family."

"Are we better off going home?" Casey asked.

"Short term no, but maybe if it goes on longer," Mr. Matsuda admitted.

Barb and Casey looked at each other for a few seconds and then at me and the two other girls.

"What do you think?" Barb asked me.

"Mr. Matsuda is the expert, as is Asuka," I told her. "If he says you're in danger, I believe him. So I suggest you either go with them or at least accept some protection. You can do your homework there to keep up with school."

"What about you?" Casey asked. "Won't you be in danger?"

"Maybe, but I can't miss anymore time or games so I'm going to stick around," I told her. "I can protect myself somewhat but you two can't."

"Well I'm convinced," Barb said. "I'm going with Mitsy and Asuka."

"I guess I have no choice, I'll go too," Casey finally agreed.

"Good, we'll go to the condo and your dorm rooms to get everything you might need," Mr. Matsuda responded. "Let's get you to the bathroom and then we'll go.

He moved to the door and slid it open before speaking to the men outside. They nodded and started forward to provide an escort. I nodded to Asuka to take the lead and then the girls to follow her. I took up the rear with Mr. Matsuda beside me. When we got there, I told Asuka to clear out any women in there before I took a quick look in each stall. I let the ladies in and then stood in front of the door with my hands in my pockets.

"Michael, you have saved both Mitsy and Asuka today and again I find myself deeply in your debt," Mitsy's father said. "I thank you for your quick actions and I want you to know that if you need anything just ask."

"You're very welcome Mr. Matsuda, and I appreciate the offer," I replied.

I stiffened and took my hands out of my pockets as a Japanese man came towards us.

"It's ok, he's one of mine," he told me.

They had a brief conversation and then the man walked away after handing over a small item.

"Someone put a tracker on your vehicle," Mr. Matsuda said, showing me the small box. "I'm going to send you and Emma home in a limo with a security team and get her an airline ticket for tomorrow morning. I'll make sure she has protection until she's in her house back in London."

"I appreciate that," I responded.

"I'll have your vehicle checked out and it will either be back in your parking spot in the morning or your security team will have a car to drive you to the arena," he continued.

"Ok, I leave by six in the morning, so you'll have to call Emma's cell when you're ready for her," I told him. "Call either of us tonight with her flight information and when you want to pick her up. Other than that, I need to know who you're going to assign to me tonight and for school so I know who to expect."

"Ok, I'll introduce you to them before we leave," he agreed. "I'll let you know about Miss Watson's travel arrangements before ten pm."

The girls came out behind us as cleaned up as they were going to get and we went back to the room for a minute. Mr. Matsuda got on the phone and a few minutes later, a man and woman came in.

"Michael, this is Kuro and Ren," Mr. Matsuda introduced the tough looking thirty something man and the slim but capable looking, middle twenties woman. "They will be your security detail while you're at school. I will introduce you to the two men who will be standing guard at the condo door in the evenings once we get in the limo."

"It's nice to meet you both," I said, shaking their hands. "I'm hoping we won't have an issue, especially at school, but it's nice to know I have back-up if needed."

"Michael San, it is our honour to protect you," Kuro said as he have me a short bow. "You have saved Miss Mitsuko Matsuda three times so we are all indebted to you. We will be outside your door at ten to six tomorrow morning."

"I'll see you then," I agreed.

"Ok, let's get going," Mr. Matsuda suggested before he led the way out of the room.

His security team fell in around us and we grabbed our coats from the checkroom before leaving the restaurant and piling into the limo.

Mr. Matsuda spoke up, "We'll send four female guards with you when you go into the dorms. Stick together and move quickly. Don't tell anyone where you're going or what is happening. Michael and Miss Watson will stay in the car but we'll send additional guards to escort you to and from the building."

The girls nodded but kept quiet.

"After we're done there, most of the team will go up to the condo with the girls while a few will escort Michael and Miss Watson up to the top floor and check out his condo before they enter," he continued. "Once the all clear is established, we'll leave a two man team at their door and another team on the roof. In the meantime, the girls will be escorted down and back into the limo. Are there any questions?"

There were none so he added, "Ok, you should say your goodbyes now as we won't have time once we hit the Condominium building."

The quartet first hugged Emma and then me and we wished each other good luck. We couldn't say too much with Mr. Matsuda watching.

"Now this is important, you need to hand over all of your phones, we're sure that they are tracking you with them," he instructed us. "We will give you new phones tomorrow that will be far better than the ones you currently have and they will be untraceable. We will make sure that all the information on your current phones gets transferred to your new ones."

Reluctantly we all passed them over to him, including Emma when he looked at her.

"For the next few days, be very careful about what you tell anyone," he warned us. "Don't tell anyone what is happening, where anyone is or the security arrangements. They will be trying to find out where everyone is and how they are protected, so keep it to yourselves."

The visit to the dorm rooms went like clockwork and the girls had their stuff in the limo in less than fifteen minutes. Emma and I were pretty quiet while we waited as Mr. Matsuda was still in the back with us. He was on the phone a lot but conducted his business in Japanese.

After the girls were back, we drove over to the condo and parked in the basement parking lot, right next to the elevator. We walked the girls to their condo and gave them another hug before Emma and I, and our security teams, used the stairs to go up to my condo.

"Before we go in, there might be a girl who cleans my condo still there," I told them. "Either way, the security alarm won't be active. Her name is Daphne and she's still in high school so take it easy if you see her."

Kuro nodded and opened the door with my key. Ren followed and then I did, but we left Emma with the two men on door detail.

We found Daphne dancing to music from her IPod in the laundry room and almost gave her a heart attack.

"God Mike, you almost made me pee my pants," she said when she took the headphones out of her ears.

"Sorry we scared you Daphne, we just had an incident and needed to check out the place," I told her. "Anything happen here?"

"Nope, it's been quiet," she replied.

"Ok, Ren is going to escort you down to the lobby and to your car now. Don't worry about the rest. I'll call you if I need you Monday ok?"

"Okay, I guess, is everything ok?" she asked as we walked to the door.

"Yep, just being cautious," I replied as I pulled out my wallet.

"Mike you paid me already," she reminded me.

"I know, this is for next week in case I can't let you in," I told her, handing her a few hundred.

"If you don't need me you don't pay me silly," she said, trying to hand it back.

"Daphne, take the money and don't tell a soul about this or that you even know me," I told her. "I'll explain later if I can, but promise me you'll keep it a secret."

"Ok Mike, no one knows a thing and no one ever will," she said. "But I don't want to take your money as charity."

"Daphne, you need it much more than I do and I don't know when I'll see you again," I told her. "Just take that for now and hopefully we can talk soon."

"Alright, but this is a loan only," she said as she put it away. "You take care of yourself Mike; I want to see you again and soon."

"I'll try, you take care and keep up the good grades," I told her.

I gave Ren my key to the elevator and they left the condo.

"You like her, don't you?" Emma stated.

"Sure, she's a good kid, hard working and determined to make it on her own," I replied. "She'll go far in life with just a little bit of help. I make way too much money for just having my picture taken, so if I can help someone like her why not?"

"That she's a real cutie had nothing to do with your generosity?" she asked with a grin.

"She's cute? I didn't really notice," I said with an innocent face. "She's too young for me to be even looking at."

"Rubbish, she's only a year younger than you at most," Emma replied.

"In age maybe, but not in experience," I replied. "I'm not bringing her into all this. I'll help her get into a good school from afar."

She sighed and replied, "You're right, you seem to attract trouble like a moth to a flame. At least you seem to be able to handle it better than most which is good for the people around you."

"I don't attract trouble, the people around me do," I corrected her. "Anyway, I'm sorry that you got involved in this and you have to cut short your visit. We were just starting to get to know each other better."

"I'm sorry too, I've enjoyed meeting your friends and spending time with you," she responded. "At least we have one more night together before I go back."

"There is that," I agreed with a grin.

"Oh, don't think you're getting any farther than you did last night Mister," she warned me, trying to look stern.

"Of course I'm not thinking that," I replied. "Hoping maybe, but not thinking."

"Dream on, because that's the only place where your hope will be fulfilled," she said with a laugh.

"You're a cruel, cruel woman," I said, shaking my head. "Here I am, losing all my friends again, including you and all you can do is taunt me with spending a night together and then take it away."

She laughed at me and replied, "Not too bad an acting job, but don't give up your day job."

Kuro came up to us and said, "Everything looks fine. We'll leave the two out front and there will be guards on the roof to discourage night time visitors. Ren and I will be waiting with the guards before six for you Michael. Miss Watson, Mr. Matsuda will inform you of your travelling agenda this evening. I suggest you pack tonight as he will want you at the airport early. Any questions?"

"Do the guards need to come in to use the bathroom or get something to drink during the night?" I asked.

"No, they will be relieved mid way through and will not need to come in at all," Kuro replied. "If they do want to come in then something is wrong and you need to call us. Keep the door locked and put the safety rod on when we leave. Call Mr. Matsuda immediately if anything happens."

"Ok, but it will be on the landline which any smart person would disable before attacking," I told him.

"True, I will get you a phone before we leave," he told me.

He pulled out his phone and had a short conversation in Japanese.

When he hung up, he said, "Ren will stop off at the girls' condo and pick up a phone from Mr. Matsuda."

I nodded and he walked to the door and had a discussion with the guards.

"Why don't you start packing now and I'll make us some food when they leave," I suggested.

"I guess I'd better," she replied with a sigh.

I watched as she walked to the hallway and grinned when she caught me looking. She shook her head and disappeared down the hallway.

Ren came back a couple minutes later and handed me a phone.

"This has Kuro's, mine and Mr. Matsuda's phone numbers already programmed in it," she told me. "We will bring a new one with us tomorrow. Mr. Matsuda will call you on this to let Miss Watson know her travel schedule."

"Thank you, Ren," I responded. "I appreciate your help."

"No problem, we're glad to be of some assistance," she replied. "The girls all told me to take good care of you, but not to get attached to you. So no funny business Michael, at least while I'm responsible for your safety."

I grinned and said, "I had no intention of trying any funny business Ren, Kuro looks like he could easily make me regret it if I tried."

"It's not Kuro that you need to worry about, he's not my boyfriend," she informed me. "Besides, I'm much more dangerous than he is, and Asuka is infinitely better than I am. Since she is one of the women who told me not to get attached to you, I'm steering clear of any attachments."

"Fair enough, I have enough women to worry about," I told her.

"Ok, we'll see you in the morning," she said before heading to the door where Kuro was waiting.

I followed and shut and locked the door behind them and then put on the safety rod before heading to the hallway.

"Hey, any requests for dinner?" I asked as I stood in the bedroom doorway.

She looked up from putting some clothes in one of her suitcases.

"No, why don't you surprise me," she replied. "Just do something simple, I don't have much of an appetite anymore."

"Ok, I'll figure something out," I told her. "See you in a few."

She nodded and went back to packing. I watched her for a few seconds and then moved to the kitchen and scoped out the fridge and freezer. I decided just to make a nice Caesar salad and some grilled cheese sandwiches. After getting the first couple of sandwiches started in the frying pan, I washed up the Romaine lettuce and tore it up into bite sized pieces. I got out the croutons and bacon bits and mixed them in along with the dressing. I flipped the sandwiches over and then got the table set.

After another ten minutes, I had three sandwiches grilled for both of us and everything ready on the table. I walked to her room and found her still packing.

"Dinner is ready if you want to take a break," I told her.

"Ok, I'm almost done," she said as she put a dress into the second suitcase.

We walked back to the kitchen and I helped her with her chair.

"Thank you, kind sir," she said.

"You are most welcome Ma'am," I replied as I sat down across from her.

"This looks good," she said. "You're going to make some lucky woman a good husband some day."

"I fake it well," I said. "A salad and grilled cheese is pretty simple to make."

"Hey, don't knock my farewell meal," she retorted. "I'm sure if I was starving you would have made a more elaborate one for me."

"Probably," I admitted.

I had her hold up her bowl as I served her some salad and then held the plate of sandwiches for her to choose a couple. I put one on my plate and filled my salad bowl and we started eating.

"These are good," she said after she had a couple of bites. "They don't taste like the usual ones I've had."

"I use a couple types of cheeses and a small amount of garlic butter on the outside," I told her. "It just jazzes them up a bit."

"Very tasty Michael, you're better than you think," she complimented me. "The salad is good too."

"Thanks," I replied.

We didn't talk too much during the meal, though a couple of times she looked like she was going to say something and then stopped. I wasn't in a great mood because she was leaving and the others were gone, but I tried not to let it show.

When we were done, she helped me with the dishes and then we sat in the living room.

We looked at each other for a bit and she seemed unsure of what to say. She finally decided on her topic and spoke up.

"Michael, I came over here initially to thank you for what you did for us," she started. "I also wanted to get to know you better and let you know that my family wanted to get to know you better by inviting you to some of our family vacations and outings."

"Things didn't go exactly as planned from the beginning, did they?" I asked with a smile.

"No they didn't," she admitted. "I still want you to meet my family and hope you can spend some time with us in the future. But I did get to know you a bit better as well as made friends with Mitsy and the others so that part of the plan went ok."

"I hoped we would have more time together," I told her. "I was surprised by your visit but it was a pleasant surprise. I would have done things differently if I knew our time together was so short."

"Maybe it's for the best," she said. "I think we were both moving slowly to something we both might want, but now might not be the best time for that."

"After tonight's events, I sadly have to agree," I replied. "I don't know how much you really remember about last night, but holding you close like that was one of the highlights of my life so far."

"Damn, I wish I was more awake last night," she said a bit wistfully. "But now all I can think of is the image of you hitting that guy as you held him up by the neck and hearing his jaw break. My brain tells me you had to do it and you saved at least Mitsy and Asuka, but my heart is scared of what you're capable of. My brain knows that you would never hurt me and part of me likes the fact that you can protect me and have done so in the past. But I know I'm going to have nightmares about what you did too."

"I'm sorry that you had to see that happen, most civilized people don't see stuff like that," I replied. "I don't regret what I did however. I think if you are going to have nightmares about it, it's better to see the bad guy hurt than to see the life drain out of Mitsy and Asuka. And if you think he or his masters would have stopped there you're mistaken. We were all witnesses and if he didn't finish us off then someone else would have. Don't forget that he had a very sharp knife that could easily have gone in me as well. I was a bit excessive for five very good reasons. If he got past me then he got to all of you."

She turned a bit white and suddenly got up and ran down the hallway. I followed her and heard her retching in the bathroom. When I got to the open door she was bent over the toilet, throwing up her dinner. I moved to the sink and got a washcloth wet and handed it to her when she stood up.

"Sorry, I shouldn't have scared you like that," I told her. "I didn't want you to think I was an unnecessarily cruel person and now I've made it worse. I'll go get you a drink of water while you clean up."

I turned and left before she could talk, pulling the door closed behind me.

"Idiot," I berated myself as I walked away. "Real smart making her throw up to save face."

I got her a water bottle and left it leaning on the bathroom door before going to my bedroom and shutting the door. I flopped on to the bed and stared up at the ceiling.

It took me a long time to cool down but eventually I closed my eyes and must have drifted off to sleep. The phone ringing in my pocket woke me up. I looked at the clock to see it was close to ten as I pulled out the phone.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Michael, it's Mitsy's father," Mr. Matsuda said. "It sounds like I might have awakened you."

"I was relaxing and must have dozed off," I admitted. "Any news?"

"We're making some progress on finding out who is responsible for this latest attack," he replied. "In regards to your guest, we'll be picking her up at the same time that you leave."

I realized he was being vague on purpose.

"Ok, we'll be ready," I told him.

"Kuro and Ren will be waiting to escort you down," he added. "I'll talk to you tomorrow."

"Good night," I said.

"Good night," he replied before hanging up.

I got up and moved went out to the living room, hoping to find Emma there. She wasn't so I went back to her room and knocked on the closed door. It took her a while to get to the door and she looked like she had been sleeping when she peeked her head out.

"Sorry to wake you, but Mr. Matsuda called and let me know that they would be picking you up the same time as I left for the arena," I told her. "So they will be here at ten to six in the morning."

"Ok, I'll be ready," she replied.

"I'll see you in the morning then," I said. "I'm sorry for what I said earlier that got you upset. It was stupid of me. I'm sure you'll be better off back home."

I went to walk away but she reached out and stopped me.

"Michael, I was the one who was stupid earlier," she corrected me. "I acted like a naive child and I'm sorry to have doubted you. You deserved better, especially from me."

"It wasn't a pleasant evening for any of us," I responded. "Let's try and get past it. I'll wake you about five fifteen if that's ok?"

"That's ok with me," she answered.

"Good night then," I said.

"Good night," she replied.

I walked away and shut my door behind me. I brushed my teeth and got changed before setting the alarm a bit earlier to have a shower. I slipped into bed but couldn't fall asleep for a long time afterwards.

The alarm woke me up at quarter to five and I had a longer than normal shower to try and wake up. I made each of us a hot chocolate and knocked on her door right at quarter after five. It took a minute for her to come answer the door and she still looked half asleep. I handed her the hot chocolate and told her it was time to get up so she could be on time at the airport. She nodded and closed the door behind her. I worried that she would go right back to bed but I heard the shower start up a couple minutes later.

Twenty minutes later she called from her bedroom, "Michael, can you help me with my suitcases please?"

I walked in and found the two on the bedroom and a pair of jeans and a blouse still on the bed. She came up behind me and gave me a hug. I turned and found her in just her bra and tiny panties.

"This is your going away present," she told me as she moved back close and wrapped her arms around my neck.

"This is a very nice present," I said as I rubbed her back.

"Hmmm, it's nice for me too," she agreed as she pulled my head down and gave me a kiss. I returned the kiss and we made out for a few minutes, her hands roaming under my tee shirt while I caressed her ass. She was reaching into my pants when there was a knock on the front door.

"Shit, they're here already," I said, looking at the clock which showed five fifty. "I'll go stall them while you get dressed.

"Ok, but wipe your mouth off and tuck in your shirt," she advised with a grin.

"You're a little minx," I said. "Couldn't you have started earlier?"

She laughed and said, "I want you to be thinking of me from time to time. Enjoy yourself with your models and Gwen but remember I'm coming back in the fall and I expect to be seeing you the first weekend I'm in the country."

"Yes Ma'am," I said as I walked out the room.

I tucked my shirt back in and wiped off her lipstick from my lips before I got to the door. After making sure it was Kuro and Ren, I took off the safety rod and opened the door.

"Sorry about that, got a bit of late start," I told them. "I'll go get Emma's suitcases."

"We are not on a strict timetable so no rush," Kuro told me.

I left them in the foyer and went back to see Emma pulling up her jeans over her sexy ass.

"Damn, now you show me your lovely body, when I can't do anything about it," I complained.

"Anticipation is a wonderful thing," she said with a wicked grin. "I want you to be thinking about me while we're apart."

"Emma, why didn't you act earlier?" I asked as I pulled the suitcases off the bed.

"It's not a good time for either of us to be together, so I waited until now to show you that I am interested and to gauge your interest," she said as she slipped on her blouse. "You keep me in the back of your mind when you're having fun with your models this spring and summer. If you're still interested in August, look me up wherever I've decided to go to school."

"So no visits until then?" I asked as she led the way out of the room.

"That depends on a few things," she answered.

"And they are?"

"If we're either single or attached, how busy we are and..." she said.

"And?"

"How often you keep in touch with me and how convincing you can be that you want me to visit," she answered.

"Fair enough, but it's a two way street," I replied. "I don't fool around with attached women, so nothing happens until you're single. If that means August, then so be it."

"Ok, I can live with that," she agreed. "In the meantime, do have some fun with someone. I'm less possessive than you are; that is until we do get together."

"You're the first girl that has encouraged me to see other women," I told her as we came out to the living room.

She just smiled and said hello to our bodyguards. I grabbed my keys and my backpack after handing off one of the suitcases to the outside door guard. I set the alarm and then locked and shut the door. We all piled into the elevator and made our way down to the parking garage.

There was a limo waiting for us as well as a large SUV. Emma and I were directed to the limo and found Mr. Matsuda inside.

"Good morning, I hope you slept well?" he asked.

"Good morning," Emma responded. "Not too bad thank you, and yourself?"

"I'm afraid I haven't had the chance yet," he admitted. "We've been working on last night's issue. We've traced it back to relatives and friends of those four boys from the Monday night disturbance, so my father and his old friend have been in contact with the head of the clans both in Japan and here in North America to put a stop to the vendetta. We hope to get things resolved in the next few days. The people responsible have gone underground and they need time to reach them."

"I guess that's good news," I said. "You have enough security for Miss Watson?"

"I'm sending her home in our private jet and my most trusted men have gone through it to ensure that it is safe," he ensured me. "They also handpicked the flight crew from long term employees so we know they are loyal. Four of my best will escort all the way to her home in London and hand her off to her parents."

"I appreciate the thoroughness of your preparations, Mr. Matsuda," I told him.

"I would fear for my life from my daughter and her friends if anything happened to Miss Watson," he replied.

"It's good to be liked," Emma said with a grin.

"Ok, we'll drop off Mike and his team and then head to the airport," he told us before he tapped on the window behind him.

The limo driver got us going out to the street where another SUV took the lead and the first one followed. It took us only a couple minutes to make it to the arena.

I turned to Emma and said, "Have a good trip back and call or email when you're safe and sound."

"I will. You play well this weekend and have a good photo shoot in Windsor on Sunday," she replied. "Try and have some fun."

"I will," I agreed. "Thanks for coming to visit and I hope to see you soon."

"I had fun and I'll try to visit when I can," she replied.

I gave her a hug and she added a quick kiss before we parted.

I turned to Mr. Matsuda and said, "Thanks for looking out for us Sir, I appreciate it."

"No problem Michael, it's the least I can do for all you've done for us," he replied.

I hopped out of the car and, with Kuro and Ren in tow, walked up the steps to the lobby doors. I looked back and waved and waited until they drove away before entering the arena.

I showed my security team the ice from the lobby windows and explained the layout of the building, pointing out the exits, the tunnel down to the locker rooms and the stairs to the second floor cafeteria and offices. They followed me to the lower levels and I got dressed in the locker room after Kuro checked it out. Both of them sat in seats near the tunnel while I warmed up on the ice.

I left the red no-hit jersey in the locker room as I felt the need for contact today. After dealing with a knife-wielding Japanese hit man, getting some contact in the corners seemed trivial.

My shots seemed to have eyes this morning as most of them were finding the small slots with a much higher percentage than before. Even my skating seemed effortless for the first time.

The team trickled out onto the ice in their usual fashion and soon we were shooting against the goalies at either end of the ice. I cranked a few shots at both goalies that either got by them or forced them to make a good save.

The coaches came out and we got busy with some drills before they had us running offenses against the scout team. I sat down beside John while we waited for our turn.

"So, how's Emma Watson?" he asked.

"She had to go home this morning," I told him.

"Really?" he asked, looking surprised. "I thought she would want to see you play?"

"Something came up last night and plans got changed," I said, trying to be vague.

"That's too bad," he responded. "So how was she? Was she down to earth or all hoity-toity?"

"She was pretty down to earth actually," I replied. "I liked her."

"You two didn't hook up then?" he asked.

"No, she has a boyfriend back home and we're just getting to know each other," I said.

"Too bad, she's a real cutie," he said.

"Oh, I didn't notice," I replied dryly.

We got on soon after and didn't have much time to talk after that.

After practice as over, I quickly got changed and found my Kuro and Ren waiting for me in the hallway. We decided to walk as finding a much closer parking spot would be problematic at best.

Ren joined me in class while Kuro hung outside the classroom, both in contact via flesh coloured earpieces and hidden mics. Class was long and tedious but eventually finished, much to my relief.

