Staal [A Jordan Staal Story] Fifty-Five

Hey guys, life is getting less busy, thank god, I hope it stays that way. As I said I'm writing a Fleury story and it's still in the early stages, so look for the in the next month.

The Pens game last night scared me a little, I still don't know what to think of Chris Kunitz, and I miss Ryan Whitney... A LOT! For those of you who don't know I'm a Hawks fans as well so I'm proud of Jonny Toews. Congrats Jonny on your first NHL hat-trick, too bad it had to come against us.

I hope you all enjoy the chapter, comments are greatly appreciated.

Fifty-Five

“What do you name your child?” the priest asked as the close family stood at the baptismal font.
“Scott Patrick,” Miriya replied.

Next Cassie and Geno, who were to be the godparents, had to promise to lead Scott in the right direction and take care of him if anything were to happen to his real parents. “The father, the son, and the holy spirit,” he said making the sign of the cross on Scott’s forehead.

Christiano was also baptized that day, Miriya and Jordan being the godparents, then it was back to Miriya and Jordan’s for the party. As always there was plenty of food and lots of fun. Miriya and Jordan’s family were there which includes Cassie, Geno, Nathan, Sid, Michelle, and Christiano. Michelle and Sid’s families were also there, since it was Christiano’s party too.

At about two the house phone rang and a familiar voice was on the other end. “Nik, how are you?”

“I’m good, sorry I couldn’t come back for the party today. Tell Scott I say hi and give him a hug for me.”

“I will.”

“And tell everyone that I say hi and miss them. Erin’s here to visit so I’m gonna go”

“Okay, tell her I say hi. See you next month.” They both hung up and Miriya got everyone to shut up. “I just talked to Nik, he says hi and that he misses everyone. And he’ll be back in a month.”

Everyone went back to partying and Miriya decided to put Scott down for a nap and change into her bathing suit. Some of the other guest had also decided to swim. “So Mir, we’re still on for slip ‘n sliding on Friday, right?” Michelle asked.

“Pretty sure, hey Ryan would you want to come?”

“Um, slip ‘n sliding, like in someone’s backyard, aren’t we a little old for that?”

“One, you are never too old to slip ‘n slide,” Miriya said. “And two not in someone’s backyard, a bunch of us are going down to the arena and are gonna…”

“Wait, you’re going slip ‘n sliding in the arena?”

“She is the coach,” Michelle said.

“Sure,” Ryan said with a laugh. “I guess I’ll be there, what time?”

“Noon.”

Once everyone was gone, except for Jordan’s family, Miriya and Jordan cleaned up while Marc and his wife Leah took care of Scott. Marc was doing most of the playing with the baby since Leah’s plump stomach got in the way. “Marc you’re so good with Scott,” Miriya said sitting down.

“It’s a thing he’s good with kids huh?” Eric asked.

“Yes it is,” he said rubbing his wife’s stomach.

“Three down, one to go.” Henry, daddy Staal said with a laugh.

“Yea, Jared you’re the only one left,” Jordan said.

“Hey, I’m not even married yet, give me some time.”

“Couple more weeks right?” Linda asked.

“Yep,” Andrea, Jared’s fiancée said with a smile and rested her head on Jared’s shoulder.


Friday finally came, but not quickly enough. Miriya and Michelle had had this planned for months but obviously couldn’t do it while the three girls were pregnant. So the third Friday in July finally came, little kids were at grandparent’s houses and the big kids were waiting outside the arena.

“The only time they lock the door,” Miriya said trying to find the right key. “You guys know they never lock the door, not even during games.” She finally found the key and everyone went down the long hallway to the locker room. Michelle went to the training room to get the speakers she had left there and Cassie went to the Equipment room to get garbage bags.

“What are those for?” Colby asked.

“Do you really want to slide on just the ice?”

“Sure,” he said flashing his signature grin. After everyone had stripped down to their bathing suits and Michelle’s iPod was hooked up to the speakers Colby decided to slide first. He started from the goal line and flopped down to the ice at about the blue line. When he stopped he pried himself from the ice to reveal a stomach as red as a tomato. Slowly he made his way to the bench where everyone else stood. “I think I’ll take one of those garbage bags,” this caused everyone to laugh.

Some of the guys decided to get competitive and see who could slide the furthest. No one blamed them; after all they are professional athletes who hadn’t been on the ice in three months. The girls and Ryan slid just for the fun of it and enjoyed watching Sid, Geno, Colby, and Jordan “race”.

After a while ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ came on and everyone looked at Miriya. It was here song and it needed to be played if the Guins were losing otherwise there was no hope of a comeback. When the intense rendition of Journey’s song was over Natasha Benningfield’s ‘Unwritten’ came on and Colby stood at center ice singing. Everyone laughed as Michelle went to sing with him. Everyone along the boards clapped when the song ended before sliding a few more times.

“Do any of you boys wanna skate?” Everyone was silent. “Okay, as your coach I’m telling you that you’re gonna go change and put your skates on. I know none of you have started training yet.” The four Guins hurried to the locker room, Michelle, Cassie, and Mel followed to put their skates on too. “Ryan you wanna skate?”

“I don’t have skates with me.”

“You’re in a hockey arena, I’m sure we can find you a pair.” She said with a laugh. “Cass, can you hook Ryan up with a pair of skates?”

“I’m sure we can find some.”

Once everyone was changed and laced up they headed back out to the ice. Since they had just walked on it in tennis shoes it was still glassy smooth and felt good under Miriya’s skates as she stepped out from the runway. She let the arena take her thoughts as she glided down the ice; she loved the atmosphere of the arena, she felt at home there, even more than at her own home. She breathed in the scent and smiled, it mostly smelt of ice, yes ice has a smell. She loved the smell more than anything, anything other than the way Mellon Arena smelt. There was a very slight difference between the way the two arenas smelt, so slight that many people didn’t even notice, Miriya on the other hand did.

She past the bench for the second time and sped up, still not going full speed, but pretty fast by most standards. After three laps she decided that she should stretch before she got hurt. Rounding the ice a few more times she stepped behind the crease and looked up at the stands. “MIRYA!” a voice called down the ice pulling her from her thoughts.

“RYAN!” she said turning around. Everyone was skating and have a good time, and continued to do so for about an hour and a half before heading to the locker room.

“Bye Miriya, thanks for inviting me. We should hang out more often.”

“We should, well during the season a bunch of us get together for movie nights on Fridays, you and Deb should come, and you can bring Jess.”

“Alright, let me know when and I’ll try my best to be there.”

“See ya best friend,” she said giving him a hug.

“Bye.”

Staal [A Jordan Staal Story] Fifty-four

I'm home sick so I thought I would treat you guys to a new chapter. I know it's a short one compared to my usual chapters but I'm sure that's better for you guys. =] I know also know that this is a cliffhanger, but that's how "Haley" wanted it. It leaves it open to the imagination. I hope you guys enjoy the chapter and feedback is greatly appreciated.

Fifty-four

"I'm so glad they decided to have the wedding in Pittsburgh and not Chicago," Miriya said to Jordan as they got into bed the night before the wedding.

"Me too, I've enjoyed not flying anywhere since the season ended."

"No flying until training camp. Thank God your family's coming here for Scott's baptism so we don't have to worry about going to Canada."

"I'm glad that's next week, we can finally get you grandma off our back. 'When are you gonna get that baby baptized?' I'm sorry but she gets annoying after a while."
"A while, really babe?"

"I don't wanna talk about it," he said with a laugh.

The next day Miriya made sure that everything was packed for Scott's 'sleepover' with Nathan at Aunt Cassie's. After the two minute drive to her best friend's house Miriya took Scotty from his car seat and walked with Jordan to the front door. "Hey guys," Geno said opening the door. "Cassie's asleep; Nathan kept her up all night."
"I remember those days, the first two weeks I barely slept except for pre-game naps," Jordan said.

"Yea, he's so cute when he's not crying though."

"That how they all are," Miriya said with a laugh. "Well Scotty, Mommy and Daddy have to go, but you be a good boy for Aunt Cassie and Uncle Geno."

"Thanks again," Jordan said handing the diaper bag to Geno.

They arrived at the church at around five and found a seat in the middle of the left side. The entire row in front of them was filled with Hawks and their hatred for the Guins had at least lightened since they talked to Miriya and Jordan until right before the service started. Miriya looked around the church at the neatly placed red roses and white cloth that had been placed in the center aisle and led to the alter.

The priest made his way to the front of the church followed by Patrick and the groom's men. All of the guys looked good in white tuxes with baby blue ties. Standing there calmly were Pat's teammates Kris Versteeg, Cam Barker, Brent Seabrook, Adam Burish, Patrick Sharp, and Jonathan Toews. Anastasia, Hollie, Amanda, and Carlee made their way down the aisle in baby blue, sleeveless, knee length dress with bouquets of red roses.

Jacob the ring bearer and Abby the flower girl made their way slowly down the aisle. Red rose petals gracefully fell to the white cloth up until the aisle where Jacob and Abby found their seats.

Everyone stood as the music started and Haley came down the aisle with her dad. He handed her over to Patrick and went to his seat as they both smiled. They went to the first step and the ceremony started with, "Dearly beloved we are gathered here today…"

When it came time for the vows Pat spoke first, "Haley, you are my best friend. You are the season I wake up each day. You are your own person and blow me away each and everyday. Your beauty and personality are why I wake up each day. I've always loved you and I promise to as much and more, forever."

She couldn't help but smile as she ran her hand down her silky white gown, the long train behind her. She looked into Pat's eyes as she started to speak, "Patrick, you helped me through the toughest times in my life and show me how to have the greatest. You are the only person I trust with my heart, you showed me how to love. Just know that I will always love you no matter what. You're my sweetest hello and hardest good-bye. Thankfully I won’t have to say good-bye, forever."

"Do you Patrick take Haley to be your wife…?"

"I do."

"Do you Haley take Patrick to be your husband…?"

"I do."

"…I now pronounce you husband and wife, you may kiss the bride."

They both smiled and their lips met as everyone in the church stood and applauded. Everyone filed out of the church and to the reception at the Hard Rock Café. As always the bridal party stayed behind for pictures, shortly thereafter they also made their way to the reception.

"Ladies and gentlemen, for the first time Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Kane."
After dinner and the first dance Miriya and Jordan made their way to the head table. "Congrats guys, thank you so much for inviting us," Miriya said.

"No problem, congrats on getting the coaching job. It's amazing, you've only been working for the Guins two years and already you've announced the Stanley Cup win against us and not are going to coach the greatest team in the league."

"But no pressure," Haley added.

"No, none at all."

"It's okay, she works well under pressure, you should see her on the ice."
"Thanks babe, well again Congrats guys."

They went back to their table and as they sat down a slow song came on. "Baby you wanna dance?" Jordan asked.

"Sure, why not." They went out onto the dance floor and Miriya rested her head against Jordan's chest. She listened to his steady heart beat and breathed in his scent; this of course causing her to smile. "Can you believe it baby, we've been married for almost two years."

"I know, it feels like only yesterday that we started going out."

"My heart still skips a beat when I see you," he kissed her cheek; she smiled and her heart sped up.

Haley and Pat left for the airport that night and went to Jamaica for their two week honeymoon. As soon as they got there they went to their hotel and closed the door…

Staal [A Jordan Staal Story] Fifty-Three

HERE WE GO STEELERS HERE WE GO!!! I would just like to wish the Steelers luck in the Super Bowl today. Kick some Cards ass!!!

Fity-three

The team sat silently for a moment before Colby spoke up, "Staalsy, we'd love for you to be coach. One question though, could we call you coach Staalsy?" Everyone laughed at this and looked questioningly at Colby. "No I`m being serious, could we call you coach Staalsy?"

"I`ll have to think about it Colbs."

"Okay coach."

"I`m not your coach yet. You have to finish off this playoff stint under Therrien and then you will be mine."

Later that night the boys showed up at the arena a little nervous of what could happen that night. However they pushed all thoughts of losing far from their minds when the sound of the crowd hit them as they went out for the pre-game skate.

"Well this is it until October folks, the Guins lose in five games to the Toronto Maple Leafs. You have to wonder if Therrien will be back for another season of if there will be a new face on the home bench next year."

"We'll find out soon enough Bourquey, goodnight ladies and gentlemen."

Once they were off the air Phil turned to Miriya, "So you gonna take it?"

"Yep, the guys want to call me coach Staalsy," she couldn't help but laugh at this. "All I have to do is tell Ray and the job is pretty much mine."

"Congrats Staalsy, you work so hard for this team. You made an amazing announcer and I`m sure you`ll make a great coach too, you've got the skills."

"Thanks Bourquey, these past two years have been great. I`ve loved working with you, but now I`ll be down there," she gestured towards the ice. "And not up here. I should go tell Ray I`m gonna take the job." She walked into the locker room just as reporters were walking out and general manager Ray Shero was walking in. Therrien who normally came in to talk to the boys at this point was nowhere to be seen. "Where's Mike?"

"He's cleaning out his office. I overhead the boys talking about you being coach and figured you were gonna take the job."

"He's not gonna wait until locker clean out day?"

"I guess not, hey guys!" The room fell silent again. "Meet next years coach."
Everyone's eyes lit up and smiles were on all of their faces. It was the happiest they had ever been after losing a playoff series. They could all feel that something good was going to happen in the coming season.

With Saturday came the day most dreaded by all hockey players, locker clean out day. It meant the season was over and you needed to find something to do until September. The room was empty within an hour, but the guys slapped on the skates for one last 'practice'. Cassie watched Scott and Christiano on the bench while Miriya and Michelle skated with the team.

It had only been a month since Scott was born but Miriya almost had her figure back. She had been working hard to slim down and gain more muscle, not that she needed it. Michelle had also been working to gain her figure back and just like Miriya seemed to be achieving her goal. Now Cassie on the other hand was seven months pregnant and seemed to be quite content sitting on the bench keeping an eye on the babies.

"I love thunder storms," Sid said as the rain poured down later that night.

"Mmhmm," Michelle said just before the thunder clashed. The sound made her jump closer to Sid.

He couldn't help but laugh as he tightened his grip around her. "I remember when I found out you were afraid of thunder."

"I don't, can you tell me?"

It was the first summer they were together, 2008, and it rained a lot that summer. Miriya and Jordan were still in Canada so Michelle was with Sid a lot. They were at his place of residence, otherwise known as Mario Lemieux`s house. They were watching a movie in the basement since their plans of a bike ride were ruined by the rain. Sid had grabbed a blanket and candles just in case.

"Megatron, that's what they call him," both Shia LeBeouf and Michelle said as the thunder clashed.

She jumped and Sid brought her closer. "I take it you're afraid of thunder?"

"Just a little," she jumped again as the storm moved closer. The TV went black and so did the room with another clash of thunder. With a stick of a match the room was filled with light again, along with the smell of fresh peaches.

"Okay I remember that day," she rested her head on his shoulder. Another clash of thunder came and of course she jumped.