They joined me for lunch and Ren sat beside me and Kuro across from me so they could see both directions over their partner's shoulder.

"Did you get any updates?" I asked.

Kuro looked around before replying, "They've put out the word that the Matsuda's and their relatives and friends are not to be harmed. It's filtered down through the hierarchy in both Japan and in North America, so the particular clan won't get any help. The clan in question has been told to stop all activities against us and again, that should be filtering down to all of its members. It's the families of those men from Monday night that still need to be found and persuaded to drop their vendetta that is what's holding things up."

"How many are we talking about?" I asked.

Ren answered, "Fifteen to twenty men and maybe five women are unaccounted for."

"All Japanese?" I asked.

"Yes, but a couple are only half and could pass themselves off as a slightly exotic Caucasian, so don't just focus on the Japanese people," she advised.

We finished our meals in peace and threw away our trash.

I have about an hour and a half to my next class so I'm going to do some homework," I told them. "Do you want to stay here or find a quieter location?"

"A quieter location would be better," Kura answered.

"Ok, let's head to the library then," I suggested.

I led them to the nearby building and we found an empty work room to use. I got busy finishing up my math assignments while they took turns sitting inside the room or just outside. I moved onto my computer programming assignments as one of them read or used their phone to entertain themselves.

The day progressed normally as I attended my second computer class and then walked with them back to the arena with no issues. I explained to Coach about the temporary security precautions before letting Kuro into the weight room. Ren stayed in the hallway while I worked out.

"You certainly use a lot of weight when you work out," Kuro said after I had done some leg presses.

"I'm trying to get back up to my normal weight after my bout in the hospital," I replied. "There are certainly a lot bigger and stronger guys out there, so I have to keep getting stronger to complete."

"What about your speed and reaction times?" he asked.

"Once I'm back up to my normal weight, I'll just do extra reps instead of increasing much further," I told him. "My training at the dojo works on those items."

"That's right, we have to go there tonight, right?" he asked.

"Yes, for seven," I told him.

I finished up the workout and then had a quick shower and got into my hockey gear. Kuro and Ren sat in the stands again while we worked on our defensive plays and then some special teams. I felt almost back to normal and in fact felt faster on the ice as I was still down about ten pounds.

After a quick supper at a nearby Chinese restaurant, we drove to the dojo and entered through the back door. I used a nearby washroom to change into my sweats that I had stuffed in my backpack from the arena. Both of my escorts joined me in the exercise room.

"Michael, I wasn't sure if you would be joining us after what happened last night," Sensei said as he came in.

"Good evening Sensei, I'm trying to keep a normal schedule but I do have protection," I told him. "This is Kuro and Ren."

They spoke in Japanese for a few minutes and then Kuro leaned near the closed door while Ren removed her outer clothing to reveal a well toned body in a tee shirt and tights.

"Michael, Ren will take the place of Asuka tonight, but I caution both of you to take extra care in your defences until you know your opponent better," Sensei warned. "Let's start with some stretching and forms before we do some light sparring."

He led us through our usual routine and Ren seemed to handle everything almost as easy as Asuka did. After we finished our forms he reminded us to be ready and set us to sparring.

I took his advice to heart and concentrated on defence as Ren started on the offensive. It took me about a minute to realize that I could keep up with her easier than against Asuka and I started to add some counter attacks. I tried a two punch combination against her after I blocked a punch and she barely deflected the second one past her face.

I was still cautious so didn't take advantage of her being off balance and backed up to wait for her to attack. She looked at me funny for a couple seconds and then came in again. I deflected her attack and kicked her in the stomach with a front kick. She needed both hands to protect herself which left her open for a punch. I pulled the punch and just tapped her on the nose before stepping back.

"And stop," Sensei stepped in.

"You're no amateur," Ren said, rubbing her nose. "You could have flattened me with that punch if you wanted to."

"You must remember he's been sparring with Asuka for the past couple of months," Sensei told her, "at almost full speed and full power."

"Why does he need protection then?" she asked.

"He is very new at this, especially against weapons," Sensei replied. "Though Mr. Matsuda was most impressed with the handling of the knife attack last night, as was Asuka."

"Then we should practice with weapons," Kuro said, standing up. "Ren, I'll take over if you don't mind."

She nodded and took up position by the closed door while Sensei brought out the practice knives.

Kuro was very good with a knife. I could tell quickly that I was no match for him, but he spent a good portion of our time showing me how to defend against various strikes, with my knife or without it. He was a very good teacher, patient while not being condescending.

After a break, Ren took over and she taught me more about using a pair of tonfa, which resembled police batons with a handle about three quarters down perpendicular to the long shaft that rests along the forearm and sticks out a few inches from the hands.

In their most simplest form, they could protect the user from blows but in the hands of an expert, they were deadly. I was shown the simplest of techniques to defend myself in the time we had left.

"Michael, I'm going to send you with a pair that you can carry in your backpack and get them out in a hurry if needed. They are legal to carry and could make the difference between life and death," Sensei said.

"Thank you Sensei, I appreciate all that you're doing for me," I told him.

"I'm happy to help you as you continue to help others," he replied. "Have a good evening and I'll see you Sunday."

"I'm not sure if I'll make it Sunday," I replied. "I have a modeling job in Windsor and while I'm hoping to be back, I also know that they run late sometimes."

"I will be here either way, so no problem if you do not make it," he replied.

"Good night Sensei," I said before we left.

We drove home and they checked out the condo before leaving me locked inside while the other security teams stood guard outside. I checked my messages on the condo land line and found one from Emma, who let me know she was safe and sound. I had a quick shower and hit the hay.

After practice Friday morning, I met with Mr. Matsuda in his limo and we drove to a nearby Denny's for breakfast. After ordering, he explained what the status was.

"We've had to send the four girls away somewhere safer," he started. "They were the target of another attack last night at one of our safe houses. The attack failed but some of the guards were hurt. So they're gone into hiding somewhere far away where I can be sure we can keep them safe. I don't know when they'll be back but it won't be for a while."

"Did any of them get hurt?" I asked.

"No, but Asuka did have to help in their defence and took care of three of the attackers herself," he answered. "She was in a bad mood so they didn't survive the encounter."

"They're fools to go after her, she will protect those girls against anything they can throw at them," I said. "Sooner or later, she will go on the offence and then the entire clan will be wiped out."

"I'm discouraging that at the moment, but if anyone else gets hurt I won't be able to control her," he admitted. "I don't have any pity for those attacking us but the resulting bloodbath might not be able to be kept out of the media or the authorities' eyes."

"Let me know if there is anything I can do to help," I told him.

"Just keep a watchful eye and stay close to your guards," he replied. "The only thing worse than hurting the girls in Asuka's eyes, would be someone hurting you. I would fear for the entire Yakuza clan in North America if that happened."

"Yet she has no problem kicking my butt whenever she feels it," I replied dryly.

"All of the girls are worried about you, they care for you very much," Mr. Matsuda told me. "I'm surprised you never got together with any of them."

"That's the problem, how could I pick one of them and have the other three mad at me for all eternity?" I asked. "Better to keep them all as friends and have them all mildly upset with me."

"You are indeed wise beyond your years," he said with a grin. "So, I hear you have a modeling job on Sunday across the border. I cannot send Kuro or Ren with you as they don't have the proper papers. I will have a young woman meet you at the hotel. Her name is Kim and she will fit in with the people there as she works in the fashion industry in Toronto. She will act as your make-up and wardrobe person on the set."

"Ok, I'll look for her there," I agreed. "Is she Japanese and how will I know she's who you think she is?"

"She is Japanese and she will tell you that her favourite dog is a red poodle with pink boots," he said.

"Definitely won't forget that," I said with a smile.

"We wanted something that wasn't going to be common," he replied with a shrug. "She's only a year or two older than the girls and will easily blend in. She is very good at what she does so listen to what she says."

I nodded and then we ate in silence for a while and were quickly done.

"Ok, where can I drop you off?" he asked.

"I need to go to the hospital soon for my final check-up on my burns," I said. "Is my vehicle ready yet?"

"It should be back to you this afternoon," he replied. "Kuro and Ren can take you to you appointment and then home. They will bring the SUV back and escort you to the arena for tonight's game."

"Sounds good to me," I responded.

"I won't be seeing you again for a while unless something happens, I am going to keep a low profile and I suggest you do the same," Mr. Matsuda told me as he got up. "We've put a message on your cell number to call your condo phone so just check those messages. Keep the calls out to a minimum as they can be traced and listened to."

"Ok, good luck and I hope this is done soon," I said.

"Me too, good luck yourself," he said as we shook hands.

He left with his guards in tow and then Kuro and Ren came over and walked me out to their vehicle. I gave them directions to the University hospital and they came up to the office with me.

Bridgette, the good doctor's daughter, caught sight of me and gave me a big smile.

"Hi Bridgette, you're looking very chic today," I said, taking in her semi see-through white blouse that showed off the purple bra underneath, as well as her short skirt and sheer stockings.

"Thank you Mike, you're looking much better than the last time I saw you as well," she said. "Are these your friends?"

"They're here to keep me safe," I said quietly. "No unusual patients in this morning, are there?"

"No, just one left, a regular," she said in a whisper.

"Ok, they can stay out here then," I said.

"Ok, why don't you follow me and we can get started while mom is with the other patient," she said with an inviting smile.

"Sure," I said.

I let Kuro and Ren know the situation and had them sit in the waiting room, leaving my coat and book bag with them. I went to the only door into the offices and followed Bridgette back to the far examining room. On the way I watched her svelte body move seductively as she had conveniently forgotten to wear her lab coat.

"Ok, let's get you out of these clothes and into a gown," she said, as I stood in front of the examining table.

She reached for my tee shirt and started pulling it up. I knew that this wasn't part of the normal procedure, but she was cute enough that I wanted to see where she was taking it. After she got it up over my head and put it on the chair beside her, she trailed her hands down my chest and abdomen before she proceeded to undo my jeans and help me out of them, squatting down to help me with my pant legs after I quickly pried off my shoes with my feet.

She caressed my legs as she stood up and my erection stirred as her hands rested on my hips just above my underwear.

"We better be thorough this time and make sure the doctor can see everything," she said as she slipped her hands down the sides of my underwear.

She lowered herself again as she pulled them down and I raised my legs one at a time to let her get them off. She stayed down and stared blatantly at my stiffening erection until I coughed to get her attention.

"It is a bit chilly in here Bridgette, any chance of getting a gown?" I asked with a grin.

"I should probably do a preliminary examination before you put on a gown," she said, looking up at me. "Can you turn around and show me the burns please?"

She didn't wait for me to turn myself but grasped me by the hips and helped me turn around. Her hands slipped down and checked out the scars on my butt and leg, tracing the outer edges of the skin grafts and then lightly caressed the actual new skin. I let her have her fun as she wasn't getting too amorous yet. My erection grew stiff as her soft hands were starting to turn me on.

"Bridgette Seidenberg, what in heaven's name do you think you're doing?" Dr. Seidenberg said as she came in the unlocked door.

"I was just doing a preliminary exam on Mike," Bridgette said as she quickly stood up.

"Oh is that what you call it?" she asked sarcastically. "Get Mr. Stewart a gown and go back to your post."

Bridgette threw me a gown and left the room in a rush. I slipped on the gown and turned around.

"I'm sorry about that Mr. Stewart, she's obviously infatuated with you," her mother said as she closed the door behind her daughter. "I assure you that she will be disciplined harshly. Do you wish to file a formal complaint?"

"No, she didn't touch me inappropriately, not yet anyway," I said with a grin. "I'm afraid I wasn't exactly complaining either."

"I did notice that but she shouldn't be examining a patient like that," she shook her head. "I don't know what I'm going to do with that girl."

"She's an adult now, with an adult woman's needs," I said. "As long as she uses protection, there is nothing you can do but be supportive and give her good advice."

"I have no issue with her being sexual active, I have issue with her acting like a tramp," she replied. "I'm sure she would have been all over you in the next few minutes like a bitch in heat."

"It's a good thing you came in when you did then Doctor," I said, feeling my erection grow. "Shall we get the examination over before I embarrass myself further?"

"Alright, let's see those burns," she said as she brought a rolling stool over and sat down.

She lifted my gown and examined the skin grafts and the resulting scars, starting on my butt and then on the lower leg.

"Ok, everything seems to have healed fairly well, Mr. Stewart," she told me as she backed away. "You're always going to have light scarring around the skin grafts, but it's not very noticeable. I think you can get back to full activities."

"Great, can I get that in writing please?" I asked.

"Already on it," she said as I turned around to see her at the desk.

She got up and handed the note to me before saying, "I think that concludes our doctor – patient relationship, so if you wish to see my daughter again, I won't be opposed. Should I send her back in to take care of your, um, problem? After all, she was the cause of it in the first place."

"Ah no thanks, I'm not that comfortable having a girl's mother just outside the door when I'm with her daughter," I said. "I'm not into one-time casual sex either."

"I'm sure my daughter would love it to be more than a one-time event, and I'll clear out for lunch so you have some privacy," she told me.

"I'm seeing someone right now so I'll have to pass," I told her, reaching for my clothes.

"Ok, but she really likes you and she is usually a smart, intelligent young lady," she expounded on her daughter's attributes.

"If I become single again, I'll give her a call," I told her.

She sighed and nodded before leaving the room.

I got dressed quickly and exited the room quietly. The mother and daughter were talking at the nurse's station and I just nodded as I went by. Bridgette looked sadly at me but I kept going and was soon out into the waiting room. Kuro and Ren stood up and we made our way back to the condo.

After checking things out inside the condo, they told me they would be back at four to take me to the arena. I cooked up some spaghetti for lunch and then worked on finishing my assignments for both computer programming classes.

I got the first year programming one done and a good portion of the second year one started when I packed up for the day. I got changed into some good casual clothes and packed up my suit and dress shoes to take along. Kuro and Ren knocked on the door as I was getting my coat on and we were quickly on the way to the arena in my SUV. I parked in a spot that we could get out of easily and we walked inside. After getting some passes from security for the two of them, we walked down to the coach's office.

"Hey Coach, here's my get out of jail card from the doc," I told him with a grin as I handed the doctor's note over.

"Good, you're in with John on the third pair," Coach Benson told me. "You two are going to start the game and I want some high speed pressure from the get-go."

"Sure thing coach, I'm raring to go," I said. "I'm going to have Chris and Wendy work up a pad for my thigh just as an extra precaution. I'm sure that they will be targeting me tonight."

"Physically and also testing your speed and durability," he responded. "I know you're faster than before the accident, but your timing might be off a bit, so leave yourself room to recover if you make a mistake."

"Sure thing coach," I agreed. "Am I on the power play still? I'm shooting with about the same power and a bit better accuracy so I know I can help."

"Ok, but not on the penalty kill unless we need you," he replied. "Hang up your suit and we'll go have some dinner."

The four of us walked up the two flights of stairs and Coach insisted that Kuro and Ren eat with us as it was going to be a long afternoon and evening. We all joined the back of the line and grabbed some food when our turn came. I led the pair to an outer table and we sat down and started eating.

John was the only one of my teammates to come over and sit down with me.

"Hey Mike, you have new friends?" he asked.

"Kuro and Ren, meet John, my on-ice defence partner and friend," I introduced them. "John, keep this quiet, they're my bodyguards while some stuff is going down. If anyone asks, just say that I'm giving them a tour."

"Is everything ok?" he asked.

"Everyone is fine right now, and we need to keep it that way so no one gets hurt," I told him. "I can't tell you anything more right now, ok?"

"Ok, mum's the word," he said. "So you ready for tonight?"

"Very ready, I can't wait to get out there," I replied.

"Good, because we want to start off quickly and catch them off guard," he said.

"Coach told me already and I'm good to go," I told him.

He went back to his table and I finished my meal. Coach got up and gave a rousing speech as this was the start of our playoffs. It was the best two out of three against Western Michigan in the CCHA quarter finals this weekend with the chance to go on the CCHA championship next week at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit.

After we were finished, we had our usual warm-up and wait until the game began. Kuro and Ren were given seats near the tunnel while I read my philosophy textbook after Wendy taped an extra pad onto my thigh. Eventually it was time to go out. After a quick skate, the first line along with John and I went on the ice and were introduced. I got goose bumps when it was my turn.

"And now, please welcome back, from an extended absence due to injuries suffered in the heroic rescue of Miss Emma Watson, our number five, defenceman Mike Stewart!" yelled out the public announcer.

I raised my stick as the crowd gave me the loudest cheer I had ever heard. It went on a lot longer than usual so I turned and waved to all four sides of the arena. That just made them cheer louder and I looked over to see John grinning at me. I shrugged at him and he just laughed. I looked over at the bench and saw the rest of the team hitting their sticks on the boards and the coaches clapping as well. I had to stand there looking forward until they finally quieted down. The Broncos were introduced and then the national anthem was sung before we lined up for the face-off.

Gary won the face-off back to John and he banked the puck off the boards to Daniel who tapped it by their defence deep into their zone. Gary and Chris rushed in after it while John and I took positions at the point. After a quick battle with their defence, Chris gained possession of the puck in the right corner and faked a pass to the front of the net before banking it off the boards to me. I stepped into it and kept it low so that Gary or Daniel could deflect it. It hit a leg on the short side and deflected wide on the far side of the goal, rimming around the boards back to John. He stopped it and shot it back at the net before anyone could get out to block his shot. The puck was deflected onto net and the goalie had to make a great save to keep it out of the net. Gary and Daniel banged away at the rebound and it slipped to the corner. Chris battled with a defenceman and flipped it behind the net for Daniel. He was hit from behind just as he rung it around the boards back to the point for John.

John faked a shot and slid a gorgeous pass to me just inside the blueline when the forward went down to block his shot. I one-timed a high shot aiming for just over the goalie's shoulder if he went down on his knees. Unfortunately, he stayed on his feet and blocked it with his shoulder, allowing the puck to bounce back out front of the net. The shot shook him up and he fell to the ice. The ref blew the whistle just as Gary flipped the rebound into the open net. The goal light lit up but the ref waved off the goal right away, much to the dismay of the crowd.

Our team went and sat on the bench as their trainer looked the goalie over.

"Good work guys, way to keep the pressure on them," Coach Benson came over to John and I. "Keep shooting high for the next few shots and see if we can rattle the goalie."

We nodded and watched as they finally got him up and helped him to the dressing room while their back-up goalie came out and stretched in the crease.

"Shoot high on him too, he can't be too crazy about facing shots after seeing what happened to the first goalie," Frank told all three pairs of defence.

The second line went on with the first defensive pairing for the face-off in their zone. The face-off was a scrum as the centres battled it out to get the puck. It squirted to the boards and the wingers tied each other up for a bit. Eventually the puck slid to the point and Albert shot it on net, with the goalie deflecting the rebound to the corner. The second line kept them hemmed in their zone for the next half a minute until the goalie smothered the puck for a face-off.

The third line kept on the pressure, forcing the back-up goalie to make a couple more saves before their defence cleared the puck out of the zone finally. Ralph and Mat changed up with John and I while the third line went off to let the fourth line on. John swung back and picked up the puck and started up the ice. I followed him up the ice as he looked like he was going to carry it right into their zone. When two forwards converged on him, he passed it back to me and I headed into the zone on the other side of the ice.

I took their third forward and the defenceman wide and let them hit me as I dropped the puck for Adam, our fourth line right winger. With four of their players tangled up with our two defencemen, Adam, Peter and Victor, the fourth line forwards, went in on the lone defenceman and the goalie. Three passes later, the puck was in the back of the net off of a tap-in from Victor's stick.

John and I congratulated Victor and the other two before heading back to the centre ice. The Broncos put on their first line, so Coach sent out his first line to play the match-up game. They won the face-off and we backed off as they carried it forward and dumped it in the corner behind me. I knew that the forward on my side was coming in to give me a big check as I went back to pick up the puck. I passed it off to John behind the net and leaned into his check. I went into the boards hard but kept my feet as he went backwards and staggered for a couple seconds, much to the crowd's delight.

John moved the puck up his side of the ice, avoiding a check from their centre. Daniel got the puck to Gay at the blueline and we were out of our zone and skating back hard to theirs. John and I raced forward to get into the play, leaving their two forwards struggling to catch up. I angled to the middle of the ice and got myself into the prime shooting area at the top of the circles. Chris saw me and slid a pass as I held my stick up over my shoulder for the shot. I put everything I had into the shot and put it in the top corner over the goalie's blocker before he even moved. He had just tried to make himself as big as he could and hoped the puck would hit him somewhere.

I pointed at Chris for his great pass as the rest of the line came over and congratulated me. John and I went off the ice after a two goal shift getting congratulations from the rest of the team and the coaches.

The period continued with all lines dominating the Broncos. We ended up with seventeen shots on net to five for them and the score three to nothing. We were in a good mood when we entered the locker room and grabbed our drinks.

"A very good period, men; we took it to them and didn't give them a minute to catch their breath, except when Mike took out their goalie," Coach spoke up after a few minutes.

Everyone laughed when John spoke up, "On his first shift too!"

"So, we're up three to nothing but I don't want you to let up for a second," Coach continued. "They have a very good coach who will have them all fired up and raring to get back at us. Be prepared for some physical play, especially against John and Mike. Get rid of the puck quickly and avoid the hits where you can. Don't get involved in any rough stuff, they'll send their fourth line goons out to antagonize you and try to get you out for the next two games."

I nodded as did John.

"Ok, first pair back on at the start and normal rotation through the pairings from now on," he said. "Everyone watch each other's back and don't let anything develop into a fight."

We rested for the next ten minutes and then went out and sat on the bench.

"They put out their fourth line hoping to catch us on the ice," John said to me with a grin. "They're going to eat them up."

Gary won the face-off and the first line and first defensive pair soon had them pinned into their end. It was like playing against kids as the forwards cycled the puck at will and only the goalie making fantastic saves kept the puck out of the net. The second line went on against their top line and held them in their zone until the puck was dumped out. John went on as the change started and then I changed with Ralph and gave John a passing option as he came up the ice.

They tried an aggressive forecheck, sending two forwards in on John. I moved back to give him an option, but he faked to me and bounced it off the boards up to Rich, the third line left winger. John took a hit from one of the forwards but shrugged it off and followed the play. Rich was set on right away by the third forward, so he passed it up to Shawn, the centre, and just like that the trap was broken and we had the puck into their zone.

We got a couple of good scoring chances and then backed off as they gained possession of the puck. I took the opportunity to hit the forward that had hit me last period and crushed him with a legal hit just inside our blueline when he tried to get past me with the puck. I skated after the puck and passed it over to John before avoiding the centre coming in to pay me back for hitting his teammate. He tried to get me to fight but I skated up the ice and got back into the play.

The rest of the team had a four on three advantage as the guy I hit and their centre were back in our zone. I manned the point and faked a shot before setting up John before their centre hacked at my stick, breaking it. I let it go and raced to the nearby bench and Chris handed me a new one while the play continued. The ref had his hand up for a delayed penalty call for the slash so Mark got off the ice for the extra attacker. Gary skated up the middle and put a puck off the post before their defenceman touched it and the ref blew the whistle.

John and I went off and let Steve and Albert have first crack on the power play.

"Good work both of you," Frank said. "Let them make the mistakes and take the penalties."

John and I didn't get a chance on that power play as the first unit scored forty seconds in off a deflection. The period got progressively rougher as the Broncos knew they lost this first game. The period ended in a four to one score as they got a lucky bounce off a leg past Mark.

Coach repeated much of the first intermission's warnings and let us rest. I felt pretty good as I only played about twelve minutes so far in two periods, being the third pairing. I had the feeling that the coaches would keep me to about six minutes or so in the third as well, both to conserve my energy and keep me away from the goons.