At the Staal house Miriya and Jordan sat on the couch watching the storm through the kitchen door. Nik was playing with Scott on the floor. Outside the storm moved closer and as it did the thunder crashed louder. One crash seemed as though it was right above the house and Scott started to cry.

"Aww Scotty it's okay, come here sweetie," Miriya said getting up from the couch and taking Scott from Nik's arms.


The rest of April and May past, most of the team had stayed in Pittsburgh so they wouldn't have to come back for Miriya's birthday party or the birth of Cassie and Geno's first baby. As with every pregnancy no one knew exactly when the baby was going to be born, but she was due on June seventeenth, Miriya's mom's birthday. Just as Miriya and Michelle, Cassie wanted to be surprised when she had the baby, so she never found out the sex.

June came, and with it Miriya and Michelle were in the best shape of their lives. They went down to the arena to work-out every other day while Sid and Jordan watched the kids. On days they weren't working-out they watched the kids as Sid and Jordan took advantage of having the arena weight room.

After leaving the arena Miriya decided to stop at Giant Eagle in Waterworks to pick-up some groceries on the way home. Again she was looking at chips when she backed into someone. "I`m so sorry, this is the second time this has happened," she said turning around. "And both times I've known the people."

A smile came to the person's face. "Miriya Staal, the Penguins' announcer Miriya Staal?"

"Well Penguins' coach now, but how are you Ryan, I haven't seen you since that summer at Guyasuta."

"I know, I`ve been good, you?"

"Good, we really need to catch up, it's been too long."

"We should, when are you free?"

"I'm free tomorrow if you wanna come over for dinner."

"Okay, I`ll see you then." he gave her a hug and they both finished their shopping.

Miriya walked through the front door to find more people tan were there when she left. Then she remembered that it was movie night with "the guys". Only four of them were really guys, Sid, Geno, Nik and Jordan, unless Colby and Mel stopped by. Cassie, Michelle, and Erin were also there. They didn't get to have these much during the season because there was either a game or they were on the road and couldn't decide whose room to do it in.

Everyone showed up this time and they all waited for the pizza guy to arrive with their dinner. Once all of the pizza was gone and the little kids put to bed in Scott's room it was time to pick a movie.

"What about Transformers?" Michelle asked.

"We watched that last week," Erin replied.

"We really need to find a better way to do this so we don't have to shit here and try to decide every week," Nik said.

"It's a good point, but we're only doing this two more times before training camp. Nik you're going back to Germany for a while and everyone has vacations and stuff planned. But when we do all decide to get back together during camp we'll come up with something," Miriya said from the couch in between Jordan and Colby.

"How about Lord of the Rings?" Mel asked out of nowhere.

"Which one?" Jordan asked.

"Not the third one, I want to get some sleep tonight," Cassie said.

"Which one is the second one?" Colby asked.

"Two Towers," Sid said from the floor. "What about that one?"

"Sounds good to me," Geno said getting up and going to the movie shelf.

They started the movie at about eight-thirty; Miriya and Cassie who loved the movie when it first came out couldn't help but say every line. That's how it was every weeks, someone would say every line, and if not every line there would be an occasional chime in for a really good one.

At about nine-fifteen a little face appeared at the end of the hallway. "Jamie aren't you supposed to be asleep?" Colby asked with a smile from the couch.

"I`m not sleepy," no one in the room could help but smile at how cute the five year old was. "Can I watch the movie with you?"

"Sweetie this movie is kind of scary, I don`t want you to get nightmares."

"Don`t worry mommy I won't get scared."

"Come on Mel, he'll probably fall asleep anyway."

"No I won't daddy, but thank you for letting me watch the movie." He climbed onto Colby's lap and within ten minutes he was asleep.

"I`ll be right back," Army said carefully getting up off of the couch.

"Colbs, just put him on my bed so he doesn't have to sleep on the floor in Scott's room."

"Thanks Staalsy."

The next day Miriya made dinner as Jordan took care of Scott. At around six there was a knock on the door and Miriya quickly made sure that everything was ready before opening it. "Ryan," she said giving him a hug. "You remember Jordan and this is my son Scott," she said taking Scott from Jordan's arms so he could shake hands with Ryan.

"Nice to see you again Ryan."

"You too Jordan. You guys remember Debra and this is our daughter Jess."

"Debra."

"Miriya, it's been a while."

"It has, how old is Jess?"

"She just turned three last week, Scott's so cute how old is he?"

"He`ll be three months tomorrow."

"Oh yea baby that reminds me, he rolled over for the first time yesterday."

"Well you look good for only having him three months ago," Ryan said.

Miriya smiled and said, "Well dinner's ready if you guys are hungry."


Almost all of the team was at Miriya and Jordan's house for her twenty-fourth birthday party. As always they had caked before opening presents.

"Happy… oh shit."

Everyone stopped singing at looked over at Cassie who stood at the side of the table.

"Geno you're gonna be a daddy real soon," she said grabbing her stomach. A smile came to his face as they started towards the door.

"You guys go ahead, we'll call the hospital and tell them you're on your way. We'll meet you there."

"Thanks Staalsy," Geno said helping Cassie out the door.
Nik went to the door to help out, "I`m gonna go with them. I`ll see you there."

They made it out to the car and were off to the hospital. The rest of the team wasn't too far behind and filled the labor and delivery floor's waiting room.

"I`m glad we had the party early," Miriya said resting her head on Jordan's shoulder. It was about one and the party has started at noon. All they had really done was eat and talk, well more like mess around than talk. But that's about all the team was good for other than playing hockey that is. Really the team was full of jokesters so it was hard to ever have a dull moment with them.

In the waiting room the guys played cards and watched TV, Cassie's room however was a little more exciting. Her contractions were getting closer together and Geno's hand was getting redder with each one. "I`m sorry if I` hurting your hand," she said after a contraction past.

"It's fine baby, I`m here for you," he brushed a strand of hair from her face and kissed her cheek.

She smiled and another contraction came. The burse came about half-way through to check up on Cassie. She quickly walked back to the door and called for a doctor.

"I think it's time to start pushing," he said when he came into the room.

After fifteen minutes of intense pushing a little Malkin came into the world. The team filled in, but Miriya was the first to hold the baby, after Cassie and Geno that is.

Nathan James Malkin was born on Miriya's birthday June eighteenth, at three oh one pm. He had chocolate brown eyes like both of his parents a bit of brown peach fuzz. He was seventeen inches and five pounds three ounces. Neither of his parents had ever been happier.

Staal [A Jordan Staal Story] Fifty-Two

I am finally done with my senior project so now I only have to worry about three super hard classes in school. YAY!!! I apologize because this chapter like the rest of them is super long. I hope you enjoy it!!! Comments are greatly appreciated. =]


Fifty-Two


"Hey Nik, you ready for your first playoff run?" Miriya asked at breakfast Monday morning.

"As ready as I`ll ever be," he said taking more bacon. "Jordan do you remember your first playoff run?"

"Yea, but it was more of a playoff drown. We lost to the Sens in five games in the first round." After pre-game naps and a light pre-game dinner it was off to the arena for the start of the playoffs. The atmosphere was just as it had been for the last eight years. There was something about the playoffs that made everyone go crazy. If you went on after the regular season it proved that you were one of the top sixteen teams in the league. The team with home ice advantage really did have the advantage with the home crowd to back them up. And once again the Penguins had home ice advantage. Fans filed into the arena each receiving a t-shirt, towel, and ice time.

The players sat in the locker room anxiously awaiting the start of the game or even just to get a taste of the fans during the pre-game skate. "Ladies and gentlemen good evening and welcome to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Tonight game one of the Eastern Conference Quarter-Finals takes place between the Toronto Maple Leafs and your Pittsburgh Penguins," Miriya said at the start of the pre-game.