The third was a penalty filled display of idiocy from the Broncos as they took runs at our better players to try and intimidate them. I got on for a couple of power plays and sent a shot just whistling past the goalie's head as everyone in front got out of the way. The next shot went low and nearly got past him as kept on his feet rather than get down on into the butterfly position. The juicy rebound was easily tapped in by Ron Zonk, the second line left winger for our fifth goal.

The period and game ended with the score five to two as the crowd cheered loudly. Victor went out as the third star, Gary as the second and both received loud cheers. I had to go out as the first star and was deafened when the crowd erupted. I held up my stick as I did a slow circle out to centre and back. I waved to the crowd and then stepped off the ice and walked down the tunnel, with Victor and Gary.

I had to wait for a shower as I was the last one into the locker room. Coach came in a few minutes later while I was getting out of my equipment.

"Good game men, we did exactly what we wanted to do, take their game away from them from the start," he said over the hubbub. "So, practice is optional tomorrow morning for the starters, but there will be bed checks at midnight so no partying. We'll see you at four for team dinner. Captains, the press conference is in ten so move on it."

I finally got in the shower and got into my suit. I found Kuro and Ren and we slipped out the side entrance and were in the SUV before the media spotted us. I drove home and was soon asleep after they checked out the condo.

Saturday was a virtual repeat of Friday except for the doctor visit. I worked out after practice and then finished off my assignments for the next week. I even started my last philosophy paper. Finally it was time to head to the arena with Kuro and Ren in tow.

This time John and I didn't start the game but followed the normal rotation of defence pairs. The game was close for the first half of the first period, until John and I got on for a shift with first line. We carried the puck up the ice and John faked a dump in and caught me going full bore into their zone with a pass right on my stick. I was past the wall of forwards before they could move and the defenceman on my side had to hook me to slow me down as I passed him on the outside. The second defenceman came over to cut me off from going to the front of the ice, so I faked a pass over to a phantom forward and, when the goalie moved off the post just a bit to play the other shooter, roofed the puck over his shoulder into the small opening he gave me. I skated around the net at speed as the goal light came on and continued back to centre ice as the rest of the team skated back to congratulate me.

The deluge started after that. Henry, the second line centre scored on a tip in from a pass from Kerry and then Chris Mason scored from the point on a power play. The first period ended three to zero and were a happy team as we went down the tunnel.

Coach settled us down and warned us not to get over-confident but to keep up the speed and the intensity. If we could get through the next period, we should be good to move on to the championship next weekend in Detroit.

The second period went just as well for us as the first. I made sure to set up John every chance I could and it paid off as one of his point shots had eyes and made it through a maze of legs and past the goalie before he could react. They scored one goal on a power play as they got the penalty kill unit running around and found the open man for a quick shot to make the score four to one.

The third period was scoreless for almost three quarters until Peter, our fourth line centre, was sent in all alone on their goalie and buried the puck behind the helpless goalie.

One final goal with just over a minute to play and the final score became six to one and we were on the way to the CCHA championships next week.

We celebrated for a few minutes before getting dressed. I slipped out the side, begging off from going to a party with John, telling him I had somewhere to be tomorrow. I was soon asleep in bed, the alarm set for four thirty.

The alarm woke me from a good dream but I remembered I was going to finally meet Ellen from Toronto and got moving. I had a hot shower but didn't shave as they might like the stubbly look. I packed a few CK clothes and my traveling toiletry kit in a small duffle bag and then packed my backpack and laptop in case there was a lull in the shooting.

At five thirty, I met Kuro and Ren outside my door and we took the elevator down to the parking garage. They were going to follow me to the border and I was to call when I headed back so they could meet me. They told me that they had just checked out my SUV and found no bugs or trackers except their own. I thanked them and pulled out and headed to downtown Detroit.

I crossed under the Detroit River using the tunnel, waving at Kuro and Ren before I pulled into the entrance way as they drove by on Jefferson Ave. I got through customs easily as I showed them my Canadian passport and told them I was visiting a friend for the day. I hoped she would be a friend so I wasn't exactly lying. I found that not giving too many details at the border was the easiest way to get through without having to give your life story to them.

It was only quarter to seven when I pulled out onto Windsor's Ouellette Ave and drove down to Riverside Drive. I found the hotel overlooking the river and pulled up to the front entrance. It was early but there still was a valet waiting just inside the door. I gave him my keys and a ten while he gave me a tag as I got out of the driver's side. I pulled out my two bags from the back seat and headed inside.

I didn't see anyone waiting for me so I stopped at the front desk. A woman came out from the back.

"Can I help you, young man?" she asked.

"Yes Ma'am, I'm here for the CK photo shoot, can you direct me to the proper floor and room please?" I asked politely.

"I'm sorry but I'm not allowed to give out that information," she said primly.

"Could you call up and tell them that I'm here then?" I asked.

"And you are?" she asked, looking down her nose at me both figuratively and actually.

"Mike Stewart," I said.

"Wait over there and I'll see if anyone recognizes the name," she said in a huff.

I smiled at her and carried my stuff over to the set of chairs and sat down in one of them. I could see the entire lobby, both the front doors and the elevator bank so no one was going to sneak up on me.

A few minutes later Katie showed up when one of the elevator doors opened. She walked over to me as I stood up. She gave me a smile and a big hug.

"Hi Mike, it's good to see you again," she said as she looked me up and down. "You're looking good, so much better than I saw you last. How are the burns?"

"Hi Katie, it's good to see you too," I replied. "The burns are all healed up and I'm feeling almost back to normal. I'm still ten pounds lighter but that's a good thing right now. You're looking good yourself."

She was wearing come casual slacks and a nice blouse that showed off her figure.

"Thanks for noticing, I've started working out so I don't feel so self-conscious around all these beautiful models," she told me.

"Well, it's paying off, you're just as gorgeous as any model I've seen," I told her.

"Come on you flatterer, let's get you upstairs," she said with a laugh. "I've booked the entire top floor for today. We have a big conference room set up with a few different scenes as well as wardrobe and make-up rooms for you and Ellen."

We walked over to the elevator and she punched the button for the top floor.

"We're going with some of the similar themes from last shoot, but this time we're filming the commercial scenes first and then taking photos after the scene is done," she explained further.

"I guess it doesn't matter to me how you want to handle it, just let me know what you want me to do," I responded.

"The theme of the day is you getting to know Ellen as if she's someone you just met in the gym," Katie elaborated. "You're working out on some equipment and Ellen comes in to use the treadmills and then sees you. We film both of you working out for awhile until she comes over and introduces herself to you. You have a conversation that she will lead and then after a bit, she invites you to the hot tub. That's the first scene. We do that three times with different sets of clothes and then move on to the hot tub and film both of you with three sets of swimsuits as well."

"The stills get done for each set of clothes as well?" I asked.

"Definitely," Katie replied.

"That's going to eat up a lot of time, doing each scene three times and then take photos as well," I observed. "How many scenes do you have?"

"Five," she answered. "The gym for active wear, the hot tub for swimsuits, the elevator for office wear, the restaurant for evening wear, and the bedroom for underwear and lingerie."

"And you plan to get all of that done by five pm today?" I asked, looking at her with an incredulous look on my face.

"Five pm, of course not, it will take probably to nine or ten tonight," she replied. "Where did you get five pm from?"

"That's when I told you I have to leave to get back to Ann Arbour for my workout," I told her.

"Well, I gave you the new times when I sent back the directions," she rebutted. "Can't you miss one work-out? You're going to get some exercise this morning when we film you working out on the machines."

"This is my martial arts workout, not my gym workout," I told her. "I guess I don't have a choice, do I? I don't remember you putting new times on that last email, but it's been a hell of a week."

I pulled the email with directions from my coat pocket and looked over the sheet. I had to read the note twice before I found the reference that the time might need extending to nine or ten.

"You couldn't have hid that better if you tried," I told her, showing her where she had slipped it in while talking about parking.

"Sorry, it wasn't meant to be sneaky," Katie apologized.

"You do know I have an hour drive back plus the border crossing to contend with," I told her. "I won't be back home until midnight and I have to get up at five for practice."

"I'm sorry Mike, why don't you stay over in one of the rooms and leave in the morning?" she suggested.

"We'll see how tired I am tonight," I told her as the elevator door opened.

She led me to a suite and opened it with a card key, handing it to me after we got in.

"Ok, this is yours for the day and the night if you decide to stay," she said. "You can leave your stuff in here and come back here to relax if we don't need you on set. It has a queen bed in there and a nice TV in the living room. There is a shower and a nice Jacuzzi tub if you need to relax."

I put my duffle and book bags on the bed.

"Ok, let's get you to wardrobe and get you ready for the first scene," Katie told me. "We're not going to let you meet the Ellen until she walks on set as we're filming you working out. That way we can capture the first meeting when she comes over to introduce you from the treadmills. It will look more realistic that way."

"Alright, let's get to it," I told her as she led the way out of the room.

We walked down the hall and into a large conference room that overlooked the Detroit skyline with the towers of the Renaissance Center and Joe Louis Arena among the sights to see. To the far left I could see the Ambassador Bridge overtop the mostly frozen Detroit River.

"Nice view," I said.

"It is," she agreed. "We're going to use it in the restaurant scene and maybe in the bedroom scene. We have a suite overlooking the same view and we might silhouette you in front of the night skyline."

"That might look real good," I told her.

"Ok, let's get you with Kim, your make-up, hair and wardrobe assistant for today," she said, guiding me to a temporary room in the far corner.

A young Japanese woman was hanging clothes on the five different moveable racks in front of her temporary room.

"Kim, this is Mike; Mike, this is Kim, she will make you look the part we need you to play," Katie said, making the introductions.

"Hi Kim, how are you?" I asked, offering my hand.

"I'm good, and you?" she replied in flawless English as she shook my hand.

"I'm doing well, thank you," I replied.

"Ok Mike, I'll leave you in Kim's capable hands and see you out there in the first gym attire in fifteen minutes," Katie said to me before walking away.

"I usually don't go for the stupid password stuff but Mr. Matsuda insisted," Kim said. "I'm supposed to tell you that my favourite pet is a red poodle with pink boots."

"So you're not only my wardrobe, hair and makeup person, you're also my security?" I asked. "That's a pretty heavy load for one person."

"It's the perfect cover, no one ever suspects the make-up girl to be dangerous or to be packing weapons," she replied as she led me inside her room. "I'll be nearby at every shoot in case you need touching up or a wardrobe change, so I can handle anything that comes up. I don't think anything will, we have the whole floor booked so no one gets up here without a pass."

"Sounds like you've done this before," I noted.

"Yep, it's a specialty of mine and a lot of the big name models use me when they're in Canada," she explained. "Mostly female models though. But the threat against you is real enough and we can't have you distracted out there today. Now, if things go to hell and we're attacked, I'll go for the attacker and you get yourself back here. Mr. Matsuda tells me you can handle yourself in a physical confrontation, but you're still a novice against weapons. If you need something, just grab it out of here."

She pulled a blanket off a trunk and opened it to show me a top layer of clothes. She pressed a button on the lid and the covering opened up to show a couple of swords a shorter knifes all held by Velcro straps.

Pulling up the tray from the trunk, she showed me a couple of handguns, a shotgun, nunchucks, and a pair of tonfa and other swords and knives of various lengths.

"I like how you come prepared," I told her with a grin. "I just learned to use a pair of tonfa a few days ago and can defend myself with a knife."

She took out two pair of tonfa and a couple of the knives.

"Ok, I'll have one set of these near me on my cart, and another set of them right here in the room," she said as she put them beside door resting on the wall behind a box.

"Sounds good to me," I told her. "Hopefully we won't need them. What about Ellen, Katie and the crew?"

"I worry about you first and so do you," she replied. "They're coming for you and you'll get the others hurt if you try to protect them, especially if they have guns. Just get down and let me handle it. If they send a few people, you're going to have to fight your way out and either head to your suite or to another floor. Most likely they won't want a scene so it will be one or two people and the will try and take you by surprise. Stay close to me and let me know where you're going at all times."

"I will," I assured her.

"Ok, to the business at hand, sit down and let me work on your hair and make-up before we get you into the first outfit of the day," Kim instructed me.

I sat in the comfortable chair in front of the mirror and watched as Kim went with a slightly windblown look for my hair and then lightly applied some make-up on my face.

"Ok, off with the clothes, while I get your first outfit," she said, walking outside to the racks of clothes.

I took off my shirt and jeans after taking off my shoes and socks.

"Under wear too, can't have lines under these," Kim said as she came back in, showing me a pair of CK bicycle shorts and a form fitting tee shirt.

"Turn around then, I'm not that comfortable with this stuff yet," I told her as I grabbed the clothes.

"Fine for now, but I'm going to be seeing you eventually so get over it," she replied as she twirled around. "We have a bunch of stuff to shoot you in during each separate scene, so after this, you'll be changing behind a screen near each setup. Ellen will be doing the same so Paige and I will be in and out of there with the two of you. I know you're new to this and a modest guy, but you have nothing to be ashamed off and hopefully you'll get used to us being around you."

I sighed as I quickly slid out of my underwear and got into the shorts and shirt. The shorts didn't leave much to the imagination and went down to mid thigh.

Kim looked me over when I told her I was dressed. She smoothed out the shirt and then squatted down to look at the shorts. She smoothed the legs out and made sure there were no wrinkles or folds before telling me to turn around. When I did, she looked at my butt and legs.

"Ok, the scar on your thigh shows a little," she informed me as she stood up. "I'll let Katie know and she can decide on covering it up or letting it go. Let's get out there."

She led the way over close to the first set-up and talked things over with Katie on the scar issue.

"Mike, we're going to leave the scars and take a few shots and then cover it up and retake them," Katie told me. "We're not sure how well the scars will do with the target audience so we'll have both available."

"Whatever floats your boat," I said. "I'm not embarrassed about them so it's up to you."

"Ok, let's introduce you to the photo director and the video director," Katie said as she walked me over to the man and woman waiting by the set.

"Mike, this is Leslie, she'll be directing the photo shoots, and Reggie, he'll be filming the commercial scenes," Katie did the introductions.

It's nice to meet you both," I said, shaking each of their hands.

"It's nice to meet you Mike," Leslie said. "So we're trying to handle two difficult things at once today so it's going to take some ingenuity and some patience. I will attempt to get some stills while you are doing the activities which Reggie's team will be filming. If Reggie is done filming a scene, then I might have you hold some poses to get additional shots for print ads or catalogue shots. Understand so far?"

I nodded and she continued.

"Further complicating matters is the need to change your attire during each shoot as CK obviously wants you seen in more than one outfit," Leslie added. "So, we might shoot the same scene a few times with different outfits. We have the gym scene for active wear, the hot tub for swimwear, an elevator scene for office and daywear, a restaurant scene for eveningwear and a final bedroom scene for intimates."

"It's going to be a long day," I remarked.

"It certainly is, so let's get started," Reggie said.

"Megan, can you go get Ellen please?" Katie asked her assistant.

She ran off to a larger temp room while we moved to the area where they had a few treadmills and a couple pieces of work-out equipment situated and ready to use.

"Ok Mike, why don't you do a few reps to work up a bit of a sweat and get yourself pumped up while we wait for Ellen," Reggie suggested. "Leslie and I will do some initial shots while you work out and you just have to listen to what we want you to do. When we have enough for our needs, we'll have her walk in while you're working out and she will handle it from there. You just react normally when she comes in; look her over discreetly like any guy would do and then be pleasantly surprised when she comes over."

"Ok, I should be able to handle that," I said as I moved to the bench press.

I moved the pin down to the bottom weight as the machine was really a home edition rather than a heavy duty gym one. I lay down on my back and after getting the feel of the handles, pushed up the weight easily and did a normal twenty rep set.

I sat up and took a quick breather.

"That was good, a bit quick though, so slow it down a bit if you can Mike," Reggie said from behind a bank of monitors.

I nodded and lay back down again and did another set, in about twice the time.

"Perfect," Reggie said.

Leslie piped up, Ok Mike, I'm going to have Dale, the photographer, take some stills in various positions around you when you're resting and when you've got the weight at the top and at the bottom. Just hold the position when I say hold and let go when I say release."

"Ok," I agreed and held the resting position with my hands resting on the handles.

Eventually they got all the shots they needed on the bench press, the arm curl and the leg press.

"Ok, Mike, we're going to start the scene, so go back to the bench press and Ellen will come in shortly," Reggie said.

I got myself situated on the bench and waited.

"Quiet on the set!" Reggie yelled. "Cameras rolling and action!"

I slowly did a set of twenty and as I sat up and rested, Ellen came on set, dressed in workout clothes with long tight pants and a matching jacket over a tee shirt. He brown hair was tied back and she had only minimal makeup on. I looked her over as she took off her jacket before getting the machine turned on. I lay back down and did another slow set as she started jogging.

I had obviously seen Ellen's picture before but she looked even cuter in real life, a sort of a young Maura Tierney with a touch of Native Indian to make her look slightly exotic. She caught me looking and smiled in a cute, shy way. I smiled back and then did my third set.

I sat up and rested again, looking over at her from time to time to catch her looking at me as she acted out the scene. I got up and moved over to the arm curl station and started doing those, with the standard resting and looking over at her routine. Ellen gave me another smile when she caught me looking. I grinned at her and then moved to the leg press machine. I did a set and then stood up to rest and that was when I saw Ellen step off her treadmill and come over as I wiped off my face.

"Hi, I'm Ellen," she said with a big smile.

"Hi Ellen, I'm Mike," I replied, returning her smile.

"I was just admiring your exercise habits, you're using a lot of weight," she said.

"Just trying to stay in shape," I told her. "You look very fit as well."

"Thanks, I certainly put the time in," she replied, wiping her face with a towel she was carrying. "I thought I might use the hot tub for a bit and wanted to know if you might want to join me."

"That sounds like fun, I have a couple more quick sets and then I can join you," I responded.

"Ok, I'll get changed and see you there," she said with a smile before walking off the set.

"And cut!" Reggie shouted. "Very good people. Leslie, they're yours for a bit and then we'll run through it again after a wardrobe change."

"Ok, we just need pics with the Ellen on the treadmill with Mike either in the foreground or the background and then some with them Mike and Ellen interacting."

Ellen and I went back to initial positions and Dale started taking pictures while we were in a certain position. We moved to the various poses they wanted until Leslie, Katie and Dale were satisfied with the digital results on the monitor.

"Ok, wardrobe change and we'll run through it again," Katie said loudly.

Kim came over with a muscle shirt and a towel and she helped me dry off before putting it on. She messed with my hair, touched up my make-up and checked over my arms and any portion of my torso that was showing.

"Ok, you're doing well, Mike, the shots look good from my perspective," Kim told me. "Just keep doing it the same way."

"Thanks Kim," I said with a smile.

Ellen came out from behind the nearby screen and her hotness factor went up a few notches. Her pants were now shorts about mid thigh long and the tee shirt under the jacket bared her stomach and let me see her trim torso and hidden stomach muscles just under the skin.

We ran through the whole thing again in about half the time.

The final take was with me without a shirt and Ellen in a sports bra and a pair of shorts that just covered her butt and was skin tight. I had a harder time not staring at her and Ellen played it a bit bolder as well. Leslie and Dale did their last photo shoot and then we were done with the first set by nine am.

"Ok, ten minute break and then we set up at the hot tub," Reggie yelled.

"Kim, get Mike into the long swimsuit to start." Katie instructed before turning to Ellen's assistant. "Paige, get Ellen into the one-piece swimsuit."

Kim and Paige nodded and dragged us to their rooms. I looked at Ellen and she grinned at me before walking away.

"Ok, off with everything while I find your first suit," Kim directed me after we were inside.

I slid off the shoes, socks and shorts and then slipped on the bright swimsuit with legs halfway down my thighs when she handed it to me. At least it was a bit baggy so I didn't feel too exposed. Kim slipped a towel around my neck and put a pair of sandals on the floor for me to wear to the next set.

"Ok, no need to paint on any muscles I see," she said with a grin. "Work out much?"

"A fair bit," I replied. "It does a body good."

"I'll say," she said, looking me over as her hand moved down to feel my six-pack.

She sighed and said, "Ok, let's get you out there."

She handed me a bottle of water and walked me to the next set.

"Looking good Mike, I see you got your physique back," Katie said with a grin. "Ok, we'll film Ellen getting into the hot tub and then you will join her. Here is a simple script to follow."

"Alright, I should be able to handle that," I replied after reading the two page script.

"Before anyone gets in the tub, we'll take some photos of both of them in the swimsuits with the lockers in the background," Katie said as Ellen came up.

We moved to the nearby stand of lockers and first Ellen acted out getting her suit adjusted and then did some poses. Her first swimsuit was a high cut athletic type that swimmers would wear but still looked sexy. I stood and watched as she posed in the act of pulling up the shoulder strap or adjusting the suit. She had a great body, muscular without looking like a weight lifter, and I couldn't see an ounce of fat anywhere. She caught me looking and winked at me and I had to grin back at her.

I was next and started by tying up the suit and grabbing a towel. They took pictures of me in all sorts of poses, with and without the towel. After the photos were done, Kim and Paige, the second make-up artist, touched us both up and then Ellen was filmed getting into the pool. Dale took pictures of her getting into the pool and sitting alone and then I was up. I joined her in the tub and sat across from her in the fairly large tub.

"So I haven't seen you down here before, are you new to the company or just new to using the company benefits?" she asked.

"I just transferred in," I responded via the script. "How long have you been here?"

"Two years," she replied. "So Mike, what department are you in?"

"Engineering," I replied. "How about you?"

"I'm in middle management on the eleventh floor," was her answer. "You must be on eight, right?"

"No, I'm up on twelve," I corrected her.

"Oh, you're in upper management, no wonder none of us have seen you yet," Ellen said. "I'm the IT department assistant manager."

"That's a challenging position in a company this size," I replied.

"It certainly is and doesn't leave me much time for socializing," she agreed.

"I know what you mean," I sympathized. "Maybe we can see if we can get our schedules to match?"

She moved over to sit beside me and said, "I hope you don't think I'm too bold, but I think I would like to get our schedules synchronized."

I grinned down and her and replied, "I'm glad we're not in the same department or I couldn't let you get this close to me."

"Lucky me," she said and gave me an answering grin.

She pulled my arm over her shoulder and snuggled in tight, sighing with a contented smile on her face.

"And cut!" Reggie said. "Hold still Mike and Ellen, I'm sure Leslie wants to get a few pictures of that."

So we held still while Dale took pictures from every angle. Ellen's closest hand started caressing my thigh under water through my swimsuit. I tried not to react and I saw a tiny smirk on the corner of her mouth. Finally they had enough pictures and we could untangle.

"Ok, next take in five," Katie yelled. "Next up is a bikini for Ellen and a smaller suit for Mike."

We got out and went behind the two screens. I got out of the wet swimsuit and Kim dried me off, taking extra time on my equipment before handing me the next suit.

"Enjoyed that, didn't you?" I asked.

"They are definitely perks to this job," she said with a grin.

I slipped the new suit on and it was definitely a tight one with only minimal leg length just going down an inch or two on my thighs. Nothing was left to the imagination with this one.

"Ok, we'll leave the scars and let them decide," Kim said as I slipped the sandals back on before putting on a robe.

I was out first and Dale had me posing for pictures in front of the lockers again. Ellen came out in a robe and watched. A few minutes later Dale was finished with me and went to download the pictures as Kim helped me with my robe. I went to stand near Ellen while she waited with Paige.