"And your Pittsburgh Penguins!" John Barbaroe said as the boys came up the runway and onto the ice as the minutes ticked down high above their heads. As the last words of anthem were sung the starting line up was announced and the puck was dropped at center ice. The Guins scored five minutes in, but it all went downhill from there. The refs were missing calls all over the place and at the end of one the Leafs were up 3-1.

The final buzzer went off and the boys headed to the locker room. Not a smile was to be seen in the home locker room and Miriya was depressed too. The team had done so well all year but something had really changed. In the second period Therrien had made changes in his lines to try and get something going but the final scored was 5-2, Leafs.

With Scott's car seat in hand Miriya made her way to the locker room. "Boys don't worry about it it's only one game. Tomorrow you need to show up to practice and be ready to work."

Shero and Therrien were just walking into the locker room as she was saying this. They had just come from their press conference; Ray looked somewhat please, but Michel on the other hand didn't. "Miriya, at least last time I checked I was coach and that's my team."

"Sorry coach."

"Nine am practice, be suited up and on the ice," he said as he walked out of the locker room.

"What's with him?" Miriya asked moving from the center of the room.

"I don`t know, he was like that before the game too," Brooksy said giving her a hug. "But what you said was right, just calm down and get back into the playoff mind set. If they ever firer Mike you'd be a great coach."

"Thanks Brooksy that's really sweet, but I don`t think it would happen."

"You never know, Therrien`s been here for a while, but if he doesn't lead up to a winning season, who knows."

After putting Scotty to bed Miriya climbed into bed next to Jordan. He breathing has slowed but she could still tell that he was upset. She was upset too and knew to give Jordan his space. She lay on he side of the bed and stared at the TV before Jordan turned it off and put the remote on the bedside table. "Nine am practice?" He asked as Miriya looked over at him. "Has he lost his mind?"

"I know baby, he's right about you needing to work. I just don`t want to have to wake up at seven to get Scotty ready and make breakfast."

"What Brooksy said was right, you would make a good coach."

"Thanks, but it wouldn't happen and I`m happy with my announcing job."

"I know baby, you always know how to make me happy."

"And how did I do that, I didn't do anything."

"Just you being here makes me happy, come here. And thank you for giving me my space."

"You're welcome," she said moving closer. They both lay on their sides and Jordan placed a gentle kiss on her lips. The kiss grew more intense as Jordan's tongue grazed Miriya's lower lip. He gathered his strength and got up to straddle her hips. His lips parted with hers and they both gasped for air. He placed a soft kiss on her cheek and made his way down her neck, for some reason his playoff beard rubbing against her neck made it more enjoyable.

Miriya's mind couldn't help but wander as Jordan continued to kiss her neck. The two of them had been sitting in the locker room about three years earlier. "You know you never treated me differently, you know in a weird way. You always treated me like a normal person, well other than when you first met me, but that was more of embarrassment. I'm glad you treat me like this."

She smiled and looked up into his eyes. "Well I`m glad you treat me the way you do. It's not that you treat me better than you would anyone else, but you treat me better than anyone else ever has."

"Well that's because I love you." His lips pressed gently against her cheek and pulled her back into reality. He placed another kiss on her cheek, her forehead, the tip of her nose, and finally her lips. His strong arms still held him above her and she ran her hands along his muscular chest and back, and then up around his neck.

At nine o'clock on the dot Therrien stepped out onto the ice. "On the line, suicides."

Miriya who sat on the bench with Scott questioned his still angry tone. "Daddy's boss isn't being very nice is he Scotty, no. Coach Michel is grumpy, yes he is, yes he is." Scott started to cry so Miriya took him to the locker room. Two hours later the boys filed into the room holding their helmets and not a smile was in sight.

"He has gone over the edge," Colby said once everyone was in the room.

"That was worse than training camp, there is no way we should have to work that hard."

"Brooks you need a hug?" Miriya asked.

"That'd be nice, and maybe a massage?"

"Sure, you know I`ll do anything for my boys. Go shower and I`ll meet you in the lounge."

The boys went to shower and Miriya handed Scott to Jordan when he was done. He gave her a hug and looked into her eyes. "Can I have a massage later?"

"Only if you give me one."

"Sounds good to me."

She went to the lounge and waited for Brooks. He came in about five minutes later in a pair of RBK track pants and a black t-shirt. "Do you mind if I take my shirt off?" he asked sitting down on the couch in front of her.

"No it's cool," she said and then he pulled his shirt over his head. She ran her hands down his back and her touch sent shivers down his spine She placed her hands on his shoulders and began to work her back down his back.

When she had finished her turned to face her, "I love you Miriya," he said kissing her on the cheek.

"Love you too Brooks," she wrapped her arms around him and rested her head on his bare shoulder.

"Jordan is so lucky to have you, you're sweet and beautiful. You are one of my best friends and I love you." She lifted her head and looked into his Caribbean ice blue eyes. He kissed her lips, and only for a second, but it was enough for Colby who had just walked in to see.

"Oh sorry," he said hurrying out of the lounge and back into the locker room. "Jay you know Miriya is in the other room kissing Brooksy?"

"Yea, wait KISSING BROOKSY?!?!"

"Yea, don`t know if it's something like the Kris thing, but I walked in to get a bottle of water and they were kissing."

The whole ride home neither of them said anything to each other. When they got home Scott had fallen asleep so Jordan lay him in his crib. "Miriya were you kissing Brooksy?" he asked walking out of Scott's bedroom.

"Yes but-"

"No buts, you kissed another man."

"Baby please, it was just a friendly kiss. It wasn't even like when I kiss Kris. He was just telling me how lucky you are to have me." She tried to hug him but he pushed her away. "Baby please." Tears came to her eyes and she fell to her knees as she heard the front door close. After a while she managed to get up using the wall for support and pulled her cell phone from her pocket.

"Hey Miriya, what's up?"

"Brooksy I need you to come over. I tried telling Jordan that what happened this afternoon was nothing but he wouldn't listen to me. I need you to talk to him when he gets back," she said with tears still in her eyes.

"I`ll be over as soon as I can." No more than fifteen minutes later he was at the door and wrapped his arms around Miriya's tiny figure. He sat down on the couch and she went to take care of Scott. It started to get later and Jordan still wasn't home. Brooks took care of Scott while Miriya made dinner for the two but them, but she ate alone at the island in the kitchen.

Scott's bedtime came and Miriya placed him gently in his crib before going to her own bed. At eight forty-five the front door opened and a still very upset Jordan Staal came in. "Jordan we need to talk?"

"About what, how you kissed my wife?!"

"Gronk I felt nothing. I was just telling her how lucky you are to have her. Jordan, she loves you man, she's been with you for almost eight years. She birthed your child. She doesn’t love me as more than a friend and she loves you more than anything in the world. Please, go make up with your wife."

Jordan walked into the bedroom where he found Miriya watching something on TV. "Baby can we talk?" She didn't reply, she just turned off the TV, and looked in his direction. "I just talked to Brooksy and he explained the whole thing. I blew the whole thing way out of proportion. I`m sorry, do you think that you could forgive me?" She nodded and crawled to the edge of the bed. He picked her up and kissed her as she wrapped her legs around his waist. "I`m so sorry baby," he said between kisses.

"Me too." They made their way to the bed and within seconds all of their clothes were off and scattered around the room. He ran his hands along her sides while she ran hers down his back and grabbed his ass. With nothing to stop them they enjoyed themselves for a few hours. She placed one last kiss on Jordan's cheek before falling to the bed beside him.

He put his arms around her and breathed deeply, "I don`t think I could ever stay made at you."