"Mike, we haven't had a chance to talk but you're doing great and I'm happy to be working with you," she said with a big smile. "I hope we get some time to take a break and get to know each other better. I've been looking forward to spending some time with you since we started corresponding."

"It's great to finally meet you Ellen and get a few seconds to talk," I replied with a big smile. "I was pleasantly surprised when this came up and I jumped at the chance to meet you sooner."

She put her hand on my arm and said, "I must say that I was very worried about you after I saw what you did to save Emma Watson. I was so relieved when they said you were awake and recovering. Now I look at you and you seem better than ever. I'm glad you've recovered so well."

"Thanks Ellen, that means a lot to me," I said. "I think we're going to have a good day together and make a great commercial and print ads. I think you look fantastic and you're a natural at this acting stuff."

"You are going to make me blush like a school girl," she responded. "You're doing great for only your second time and your physique is going to have every women under fifty buying magazines and recording your commercials like they were the last thing on earth. I'm just glad you agreed to have me in them with you."

"You were the obvious choice, we're both Canadians and you're already the CK model here," I told her. "I wouldn't have done the first one back with anyone else."

That got me another patented smile from her.

"This is Paige by the way, she's a big fan of yours as well," Ellen introduced the younger woman to me.

"Hi Paige, it's nice to meet you," I said. "I would think that you would be better in front of the camera rather than hiding behind the scenes."

Her hair colour was a little lighter than Ellen's and she seemed a bit thinner, but other than that they looked very similar. I suspected she was Ellen's younger sister or cousin.

Paige blushed and mumbled, "It's nice to meet you, Mike."

"And now you know why she isn't in front of a camera," Ellen said as she gave her assistant a one armed hug. "It isn't from lack of trying on my part."

"We could always throw her in the hot tub and give her a part as an extra," I said with a grin as I took a step and raised my arms as if to grab her.

"You leave her alone, you big Meany," Ellen said as she moved Paige out of the way. "You just want to see both of us in bikinis."

"Now that you mention it," I replied with an exaggerated leer. "I'm sure your sister has an incredible figure like you have. After all, you could almost be twins if her hair colour was the same."

"I see that I'll have to sacrifice myself to save her now that you know our secret," Ellen said dramatically.

She let Paige go and undid the tie on her robe. She shrugged it off and Paige grabbed it from her. She was in a metallic grey bikini that sparkled in the light. Her body was amazing, her muscles hidden under the skin but noticeable when she moved. I tried not to stare and found the strength to look back at both of their faces.

"It's a very good attempt at distraction, but I will not be swayed from discovering the truth behind her disguise," I told them.

Ellen played along and said, "Wow! That has never failed me in the past. You better be careful Paige, I might not be able to save you from the clutches of this evil man."

She walked past me and gave me a grin and a wink before moving to the locker setup. I stood and watched as Dale took pictures of her as she pretended to slip on the bikini top on and adjust the fit. She did some extra posing with different faces, making sure to look at me a couple times as she put on some of the more exotic faces.

Paige was standing on one side of me and Kim on the other.

"So, you're Ellen's younger sister?" I asked Paige.

She nodded.

"Do you travel with her to all her shoots?" I asked.

"Most of them are in Toronto so I do those," she answered. "This is the first one away from home."

"Have you been her assistant for long?" I inquired.

"I started helping her about five years ago on weekend shoots but I've only been doing it full-time for the past year," she replied.

"Do you like it?"

"I do, sometimes we get to do something a bit more exotic so it can be a challenge," she said, becoming animated. "I'm still learning a lot and eventually hope to get into movie make-up, hair and wardrobe."

"They can certainly do some amazing things now-a-days in movies," I told her.

"I know, I visited a movie set last year and watched them turn a girl my age into an old woman," she said enthusiastically. "I'm going to intern on a film this spring so I'm so looking forward to it."

"Good for you," I told her. "Judging by how well you make Ellen look, I'd say you'll be a whiz in no time."

She blushed again but answered, "Thanks, I hope so. I like working with her but it gets repetitive after a while."

Ellen finished up with the photo shoot and we all moved to the hot tub for the second take.

The take went faster than the first one as we learned how to react to each other. At the end of the scene she changed things a bit. Instead of having me put my arm around her, she moved to a kneeling position on the seat beside me and gave me a kiss, first sweet and then more passionate as she wrapped her arms around my neck. I held her by the hips as she moved to straddle me and grind herself onto my hardening erection.

"And cut!" yelled Reggie. "Stay in that position guys."

Leslie directed Dale to take pictures from all four sides.

"That was fantastic," I whispered to her after he finished up and before we separated.

"Yes it was," she agreed with a grin as she wiggled her bottom on my erection. "Hmmm, I see Mother Nature was generous in all areas of your development."

"With you as inspiration, I'm sure to aspire to new heights," I replied. "Besides, Mother Nature has done her best work in ages on you."

"You are so good for my ego," she said. "I thought you might be getting interested in my sister."

"Just trying to get to know her, as I would like to get to know you better as well," I said. "But as you are the one currently in my lap, I'll keep my attention on you for now."

"My sources were right, you are a genius," she said as she grinned and gave me one more wiggle. "But I do appreciate you trying to draw her out. She needs to interact more with people, especially men."

"I'll take my cues from you then," I said as she stood up.

She held my hand as helped her climb out of the tub and then got out myself. She kept a hold of it as we walked over to where Katie was standing with Kim and Paige.

"Ok, one last go around, in the final suit for Ellen," Katie said. "Mike, just get into another dry one."

Ellen pulled me over to the screen and finally let me go as she and Paige ducked behind her side. Kim had a new swimsuit ready for me so I slipped my wet one off and she dried me again before insisting on sliding the new one on, making sure to tuck me semi-hard erection down my leg.

I heard the Bradshaw sisters giggling on their side but couldn't see them so I didn't think either of them saw what Kim did. Most likely they were talking about what happened in the tub. I got back into my robe and sandals and waited for them to appear. This time I didn't have to do the photos as nothing had changed for me.

Katie came over and said, "Mike, go and get a snack over there and don't look at Ellen yet," she instructed me. "I want to get your expression on camera when you see her."

"Okay," I said with a puzzled look.

She grinned and pointed over to the far side of the room where a table was set up.

"Kim, go with him and make sure he doesn't peek," Katie told her.

She nodded and dragged me over to the food table.

"Don't eat too much, we don't want you to get bloated and look fat," she said.

I gave her an arched eyebrow as I looked down at her.

"Ok, so it won't show, but you don't need to be running off to the bathroom ten times," she said with a grin.

I filled a plate with some fruit and an egg sandwich and looked out at the Detroit skyline. Kim stationed herself between me and the set and munched on some food as well. I was debating whether to have another plate of food when Katie came over to get me.

"Ok, she's in the tub so just keep your eyes down as we walk over there and we'll start right away," Katie said. "Kim, grab his robe now, and give him the towel. We're rolling film already."

I shrugged off the robe and exchanged with Kim for the towel. I put it around my neck and kept my head down as we walked to the set. Katie guided me to my mark and quietly said action.

I looked up and started walking to the hot tub. I saw Ellen sitting across from the steps and almost tripped. She had her hair down and it was almost wild looking as it fanned out from her shoulders. Her make-up was also over the top, making her look like an exotic runway model. I moved my eyes down and noticed her tiny bikini top showing off her perfect breasts.

"Wow!" I said as I climbed into the tub. "You look fantastic, Ellen."

I had deviated from the script but I think she expected that.

"I thought I would cut through some of the getting to know each other chit chat and show you what was under the exercise clothes," she said with a sexy grin.

I sat down on the bench to hide my erection.

She started the lines from the script and I somehow got through them. When it came to her moving close to me, she stood up and I got a look at the bikini bottoms, such as they were. Almost nothing was left to the imagination and when she turned to sit down, I saw that they were thongs and her exquisite ass was bare to the world.

"That, my dear, is some swimsuit you're almost wearing," I told her.

"This old thing, I just had it hanging around in my locker," she said with a grin. "Now, I do believe it's time to get to know each other better.

She got up on her knees, exposing her ass above the water, and sat down on my lap before proceeding to wrap her arms around my neck. My hands went to her bare hips as she kissed me like she meant it. I pulled her body to me and she ground herself on my very hard erection. I caressed her back and, in a spur of the moment decision, pulled the knot apart on her bikini top. She gasped into my mouth as I let the ends come undone and dangle at her sides.

I was staring into her eyes as they got wide and she was getting ready to let go of me to try and tie it back up. I held her tight and caressed her bare back as I thrust up my hips a few inches to push my erection against her tiny bikini bottom that barely protected her. She groaned into my mouth and her kiss became very passionate as her tongue thrust itself into my mouth. I lowered my hands down her back and just before I started past her waist, Reggie called "Cut!"

"Hold your positions," Katie said as Dale rushed in.

I had no problem with that as Ellen continued the kiss. She rubbed her pussy on my erection slowly as not to disturb the picture taking. We ignored everything outside of us as we made out. Finally, I felt a tap on the shoulder and looked up to see Katie's smiling face.

"Ok you two, you can come up for air now," she said with a laugh.

I tried to move back from Ellen but she held on tight.

"Don't you dare, Michael Stewart!" she said. "Not until I get tied back up!"

"I was hoping you forgot," I said with a grin.

"Tie me up or I'll bend this at an angle you won't enjoy," she threatened as she pushed her groin down on my erection.

I sighed and felt around for the strings. I moved my hands up her sides and my thumbs brushed the sides of her breasts.

She shuddered and whispered, "Don't you dare, not out here!"

"Woman, you're driving me crazy, so what am supposed to do with this?" I asked as I pushed my hips up and rubbed my erection on her pussy again.

"Later Mike, not out here," she said. "Please, just do me up."

"Fine," I said as I found the ends and managed to tie them together.

She moved away from me but didn't scamper away. Katie had Paige and Kim close by with our robes so Ellen got up and got covered up. Kim came to the edge and held mine open so I could shield my hard-on quickly as well.

"Ok, you two could use a break, I'm sure," Katie said, almost hiding her smile. "Why don't you four grab some food and head to your suites?"

Ellen nodded and the two of them moved to the buffet table.

"Half an hour for lunch everyone and then we move on to office wear," Katie said loudly.

Kim and I went to her room and slipped out of my wet trunks and into some track pants and a tee shirt that Kim held out for me.

"That was something out there," she said.

"Yeah, Paige did a great job on her, she looked fantastic," I said.

"She did, but I was talking about the two of you making out like long-time lovers," Kim said, now grinning. "You two were hot. I got turned on something fierce and so did just about everyone else in the room."

I blushed as I remembered how I acted.

"She was something else," I said. "I'm going to go relax in my suite for a bit. You want to hang out there or stay here?"

"I better leave you alone or you'll get worked up again," she replied, still grinning.

I just shook my head at her as I grabbed my keycard and left her there. I didn't see the sisters by the food table so I left the conference room and went down the hall to my suite. I used the keycard to open the door and flopped on the bed. I closed my eyes and went back over how great Ellen felt in my arms and just how gorgeous she was.

I almost missed the knock on the door but as it was so quiet in the suite I heard the light tapping. I got up and looked through the peephole to see Ellen waiting outside. I hurriedly opened the door and she snuck by me quickly. I shut the door and followed her to the bedroom, watching as she shed the robe before turning back to me by the bed.

"We don't have a lot of time and we'll need to shower and get back into make-up," she said. "But if you don't make love to me right now I'm going to attack you where you stand."

I quickly had her in my arms as she wrapped herself around me as our lips met in an open-mouthed kiss. My hands had the top undone a few seconds later and travelled down to cradle her ass. I broke off the kiss and bent down to suck on one of her nipples as my hands explored the tiny string between her cheeks. She held the back of my head and pulled it tighter to her breast as she also spread her legs to give me access to the rest of her charms.

I moved a hand to the front of her and moved the small triangle of material to the side. I ran a finger down through her bare lips and had to grab her with my other hand as her knees buckled. I lowered her to the bed and spread her legs as she lay on her back. I leaned in and licked her juices up as she opened wide for me. My fingers went gently inside her while my tongue found her clit and started making little circles around it.

She was panting and moaning in no time but after a couple minutes she grabbed me by the hair and yanked me up.

"No time for that, I need you to fuck me now!" she said fiercely.

I swallowed the protest I was going to say and simply nodded. I was naked in ten seconds flat while watching her move her legs onto the bed. She played with her wet pussy as I kneeled onto the edge of the bed and then lowered myself onto her.

"Fuck the niceties, Mike, I need you in me now," she shouted as she made a grab for my impossibly hard cock.

I moved much quicker as she yanked me down by my cock. After getting the head wet by running it through her pussy, she lined me up and pulled down on my cock with her hand as her hips thrust upward. She was incredibly wet but still very tight as I pushed down to meet her.

"God, you're fucking huge!" she said as we stopped before I got too far.

"Damn woman, you're as tight as a freaking virgin!" I said. "Let go and I'll go a bit slower and get you ready."

Her hand released me and I pulled back until only the head was in. I made short slow thrusts into her as she spread her legs extra wide to help. Soon enough she opened up and I could thrust deeper into her vice of a tunnel.

"That's it, now you got it," she said, reaching down and pulling me in with each thrust. Her muscular legs came up and also helped keep me in tight.

Once we got going, it wasn't particularly romantic but it was damn hot. She buried her head in the crook of my neck and moaned after each thrust I made into her. She didn't last too long as she shrieked into my neck as her pussy contracted all along my cock after only a few minutes. I kept going while she bucked underneath me.

"You didn't cum?" she asked when she regained some semblance of awareness.

"Not yet," I replied.

She tried to get back into it but couldn't get into the same rhythm so she just held my hips as I thrust into her.

I stopped for a second and pulled out of her.

"What's wrong?" she asked. "It was feeling great."

"I want to change positions if you don' mind," I told her as I got up from between her legs.

She rolled over without asking and went up on her knees.

"How's this one?" she asked as she looked over her shoulder with a smouldering look on her face.

"Fantastic!" I replied as I pulled her back to the edge of the bed and quickly lined myself back up.

"Oh, fuck me!" she shouted as I pushed all the way inside her with one smooth stroke.

"Oh I plan too!" I told her as I grabbed her by the hips and started sliding in and out of her in long strokes.

I was soon fucking her hard and she was doing her best to get me even deeper as she pushed back with every stroke. She buried her face in a pillow as she started shouting into it. Her hands were pulling at the bedspread as I sped up and shortened my strokes to the last few inches.

We raced to our individual climaxes and she beat me by a few seconds as I had to slam through her contractions to release into her in several hard thrusts.

It took me a minute to come down from my high and pull myself out of her. She collapsed her body down flat to the bed and I flopped down beside her on my back.

I caressed her back and her ass with a light hand until she turned to me and smiled tiredly at me. I smiled back at her, relieved she was happy.

"Ellen, that was fantastic," I told her.

"Mike, that was better than fantastic!" she enthused. "That was animalistic and primal."

"You seemed to want it that way, so I'm glad you enjoyed it as much as I did," I said. "Maybe later we can get take it slower and inject a bit of romanticism into our next try."

She blushed and said, "Sorry, I was so hot for you and we didn't have much time. I hope you don't think I'm a slut."

"Of course not, it was so passionate and uninhibited," I said. "I loved it. I just thought you might like some romance as a change of pace next time."

"A girl can't get enough romance in her life," she replied before groaning as she saw the clock. "Unfortunately, we need to get moving before they send out the posse to come find us."

She groaned as she pushed herself up and got up off the bed. I sat up as well and stood up. She took my hand and led the way to the bathroom and started the shower.

"Don't get your hair wet and just let the water wash your face or you'll ruin your hair and make-up," she instructed me.

She stepped in and pulled me in behind her. She handed me a washcloth and a small bar of soap and then grabbed one for her. I washed her back for her before quickly washing my front. She had me turn around and she did my back and then we quickly rinsed. I helped her dry off and then quickly towelled myself while she got busy fixing her hair and her make-up.

I went back to the bedroom and got back into my clothes and brought her robe to her. I helped slip it on and tied the sash from behind as she leaned back into me.

She looked into the mirror at me and smiled.

"That was a wonderful lunchtime," she said with a grin.

"Sorry, but I barely got a taste," I replied. "What I did get was divine though."

"You are so bad," she said as she slapped my hand.

"I'm much better with adequate time," I assured her.

"We better save that until after we're done because I won't have enough strength to continue," she said as she hugged me tight.

"I guess I'm staying the night then," I told her.

"Good," she replied as she let me go and led the way out.

I grabbed my keycard and we headed out just as Paige and Kim were coming to get us. They both got big grins on their faces when they saw us come out of the same suite.

"Paige, they seem awfully happy for some reason," Kim observed.

"Yes, they weren't in such good moods when shooting stopped earlier," Paige agreed. "In fact, Ellen seemed downright frustrated."

"Yes, I could say the same about Mike," Kim remarked. "I wonder what has transpired to make them both seem, um, less frustrated."

"We had a pleasant conversation while relaxing in peace and quiet," Ellen said with a smile as she pulled me between the two of them.

I gave them my most innocent smile on them as I passed by and they followed us back to the conference room. Ellen let go of my hand as we entered the busy room. The first two set-ups were being taken down except for the lockers. Katie saw us come in and walked over.

"So far everything is looking very good," she said with a pleased smile. "So for the third scene, we'll have you dress in good casual work clothes side by side in front of two banks of lockers. We'll put a line on down the screen or photo later to simulate that you're in different locker rooms. You'll both start in CK underwear and then socks or pantyhose, then a shirt or blouse and finally pants or skirts as the case may be. You'll then slip on shoes and turn outwards, closing the locker door after grabbing your wallet or purse. Got it so far?"

We both nodded.

"Ok, we stop filming, take pictures of you in the outfit, both apart and together and then move to the elevator. You both come in from the side and smile at each other while waiting for the door to open. You get in, Mike pushes the button and the door closes. We open the door, Kim and Paige come in and mess up your hair and make-up a bit and we loosen some buttons on the shirt and blouse. They leave and we close the door and then open it up to see you both leaning back against the wall. Ellen stands back up, tucks in her blouse and does the buttons up, slips a card into Mike's shirt or pants pocket and says "Call me later and we'll have dinner." She leaves after trailing her hand down your chest and stomach and the door closes. Final scene is the door closing as Mike stands up and buttons up his shirt."

"Sounds doable," I said.

"Should be easy enough," Ellen agreed.

"Doing it once should be easy, we have several outfits for each of you, so that's what is going to take the time," Katie informed us. "Ok, let's get started."

For the next couple of hours we got in and out of casual to almost fancy office wear as we dressed by the lockers and then moved to the elevator that was locked out for our use. My last couple outfits were business suits as were Ellen's. I liked a lot of her outfits as they were short skirts with semi see-through blouses that showed off her fantastic figure. Then again, I saw her figure before each time she got dressed.

After we were done the third scene, we took a break and had some food and relaxed while the team put away the clothes and tidied up the two areas. Katie came over with Reggie and Leslie to where Ellen and I were resting with our feet up.

"You two are doing great, we got tons of material in that last set," Katie told us as they sat down.

"Good to hear it," I said.

"I loved all the adlibbing that you did Ellen, when we opened the door at the end," Reggie added.

Ellen decided to stand in front of me and was kissing me while I held her lower back when the doors were opened after we had done a few sets of clothes. She got more daring as she went on, her blouse had more buttons undone, her hand was in my shirt and then undoing my button on my pants. She even did one where her blouse was off her shoulders, showing her bra from behind as the doors opened.

"Just wanted to spice things up," Ellen replied with a grin.

"We're going to use a couple of them for sure," Katie told us. "Ok, the next scene is pretty simple, get dressed in separate bedrooms, from underwear onwards, and then we'll shoot Mike holding the chair for Ellen so she can sit down out at a table on the balcony with the Detroit skyline in the background. There will be three or four segments with you drinking, eating, talking, holding hands across the table and then getting up and Mike will help Ellen with her coat. We'll do that with about four or five different outfits and then break for dinner."

"Sounds plausible," I said. "It shouldn't be too hard."

"Piece of cake," Ellen said. "Mike's starting to act like a pro already."

"Good, give us about ten minutes and we can get you both started in the two bedroom sets at the same time," Katie said as they got up.

We nodded and watched them leave.

Ellen pulled out her phone and started reading her emails and listening to her messages. I sat there and watched as she coolly handled scheduling conflicts and bookings for the next month for the next few minutes. She shut it done and put it away and then saw me watching.

"Sorry Mike, just had to take care of some business while I got the chance," she said with a smile.

"No problem, I enjoyed watching you work that side of the business," I told her. "Luckily I have Katie to handle that for me."

"That's because this really isn't a full time job for you," she responded. "I need to do a couple shoots a week at least to make ends meet while you plan to do six in a year."

"Well, I do keep busy with school and hockey," I defended myself.

"I wasn't critiquing you Mike," she said as she reached out and rubbed my knee. "Far from it actually; I'm amazed you can do all three as well as you do, plus have time to work out, train in martial arts and rescue fair maidens in distress."

"I don't sleep much," I told her, "or have much of a social life."

"No new girlfriend yet?" she asked.

"Not yet, but I was hoping you might be interested, especially after earlier today," I answered.

She smiled and responded, "That's a wonderful offer and maybe if we lived closer together and our schedules were less hectic we could pull it off, but I have responsibilities that I can't shirk."

"I wasn't asking for you to move down here right away or anything, but we could see each other on a semi-regular basis," I suggested. "I would pay for flights down from Toronto or could fly or drive up to see you. I know I'm still in school but I do like you a lot and would like to get to know you better."

"Mike, you're a great guy and it's a very sweet offer, but it wouldn't be fair to you to get involved with me right now," she said. "What we did earlier was totally out of character for me, but it's been so long since I've been with a guy that I got carried away. I enjoyed it immensely and I would like to see if we can enjoy each other in a less rushed timeframe later tonight, but you shouldn't look to me for a girlfriend."

My disappointment must have shown on my face because she sat up and put a hand on my face.

"Mike, this is nothing to do with you, I promise," she said. "If I had time or room to fit a man into my life, you would definitely be my first choice. So don't think for a minute that you're being turned down because of you personally."

"Maybe I can help you out with some things so you don't have to work so hard and you would have more time to enjoy life," I offered. "If we both like each other, we shouldn't just walk away without trying everything we can to make it work."

Ellen looked over my shoulder and said, "We're out of time right now so let's talk more tonight. Can you still show the same interest in me for the rest of the day?"

"Of course, I am still more than interested in you," I answered as she got up.

"Good, because, no matter what, I want see how good you can make me feel when you have the proper amount of time to treat me right," she said, giving me a sultry look before walking away.

Katie talked to her for a sec before moving on to sit down across from me.

"She's something else, isn't she?" Katie said with a little smile on her face.

"Yes she is," I agreed.

"Mike, a word of advice from a friend," Katie started. "You can't fall in love with every woman you work with or even sleep with. While you mean well and your partner's appreciate your sincerity and that you really do care for them, you just can't expect them to feel the same way or to drop everything for you. Ellen is a wonderful woman but she has a life in Toronto that she can't just abandon. Enjoy the day and evening with her and look her up when you're up in Toronto, but don't fall in love with her. Or with anyone else I bring in to model with you. I'll do my best to make sure there aren't any gold diggers in the bunch, but you never can tell. Just enjoy being a very eligible bachelor or find someone at school to be your girlfriend for now."

"I haven't fallen in love with her, but I would be willing to get to know her better if she wanted to," I responded. "I think she's a very special lady but if she's not interested I can't force her to change her mind. Nothing ventured, nothing gained."

"Like I said, there are other factors in regards to Ellen," she repeated.

"Anything I can do to help her out, even if we don't hook up?" I asked.

"I don't think so, we pay her well and she likes working, so money isn't her issue," she told me. "She's in a different point in her life than you are and now's not the time to try and fit you in. Sorry Mike, she is a wonderful woman on top of being gorgeous."

I shrugged my shoulders and stood up.

"Such is my life lately," I said. "I can't expect everything to be roses."

We walked over to the bedroom set aside for me and found Kim waiting with my pair of underwear to start with. I got into them behind the screen and then stood in front of an open closet ready for them to start filming.

We ended up with five takes, me in five similar suits and Ellen with dresses ranging from elegant to a couple short, slinky and sexy ones. I did my best to act normally and no one seemed to tell the difference or ask me to do things again.

They had dinner catered buffet style in another smaller conference room for the entire production crew. I took a couple of minutes to call Ren and let her know I would be staying overnight and would meet them at the arena by six thirty. After hanging up and going through the buffet line, I found a seat next to a couple burly guys who were part of the lighting and teardown crew.

"So, what made you want to model when you play hockey well enough to get drafted?" one of them asked.

"My ex-girlfriend and her sister needed a guy to model with them in an emergency," I said. "The company got good reviews about it and they made me an offer that I couldn't refuse."

"Don't the other players make fun of you?" the other guy asked. "I mean, you're prancing around in your underwear for Christ's sakes."

"Not too much from my teammates and I just ignore the opposition," I replied. "Besides, I'm bigger than a lot of them."

"I saw your fight with the guy from Michigan State, you took him apart like he was a kid," a third guy on the other side of them said. "I can't imagine anyone opening their mouth around you."

"Oh, they all know I would get suspended a couple games for my next fight, so they try needling me every chance they get," I corrected his perception. "I just try and put him through the boards the next time he comes into my area."

"So, how high to you think you'll get picked?" asked a fourth.

"I'm not really sure since the acid attack," I responded. "I don't pay attention to the rankings so I don't know where they have me right now. That doesn't really tell you who will pick you at what spot, because the teams have different needs. I'm not so concerned how high I'm picked as I am who picks me."

"The higher pick you are the more money you make, right?" I was asked.

"There's a cap on rookie salaries, so I'm not going to make that much more or less than the top few," I said. "Money isn't the top priority for me, it's how much and where I play. I don't really want to play in the Juniors or the American league so I'll either get a NHL contract or stay in at the University."

"You're playing at Joe Louis next weekend, right?" the first guy asked.

"Yeah, Saturday is the semi-finals and if we win, we play the CCHA championship game on Sunday," I told them.

"I few of us are going to head over to see some of the games, and we're definitely going to watch your games," one of them told me.

"That's great, I'll look for you guys," I replied.

Katie called us all back to work and pulled Ellen and me to the side.

"Ok, this is the last one and where we showcase some of our woman's lingerie," Katie said. "We'll be in the special suite and first we'll do the living room scene where you'll make out for a bit before she excuses herself to slip into something more comfortable. After we go through all five dresses from the last scene, we'll move to the bedroom and do the silhouette scenes against the skyline and then you'll come together and make out some more before we fade to black. We have a few pieces of lingerie for Ellen so we need to get started."

We nodded and went back to the bigger conference room to get our first outfit on. Kim helped me with my tie and I was ready to go with my suit. We walked down the hall to the special suite and walked in the open door to see the cameras and lights set up to capture the next scene in the separate living room. The bedroom door was open and they were setting up cameras and lighting in there as well. The sun had set and the lights from across the river were starting to show up.

Kelly and Paige came in as we were looking around, with an assistant pushing a clothes rack behind them. It had on her other dresses and a few hangers of the lingerie outfits.

Kim and Paige moved on to a second bedroom and set up their stations with their make-up and hair kits while Ellen stood by me.

"We missed you at supper," she said.

"Some of the guys wanted to talk hockey," I explained.

"I thought you might be upset that I didn't want to be more than friends," she stated.

"I'm disappointed but it's starting to be a habit with the women in my life," I responded. "I can't expect any of you to drop the life you have somewhere else and try and fit me into your busy schedule, especially with my equally busy one. I'm unfortunately attracted to brilliant, beautiful and busy ladies who aren't looking out to settle for a freshman college student."

She laughed and replied, "You're hardly just a freshman college student, Mike. I'm sure there are oodles of women that would love to 'settle' for you. If things were different, I'd settle for you in a heartbeat. But you're right, our lives are busy and sometimes we don't get to do what we'd like to do and have to make the most of the time we have together."

"I guess so," I agreed.

"So, let's finish up these last two scenes and then enjoy the rest of the night together," she said, rubbing my arm.

"Ok, I can live with that," I told her.

So we got through the scene in the living room with Ellen changing her dress five times. She led the making out on the couch and gave me an increasing sultry look as she said her line about going to get into something comfortable.

After a short break we moved to the bedroom with the large bank of windows overlooking the River and the Detroit skyline. They had me drape my suit jacket and tie on a chair in the corner and while the cameras were rolling and then took some pictures of me doing it again. When they were ready, they had me stand looking out at the lights of Detroit while waiting for Ellen. They had the lights dimmed in the room but up enough for me to see what she was wearing when she stepped into the room from the adjacent bathroom.

The first outfit was a red, clingy short gown that ended mid thigh. I couldn't tell if she had on anything underneath and decided I didn't care as she walked over and moulded her fantastic body to mine while pulling my head down for a kiss. Her tongue took over my mouth as I felt her back through the silky material. My hands went lower as she lifted a leg to wrap it around me.

After a half a minute or so, she broke off the kiss and started undoing my shirt and I had to let go of her as she tried to rip it off my arms. She threw it down and started on my pants as she squatted down in front of me. Her head was level with my groin area and hid my erection when she pulled down my pants. I stepped out of them as she helped and then picked her up as she stood up again. She wrapped her legs around me as I turned and held her against the window.

The lights inside the room dimmed and they continued to film our silhouettes against the skyline as Ellen moved against my erection as if we weren't still clothed. I lowered my mouth to her neck and started kissing her as she gasped loudly and moved even more erotically against me.

I started pulling the gown's shoulder straps down her shoulders and just before I had her breasts bared someone called 'Cut!' and 'Nobody move but Leslie and Dale.'

I held her up easily against the window as they first took pictures without any flash to get the black and white effect first. Then the lights were slowly raised up and more pictures were taken. Finally they had me put her down and she quickly pulled up the straps before I stood away from her. Paige and Kim handed us robes and then Kim rescued my shirt and pants from the chair.

Katie, Leslie and Reggie huddled for at least fifteen minutes looking at the video and the stills while we waited.

"You two looked incredible," Paige said.

"Very erotic and sexy," Kim agreed. "I feel like buying some Calvin Klein clothes right now."

"Ellen is very good at this," I said. "I just follow her lead."

"You picking me up and pinning me on the glass was all you Mike," she protested. "I felt like I was light as a feather in your arms."

"You are light as a feather," I told her.

"It was a good adlib," she said. "I bet it looked very passionate."

Both Paige and Kim nodded enthusiastically.

I blushed which got all three of them laughing at me.

Katie came over soon after and said, "That was great you two, we got some really good stuff there. We need to get some quick film and stills of Ellen by the washroom in this outfit and then we would like to get a quick scene on the bed with Ellen on top of Mike, both of you dressed as you are. We don't know if we'll need it but we want to have it just in case."

We got up and we moved out of the way so they could set up a camera to capture Ellen in the light of the bathroom.

They shot Ellen standing in the doorway with different expression on her face and then the two of us on the bed. Ellen made sure that she ground herself on me as if she was in the throes of passion while she kissed me. I just held her at her waist as her legs moved to the outside of my legs and caressed them. Finally, they took some stills and then called this one done.

We did the scene four more times, Ellen in a babydoll outfit, a matching camisole and tap pants, a bra and hipster panties and then a miniscule bra and matching thong. Each time they stopped me just before her breasts were bared. The last time, with Ellen in the tiny outfit, I could feel her nipples digging into my chest and the thin material of her thong didn't protect her pussy from the rubbing of my cock on her clit. She shuddered in the dark before they called out 'Cut'.

She buried her face in my neck as she caught her breath before Dale took pictures. Paige and Kim were very quick with the robes, almost having them on us before we split up.

"You guys take five before we take the final pics," Katie suggested.

We nodded and went to our separate rooms to freshen up.

"Here, put on a new pair of underwear before the next shoot," Kim said, handing me a fresh pair.

I nodded and slipped the old one off and the new ones on without taking off the robe.

"Paige and I got soaked watching you two," she said with a grin. "If Ellen doesn't want to join you tonight we will."

I laughed and said, "I might have to take you up on that if she doesn't. She's driving me crazy out there."

"You're doing the same to her," Kim informed me. "Paige thought she saw Ellen climax during the last one, but she wasn't sure with the darkness."

"Great, tell me now when I'm trying to settle down a bit," I told her with a frown.

"Shall I take care of that for you?" she asked with a grin.

"Thanks for the offer but I'll settle down in a bit," I replied.

We got up in a couple of minutes and went back to the bedroom to watch Ellen do her thing by the bathroom. After that, she enticed me one last time on the bed before they called it a night.

With Ellen and I in robes, Katie, Reggie and Leslie came over.

"Ellen, Mike, you two were terrific today," Katie enthused. "We got lots of great film and stills and we should be able to make two or more commercials and lots of print ads. I know it was a really long day but it was worth it."

Leslie and Reggie nodded their agreement.

"I'm glad you got what you needed," I said. "I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm exhausted and have to be up in six hours to get back to school. I'm heading to bed."

"I'm beat as well, luckily I don't have to be anywhere tomorrow," Ellen added. "Have a good night everyone."

The two of us, with Paige and Kim in tow, went to the big conference room and grabbed our stuff. I gave Kim a check for a thousand dollars while we were alone for doing such a great job helping me out. She thanked me for the generous gift but I told her she deserved it for making me look so good. She stayed behind to finish packing her makeup and hair kit before hitting the hay.

Ellen was waiting for me when I left Kim's little room. She took my hand and started pulling me out of the conference room. I caught sight of Paige watching from her doorway with a grin on her face and I shrugged at her before I was dragged out of the room.

We were at my room in a few seconds and I had to let her hand go to get the keycard out and open the door. Once inside, I stood the side and let her in before shutting the door and locking it. Ellen made her way to the small fridge and pulled out a couple of water bottles and then continued on to the bedroom.

"I'm going to wash off this damn makeup, so give me a second," I told her as I detoured to the bathroom.

I quickly washed off my face with soap and a washcloth and then brushed my teeth before joining her in the bedroom. She had her robe off and was lying on the bed with the sheets and cover pulled back. Her last outfit was still on her, the tiny bra and thong. I pulled off my robe and climbed in beside her. I looked down at her as she gave me a sultry look.

A few hours ago, when she had told me that we couldn't see each other again, I had decided to pull out all the stops when we alone again. Maybe driving her over the top a few times might change her mind about me and her. It was a long shot but I would enjoy making her scream in ecstasy a few times.

A couple hours later she was asleep beside me in the bed, her body naked and uncovered. I had done what I had set out to do, licking her to a couple of orgasms before making love to her while she had a few more. When I finally emptied myself into her, she had screamed as she came with me before she closed her eyes and had fallen asleep.

I got up and used the washroom and then set the alarm for four before falling asleep beside her.



-------

Chapter 45


The alarm woke me up from a weird dream where I was playing hockey with sword wielding Yakuza hockey players while Ellen, Paige and Kim watched from the bench.

I reached over and found the shut-off button and slowly sat up. Ellen was on her side and didn't stir a muscle when the alarm was ringing. I looked at her lovely face, peaceful in sleep and wished things had worked out differently.

Sighing with regret, I got up and had a quick shower before getting dressed. I left her a note thanking her for all her help yesterday as well as the wonderful night and telling her to call if she ever changed her mind. I left the keycard and the note on her night stand, gave her a soft kiss and then quietly left the room.

Reaching the lobby, I found only a single bored guy at the front desk.

"Hi, is there anyone available to get a car from the valet service?" I asked, handing him my stub.

"Give me a few minutes, and I'll have it brought around," he said.

"Thanks," I replied.

I went out the front entrance and waited a few minutes until it came around. I handed the driver a twenty and got in. It was a quick few minutes to the tunnel and a quick trip under the river to the booths at the border stop in Detroit. After answering a few questions at the booth, I was on the way back to Ann Arbor.

Kuro and Ren were sitting in their own SUV when I pulled up beside them at the arena.

"Hey guys, how was your day off?" I asked as we got out of our vehicles.

"Not so good," Kuro replied. "Let's go in and talk before you change for practice."

I led the way in and we found a seat in the arena where we wouldn't be overheard.

"First of all, here is your new cell, with all your old contacts," Ren said, handing over a new smart phone. "It's as secure as we could make it. Feel free to use it to call your regular contacts. We've also made sure your email account can't be traced by your run of the mill gang members so you can use that again."

"Thanks," I said, slipping it into my coat pocket.

"Now to the bad news," she continued. "When the Yakuza couldn't find Mitsy and the girls, they moved on to other relatives. Takeru and Hiroto have both been hurt badly in a hit and run accident. Luckily, Kiyomi suffered only a broken arm and is with Hiroto in a private hospital."

I shook my head at how far the clan had gone to avenge the honour of the four idiot members.

"Please express my well wishes to all three of them," I responded. "Let me know if I can do anything for them. I'd like to visit but will wait until you let me know when it's safe to do so."

"Mr. Matsuda knew you want to see them, but you will have to wait a while," Ren told me.

I nodded and waited for them to continue.

"Mitsy and Asuka won't be back to school," Ren stated. "Mitsy will be joining the company hierarchy as soon as the current danger is past and get her training on the job. Casey and Barb are moving back to Ohio and New York as soon as they can for their safety. They'll will take their exams in a secure setting and then go home."

"I'm going to miss all of them," I said. "Let them know to call or write when they can so I can talk to them."

"All of them wish you well but, for both your safety and theirs, further contact will be extremely limited," Kuro told me. "Don't try to contact them at all, let them set something up themselves if security allows it."

"Ok," I agreed with a sigh. "Is there anything else?"

"It's been decided that we are to back off our visible protection of you," Kuro stated. "We'll still be around while you're out, but it will be from farther away so it's not so obvious that we're still watching out for you. We're hoping that it will show that you're not important to the family and they won't feel the need to target you. You can still call us if you need to talk, but we're going to be in the building rather than in the room with you from now on."

"What about the security at the condo?" I asked.

"We're going to replace the rooftop sentries with state of the art sensors that will be monitored 24/7," Ren replied. "The guys at your door are gone now. We have upgraded your security system to the best we can provide and your door is now a more secure one. The security system now has a secondary level that can be activated while you are home and will protect you without you setting it off. I'll show you all the new features when we take you home for the last time tonight."

"Ok, thanks for all of your help, and please pass that on to Mr. Matsuda as well," I said.

"We will," Ren promised. "Now, we will fade into the background but will meet you at your condo after practice tonight. I suggest you keep your maid away from the condo this week as well."

I nodded as we got up. I shook their hands and wished them luck. They left the arena as I walked down the tunnel to the locker room and got dressed.

After my usual solitary skating and shooting warm-up and the team's warm-up, the coach let us know that we would be playing Alaska Friday night in the semi-final. The other semi-final would be Notre Dame versus Northern Michigan with the championship to be played by the two winners Saturday night.

We went over our games that we had played against Alaska and Notre Dame this season with the coaches outlining our strategies we would deploy for each team. We had an intense practice concentrating on learning the strategy against Alaska for all three facets of the game. The team was held as long as possible and several of us had to hurry to make our next classes.

The school day went by fairly fast as I handed in my math assignments and got busy during lunch on the new ones. Philosophy class was actually beneficial as it helped me with some points for my third and final paper.

After my last class, I walked back to the rink, keeping a more watchful eye on my surroundings then I usually did. Thankfully, nothing happened and I reached the arena without any issues. After a longer than usual workout, I joined my teammates as we got dressed for afternoon practice.

The afternoon practice was dedicated to our strategy against Notre Dame, the team we were most likely to face in the finals. We reviewed what went well against them in our games this season and then practiced all three facets again.

I grabbed some chicken from a drive-thru and headed home. I had called Daphne earlier in the day and told her to stay away this week. When I parked the SUV in the garage, Kuro and Ren appeared from a nearby car and joined me in the elevator.

We rode up in silence and Ren opened the condo door with a new set of keys. She handed me a card with the new passwords and let me disarm the system. Kuro took a look around while Ren showed me the new features. Five minutes later they left after shaking my hand and wishing me luck.

I ate my dinner while working on the new math assignments. After I was done, I checked my messages and found a few on the condo machine as well as a few emails.

Emma had called and left a message telling me she was safe and sound and back to school. She said she had her new secure phone that I could call when I thought it was safe.

Ellen left a message thanking me for the wonderful night and hoped that I would stop in to see her the next time I was in Toronto.

Kristen left a message telling me that she had a free weekend in April that she would like to spend with me and to let her know if my schedule was open.

Katie sent some pictures via email of our shoot to me and told me that the higher ups were very impressed so far. She also informed me the million was deposited in my Canadian account.

Aunt Nancy sent an email with best wishes from the family with some attachments of the girls' paintings for me.

Finally, Isobel Collins, the New York financier I met on the plane before my run-in with the acid, sent an email asking if I wanted to pursue anything with her company.

I responded back to those I could via email, still not trusting my cell phone to call them.

I let Kristen know that I would be in exams the first two weeks of April and wasn't sure of the photo shoot schedule yet for the last two weeks but would let her know as soon as I did.

I told Isobel that I was interested and to have her Canadian contact get a hold of me via email to start.

I thanked Aunt Nancy for the pictures from the girls and told her things were hectic for the next month.

I sent Emma an email letting her know I had the new cell as well and would call when things slowed down.

I responded to Katie and thanked her for the pictures and her help yesterday as well as the payment.

Finally, I thanked Ellen for a wonderful day again and told her I would be up in Toronto in late May for the NHL combine and would let her know more as the date approached.

The rest of the evening I worked on my last philosophy paper and fit in a stretching and forms exercise break about half way through. I had a quick shower and hit the bed early to catch up on my sleep.

Tuesday morning was a repeat with practice and the first computer class. I started working on the new assignment in the cafeteria while eating a salad topped with chicken. My laptop was beside me and I used one hand to type while shoving a forkful of salad into my mouth from time to time.

"What did we decide last week about your eating habits?" a voice asked as someone sat down across from me.

I looked up to see Gwendolyn looking at me with a frown as she slipped off her book bag and placed it on the seat beside her.

"There's a face I didn't think I would see again," I said, ignoring her jab. "I'm glad you decided to join me. I was hoping you couldn't stay away if you saw me eating like this again."

"So this was a ploy to get me to come over?" she asked, looking sceptical.

"Of course," I said as I saved my work and closed down the laptop.

"So am I going to be swarmed by your other girlfriends in a couple minutes?" she asked as she looked around.

"Nope, they're actually away for a while so you've got me to yourself for the foreseeable future," I told her.

"Really?" she asked, looking even more doubtful.

"Really, really," I replied with a grin.

"So what does that mean?" she asked.

"They had to disappear for a bit after some trouble Mitsy's family is having," I told her. "Actually, none of them are coming back to school this semester or in the future."

"That's too bad, I kind of liked them," she said.

"Me too," I agreed with a grin.

She rolled her eyes at me and looked at my salad.

"Will you join me for lunch?" I asked. "It would be my treat."

"Well that salad does look pretty good," she admitted. "Maybe I'll just share yours."

"Even better, I was starting to turn into a rabbit," I told her as I handed her my fork.

"Are you germ free?" she asked.

"I'm not one hundred percent sure," I admitted. "Let me get you your own salad just to be careful."

I got up and quickly went into the cafeteria despite her objections and grabbed another salad and a variety of four juices as I didn't know what she liked. I paid for them and got some utensils and hurried back to her.

"Mike, you didn't have to get a whole new salad, I was kidding," she said, exasperated. "I only needed one juice, apple or orange is fine."

"It's better to be safe than sorry," I told her. "I had a photo shoot on Sunday and I was around a lot of people, so just in case I caught a bug it's better that we don't share until we're sure I'm not contaminated."

"Oh, and how close did you get to the models?" she asked.

"No use trying to sugar coat it, you're going to see the pictures soon enough," I told her. "Calvin Klein commercials and ads are pretty racy so we get as close as can be with little between us."

"Oh really?" she asked.

"Sorry, but you probably already saw my first CK stuff somewhere so you know what it's about," I replied.

"Hmmm, not sure how I feel about that," she mused.

"It's a job that pays really well," I offered. "I don't particularly like to have pictures of me in my underwear out so everyone can see, especially my two young cousins, but CK made me an offer I couldn't refuse."

"And getting to cavort with beautiful women couldn't hurt either," she wisecracked.

"Better than with other guys," I retorted with a grin. "You have nothing to be jealous of; you're just as beautiful as any model."

She laughed out loud and said, "You obviously need your eyes examined."

"I think you're very beautiful so and so do a lot of other people," I told her.

"I think you're just trying to butter me up," she replied, still shaking your head.

"While I would love to take you out for dinner sometime, I'm not lying to you about how you look, which is as good as any model I've seen," I told her.

She was quiet for a few seconds as she looked at me.

"Did you just ask me out on a date?" she asked.

"Yes, dinner and maybe a movie if you like," I repeated.

"We hardly know each other at all and you hang out with movie stars and gorgeous supermodels," she stated. "Why on earth do you want to go out with me?"

"Obviously to get to know you better," I replied. "I think you look gorgeous and I love the fact that we can almost see eye to eye. Now we just need to see if like each other enough to want to date."

"How about we just have lunch once and a while to get to know each other instead?" she suggested.

"How about we do both?" I counter-offered.

"Honestly, I don't know if I want to date you," she told me.

"Can I ask why?" I inquired.

"You're way out of my league and you're always in the news and on TV," she said. "I don't want to be on TV or have the paparazzi taking my picture"

"Listen, I'm not anything special and I avoid the paparazzi and being on TV like the plague," I told her. "It would be nice to have a somewhat normal relationship with a lovely girl that plans to be around for a while and doesn't want me for any of that other stuff."

"I need to spend a lot of time practicing and painting, I don't have much spare time to date anyway," she continued.

"I'm pretty busy as well, so we would just have to fit our dates in when we can, and continue having lunch together," I responded.

"Listen Mike, I'm not going to jump into bed with you just because you're a famous model," she said, clearly exasperated. "I'm sure that you can find a dozen women in this room alone that would love to sleep with you right away. You should find one of them to go on a date with you."

"Gwen, I'm not like that and I don't expect to sleep with you for a long time, at least until the second date," I replied with another grin. "Listen, if you're that worried about the date, we can just continue to have lunch together where we're surrounded by lots of people. I'm willing to take this as slow as you want so you're comfortable being around me. We can even go out with some of your friends if you like, maybe double date or something. I'm not going to force you into doing anything that you don't want to do."

"I don't know, I shouldn't have come here today," she said.

"But you did, and you came over last week," I reminded her. "Forget about the other stuff, it's what I do, not what I am. I'd like the chance to have a normal relationship with a normal girl who was curious about me before she found out about my extra stuff."

"It's still a part of your life and I'd have to be involved in it at some point," she said. "However, eating lunch with you shouldn't be too dangerous."

I sighed with relief.

"You don't know how relieved I'm to hear that," I told her. "I think I was going to join a monastery if you would have left."

"I wouldn't have just gotten up and left, that would have been rude," she said with a deadpan voice. "I would have at least eaten my salad before I did."