"Yea, you'd miss this," she straddled his hips and pressed her lips hard against his.

"You're right," he said pulling away. "But I think you would miss this." He grabbed the cross that hung from her neck and puller her closer…if that was possible. He started kissing her neck, gently at first and then got rough. A small moan escaped her lips and Jordan's couldn't help but smile.

"Morning Nik," Miriya said walking into the kitchen.

"Do you think you guys could have been any louder last night?"

"Sorry," Miriya said with a smile and looking over at Jordan.

"What time did you get home last night?"

"Around ten."

"Oh, you weren't here for the worst of it," Miriya said with a smile as she sat down on a stool at the island.

"Oh boy, I can only imagine."

"Hey watch it," Jordan said jokingly. "That's my wife."

Breakfast, morning skate, and pre-game naps passed. Everyone suited up in the locker room and anxiously awaited the start of game two. They went out and played hard, but not hard enough. Within in the first five minutes of the first period there had been ten different line combinations. Early in the second there was a line that was working well together and had played together during the regular season. They scored the Guins lone goal of the night, but on the next shift they were broken up.

The Leafs skated away with a 3-1 win and a two games to none lead in the series. The Guins on the other hand went to the locker room with their heads hung. They all seemed to be prepared for what lie ahead, Therrien`s post game speech. They all sat silently at their stalls shedding their gear as Therrien made is way to the center of the room.

"What the hell boys!" the room silent and no on moved. "Did the practice yesterday do nothing? We are not going to be swept in this series, you boys are better than that. Tomorrow as soon as we get to Toronto it's to the arena, three hour practice. We will NOT be going to the hotel first. It's straight to the arena where you will suit up and be on the ice."

The boys finished taking their gear off in silence. They showered and started to leave as the equipment staff started packing up. Geno went up behind Cassie who was throwing bags into the middle of the floor. She turned to face him and put her arms around his neck. He pulled her as close as possible, she was seven months pregnant. "Baby you coming home?"

"I need to stay and help pack. I`ll have Dana give me a ride home."

"Okay babe, I`ll probably be asleep when you get home. I love you."

"Love you too, bye babe." She kissed him and tried to walk away, but Geno grabbed her hand and pulled her close again. After kissing her deeply he looked into her beautiful brown eyes.

"Bye," he said and walked to the door.

Practice the next day was long and hard, they practice the whole three hours. The only time they were allowed to stop was to get a drink or when they were in line for a drill. They boys filed tiredly into the away locker room when practice ended and again sat silently in their stalls.

When they finally got to the hotel everyone threw their bags on the floor and fell asleep. Game three came as another loss, Therrien made his post-game speech, and the next day there was another intense practice.

"Good evening ladies and gentlemen, we're here in Toronto for game four. The Leafs have a three games to none lead and can clinch the series tonight."

Down in the locker room however things were not as calm. As usual the boys sat at their stalls, suited up and silent. The pre-game skate was minutes away and they looked nervous.

"Boys get out there and play hard. You have skills to beat them. Play physical, but don`t take dumb penalties. If this all ends tonight you played a great season this year and there's always next year. Now get out there and kick some Leafs' ass!" Miriya said over the phone.

They stepped out onto the ice as the Toronto crowd cheered on the home team. Somehow the boys had gained confidence and looked ready to play. "We stand on guard for thee!" The Toronto singer stepped off the ice and the boys lined up for the opening face-off. The game was intense and with forty-five seconds left the face-off was in the Leafs zone and the game was tied at two.

"Staal takes the face-off, pulled back to Ryan Whitney. Whitney gives it to Kennedy, puts it in front… MAX TALBOT SHOOT AND SCORES! There's thirty-four point three seconds left in regulation and the Guins have taken the lead," Miriya said trying to contain her excitement. "It's going back to Pittsburgh, Max Talbot preserved the Penguins playoff dreams with his goal with just over thirty seconds left. Game five is in Pittsburgh Wednesday night at seven oh eight."

Wednesday everyone was at the arena for the game day skate. "Hey Miriya what would you say if I offered you a coaching job?" Ray asked walking up to her on the bench.

"I would first have to ask you why, then for what team, and then I would have to talk it over with Jordan, Bourquey and the rest of the team. Then maybe I`d tell you yes."

"Well to answer your first question of why, because I think that you would make a good coach and you have the skills. Now, for what team, you're looking at 'em. You would start during training camp next season. So you better go discuss this with your husband and everyone else."

"Are you fucking serious, you want me to coach the Pittsburgh Penguins?" He smiled and nodded and she wrapped her arms around him. "I`ll get back to you."

He left and headed to his office while Miriya still stood on the bench trying to catch her breath. "Jordan!" he turned to face her. "I need to talk to you in the locker room."

All of the guys stood out on the ice asking each other what she could need to talk to him about as she skated to the runway. "What's up?" he asked sitting down at his stall.

"Baby, I was offered a coaching job."

"Oh my God, are you serious?" he asked standing up and giving her a hug. "You've only been announcing for two years and they offered you a coaching job? I love you baby," he pressed his lips to hers and she couldn't help but smile.

"But the thing is, I don’t know if I`m going to take it," she paused and Jordan's smile faded. "I mean I`m only going to be twenty-four and I have an amazing job."

"Baby I know that announcing is your dream, but I can tell that you're really excited about this job. But it's not my decision, it's your`s."

"Thanks, but I want you to be part of the decision."

"I will back you up on whatever you do, whether it be stick with announcing or take the coaching job."

"Thanks baby, now get out on the ice and don`t tell the boys, I wanna tell 'em,"

"Alright coach," he said and kissed her cheek. He made his way back to the ice and she slowly made her way to the commentator's box where Bourquey was getting ready for that night's game.

"Hey Bourquey, you know anyone who wants an announcing job?"

"Yea actually, why?"

"I was offered a coaching job."

"That's great Staalsy, are you gonna take it?"

"I`m not sure, I still need to discuss it with the boys, if they`re not okay with it then I`m not taking it."

"Well I guess they're the deciding factor," he paused and looked down at the ice. "Looks like they're headed to the locker room, go catch 'em."

"Thanks Bourquey," she said, hugged him and ran down to the locker room. She stood in the doorway until Therrien was done talking about the plan for that night's game. As soon as he stepped out of the room all of the guys started talking and Miriya made her way to the center of the room, being very careful not to step on the Penguin.

"Guys shut up!" Jordan said from his stall.

"Boys what do you think about getting a new coach?" Miriya asked and the room went silent. "What do you think about having me as a coach?"

Staal [A Jordan Staal Story] Fifty-One

I was a bit inspired... The Pens played an amazing game against the Rangers today and in about an hour the Steelers take on the Ravens in the AFC Championship. With all of this happening I decided I would give you all one more treat today, a new chapter. I hope you all enjoy it, comments are greatly appreciatied. GO STEELERS!!!

Fifty-One

It was the last game of the regular season, and as always it was on the road. After practice at the Verizon Center everyone went their separate ways around Washington. At around six the team met up for dinner and then it was back to the hotel. Sidney was in the shower and Michelle lay on the bed in a bra and pair Sid’s boxers. She was watching highlights from the Caps last game when Sid walked in and sat on the edge of the bed to get a good look at the opponent in the next day’s game.

He wore a pair of black RBK sweat pants since it was chilly, however no t-shirt. Michelle crawled up behind him and put her arms around his shoulders. She could tell that he was smiling and gently kissed his shoulder before starting to rub his back. “That feels so good,” he said turning around to face her. He brought her to him in a hug and kissed her cheek before looking down. “Are those my boxers?”

“No, Army’s,” she said somehow managing to keep a straight face. He gave her a questioning look and she started to laugh, “I`m just kidding.”

“Sure,” he said in a sarcastic tone.

“Well,” she said changing the subject, “Since you`re practically undressed,” she said with a sly smile.

He reached around to unhook her bra, his favorite, and worked his way down to the boxers. “Sure these aren’t his?”

“Pinky promise,” she replied, “Well sort of.”

He gave her the ‘you`re such an asshole” look but then kissed her after saying, “Still love you.”

She slid off his sweat pants and looked down to his boxers, they were black and white striped just like hers. “Baby does this prove that they aren’t his?” she asked with a laugh.

“Yea, I’m good now.” He pushed her down and straddled her hips as the pale moonlight shown in the window. It reflected off of his big brown eyes as he placed his hands on either side of her head. His muscles flexed with every movement and their matching boxers were now matching on the floor. After toe curling, lip biting, back arching fun Michelle lay asleep in Sid’s arms under the thin blanket.

Everyone got to the arena the next morning and were suiting up when Sid walked into the locker room. “Hey guys, how was your night?”

“Nowhere near as good as yours,” Bugsy said with a laugh.

“Oh, you guys heard that?”

“I think everyone hear it Sid,” Colby said. “Oh and tell Michelle I want my boxers back.”

“What?”

“I`m kidding man, you know that I`m not going to sleep with her.”

“The thing is we were talking about that last night. She was laying in bed with my boxers on and I asked if they were mine. She said no yours. The funny thing is later I found out that they were really were mine because I was wearing matching ones.”

“Wow Sid, you sure do have an exciting love life,” Bugsy said.

Miriya walked into the locker room holding Christiano, “Sid take your son.”

“Thanks for watching him last night, me and Jordan are watching Scott and
Chris on Friday right?”

“Yep, girls night in.”

“Hey baby,” Jordan said putting his arms around her. “You know the skate doesn`t start for another twenty minutes.”

“Well I`ll see you guys on the ice in twenty minutes.”

The walked into the training room and Miriya got up on the table. “We should probably get out there before we get in trouble,” Jordan said bringing his lips from Miriya’s neck.

“I don`t want to,” she said and quickly placed her lips on his.

“Baby come on,” he said pulling away.

“Fine. I can`t wait for out week off,” a smile came to her face as they slid of the table. She fixed her hair and straightened put her shirt before they made their way up the runway.

“Wow you guys made it in time,” Army said with a laugh.

“You know Arms if it were up to me we’d still be in there.”

“We know,” Kris said skating up to her. He kissed her cheek as Therrien walked onto the bench.

“Alright boy, suicides.” After morning skate everyone headed back to the hotel for pre-game naps. Miriya got into bed next to Jordan and laid her head on his chest. When they woke up their fingers were laced and Miriya stared up at the ceiling not knowing if he was awake “I love you baby.”

“I love you too,” he said rolling over and kissing her. “I`m gonna go get Scotty now so Colbs can take his nap.”

“Tell him I really appreciate all that he does for us.”

“Okay, see ya in a few,” he kissed her cheek and walked to the next room.

“Thanks Army Miriya and I really appreciate all that you do for us. You`re always taking care of Scotty for us, I`m surprised he still knows that I`m his father.”

Colby laughed and kissed Scotty on the cheek. “See you later little guy, see ya Gronk.”

“Bye Colbs and thanks again.” He walked back in his room with his infant son in his arms.

“He looks just like you baby, I love it. I love both of you more than anything.”

“And we both love you too, but I think that someone needs fed.”

She took the little boy from her husband’s arms and smiled as her son ate and slept. At five everyone went to the Verizon Center and suited up, all of the guys in the locker room and Miriya in her favorite place, the commentator’s box. “What a block by Talbot on Alex the great, Malkin picks up the puck and is off on a two on oh with Crosby. Cross ice pass, he shoots and scores! Sidney Crosby from Evgeni Malkin and a huge secondary assist from Max Talbot who was out on the wrong line.”

“Staalsy it hurts when your star gets blocked but to have the other team go in on a two on oh hurts even more.”

“That’s all folks the Penguins are in third place in the league and are moving on to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Caps on the other hand have a nice vacation before next season,” she said when the game had ended. After she was done doing the closing segment she went down to the away locker room and up behind Jordan. With one arm she held Scotty and the other she wrapped around her tall husband’s waist.

He was still being interviewed but once he was finished answering the question he kissed Miriya and took his son into his arms. “Jordan tell me how has the birth of your son affected your game?”

“If it’s affected it at all it’s been for the better. He inspires me to play well so that he can see how fun it is as he grows up and play when he’s older. He and Miriya are my good luck charms; she has been since day one. I love them both more than anything,” he smiled and the camera went off.

“Thanks Gronk,” the reporter said and walked away.

“So glad we’re not leaving until tomorrow,” Jordan said with a smile.

“Me too, go shower. I love it when you’re sweaty but I really don`t feel like sleeping with someone who smells like they just played hockey.”

“But I did.”

“I know, that’s my point,” she said with a smile.

The team finished showering and headed back to the hotel. Scotty was sleeping soundly and Miriya carefully took him out, changed his diaper, and lay him gently in his crib. All he did was squirm a little and fell back into a deep sleep causing Miriya to smile. “He should be asleep for a couple of hours,” Miriya said walking away from the crib.

“That’s all I need,” he said with a smile. He stood up from the bed and wrapped his arms around Miriya’s waist. Hours later Miriya lay asleep in Jordan’s arms, her head resting on his chest when Scott woke up. He didn`t cry, he just lay there and kicked his feet. The soft sound of the sheet rustling woke Miriya up. She quickly threw on some clothes and took the little baby from the crib. “Hey there sweetheart, it’s not time to be awake yet. You hungry?”

Because he was only one month old he obviously didn`t answer, but Miriya lifted her shirt and fed him.

The next day the team returned back to Pittsburgh and the after returning Miriya was off to the doctor’s for Scott’s three day late one month check up. “Well Mrs. Staal Scott seems to be doing fine, he’s very healthy. You and Jordan seem to be doing a great job with him, do you have any questions?”

“No, not right now at least.”

“Okay, well I`ll see you two back here in a month.”

“Thanks,” Miriya said grabbing the diaper bag and heading out to the car. “Okay so bring Jordan and Scotty?”

“Yea, six-thirty okay with you guys?”

“Yep we`ll be over then, see ya later,” she hung up and walked into the living room where Jordan was taking care of Scotty. “You two ready for tonight?”

“Yea, what time are we supposed to be there?”

“Six-thirty, so we’ve got time. And it’s Scott’s nap time,” she said with a sly grin.

“I love you.”

“I love you too.” They gently lay Scott in his crib for his nap and they too went to their bed room for a “nap”.

Back at Sid and Michelle’s Christiano had just fallen asleep and the Crosby’s headed to their bedroom. Sid wrapped his arms around Michelle’s waist, picking her up, her arms were around his neck and hers legs wrapped around his waist. Her lips pressed hard against hips as they made their way to the bed.

Miriya and Jordan had already advanced past this point, they stood near the wall, and Miriya’s back pressed against it. All that covered her now was a thin layer that was her light blue bikini underwear and bra. Jordan stood in his blue and white plaid boxers, his hands pressed against the wall and his lips pressed firmly against Miriya’s. She smiled when she saw the boxers and pulled away, “You know I love those boxers?”

“Mmmhmm,” he said placing a gentle kiss on her neck, the start of his playoff beard rubbing against her collar bone.

“They’re so soft,” she said running her hand along the waist band.