"Good, now let's eat," I said with a grin.

We dug into our salads and ate for a few minutes in quiet.

"So how was your weekend?" I asked.

"It was busy, I had to practice for a couple of recitals and get some painting done," she told me.

"Ok, are you doing a double major or is one of them a minor degree?" I asked.

"I'm majoring in music, I play the piano and the violin," she answered. "I'm doing a minor in art; I do pencil sketches, water colours and oil paintings."

"Wow, multi talented as well as beautiful," I said. "When can I hear you play and look at some of your art?"

"Many moons from now, if ever," she said primly. "So you're a computer programming and math geek on top of being a hockey star and a model?"

"Yep, my scholarship is in computer science actually," I replied. "I'm from Dryden, up in Northern Ontario. Where are you from?"

"I'm from here in Ann Arbor," she said.

"You said you had a couple of younger brothers, right?" I asked.

"You were paying attention," she replied. "Brad is sixteen and Ryan is fourteen. Before you ask, my Dad is a senior manager for a company here in the city and my mom is an office manager at an accounting firm. What do your parents do?"

"No family left I'm afraid, I was an only child and my parents died last year, cancer and an industrial accident," I told her.

"I'm sorry to hear that," she said.

"I miss them but life goes on," I replied. "I did get some good news in November; I have an aunt and uncle and two small girl cousins in Toronto that I didn't know existed. My aunt saw me on the TV and recognized me as looking just like my dad when he was younger. She called down to the coach and then came down to see me and now I correspond with them."

"Good for you, everyone needs family in their lives," she said.

"It's been fun," I agreed. "So why do you stay in a dorm?"

"I needed to get out of the house," Gwen said. "My parents would have still treated me like a little girl if I stayed. Besides, I practice a lot at school so it's easier to get to the music and art departments from here."

We talked some more as we finished our lunches until we had to go to our next classes. She eased up enough to exchange our contact information before we got up.

"I'll see you tomorrow at lunch?" I asked. "I only have between noon and one on Mondays and Wednesdays."

"I'll try to be here," Gwen replied.

"Great, I'm looking forward to it," I responded with a smile.

She shook her head and walked away. I watched her as she towered over most of the other students, weaving her way to the doors. She never looked back. I knew winning her over wasn't going to be easy but I thought she would be well worth the effort.

I walked to my afternoon programming class and handed in my next assignment before following along with the professor as he went through the chapter I had read already.

After class, I went to the nearby clinic and had some blood drawn and peed into a cup so they could run all the tests for STDs. I received my private id number to retrieve the results in two days. Ellen and I hadn't worn any protection, and, while I was pretty sure she was as clean as a person could be, I wanted to make sure before I got involved with anyone else, whenever that may be.

I hurried back to the arena and had a quick workout before getting ready for practice. Practice was intense and I was exhausted afterwards. I took a long shower and picked up some food on the way to the dojo.

Sensei and I warmed up and then sparred for a good ten to fifteen minutes before taking a break. Afterwards, we worked with several weapons, from knives, to tonfa and larger poles made out of bamboo. I enjoyed the session immensely.

"You are aware of the harming of Takeru, Hiroto and Kiyomi?" Sensei asked when we finished for the night.

I nodded.

"You must always be ready and aware of your surroundings, Michael," Sensei told me. "Walking to your car, driving to a normal destination, walking at school and to and from the arena are all potential places to be attacked. Even in this parking lot you must be cautious."

"I've been extra careful when I'm out," I told him.

"Good," he replied. "Now, put this bamboo rod behind your driver's seat so you can get at it quickly. Be extra vigilant for the next week until things can be settled."

"I will and thanks for this," I answered.

"You're most welcome, I hope it will never be needed but will serve you well if it is," he said.

"I'll see you Thursday night," I told him before leaving.

I was careful as I got into my car and stored the rod behind my seat. I drove defensively all the way home and didn't relax until I was safely in the condo. After a quick shower and snack, I checked my messages and then hit the hay.

Wednesday morning I woke up in a surprisingly good mood as I went about getting ready to leave for the day. It helped me during practice as I put a bit more on my shots and skated a bit faster.

I continued to feel good about the day through my first math class and after the second with Professor Hiller who stopped me for a second.

"Mike, I just wanted to thank you for whatever you did to get rid of my problem with Professor Milton," she said with a smile. "He's actually left the university."

"I just mentioned it to a friend, they must have dealt with it without letting me know," I said.

"However you managed it, I'm very grateful and I owe you big time," she responded.

"Nonsense, we're just even now, you helped me out immensely with your math tutoring so we're all square," I corrected her.

"I thought I might come by soon and give you a proper thanks," she said with a coy smile.

"I'm sorry Professor, I'm just starting to see a girl here at school and as much as I would have loved to get together with you, I'm going to have to keep our relationship professional now," I said, trying to turn her down gently. "It's not anything against you, far from it; I just want to stay faithful to her."

Her smile slipped a bit but she recovered quickly, "I'm sorry to hear that but I understand completely and would do the same in your position. Keep me in mind if you become single again."

"I definitely will," I told her. "I'll see you Monday."

I left her packing up her stuff and hurried off to meet Gwen in the cafeteria. I looked around the large room but didn't see her so I looked in the food area. She wasn't there either so I waited outside for her to show up. She finally came in and shook her head when she saw me waiting for her.

She was wearing a heavy U of M sweat shirt over grey jeans tucked into hiking boots. Her blond hair was windblown and she swept it out of her eyes as she came up to me.

"What are you doing out here?" she asked. "Just wait for me inside in case I don't show up."

"I wanted to buy you lunch," I said simply. "Come on, I'm starving."

She shook her head and preceded me into the room as I held the door for her. She wasn't carrying any books as we joined the line in the cafeteria.

"Are you joining me at the salad bar?" she asked with a smirk.

"I might get a small one, but I need a more substantial meal as well," I said.

"You go get in line then, I'll get you a small garden salad," she instructed as she pushed me towards the meal line.

"Yes Ma'am," I said with a grin as I left her with the other health freaks in the rabbit food line.

I grabbed a big plate of spaghetti and meatballs and added a hunk of garlic bread before moving to the beverage station. I filled up a large cup with Diet Coke and got her an apple juice. I walked back to where she was just finishing up with the two salads and we switched the juice to her tray and the small salad to mine. I followed her to the checkout and paid for both of our meals before we got some utensils and napkins at the station outside. We found an empty table and sat down across from one another.

"You're in a good mood today," she observed as she opened her juice.

"I am," I agreed. "I knew I was going to see you today. It's been a very good day so far."

She rolled her eyes and took a drink.

"What, can't I be happy to see you?" I asked.

"I guess, but you're acting like it's the first time you've ever gone after a girl," she noted.

I sat back and thought about it and then replied, "You know, you're right, this is the first time I've actually tried to win over a girl. I've only really had one girlfriend, and she more or less made the first moves. Am I doing it all wrong?"

"Not really, but I haven't had much experience with guys pursuing me either," she replied. "Are you telling me you never had a girlfriend before Vicky Waters?"

"Nope, I was a skinny nerd back in high school," I admitted. "I had a significant growth spurt after high school and again during this year."

"Sounds familiar," she said. "I was the skinny, overly tall, music and art geek, and still am."

"No, now you're the very talented and beautiful music and art genius," I told her.

She shook her head and dug into her salad while I started to eat my spaghetti. I ate a few bites and looked up to see her looking at me with a smirk as she chewed on a mouthful of salad.

"Ok, what is it; do I have spaghetti on my face?" I asked.

She swallowed before replying, "I just realized that you probably didn't even go to your Prom. CK supermodel Mike Stewart was a geek in high school and no one would ever believe it."

"Well it's true," I said. "I, for one, am glad that high school is over and I won't be looking back at that time with any fondness."

"I'm the same way," she agreed. "College has been better but there are still the usual bitchy girls and sarcastic guys around."

We ate some more and then I got her talking about her music. She played all kinds of music on the piano, from classical to modern; while the violin was mostly classical. She had been experimenting with some of the modern music for violin, but didn't really like country so she didn't do much of that.

Her art was an eclectic mix as well, from nature scenes to portraits, without much in the way of the so-called modern abstract art unless needed for a class project. She had received a scholarship from both the music and the art departments that paid for her tuition and art supplies.

All too soon it was time to leave for my class.

"I have to go to class," I said. "Will I see you tomorrow?"

"Probably, though we'll be talking about you more than me next time," she responded.

"We'll see about that," I replied. "You have a good afternoon and an even better morning tomorrow."

"You too," she said as we got up.

We put the garbage and trays away before heading out the doors together.

"I'm heading this way," she said.

"I'm the other way I'm afraid," I told her. "I'll see you tomorrow."

"See ya," she said and walked off.

I watched her until she turned the corner and then walked to philosophy class. I thought about Gwen for a while during class, which helped pass the time. After class I walked to the arena and worked out again, finally getting back to the weight I was pushing before the acid attack.

Practice was the usual, intense and competitive as we had a long scrimmage at the end. I finally felt back to normal and was comfortable with all aspects of the game. I was looking forward to the weekend for the championship games.

I drove home to the condo and cooked some pork chops and rice for dinner. After I cleaned up, I checked my messages and email and found only an email from a Natalie Green, a financial advisor located in Toronto that Isobel had forwarded my information to.

In her email, she made some recommendations on how she would invest some of my money to get the most out of it in the volatile markets caused by the current recession. I read it through and then did a bit of research on my own before replying. I decided to let her play with a hundred grand to start with and see how she did. I let her know of my plans and asked her to get things set up for the money transfer and all the legal mumbo-jumbo.

After that was done, I finished the two computer programming assignments and continued on with the final philosophy paper until after eleven. I put on the new alarm system and hit the hay.

Thursday was another normal day, with practice and computer programming in the morning. I waited for a couple of minutes at the cafeteria door for Gwen but eventually went in and selected some shepherd's pie for lunch. I had it finished and was working on my philosophy paper when she finally showed up.

"Hi Gwen, how's it going?" I asked as she plopped her books down on the table while sitting down.

"I'm having a crappy day," she admitted. "My practicing sucked, my roommate's boyfriend is trying to set me up with a friend of his who happens to be an idiot frat boy, and my mother wants me to go to a baby shower with her on Sunday."

"That is a crappy morning, to say the least," I commiserated. "Let me know if I can help in any way."

"Helping me come up with some excuses that are believable would be appreciated," Gwen replied.

"Tell the guy you're too busy to go out with his friend, and you can tell your mom the same thing," I suggested. "You have to practice for a recital, you have other plans; there are all sorts of things you can say."

"I need something that they will believe, something concrete," Gwen said with a frown. "My roommate wants me to go out tonight on a double date with the idiot and then go to a party Friday night. She'll know I'm lying because she knows my schedule. My mom won't take practicing as an excuse to miss the shower."

"I've got the perfect excuse for all of them but you'll think I'm taking advantage of the situation," I told her. "I'm not, so just think about it before you tell me where to go."

She looked at me warily and said, "Ok, let's hear it."

"You tell your roommate and her boyfriend you have somewhere to be this evening and I come and pick you up to take you to the Dojo with me," I explained. "For tomorrow night, you can come to the game at Joe Louis Arena and sit with my partner's girlfriend. For Sunday's shower, we would have to make something up that she would believe."

She thought about it for much longer than I thought she needed to.

"I'm surprised you didn't suggest yourself as my boyfriend," she said with a penetrating look.

"I'm not an idiot frat boy," I replied simply.

"If I use you like that with my roommate, she'll be all over me to know what's going on with the two of us," she stated.

"I'm sure you can just say we're getting to know each other slowly and string her along for a few weeks until school is over," I responded.

"I'm not sure if it will work," she said. "I'm going to get something to eat and think it over."

I watched her for a bit while she was my sight in the cafeteria. Even in a bad mood she was beautiful. I went back to my paper when she went behind a wall. I had a few extra sentences done when she finally came back. I looked up to see she had a girl and a guy with her. The girl was fairly tall and slim and had a friendly smile on her cute face while the guy wasn't much taller and wasn't particularly happy to see me.

"Mike, this is Hunter, my roommate, and Sam, her boyfriend," Gwen made the introductions.

"Hi Hunter, Sam, it's nice to meet you both," I said with a smile.

"Hi Mike, are you the guy that's been stealing our lunch partner from us?" Hunter asked.

"Guilty as charged," I replied.

She gave me a nice smile as she sat down across from me. Sam sat beside her, which forced Gwen to come across and sit beside me, placing her tray in front of her.

"So how long have you two known each other?" Hunter inquired, clearly curious about the situation.

"What's it been, Gwen?" I asked, looking over at her.

"A couple weeks I guess," she said.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Hunter asked her.

"I just wanted to keep it quiet while we got to know each other better," Gwen replied. "You know how much I like my privacy."

"Yeah, but he's Mike Stewart, Gwen," she protested with an exasperated look. "How could you keep that secret?"

"Simple, just don't tell anyone," Gwen replied.

"Now I know why you didn't want to go out with Dan," Hunter stated, before turning to Sam. "Sorry Honey, you better tell Dan he's out of luck with Gwen."

"Damn, he's going to be so pissed," Sam said, pulling out his phone and scrolling through to find his number as he stood up.

When he was far enough away, Hunter whispered, "I'm glad you didn't have to go out with Dan; he's got a bit of a rep for trying to get physical real quick. He's even tried to hit on me when Sam is drunk."

"Why did you want me to go out with him then?" Gwen whispered back.

"Sam was really pushing me to get you to go out with Dan," Hunter said. "I was going to warn you and make sure I was around for the whole date. I thought one very public date wouldn't hurt and get Sam off my back. Sorry Gwen, Sam's been acting a bit funny the last couple of weeks and I didn't want to rock the boat."

Sam came back and threw himself into his seat.

"How did he take it?" Hunter asked him.

"Very disappointed," Sam said, looking angrily at Gwen and me. "Listen, I have to go smooth this over, can I leave you here with these two?"

"Sure, I'll see you later," Hunter said.

Sam ignored us as he stomped off, muttering to himself.

"Ok, Sam's getting weirder than usual," Gwen told Hunter.

"Yeah, something's up but he insists nothing is wrong," she replied. "At least we got you out of having to go out with the creep. Ok, now that he's gone, tell me what's really going on with you two."

"We're getting to know each other slowly," Gwen replied. "I might go with him to his Dojo tonight and he's asked me to go to the game tomorrow night down at the Joe Louis arena in Detroit."

"I think you should go to both in case Sam comes around and sees you in the room," Hunter advised. "Besides, you need some fun in your life and Mike looks like just the right guy for you."

Gwen blushed a bit and glanced over at me to see my reaction. I just arched my eyebrow at her and she looked quickly away. The two shared Gwen's salad and talked about the shower on Sunday that they both didn't want to go to.

"So you two are more than roommates?" I asked.

"Yeah, we grew up together and our families are real tight," Gwen told me. "Both of us and Hunter's two younger sisters have to go to the baby shower for a neighbour's daughter."

"None of us want to go, the daughter was a real bitch," Hunter explained. "So we need to come up with a real good excuse not to go."

Time seemed to fly by and all too soon it was time to head out to my second computer class.

"I have to head out now; do you want to visit the dojo with me tonight?" I asked Gwen.

"I think I'll pass, I can just go and practice at the music building to stay away from the room," she said.

"Call me if you change your mind or if you want to go to the game tomorrow night," I said. "Hunter, it was nice to meet you."

"Yes, it was nice to meet you too, Mike," Hunter said. "Don't give up on Gwen; she's just shy and a bit of a loner."

"Two of a kind then," I said. "I'll see you two around."

I walked away, disappointed in the outcome but I knew Gwen was going to be a long term project.

The rest of the day was uneventful. I grabbed some tacos to eat on the way to the dojo and then had a good workout with Sensei as we continued to concentrate on weapons training after we sparred for a while.

I was home and showered when my phone rang around ten thirty.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Hey Mike, its Gwen," she said. "How was your workout?"

"Very good actually," I replied. "How was your afternoon?"

"Ok, Hunter and I had a long talk," she replied. "She's threatened to show you my younger high school pictures if I don't take you up on going to your game tomorrow night."

"I'm sure you look cute so don't worry about your pictures," I said. "I don't want you to do anything you really don't want to do. We can just meet as friends for lunch when you can make it."

"Oh, I thought you would be happy to have me go," she sounded surprised.

"Only when you actually want to go because you're at least a bit interested in me," I told her. "You don't need to go now that Sam won't bug you about tomorrow night."

She was quiet for a bit and then said, "I'd like to go if the invitation is still open."

"Ok, I'll get you a ticket and have Amanda call you tomorrow so you'll know who she is," I said. "The team leaves a bit earlier after we have an early dinner, so I won't actually see you until after the game is over, other than seeing you in the stands. If you like, we can meet for an early lunch, I'm free from ten until two tomorrow."

"Lunch would be ok, I can meet you at eleven," she replied.

"Ok, I'll see you then," I told her.

The line was quiet again and I thought she had hung up when she finally spoke.

"Are you heading to bed now?" she asked.

"Pretty soon," I answered, "you?"

"I'm in bed actually," she responded. "Hunter isn't back yet so I can talk for a bit if you'd like."

"Sure, just let me lock up and I can get comfortable too," I told her.

I checked on the door and shut down the lights before slipping into bed.

"Ok, I'm back," I told her.

"So tell me how you went from a skinny nerd to the hottest CK model and star defenceman in less than half a year," she requested.

I gave her the abbreviated version and then had her tell me about her family and Hunter's. Before I knew it, it was twenty minutes later.

"Hunter just came in," Gwen said.

"Hey Gwenny, you're still awake," I could hear Hunter say. "I think I had too much to drink."

I heard a grunt and Gwen said, "Hey, watch it, you landed on me."

"I need you to help me get undressed," Hunter slurred.

"I'm talking to Mike on the phone, you lush," Gwen told her.

"Give me the phone and I'll talk to him while you help me get these pants off," Hunter said.

"Hey Mikey, how's it going, eh?" she said with a laugh. "So, you like Gwen, don't ya?"

"Hey Hunter, it sounds like you had fun tonight," I replied.

"Not really, Sam passed out on me before he could take care of me," she slurred. "I'm drunk and horny. You should come over and take care of both of us. Gwenny would love it if you came over. She likes you. Shit, I like you too. We would make a great trio. Ah, finally free. Thanks Gwenny. Ok Mike, come on over, I'm almost naked and ready. If you don't come soon I'll have to attack Gwenny instead."

"Give me that phone, you drunken slut," Gwen yelled.

"Mike, are you still there?" Gwen asked.

"Yep," I replied.

"Sorry about that, she's sloshed," Gwen apologized. "Disregard anything she said."

"You ok with her like that?" I asked.

"Don't worry, she's a happy drunk," Gwen said. "She'll probably fall asleep in a couple of minutes. I'll see you tomorrow, ok?"

"Ok, good luck tonight," I said.

"Oh, she's gonna get lucky tonight," Hunter yelled. "You can too Mikey!"

"Bye Mike," Gwen said quickly and hung up.

I laughed and hung up the phone. I plugged in the charger and fell asleep imagining the two of them together in one bed.

Friday I went to practice and then worked out in the weight room. I checked with John and he was sure Amanda would be ok with Gwen sitting with her. I gave him Gwen's contact info so Amanda could call her later. I bought two tickets for them to both games from our box office after practice just in case Gwen wanted to go to tomorrow night's game as well.

I was waiting outside the cafeteria when both Gwen and Hunter walked up. Hunter was wearing sunglasses and didn't look in a great mood. They both still looked great in simple tee shirts and low rider jeans.

"Hi," I said with a smile.

"Hi Mike," Gwen said cheerfully and nudged Hunter.

"Hey," Hunter said.

"Sorry, she's recovering from last night's excess," Gwen said. "She needs to eat so I brought her along."

I followed them into the cafeteria and helped Gwen carry the extra tray for Hunter. We loaded them up and I paid for them all. We found a table as far away from the noise as possible. We passed things around until everyone had the right food in front of them. Hunter took a sip of coffee and started nibbling on some toast.

"Sorry about last night," Gwen said. "Hunter gets carried away when she's drunk."

"No problem, it was funny," I replied. "Who better to look out for her than you?"

She blushed and started eating her salad. I ate some of my shepherd's pie while Hunter slowly joined the living.

"Damn, I think Sam was trying harder than usual to get me sloshed," she groaned. "What happened when I got back to the dorm?"

"You made me help you take off your jeans while you invited Mike over to get it on with both of us," Gwen told her. "Then you told him I was going to get lucky. After I hung up with Mike, you passed out and drooled all over my pillow while I slept in your bed."

"Oh. Sorry Gwen," she said as she held her forehead in her hand.

"You really need to slow down, especially during the school week," Gwen told her. "Who knows what could have happened if you passed out at the fraternity or walking home alone."

"I know, I know," she replied. "I'm not going to drink ever again."

"Why don't you come with me to the game instead of going to the party?" Gwen suggested.

"I can't tonight, I have to be there or Sam will flip," Hunter said. "I won't drink, I swear."

"I worry about you, you're better than this," Gwen stated.

"I'll be fine," Hunter answered.

She went back to eating and Gwen did as well after watching her eat her toast for a bit. The lunch conversation was pretty dry and we finished our food pretty quickly.

"I'm going back to the dorm to lie down," Hunter said, getting up and staggering a little.

"Wait up, I'll walk you back," Gwen said. "Sorry Mike, this was a pretty sad lunch date. I'll call you later."

"Here are your tickets for tonight and tomorrow night if you go," I said. "Amanda will call you later."

"Ok, thanks," she said as she grabbed them and then took off after Hunter.

I cleaned up the trays and went back to the condo. I worked on my paper for a while and then just rested on the couch. My phone rang around one thirty.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Hi Mike, its Gwen," she replied.

"How is Hunter?" I asked.

"She's sleeping again, which is for the best," Gwen responded.

"She's lucky she has you for a friend," I said.

"I've known her all my life, we've shared the same crib, and the same bed since we were born," she told me. "How can I do anything else?"

"You can't," I agreed. "Hopefully you can talk some sense into her before she gets in trouble."

"I try but she's so stubborn and wants to have fun all the time," Gwen complained. "I'm afraid only something bad will make her slow down and I'm afraid what that will be."

"She's an adult, you can only advise and be there to pick up the pieces," I told her.

"I know, but you can't just let someone closer than a sister do this to herself," she retorted.

"Short of tying her to the bed or joining her at the parties, what else can you do?" I asked. "And joining her would just get you in the same trouble, so don't think about it."

"I know, there isn't anything else I can do," she admitted.

She sighed and was quiet for a bit.

"I'm sorry to dump this on you, you probably want to run far away from me," she said softly.

"No, quite the opposite, I want to come and give you a hug and make you feel better," I told her. "I don't mind hearing about your problems. Eventually we'll talk about us when Hunter settles down."

"I would like that," Gwen said.

"Which, the hug or the talk?" I asked with a laugh.

"Both actually," she responded with a laugh of her own. "It gets lonely when she's always out with Sam."

"Well, now you have someone to talk to anytime you want and hugs come standard as well," I told her.

"I'm glad to hear it," she said. "I should let you go, I know you have to head down the arena soon."

"Ok, have fun with Amanda and hopefully we can meet up after the game," I said. "Thanks for calling."

"Good luck tonight and I'll see you after the game," she replied and hung up.

I changed into my suit and drove to the arena where I joined the team for the early supper. I just had one helping as I was already pretty full from lunch with the girls. We relaxed for a bit and then took the bus down into Detroit and parked inside the gates of the parking lot. We were led to our dressing room and slowly got changed for our practice session.

Once we got out on the ice I remembered how it was to play in this historic building earlier in the year. It helped put a little extra jump in my skating and a little extra power into my shots. The coaches had us do some passing drills and then the usual three on two and two on one drills before we had to leave the ice.

We had a longer wait than usual and I pulled out my phone to see what messages I had. Surprising no phone messages but I could get email on my new phone so I opened one from Katie.

'Hey Mike, just letting you know that the first print ads with Ellen went out yesterday to get in to next week's magazines. They look fantastic and you'll be getting lots of attention from the media again. The first commercial is almost done editing so they can start running in about a week.

Mr. Carroll wants to see you with a bunch of girls he next time, so we're going to book a full week, probably the third week of April, down in Jamaica. Let me know if the timing is ok with you so I can start booking the rooms, the models and the photographers. Good luck in your hockey and on your exams.

Katie'

The timing wasn't great for the first print ads and the media, but Jamaica in mid April sounded good to me. Exams should be done so I responded that it should be ok.

The rest of emails weren't important and I put the phone away and closed my eyes to rest. Eventually Coach Benson stood up and asked for our attention.

"Ok men, I know most of you are looking past Alaska to tomorrow night's game, probably with Notre Dame," Coach started off. "But in case anyone forgets, we split the two games with them up in Fairbanks, losing by three and winning by one. That isn't a stellar record so all of you had better be concentrating on tonight's game first and foremost."

He looked around for a few seconds to gauge our attentiveness.

"This is a winner take all game that we have to win," he continued. "They're big, fast and think this is their year. I'm afraid we're going to disappoint them because I think we have the better team."

We yelled our agreement until he settled us down.

"We have a few advantages and we're going to use them," he said. "They just flew across the country so their internal clocks are all messed up. We're going to take advantage of that from the start by coming out flying. We'll hit them every chance we get and use short shifts and skate as hard and fast every second of every shift. We need to build a quick lead and keep them off balance from the very first whistle."

"Once things settle down, we'll use point shots with screens in front to pepper their goalie and defence," Coach continued. "If they start covering the points, pass it down low and sneak in for a pass out front."

"On defence, we'll play high pressure man to man so we won't be giving them time to set up," Frank took over. "Take out their men after they pass the puck and soon enough they'll start giving the puck away. This will take a lot of energy but we're well rested and we'll roll four lines from the get go. Leave it all out on the ice gentlemen, there's no point leaving a lot in the tank if we don't win this one."

The captains led us out to the tunnel and got us revved up prior to being introduced. When the announcer called out the Wolverines the crowd erupted in a loud cheer and the players started onto the ice. I finally got on the ice at the end of the line and we skated in a circle around our half of the ice before having to go sit on the bench.

While the introductions were going on, I looked around for the girls and found them across the ice half way up the lower bowl. They were looking at us and I grinned and gave them a small wave with the hand on my stick. After the introductions and the national anthem, the game finally got underway.

The first lines from both teams squared off on the face-off. Gary won the draw and the puck went back to Albert on defence. Rather than a leisurely skate up the ice, he immediately bank passed it to a hard skating Daniel who took it into their zone. He beat their defenceman to the outside and passed the puck back to Gary who was coming up the middle. A hard shot was labelled for the top corner when their goalie snagged it out of the air and held on for a faceoff. A total of ten seconds had gone off the clock.

The first line kept on the pressure, winning the face-off in their zone and cycling the puck in the corner. Just before Chris got hit, he passed the puck up the boards to Steve at the right point, who wired it into the crowd in front of the net. The clang of the puck on near post was heard all around the arena and the crowd groaned as the puck stayed out of the net. One of their defencemen flipped it high out of the zone to relieve the pressure and both teams started a line change.

The forwards and Albert changed while Steve went back for the puck. As soon as he caught up to it, he passed it up to Henry who skated hard as soon as Gary got off the ice. The second line centre almost caught their defence while they were changing but one of them skated hard to cut him off at their blue line. Henry dumped it in and chased after it, jumping around the slower defenceman. Gaining possession of the puck, he circled the net and tried to pass it out to Kerry or Ron in front of the net. The goalie blocked the pass and pushed it to the corner.

A battle ensued for possession of the puck and it finally came loose for them to wrap it around the boards past Ralph at the right hand point. The second line regrouped at centre ice and shot it back in before chasing after the dump-in again. This time they got a shot on net and the goalie froze the puck for another face-off. Both teams changed the lines and John and I jumped over to the boards and skated to the points.

Shawn lost the draw and the Nanooks defenceman took the puck behind his net and tried to pass the puck up to his forward at the half boards on my side. I took a chance and slid down the boards and poked check the puck back down into the corner where Brad tied up the defenceman and the puck. I slid back to the point when Shawn came over to help. Brad kicked the puck back to Shawn who faked a pass over to Rich and backhanded it to me at the point.

Their forward came out to challenge me so I whipped a pass over to John and he shot on net with Rich screening the goalie. The puck hit a leg and hit the other post before shooting off into the corner. This time the other defenceman had time to skate the puck up as John and I backed out of the zone. Rich pressured the defenceman into passing the puck up the middle to a forward, who looked up to see me bearing down on him.

I hit him with a shoulder check that he couldn't avoid. He went flying backwards, his stick went up in the air and the puck slid to John. He quickly passed the puck up to Shawn, catching their team still going up ice and having to rush back. Shawn went one on one with the last defenceman and shot through his legs, almost handcuffing the goalie. He sprawled to corral the puck and hold it for a face-off. We all changed up and the fourth lines came on to face each other.

John and I got back on the ice with the second line a few minutes later on with John going back to take the puck from Mat. I changed with Mat when he came to the bench and followed John up the ice. John dumped the puck deep in the far corner and Ron chased in hard, hitting the defenceman as they both reached the puck. The puck squirted back up the boards and Henry tapped it back to John at the point. He faked the shot and slid the puck over to me. I slapped it hard at the net and Kerry tipped it in front off the goalie's mask and over the net. There was a mad scramble for the puck behind the net with Ron pinning their defenceman to the boards.

Eventually the puck slipped into the corner and a forward lifted it up and out to centre ice as John and I backed up. I grabbed the puck off a bounce and skated back towards their line as our forwards exited the zone. I crossed the blue line, faked a shot to draw the forward down to block the shot, and then skated around him. I used the defenceman to provide a screen and wired a slap shot on net. The goalie made a great save with his blocker and steered it into the corner. I followed it into the corner and slammed their defenceman into the glass and chipped the puck out in front of the net.

Our second line had changed so Rich, the third line's left winger, was skating in and tried to tip the puck past the goalie. He made a glove save and held it for a face-off, allowing me to change.

John and I got on a couple more times in the first period and, while I got a couple more shots on net and laid a heavy hit on another forward, nothing else happened of note. The period ended with no goals from either team, though we outworked them and outshot them twelve to three.

Coach Benson let us rest for a longer time than usual and didn't have much to say when he finally got up.

"You're following the game plan to a tee and we've have plenty of scoring chances," he stated. "Just keep doing the same thing and eventually we'll put one past him."

He stepped down and said something to Frank before heading out of the locker room.

Frank came over and said, "You two start the second with the first line and keep up the pressure. Make sure you cover each other when the other one goes in deep."

We nodded and got ready to go back on the ice. A couple minutes later the horn sounded and we marched back to the rink. John and I got to skate in our zone for a minute and then lined up just outside the centre ice circle.

Gary won the draw and it came back to me. I flipped it right back to him through centre ice as he took off for their blueline. He caught the two defenceman napping and slipped in between them and was in all alone on the goalie. Gary made no mistake as he deked going to the glove side and moved over to the other side and backhanded it up under the crossbar. The goal light came on and the crowd roared its approval.

We all congratulated Gary on his goal and I gave Gwen a quick grin as we skated back to centre ice for another face off. The Nanooks changed their line and defence pairing but we stayed out.

They won the faceoff but the forwards quickly pressured them into dumping it into our zone. I went back to get the puck and skated around the net with it as their centre and left forward came in to deliver some payback. I passed the puck to Chris up on the half boards and went directly at the left forward, colliding arm to shoulder. He flew into the centre while I spun around and went to my knees before getting back up as if I meant to do it.

I felt a twinge in my bicep but skated hard to get back into the play. The goalie made another fantastic save on a shot from Daniel and we changed up after the whistle stopped the play.

My right arm hurt a bit where his shoulder pad hit my bicep. I unobtrusively straightened it out and curled it a few times to try and loosen it up. I wasn't coming out of this game unless I couldn't move it at all.

Play continued and half way through the period a penalty was called on Peter for hooking. Their power play was one of the best in the country and, just before it ended, they poked the puck past Mark in a wild scramble around the net.

We traded scoring opportunities the rest of the period as they gained confidence after the goal. I had a puck go off the crossbar just to the right of the goalie's head and another shot get deflected just by the left post. The score remained tied at one at the end of the second period.

I had Chris and Wendy check out my arm during intermission. There was a bruise on the outside of the bicep the size of my hand which was causing some pain. Wendy rubbed it with some heat rub to help keep it from stiffening up. Frank came over and asked how I was.

"Just a bruise," I told him. "I'll be fine for the last period."

He looked at Chris who nodded and said, "He can't hurt it much more by playing. It will stiffen up as the period goes on so play him early. We'll keep the deep rub on between shifts."

"Let me know when you can't use it," Frank told me.

"I'm not coming out of the game, we have too much riding on this," I told him as I shrugged on my shoulder pads. "I'll rest it all day tomorrow and be fine for the game tomorrow night."

He frowned but nodded and left me alone. Wendy put an extra pad on the underside of the shoulder pad flap to protect the arm from another hit and then I relaxed for the last couple of minutes.

Frank took Chris's advice to heart and started John and I with the first line again. I faked another pass to Gary up the middle and then banked a pass off the boards to Chris. I followed them up the ice and kept station at the point. Both John and I had shadows as their wingers were playing well out to stop the pass out to us. The first line cycled the puck around down low and had their centre and defence running ragged. Gary tried to stuff the puck in on the short side but the goalie had his leg pad down and his foot tight up against the post. We changed up and Wendy massaged the arm as I sat at the end of the bench.

I looked over at Gwen who waved when she saw me staring at her. She showed me her University of Michigan jersey and turned to show me my number five on it. I smiled and gave her a small wave. I wanted to make her proud of me so I leaned back and motioned to Frank. John listened in when I told him my plan.

"Let Adam know to get ready for a give and go at their blue line, when we're out there next," I told him. "We played the stay at the point routine last shift, so they won't be expecting me to do in deep. I can beat the defenceman wide and see what happens."

"Ok, let's try it," he agreed and walked up the bench to Sam, the forwards coach.

We changed up a minute later and John carried the puck up the ice while I was trailing him a bit on the other side. When he got pressured, he passed it back to me and I took off with the puck. Their forward on my side came up to challenge me so I passed it up to Adam waiting at their blueline and dodged past the surprised forward. Adam held on to the puck as long as he could; waiting for me to skate up to the blueline. He bounced it off the wall past the oncoming defenceman who took him out of the play. I rushed past and beat the other defenceman to the puck when he came over from the other side.

Their centre came back to try and cover Peter, our fourth line centre, as I went in on the goalie from the side. I used Peter as a diversion and got the goalie to move off the near post as he bit on my fake pass. I wristed the puck at the top corner over the goalie's shoulder on the near side and it found the small opening and snuck in for a goal.

Peter came over and congratulated me first and then the rest of the guys came in to add to the celebration. We changed up and sat on the bench.

"Nice shot Mike!" Frank said. "All that practice paid off finding that opening."

"Thanks for going with the plan," I replied.

The Nanooks piled on the pressure as the period moved on. I took another check to my right side and the arm stung for a minute. I managed to slide the puck over to John and he cleared it up his side and then we changed.

Wendy came over and slid a hot pack under my shirt and the pad covering the upper arm.

"That should help for the last few minutes," she said into my ear.

I nodded and continued to watch the play so no one would suspect anything.

With about five minutes left, Ralph, the second pair right defenceman, took a tripping penalty. John and I had to go on to start the penalty kill as the first pair had just come off half a minute ago.

Luckily Gary won the draw and John shot the puck down the ice to make them start from their own zone. We moved up to stand near our blue line so we could clog up the neutral zone and prevent an easy entry into our zone. They tried to stick handle the puck in and I got my stick on the puck and Chris was able to send them back again. Next time they dumped it into John's corner and two forwards double teamed him against the wall. I stood in front of the net to tie up the other winger.

Eventually the puck went back to the point where their defenceman wound up and shot at the net with both the winger and me in front. I used my stick to hold down the winger's stick so he couldn't deflect the shot. Mark was able to snag the shot and hold for a face-off.

Gary lost the draw this time and they set up their power play on the outside of our box. They worked the puck around until they got it to the open man who shot it on net. Mark made the save and I battled with the big forward for the rebound. We both went down and the puck slid free. I pushed at it with my stick and it slid behind the red line. I got up as John tied up another forward against the back boards with the puck in their feet.

Their centre joined in the scrum while I shadowed the forward up front. Chris came back a bit to help so I took a chance and went after the puck as it squirted free from their feet. I reached it and slapped it down the ice and then we quickly changed up for fresh penalty killers.

We survived the rest of the penalty and John and I got back on with just less than two minutes left. The Nanooks had the puck so I had to rush over to my side of the ice as they tried to catch us changing.

I got over there in time and had to back up as they came into our zone with speed. I followed the forward as he tried to go wide with the puck and slammed him into the boards in the corner. Mark came out of his net and moved the puck along to John who got hit in the other corner. John and Rich kept the puck along the boards for a few seconds and then the bench started yelling that they pulled their goalie for a sixth attacker.

Soon we had three guys against our two and they gained possession of the puck and shot it on net. I cleared the rebound to the corner and followed it as two Nanooks gave chase. I tried to pin both to the boards and followed the puck as it moved slowly up the boards as one of them tried to kick it to the point.

Another forward joined in and slammed into me from behind, an arm hitting my already bruised bicep. I angrily pushed myself off the wall and he fell back, giving me a tiny bit of room to get my stick free. I waved it at the puck and it slid out to a waiting Brad who flipped it high out of the zone. Victor gave chase and tipped it by their last defenceman and into the empty net.

I slowly skated up and congratulated him before heading to the bench. Wendy was there with some more heat rub and then a hot pad as I slumped on the bench. The game ended a minute later with the final score three to one.

I joined the team on the ice to congratulate Mark on the win and then had to wait in the tunnel as they announced the three stars. Their goalie got the third star, Gary got the second and I had to take a turn as I was the first star. I made sure to look at Gwen smile as I held up my stick with my good arm. She was grinning and jumping up and down while shouting loudly.

Wendy and Jess helped me with my jersey and shoulder and elbow pads and Frank came over to look at the large bruise, already turning purple and red.

"Damn, that looks like it hurts," Mat said from a nearby locker. "Looks like no whacking off for you for awhile."

Some of the guys laughed but others just winced when they saw it.

"It's ok, I'm left-handed," I rebutted.

"Don't worry, Mat's girlfriend said she would be glad to help you out," John said loudly.

Everyone laughed at that as Mat threw a glove at John.

Chris came over and looked the arm over.

"Grab a quick shower and we'll give you some cream to rub in every few hours," he told me. "Rest it tomorrow, no practice for you tomorrow morning. Come in and we'll get you in the hot tub to loosen it up. Don't take any aspirin, but you can take a muscle relaxer with breakfast tomorrow."

"Thanks Chris, I'll see you around ten tomorrow?" I asked.

"Ten is good and then we'll use the equipment here before the game," he replied.

Jesse helped me get out of my skates and other equipment as I could barely move the arm. After a shower, he had to help me with my clothes.

"Thanks Jesse, I owe you one," I said when he helped me slip the suit coat on.

"No problem, just part of the job," he said. "You treat Wendy well, so I don't mind helping you out. Some of these others, I wouldn't help them if their ass was on fire."

"Listen, you two go out on the town on me, I appreciate all the hard work you two have done this year," I told him as I slipped him three one hundred dollar bills.

"Hey, thanks man, she'll really appreciate this," he said. "So will I."

"Have a good time," I replied.

John had waited for me and we walked down the hallway and out to the bus.

"Amanda called and they are back on their bus," he told me. "They are going to their dorm building and will hang out in the lounge on Gwen's floor until we get there. Amanda is in the same building up a couple of floors."

"Sounds good," I responded as we found an empty seat.

"Do you think you can play tomorrow night?" he asked.

"I think so, but we'll see," I replied. "Right now I can hardly move the arm. As long as I can hold the stick and take a shot I'll go but in the end it's up to the coaches."

"They might sit you so you can rest up for the NCAA tournament next week," John suggested. "Even if we lose tomorrow night, we'll probably get an invitation as one of the at large bids."

"We'll see," I responded.

We finally got going once the coach and captains came on board.

"Good win tonight men," Coach Benson stayed standing as we started moving. "We have Notre Dame tomorrow night at the same time so morning skate is optional. No partying tonight; it's late already and we have another hour to get back to the arena. So do us all a favour and go straight home once we do get there."

He continued after a few seconds, "We win tomorrow night and we get top seed in the Midwest regional in Grand Rapids; if not, the best we can hope for is an invitation as one of the 'at large bid' teams. The tournament starts on Friday, March 27th in some regions so be prepared to have to leave Wednesday afternoon if we don't win tomorrow night."

Coach sat down and I closed my eyes and relaxed on the ride home. The bus was pretty loud after our big win so I didn't actually fall asleep, especially with my arm aching so much.

John and I quickly piled into my SUV when we finally got off the bus in the arena parking lot. We found a parking spot in one of the lots close by their dorm building and he called up to Amanda to let us in as it was after hours.

Gwen came down with her and both of them had big smiles on their faces.

"Hey there guys, congratulations," Amanda said, giving John a hug. "You played well."

"I played ok, Mike played well," John corrected her.

Gwen stood in front of me and said, "You played great tonight, Mike."

"I had some inspiration in the stands," I told her. "I like the jersey on you."

"I was going to get one of John's but Amanda didn't want him to get a big head," Gwen responded with a grin. "Someone told me the guy with this number needed all the support he could get so I bought it."

"I know the guy, he's alright I guess," I told her.

"Ok, let's go up and grab my stuff before we leave these two alone," Amanda told John.

We got into the elevator and rode up to Gwen's floor. Amanda grabbed her purse from Gwen's room and they were soon out of the room.

"How's your arm?" Gwen asked. "I saw them working on it during the game and you're holding it a bit awkwardly."

"It's pretty bruised up," I admitted. "I can hardly move it right now."

"Let's get that jacket off and have you sit down," she said, coming over to help me.

She had to practically take it off by herself and then hung it on the back of her desk chair. She pulled me by my good hand over to the bed and sat me down.

"Can I see it?" she asked.

"If you want," I replied.

Gwen undid my cuff buttons and rolled up my sleeve as high as it could go. She couldn't see too much of my bicep and frowned.

"Take my word for it, it's pretty bad," I told her.

"I want to see," she insisted.

She reached for tie and loosened it and pulled it over my head before undoing the shirt buttons from the top down. She stopped when she undid the last one just above my pants. Her hands were cool on my abdomen and chest as she moved them up to my shoulder and slid my shirt off me.

"Oh, that looks real bad," she said with a worried tone as she stared at the purple, red, yellow and black shades covering the bicep.

"It's pretty sore," I admitted. "I need to rub some cream on it when I get home."

"And how are you going to do that?" she asked in exasperated tone. "Where is it, I'll do it now."

"In my jacket pocket," I told her.

She found it and proceeded to rub it into the muscle gently. When she was done, she wiped her hands with some tissues and closed the jar. She sat down beside me and looked over at me.

"I'm new to all of this, but I have to admit I like the fact that someone like you is interested in me," Gwen said. "I can't believe I have you in my room with your shirt off. Any girl on this floor would love to be in my position right now."

"I don't want any other girl on the floor," I told her. "Thanks for doing that for me. You have wonderful hands. It's too bad you don't have a bruise that needs tending."

I grinned at her as I said it and watched her blush. We sat in silence for a minute until I yawned.

"You should lie down and rest for a bit," she said.

"I probably should go, I need to be in my condo soon for bed check," I told her. "I wish I could stay longer with you."

"How are you going to get undressed by yourself?" she asked as I stood up.

"I'll manage somehow," I told her.

She helped me get my shirt back on but traced her hand down my chest to my abdomen on my bare skin and stood there for a bit.

"Gwen?" I asked gently.

"Sorry, I was just thinking," she said as she shook her head as if to clear it.

She started buttoning up my shirt and then slipped the tie over my head and got it looking right. She lifted up my jacket and I got my good arm in before she slipped it over my other one.

"Maybe we can meet for lunch tomorrow?" I asked. "I have to be at the arena at ten but hopefully I can be free at noon."

"I'd like that," she agreed.

"I'll call you from the arena with what's going on and we can go out to a restaurant close by," I suggested.

"Sounds good," she said as we left her room.

"Gwen, who's the hottie?" asked one of the girls in the hallway.

"A friend," Gwen responded.

"He's a big one," another said. "Did you two have fun?"

Gwen blushed and pulled me to the elevator, stabbing the button in irritation.

The elevator door eventually opened and I stepped inside.

"I'll see you tomorrow, ok?" I asked, holding the door open.

"Alright, I hope you can sleep well," she replied.

"You have a good sleep yourself," I told her.

I let the door go as I gave her a smile. She returned it just before the door slid shut.

I drove home and awkwardly got out of my suit and into some shorts with only one working arm. I took some pain killers and got into bed. It took me a while to fall asleep as I thought about Gwen and how her hands felt on me.

Saturday morning the alarm woke me at eight thirty. I had a long, hot shower and some toast for breakfast before grabbing my book bag and my laptop and heading to the arena. I found Chris in the training room when I got there a few minutes before ten.

"How are you this fine morning?" he asked.

"I'm ok; you?" I asked.

"Just peachy," he said. "Let's look at the arm. How's it feeling?"

"Not too good, I had a lot of pain last night and the bruising is worse," I told him as I took off my jacket.

I rolled up the short sleeve of the tee shirt and showed him the arm.

"Damn, that looks bad," Chris said as he gently touched it. "Let's see you move it."

There wasn't much to show him and he frowned at me.

"Let's try the soaking it in hot water with some soothing salts in it," he said.

He led me to another room and had me sit beside a small tank of hot water. He helped me off with my shirt and eased my arm into the water.

"Ok, relax for a while and I'll check on you in half an hour," Chris said.

I pulled out my phone to check my messages while I soaked. Katie had replied to my acceptance of the next photo shoot with a happy tone to her email. She sent a few pictures of some of the models they were thinking of using. A brunette from England, a dark haired girl from France, Trisha Hanks and maybe Barb from New York, a blonde from California and a raven haired girl from Jamaica all looked gorgeous in the pictures I brought up. It was going to be an interesting week to say the least.

After half an hour Chris came back and we tried the arm out. I had a slightly better range of motion but not nearly enough to play that night.

"Ok, it's just after ten thirty," he said. "Come back at eleven thirty and we'll soak it again for another half hour. We can do it again at two before early supper and then evaluate your status."

"Sounds good, I'll get some work done in the meantime," I told him.

He helped me with my tee shirt and I went up to the cafeteria and worked on my philosophy paper for a bit. I called Gwen and told her my schedule and she agreed to let me pick her up about twelve fifteen.

I finished the paper, for all intents and purposes, a few minutes before I was due back with Chris. I put a copy on a memory stick and packed up. Before I went down to the training room, I dropped the stick off with Pam and she assured me someone would proofread it for me over the weekend.