Sid straddled Michelle’s hips, his boxers still separated them, but that’s about all. His hands were on either side of her head, his lips and hers fit perfectly together, and their smooth stomachs were almost touching.

Instead of going over to the bed Miriya and Jordan decided to save time by heading to the shower. “Too bad we have to pay this water bill,” Jordan said with a laugh.

“It’s okay,” Miriya said as Jordan’s strong arms pushed her against the wall.

“I love you,” Jordan said as they walked into the bedroom wrapped in towels.

“I love you too.”

In one arm Jordan held Scott and the other was wrapped around Miriya’s waist as they waited outside of the Crosby’s front door. Once the door opened they walked into the living room where Miriya put the diaper bag and port-a-crib on the floor by the couch. Jordan had taken Scott out of his car seat and had attempted to hand him to Miriya. “No babe he’s yours tonight,” she said and kissed both Jordan and Scott on the cheek. “See you boys later.” She walked into the kitchen where she found Michelle with a box of pizza and two can of grape pop. “You think that’s gonna last all night?”

“No, the rest of the food’s in my room.”

“Well I know that you and Sid were doing what Jordan and I were this afternoon, so please tell me you changed the sheets.”

“Yes Mir I changed the sheets,” she said with a laugh as they walked into the bedroom. They popped in a movie and started eating. “I love this movie so much,” Michelle said.

“Me too, I remember when it first came out and Geno loved it.”

“He still does.”

“Well you know what I mean.”

“Mir, we’re married and have kids. I remember back in high school when we would sit on the floor on the third floor with Lauren and have loads of fun. And I would reach my hand over, tap your boob, and yell ‘bajooga!’ And then you would get that angry face. This is a dream come true; me, you, two amazing husbands and two babies downstairs. But mmm Sid is so good,” she said with a wink.”

A few minutes later Jordan came upstairs to see both girls and the bed covered in popcorn. He smiled, but Michelle reached over and grabbed Miriya’s right boob yelling, “Bajooga!” Jordan started laughing as Sid came up the steps to see the girls a complete mess and Michelle’s hand on Miriya’s chest. “Michelle that’s mine, come on now.”

“Sorry Jordan,” she said walking her hand to Miriya’s stomach, picked up a piece of popcorn, and slowly popped it into her mouth.

“Wow,” was all Jordan and Sid could say.

“Boy, shouldn`t you be downstairs with the little boys?” Miriya asked looking at Jordan.

“Oh shit, I left them on the couch.”

“Jordan! They could roll off and die,” she said getting up from the bed.

Jordan stopped her and wrapped his arms lightly around her. “Baby I`m kidding, they’re both asleep in Scotty’s port-a-crib. I would never leave my son alone if he wasn’t going to be safe. You know me better than that.”

“Yea I know, you just really scared me,” she lifted her head from against Jordan’s chest. He ran his finger along her check and tilted her head up towards him. His lips pressed passionately against hers and his tongue crazed her lower lip. She parted her lips and granted him entrance. He ran his hand down her back and hers as always made their way around his neck.

“Wow you two move fast, but please don`t do it in my room,” Sid said with a laugh.

“Come on guys wasn’t it enough to do it this afternoon?” Michelle added.

They pulled away and he kissed the tip of her nose. A few minutes later Miriya and Michelle made their way downstairs and the guys stayed up in the bedroom.

Staal [AJordan Staal Story] Fifty

Happy Holidays!!! I know that I`m a little late with all of that but I hope that you all had a Merry Christmas. I know that it was take forever for me to get a new chapter up but I have been so busy with school work and my computer has been broken for almost a month. I finally got a new chapter typed and I`m going to warn you all that it is a long one. I hope that you all like it and I think that you should all watch the Winter Classic tomorrow just to cheer against the Wings. (It will not be anywhere near as amazing as our's was last year. But HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone, and comments would be greatly appreciated.

*******

Fifty

A few days later Miriya, Nik, and Jordan were sitting at home playing with Scotty when the phone rang.

"Hello?" Nik said picking up the phone up from the coffee table.

"Hey, Mel, Jamie and I are going to the zoo. would you like us to take Scott with us?"

"Hang on, it's Army. he wants to know if you want him to take Scott to the zoo."

Miriya and Jordan at each other then back at Nik, "Yes," they said in unison.

"Alright, bye Colbs, he said he'll be over in like an hour."

"Sounds good to me," Miriya said resting her head on Jordan's shoulder.

"I have to say that you two are one of the cutest couples I've ever seen. You're so close, you hardly argue and when you do, its not a real argument, its a playful one. Miriya, you told Erin that every couple fights, even you two, when have you ever fought?"

It was Miriya's freshman year at RMU, neither of them remember exactly when, but they remembered every detail of the fight.

She got out of her mustang and walked up the stone path to the porch. Since she had a key, she used it to open up the big wooden door and stepped into the living room. there were three guinesses on the coffee table and Jordan was passed out on the couch. She could tell that he wasn't just asleep because he only took naps on game days and it was two pm. She straddled his lap and kissed him to wake him up.

"Hey ba-" he stopped when he saw the disappointed look on her face.

"How could you and don't tell me that you didn't. The cans are on the table, you were passed out at two in the afternoon and I could taste it when I kissed you."

"I'm really sorry baby, I've been really stressed lately. I'm not playing as well as I would like."

"Thats what I'm here for, you're supposed to come to me when you're stressed or somethings wrong. Not turn to alcohol. You said that after you got arrested that you would never touch beer again. I know its impossible, but it just upset me that you would drink instead of coming to me."

At that point she was crying from being upset and Jordan tried to pull her onto his lap.

"Baby it's ok. All that happened is I passed out."

"No baby, its not ok, you know how I feel about that stuff."

She got up and stormed out to her car.

Back at her dorm she slammed her car and ran to her room. Still crying she jumped onto her bed and buried her face into Fleury, her favorite teddy bear. Her cell phone buzzed in her pocket. She looked at the caller id 'Big Jay <3' and threw it to the floor.

A few minutes later it buzzed again, but she got up to see who it was.

"Hello?"

"Hey Mir, are you crying?"

"Yeah."

"What's wrong?"

"Jordan," she said just as someone signed onto AIM. "farmboy11"

"What happened?"

"I went over to hang out and found him passed out on the couch. He said that he's been stressed lately and not playing as well as he wants to. He knows how I feel about him drinking."

"Yeah, you're really upset."

They continued the talk and an IM came up. 'farmboy11- Baby I'm sorry. I know that you're mad at me, you have every right to be. But please forgive me. I love you.'

She ignored the IM and hung up with Cassie. She was still upset and decided to take a nap, crying herself to sleep.

When she woke up Jordan was sitting on the edge of her bed. He showed her the yellow roses, teddy bear, and bottle that he was holding. She gave him a questioning look.

"It's not real, its sparkling."

She practically ran to his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck. "I'm sorry baby," she said resting her head against his chest.

"No baby, I'm sorry. I should have talked to you about it, but you already have enough to deal with."

"You know I'm always here for you, no matter what."

"Yes baby I know and I'm sorry."

"Wow, that was intense," Nik said looking at Miriya who had just finished telling the story.

"Yea it was, I thought that I was going to lose her that day. Never in my life had I been so scared."

"I was so upset with him, tempted to break up with him, but I was so glad that I didn't. Thats why I try not to fight with him, it hurts too much.

"Well I'll keep that in mind whenever me and Erin start to argue."

Colby drove up the drive-way and rang the door bell.

"Hey Army, hi Jamie how are you?"

"Good. How are you Aunt Miriya?"

"Good, you ready to go to the zoo?"

"Yep."