Chris was waiting for me and this time I just dozed a bit as my arm soaked. After the half hour was up, the arm was slightly better. I quickly dried off and headed out to my vehicle.

Gwen was down in the lobby, dressed in dark jeans and a nice blouse, when I entered her building.

"Hey there, you look beautiful today," I told her.

"Thanks, you look casual," she said in response.

"This is the easiest to get on and off for treatment," I told her. "Shall we go?"

I held the door for her and then we walked to the nearby parking lot and got into my SUV.

"What do you feel like eating?" I asked as I started the engine.

"I'm pretty flexible, just something fairly healthy," she replied.

"How about we got to an authentic Mexican restaurant?" I suggested.

"Sounds good to me," she responded.

I drove over to a restaurant that Chris had recommended to me. It was a short drive so we didn't have too much time to talk, but she seemed even quieter than normal. I asked her about it after we sat down at the table and had placed our orders.

"So what's bothering you?" I asked.

"Hunter," she replied. "Sam tried to get her drunk so that he could share her with Dan. Luckily she didn't want to drink last night and was sober enough to get away from them. She's pretty upset about the whole thing and she's swearing off guys for a while."

"She got lucky this time," I said. "At least she found out about what an ass Sam was without getting into serious trouble. She really needs to find a better class of guy."

"I agree," Gwen responded. "Hopefully she's learned her lesson now."

Our food came out quickly and we enjoyed the freshness and the taste of the various selections. We ate slowly and I could tell she still had something on her mind but let her bring it up when she was ready.

Eventually we finished up and we got back into the SUV after paying the bill.

"I have about half an hour before I have to be back at the arena," I told her.

"I have to getting back to Hunter," Gwen responded. "She's not doing well, obviously."

"Ok, back to the dorms then," I said as I started the engine.

We were soon in the parking lot by her building and she stopped me before I got out.

"Mike, we're going to have to stop seeing each other for a bit," Gwen said. "I need to help Hunter, study for exams, practice for recitals and finish my paintings. You have hockey, exams and modeling in the next few weeks as well."

"You can't spare an hour here and there for lunch?" I asked.

"Any extra time I might have I want to spend with Hunter," she replied. "Besides, it wouldn't do her any good to see me having a good time with a guy when she's swearing off them."

"I agree we shouldn't make out right in front of her, but a lunch now and then shouldn't hurt," I told her. "Don't you deserve some happiness too?"

"My happiness is tied in with hers," Gwen said. "Besides, in three weeks we're done school and won't see each other for four months. No use starting anything now."

"I'm going to be here taking spring and summer classes and you live in Ann Arbour," I responded. "We can still see each other if you want."

"Mike, I'm sorry, it would never have worked out anyway," she said. "Good luck with your hockey and your modeling."

She got out before I could stop her and quickly walked away, not looking back once. I sat there stunned, not knowing what happened. I thought we were perfect for each other, and the way she had touched me last night had made me think she was interested in me as well.

It took me a few minutes to get up the energy to start the vehicle and drive over to the arena. I thought about the situation for the next half hour as I soaked my arm in the hot water and salts. Obviously Hunter's changed status changed hers as well for some reason. I knew they were very close but it shouldn't have affected us.

I wasn't in a talkative mood when I headed up to the cafeteria after I was done. I grabbed a plate of food and sat by myself. I wasn't very hungry but ate the spaghetti absently as I thought about Gwen. I was deep in thought when I was startled by the noise of the team getting up to go get changed.

I headed down to the trainer's room and had another quick soak before I changed into my suit. The arm wasn't much better and, with the mood I was in, I didn't really care if I played. I grabbed my personal items and a textbook before boarding the bus to head down to Joe Louis Arena. Coach Benson and Frank had me come up to the front once we got moving.

"How's the arm, Mike?" Coach asked.

"It's not much better, I can bend it and twist the wrist a little," I told him. "I won't get much power on my shots but I can defend well enough as long as I don't get hit again."

They looked at Chris and he shrugged.

"He can strain it again and be out a few extra days," Chris said. "It needs rest."

Coach and Frank looked at each other and Frank shrugged before turning to me.

"What do you think?" he asked me.

"I think you should put Samuel in, it might be our last game and he deserves to be in if I'm not close to a hundred percent," I said after looking at Samuel further down the bus. "I could be a liability."

"Ok Mike, we'll take your advice and use Robert," Coach said. "Good teamwork. It's not easy to give up your spot in such a high profile game."

I shrugged and walked back to my seat with John.

"So, what's the verdict?" he asked.

"We're going with Samuel," I said. "I'm not going to be ready."

"That blows," he said as we watched Frank tell Samuel.

"It's for the best, I won't be able to shoot or check properly," I told him. "It's not the end of the world."

"You're right of course, and you'll have other games," he said. "It could be Samuel's last game."

I nodded and leaned back and closed my eyes. I drifted off to sleep until we got there. I wished John good luck and joined the rest of the non-players in the suite that was made available to us.

The hockey game was a disaster. The Fighting Irish dominated the play from the beginning and were up two to nothing after the first period. The second period wasn't much better, with the score at four to one at the end. The third period was closer with both teams scoring once. The game ended with the score five to two and, just like that, we had lost the CCHA championship.

The non-players joined the team in the locker room for Coach's speech.

"Men, we didn't play well tonight until the third period," Coach began. "With that performance I don't know if we deserve an at large bid to the NCAA tournament. Be that as it may, we'll have to wait until Monday to hear if we are in and where we will play. It certainly won't be in Grand Rapids for the Mid-West Region. Expect to have to fly out Wednesday night and play on Friday. Captains, let's make this quick."

We were back at the Arena parking lot by eleven and I was in bed by eleven thirty but didn't fall asleep for a while after.

Sunday I was up early and went to the arena to skate. I didn't even take any pucks out onto the ice so I wouldn't be tempted to shoot any of them. After an hour of skating drills, I went in and worked out my legs and abs and then soaked the arm for a half hour.

The rest of the day I studied for my upcoming exams and watched some TV in the evening. I was in bed by eleven and thankfully fell asleep soon after.



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Chapter 46


Monday was a dreary day which suited my mood to a tee. My arm felt a bit better after I took a hot shower so I put some more cream on it and covered it with a bandage before getting dressed. I headed to the arena with a Diet coke in the cup holder.

After getting into my equipment, I did my stretches and lightly stick handled a puck around as did my usual skating warm-up. The arm stiffened up quickly so I didn't try to shoot at all and stopped handling the pucks while I skated. When the coaches and Chris came out, I skated over to them.

"Morning Mike, how's the arm?" Coach asked.

"It's still sore, it tightens up when I try to handle a puck so I haven't shot at all," I told them. "I'm just keeping in shape for later in the week."

"Good that you played it safe," he replied. "Stick around while we discuss some things and then Chris can give you some more treatment. Both you and Rob will make the trip."

"I gather we got an at large bid then," I stated.

"Yep, we leave Wednesday night for Bridgeport, Connecticut," he confirmed. "We're the number one seed in the East Regional."

"That's great news," I told them before skating off.

The coaches had us gather around and told us the news. They also told us we were playing the Air Force Falcons who won twenty seven games, lost ten and tied two this year. They were seated fourth but wouldn't be easy to beat.

The coaches outlined their strategy for the game and soon had the team practicing the various schemes. I slipped off to go see Chris and he had me get out of my equipment and shower before coming to the training room. He put my arm through its range of motion before having me soak it again.

After I got finished with the treatment, he helped me with my shirt and told me to come back anytime I could to soak the arm. I let him know I would be here in the afternoon at two thirty.

In each class, the professors began a review for the final exams starting next week. It was pretty useful to gauge how much studying I would need to do. In both math classes I followed everything pretty easily, but the philosophy class brought up facts and theories that I knew I had to review. In between my second math class and philosophy, I had lunch in my usual spot, but Gwen never showed up, much to my disappointment.

After philosophy class was over, I headed to the arena and soaked my arm again. The movement was getting better as the colours started to change. We decided to let me try to practice with a red no-contact jersey on.

The arm worked well enough during practice for simple poke checks and soft passes but got sore after I tried a harder shot. Samuel replaced me less than half way through the practice and I went back to soak the arm again.

I headed to a nearby grocery store after I left the arena and got some food and supplies as I didn't want to bother Daphne with it. I picked up some roasted chicken and potato wedges from their deli counter and ate that when I had the groceries put away. I studied philosophy for the next couple of hours and then hit the hay.

Tuesday my arm felt a lot better and I could even shoot some wrist shots at practice. I stayed out for most of it and just had a soak for the last half hour while Samuel took my place.

Both computer classes started their review for the final exams so the day was pretty boring. I picked up the corrected copy of my last philosophy paper from Pam and slipped her some money before I had another soak. I participated for most of the afternoon practice and had a final soak of the arm.

After grabbing a quick bite to eat at the cafeteria, I drove to the dojo and met with Sensei. I explained about my arm and about going away for the rest of the week for hockey. We talked about the training and where it was heading before I left for the night. I made the corrections for the philosophy paper to hand in tomorrow and then studied for a while. I packed for the trip tomorrow afternoon and then hit the hay.

Wednesday I made it to the arena early and got on the ice to skate and shoot. I actually could shoot some slap shots with a bit of power to them and hardly had any pain in the arm. I left the ice a bit early and soaked the arm before leaving for classes.

The classes were all review and I handed in my last paper at the end of the philosophy class before heading home. I decided to leave the SUV in the parking garage below the condo and called a taxi to take me to the arena.

We took a bus to the Detroit Metropolitan Airport and boarded a plane for the short trip Kennedy Airport in New York. We took off about four thirty and landed about five fifty. A bus took us to Bridgeport Connecticut in about an hour an a half and dropped us at the Holiday Inn near the Arena at Harbour Yard. We put our stuff in our rooms before meeting downstairs in a large banquet room for supper.

We didn't have much time before curfew after we were done with supper, so we just stayed in the room playing cards before heading upstairs for the night.

Thursday morning we got on the ice to practice after we had a team breakfast. The coaches had me be circumspect in regards to shooting as there were scouts from the other teams watching. I made sure to take a couple hard shots to show that I still could shoot with power. After practice, I soaked my arm while the rest of the team headed back to the hotel.

After getting dressed, I shrugged on my jacket and walked up Main Street to the hotel. It was only ten o'clock and while they had lunch and dinner scheduled at the hotel, we were given the day to ourselves, with only an evening practice at eight mandatory.

I let the coaches know I was heading into New York to visit Katie at the Calvin Klein headquarters. I asked John if he wanted to go but he decided to stay put, even after I told him that there probably would be models there. He had an exam on Monday that he had to study for. My first exam wasn't until Wednesday and, as it was computer programming, I wasn't worried.

The hotel hooked me up with a car and driver and it took an hour and a quarter to get to their headquarters. I gave the driver a tip and told him I would find my way back later in the day. I walked into the lobby and approached the pretty receptionist.

"Hi, can I help you?" she asked professionally.

"Yes you can, I'd like to see Katie Dunn please," I replied.

"Is Miss Dunn expecting you?" the receptionist asked.

"Nope, this is a surprise visit," I replied.

"She is a very busy person, I'm not sure if she will be able to see you," she stated. "Can I tell her who you are and the nature of your visit please?"

"My name is Mike, and I'm here to discuss modelling," I told her.

"I see," she replied. "I'll give her a call but she probably won't have time to meet with you."

She pressed a couple of buttons and then talked quietly into her small headset. She glanced up at me a couple of times and then replied back to questions she was getting. The receptionist finally hit a button and finished the call.

"Miss Dunn is unfortunately tied up for the next couple of hours," the receptionist told me. "Maybe after three she could meet with you."

"I see," I replied. "You better call her back and tell her to get down here and take me to lunch or I'll get the impression she doesn't like me anymore."

"I'm sorry Sir, but she's just going into a meeting," the receptionist told me.

I sighed and pulled out my phone and scrolled down to find Katie's number and called her.

"Mike, it's good to hear from you," Katie said when she answered.

"Hi Katie, you busy?" I asked with a wink to the receptionist.

"Nope, what's on your mind?" she asked.

"Food is on my mind," I told her.

"Food is always on your mind," Katie laughed. "I'm not sure what I can do about that from here though."

"You can come down to the lobby and take me to lunch," I told her.

"You're here?" she asked. "What are you doing in New York and why didn't you call to tell me you were coming?"

"I have a game tomorrow night in Bridgeport and had some time to kill today," I informed her. "Now, are you going to let me starve to death or are you coming down?"

"I've got meetings scheduled starting in fifteen minutes Mike, you should have called ahead," she chastised me.

"Well, it was a spur of the moment thing," I told her. "Are the meetings that important?"

"Very important, unfortunately," she answered. "I'll send down my assistant Alexis and she can take you to lunch and then we can talk when you get back. How long do you have?"

"I have to be back in Bridgeport by seven thirty," I told her.

"Ok, plenty of time then," Katie said. "Now, behave yourself with Alexis, she's a nice girl."

"Well, probably not a good thing to send her out with me then," I replied with a chuckle.

"Don't you steal her from me Michael Stewart, I need her too badly," Katie warned.

"We'll see, send her down before I waste away to nothing," I told her before hanging up.

I walked over to a nearby seating area and sat down on a couch across from a couple of young women in expensive clothes. I deliberately dressed down in loose jeans and a casual shirt and had put on a cap to keep a bit incognito. Suffice it to say I didn't rate more than a quick once over from the two beauties.

A few minutes later a brunette in a form fitting business jacket and matching skirt walked up to the sitting area. The two girls stood up and gave her a big smile.

"Ladies, Miss Dunn will be with you in a short while," the woman told them. "I'm here for that one."

She indicated me as she gave me an exasperated look.

"Come on, I'm supposed to feed you before you start eating the models," she said, "Not that some of them wouldn't love that."

"I gather you're Alexis?" I asked as I prepared to get up.

"I thought you were supposed to be some sort of genius?" she asked. "First you can't feed yourself, now you have to ask idiotic questions?"

The two models grinned at her remarks. I stood up and looked down at the three of them. The two models were maybe five nine while Alexis was at most five six.

"Suddenly I don't feel very hungry, you three have a good day," I said.

I walked away from them and quickly left the building. My spur of the moment plan looked like a really stupid idea. I guess I should have called ahead. I definitely didn't need the attitude from any of them.

I found a restaurant and had a quick meal before taking a taxi down to Long Island and catching the ferry back across Long Island Sound to Bridgeport. My phone rang when we were half way across.

"Mike, where are you at?" she asked.

"I'm in the middle of Long Island Sound," I told her.

"What the hell are you doing there?" she asked.

"Heading back to Bridgeport obviously," I told her.

"I thought we were going to meet after you came back from lunch," Katie said.

"You're busy today, I just decided to head back early," I responded. "No big deal."

"Of course it's a big deal, Mike," she said. "I wanted to see you."

"Maybe next time," I replied. "I'll remember to call ahead next time."

"Why didn't you go to lunch with Alexis?" she asked.

"I didn't feel like it," I replied. "Look, don't worry about it; I'll see you in Jamaica in three weeks."

"Mike, how about tomorrow or the weekend?" she suggested.

"Can't, got hockey games and then we fly home," I told her. "Stop worrying and get back to work. I'll talk to you later."

"Mike!" was all I heard before I hung up.

I put my phone away and watched the scenery until we docked. I walked back to the hotel and had a nap before supper. I joined most of the team for supper and then we relaxed for a bit before practice.

We walked down to the arena and ran through all three facets of the game; offence, defence and special teams. We even had time for a twenty minute scrimmage before they sounded the buzzer. After a quick shower, we trudged back up to the hotel where we had some snacks before heading to bed.

Friday we had a buffet breakfast and then a late morning practice. After another buffet for lunch we had a few hours of free time again. This time I stuck around Bridgeport and saw some of the sights. The Barnum Museum was just down the street so I learned all about the 'Greatest show on Earth' for a couple of hours and then watched the activities around the harbour while enjoying the nice weather.

After a pasta dinner, we got into our suits and a bus took us to the arena. There were camera crews to document our arrival and the coach and captains were stopped for interviews. The rest of us got into our equipment and we got onto the ice for our usual pre-game skate and shooting drills.

We relaxed in the locker room and waited for the Falcons to have their warm-up. Coach gave us the usual pre-game speech and we finally got out to the ice. The split was pretty even in the stands, with a mix of men and women in uniform and our fans in maize and blue. After the national anthem it was finally time to play.

John and I watched as both teams were tentative to start, dumping it in and giving chase. There wasn't a shot on goal until just before we got on. The second line dumped it in deep and we made a wholesale change before they started up the ice. They carried it up to centre ice and dumped it my corner before starting their change.

I corralled the puck and skated to centre ice. I passed it off to John when a forechecker came close and then took up the point when John dumped it deep. Brad, the third line right winger, battled in the corner and slid the puck up the boards towards me. I rushed down and beat their forward to it and flipped a wrist shot towards the net. It was an easy save but the goalie had to hold it for a face-off which was the intent.

Shawn won the face-off back to John at the other point and he slapped a shot on net through traffic. Their goalie was on his game as he flashed out a pad and stopped the re-directed puck. The rebound was swept to the corner and the Falcons regained possession and we had to back away. They brought it up ice and tried to carry it into our zone. We were stacked up at our blue line and the defenceman carrying the puck lost control of it and Rich went after it and dumped it into their zone before we all changed up.

The next few shifts were more of the same as no one could get free from the tight checking. The next time I was on, I collided with a big forward in the corner as we battled for the puck. Luckily he was on my good arm side as we tried to push each other off the puck. Eventually it slid behind the net and John whipped it up the other boards and we got it out of the zone.

As the period moved on, play opened up a bit and there were breaks out of the zone that resulted in odd man rushes. John and I had to defend a three on two rush when our second line forwards got caught in deep. Luckily, John knocked the puck to the corner when he deflected a pass, and I tied up the forward in the corner, with the puck in our feet, long enough for the rest of the team to get back.

With about a minute left in the period, John and I got back on the ice with the first line. John carried the puck up and faked a dump in that had the Falcons backing up. He hit me with a pass as I sped through centre ice and hit their line unchecked. Two forwards converged on me, so I passed it to Chris, our right winger waiting at the blueline. He took the pass just inside the blue line while I crashed into both forwards, knocking all three of us to the ice.

Chris skated in and our remaining four had their remaining three guys on their heels for about fifteen seconds until their other two forwards could get back into the play. I slid back to the point when we finally untangled while they rushed down low to help. The puck came back to me and I slammed a rising shot towards the net. Players from both teams flung themselves out of the way and the puck rang off the crossbar and deflected up into the netting above the glass, stopping play. The face-off came out of the zone and the period ended a few seconds later, with the score knotted at zero.

The coach let us rest for a bit while he talked to the other coaches.

"Ok, good period gentlemen, we had a couple chances and restricted theirs," Coach started his speech a few minutes later. "Let's not open it so much next period, there is no need to. We'll keep it a tight checking game and take our shots from the points and go for the rebounds. They are a good team and we don't need to be trading chances end to end with them, especially with their goalie. Keep the shots low and forwards try to create screens in front and get some deflections."

Frank came around and gave us more detailed instructions. He wanted John and I to keep the play simple and don't try any of our special plays. We were told to be careful with the passes to each other in their zone and don't go in deep.

"Really?" I asked him. "That seems overly cautious."

"That's the plan, Mike," he replied. "Keep it tight and hold your position."

When he moved on, I looked to John and stated, "Seems real tentative and not what got us here. They haven't shown anything to warrant that much caution."

"They're an opportunistic team, they wait you out and pounce on any mistake," John replied. "Just follow the plan and don't take any risks. Don't go too far down the boards or they'll burn you."

"Fine, I'll play like I'm told but I think it's wrong," I responded.

"When you have over thirty years experience, then you get to make the call," John said with a grin.

"You don't have to have a lot of experience to know that it plays into their strengths, not ours," I stated. "Well we see soon enough who's ends up being right."

We finished up our drinks and headed back up for the second period.

True to our instructions, we kept things simple and kept it a tight checking game. I had three shots on net in the second period, all from the point. Three others were deflected off to the side by legs or sticks. Everything was cautious and predictable and neither team took even a slight chance to stray from the plan. Each team had a chance at a power play in the period but neither could capitalize on the man advantage.

"Great period men, you followed the plan to a tee," Coach said. "They don't seem to enjoy having their strategy played against them. We're going to stay the course and pounce on their mistakes. Keep up the shooting from the points and hopefully something will bounce past their goalie."

I looked at John and he just shrugged. We rested and there wasn't much in the way of talking in the room. The buzzer rang and we went back to the ice.

The first fifteen minutes were identical to the forty before as we kept things tight and controlled. Unfortunately, a Falcon was clipped with a high stick during a scrum and a penalty was called. On the ensuing power play they got a puck past Mark on a rebound from a blast from the point. The place erupted with the cheers of their fans while we groaned.

Frank came over and told us to get out there and open things up. We did our best but it was too late. We threw everything we could at them but with only three minutes left, it didn't take much for them to stop our attacks.

With one minute left, Mark was pulled for the extra attacker. We held them in their zone for the next forty seconds, but their defenceman lifted the puck up high, and to add insult to injury, the puck slid right into our empty net. The game ended two to zero and we were out of the tournament.

We walked down the hallway back into the locker room. Most sat down dejected but I was mad and quickly got undressed. I was in the shower before anyone else and was getting dressed when the coach started his speech.

"Men, we played a great game, we just couldn't put one past their goalie," Coach said. "I know you're all disappointed; so am I. Just know that you have nothing to be ashamed about. They played an almost perfect game to beat us."

He looked around and saw his words weren't helping.

"Ok, let's get changed and get out of here," he said. "Captains, let's get the press conference over quickly."

I sat down after I gathered my stuff and waited while the others got showered and dressed. John was done quickly and we left for the bus.

"What a way to end the year," I said. "We gave that game away."

"I know it seems that way, but they must have thought they had the right strategy," John responded. "In hindsight it doesn't seem like it was the best plan."

"In hindsight?" I asked. "We knew in the second period that it wasn't working."

"No, we knew it was keeping us in the game," he replied. "It could easily have been us capitalizing on a penalty instead of them."

"It was left up to chance, playing a different style against them could have changed the outcome," I argued.

"It might have made it worse," he stated. "It doesn't matter, we'll never know now."

"True, but it still bites," I told him and then shut up.

The rest of the team showed up and a few minutes later so did the coaches and captains.

"Ok, we had booked the rooms for tomorrow night and were to fly out Sunday morning, but we'll get out of here tomorrow after breakfast," Coach said. "Breakfast is at eight and the bus leaves at nine."

We were soon at the hotel and, while they had snacks laid out for us, not many took advantage of them. John and I headed up to the room and got out of our suits and he headed out while I lay down on the bed. I thought about the game and the strategy for a long time but eventually fell asleep.

Saturday morning went as discussed and we were back in the air by eleven thirty and landed in Detroit before one. By two we were at the arena and I took some of my stuff out my locker before heading home. I did some laundry while studying for my upcoming exams. After a small supper, I studied some more and then went to bed early.

Over the next couple of weeks I wrote my five exams, studying hard starting on the Sunday after we got home. Nothing much happened on the social front and the team had one more meeting before cleaning out our lockers. I didn't have much interest in who won the tournament and just concentrated on doing well on my exams. My last exam, the database programming was on the second Thursday and then I was finally done my first year at college.

All and all, it wasn't a bad year except for the team's result. I knew my marks would be high and my bank account was looking real good. The week in Jamaica would be a good stress reliever and I decided to enjoy myself with the ladies before I started my classes for spring semester.


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The End
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Posted:  2009-02-17
Last Modified: 2011-04-28 / 11:34:57 am
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