"Well Colbs, here's Scott and the diaper bag, you have his stroller still right?"

"Yep, hey Nik you wanna come to the zoo with us?"

"Sure, let me grab a hoodie."

Nik headed out to the car and took Scott and the diaper bag.

"Thanks Colbs."

"Anything for you guys, I'll bring 'em back after dinner."

"Bye," Miriya said hugging Army and closing the door.

"Jordan you look terrible in that shirt," Miriya said turning around to face him. "Take it off right now."

He took the yellow and white stripped shirt off and Miriya put her arms around his neck and kissed him.

"Do I really look bad in that shirt?"

"No, I love that shirt. But you saved me some time," She said with a sly smile. She ran her hands down his chest and stomach and unbuttoned his jeans. "Come on," she said grabbing his hand and leading him to the bedroom, his jeans still resting at his waist, his belt clancking as he quickly followed his wife down the hall.

"I love you," he said sliding her Penguins shirt over her head.

"I love you too," she said just before his soft lips pressed down on hers.

She put her hands back around his neck and his went to her Penguins pants and slid them to the floor.

Their lips parted and Jordan found Miriya's neck. He continued to kiss her and ran his hands down her sides. She let out a small groan and ran her fingers through his hair.

"Normally at this point Scotty starts crying," Jordan said.

"Thank God for Army," she said just as his lips found her neck again. "I want another one."

"Me too," he said then his lips found hers again. He pushed her over to the bed and they gently fell. She kissed his chest then ran her hand along it, and Jordan again kissed her neck and reached back to unhook her bra. He left one last kiss on her left shoulder then Miriya's underwear landed somewhere on the bedroom floor and his black and gold boxers hung from the bedside lamp.

Later they lay in bed, Miriya's head on Jordan's sweaty chest, he was running his fingers through her messy hair.

"You have no idea how much I love Colby," Jordan said.

"Oh, I have an idea," she said with a smile. She kissed him then rolled off the bed grabbing his hand. "We should shower before dinner and they get back." Jordan smiled as Miriya led him to the shower.

He pushed her against the wall and her arms made their way back around his neck. He left a kiss on the tip of her nose and smiled.

"So, what do you want for dinner?" Jordan asked after they were both dressed and in the kitchen.

"Surprise me."

"Sounds good. You should go watch a movie and I'll meet you out there."

She made her way to the living room and pulled Transformers from the movie shelf. She had seen it so many times she knew every word and recited it as Jordan worked hard in the kitchen to make dinner.

Jordan walked in with a tray of food and sat down on the couch next to her. "I hope you weren't expecting anything special. But I made you mac and cheese with hot dogs and baked beans."

"Awww you know I love that, is this movie cool with you?"

"Yeah, Geno's favorite."

They finished eating and sat back to watch the movie, it was about the part where Megatron unfreezes when there was a faint knock at the door and the doorbell rang. Miriya got up off the couch and opened the door to find Colby.

"Hey Army, Scotty were you a good boy today?"

"He was. Nik's trying to get Jamie to let him out of the car."

"Ok," just then Nik walked up to path, "Hey Nik did you have fun at the zoo?"

"I did. Come on little Scotty lets get you changed then mommy can feed you."

Nik took Scott from Colby's hands and headed to the nursery.

"How was your day?"

"Amazing, thank you Arms."

"Hey, as I said before anything for you guys. But I'll see you at practice tomorrow."

"See ya Army," she said giving him a hug.

"Bye Colbs," Jordan said from the couch.

Nik walked back into the living room with Scott and handed him to Miriya.

"You're so good with Scotty. Thank you for helping us out with him." Miriya said starting to feed Scott.

"It's the least I can do with all you guys do for me."

"So did Scotty like the zoo?" Jordan asked.

"I think that he did, he didn`t cry at all & he really seemed to like the penguins."

"He`s just like his mommy," Jordan said with a smile.

Miriya smiled as Scotty fell asleep, "Is he gonna wake up at like three now?"

"Yea, sorry he didn`t take a nap. I guess he was just excited to see all the animals."

Sidney had gone to the store to get some diapers, after returning from Giant Eagle he pulled into the driveway and walked up to the front door. "Baby, I`m home," he said once he got inside and put the diapers down. "Baby?" There was no answer but there was soft music coming from the bedroom. He slowly opened the door and a wide smile came to his face. "Hey baby!"

"Hey," Michelle said from the bed. The only light in the room was coming from the assorted candles on the dressers and night stands, the music was some of Michelle's favorites coming from the ipod speakers on the night stand. The bed was neatly made with rose pedals scattered all over and there Michelle sat in her black and white "referee uniform".

He quickly made his way to the bed and pulled Michelle onto this lap. She turned so that she was facing him and just before their lips met she said, " I love you." The kiss became more intense as Michelle ran her fingers through Sid's wavy brown hair and he ran his up and down her back.

They parted briefly as Sid's borrowed lucky shirt made it's way to the floor. "I should probably give that shirt back to Jordan."Michelle laughed as his lips found hers again. Sid's jeans made their way to the floor and Michelle ran her hand along Sid's smooth muscular chest. Just as Sid was about to unhook Michelle's bra her cell phone started to ring and Sid continued to kiss her neck.

She looked at the caller id 'Miriya.' "Oh she can wait," she said tossing the phone to the floor.

Later that night Michelle lay with her head rested on Sid's chest, Sid running his fingers through his hair, and smiles on their faces. "I love you,"he said tightening his grip around her so it was more like a hug.

"I love you too."

Three am rolled along and Scotty was awake, so was Miriya. She walked to the nursery and lifted Scott from his wooden crib."Hi there little guy, you`re gonna keep me up a while aren't you?" She changed him and sat down in the brown wooden rocking chair. Scott fell asleep at around five and minutes later after placing him in his crib Miriya sat back down in the rocking chair and she too fell asleep.

"Baby, baby it's time to get ready for practice," Jordan said shaking her awake.

"Ok," she said slowly getting up. "Is Scotty ready to go?"

"Yea he`s in his car seat in the living room with Nik."

"I love you two."

"We know, and we love you too."

Practice started and went well. Sid and Jordan looked to be on top of their game and Miriya was on the bench trying to wake herself up.

"Hey Cass, can you watch Scotty for a couple hours for me?"

"Yea sure, you need some alone time with Jordan?"

"No we got that yesterday thanks to Colby, but no I really need to start working out so I`m gonna stay down here for a while, skate, and lift."

"Alright, yea I`ll watch him. After you work out go home and take a nap. You need to be awake during the game tomorrow night."

"I know, I`ll have Jordan pick him up later."

Practice ended and Miriya threw on a pair of skates and jumped out onto the ice. She made one lap and skated to center ice to stretch. After her muscles were loose she did laps for about half an hour then went to the bench grabbed gloves, her stick, and some pucks, and went to the blue line. Snap, slap. and wrist shots hit the twine as she got back into the swing of things, then she worked on break-aways and wrap-arounds.

"I don`t see why you`re not a forward," Kris said stepping out onto the ice. "You have an amazing shot and amazing stick handling skills."

"So do you, I`m just better at defense. It started at as me just wanting to prove to people that I could play D 'cause everyone always said that I was too short to play and not strong enough. So I started playing and proving people wrong and now it's my position."

"Well you're a great defenseman too, I`m just saying that you would bee a good forward too."

"Thank you, you wanna play some one on one?"

"Wow you really do wanna getyour figure back don`t you?"

"Yea I do, I wanna look good for a while before I get pregnant again."

"You always look good."

"Aww thank you Kris," she said and gave him a hug then rested her head against his chest.

"You`re welcome, let's see how good of a two way player you are."

They both skated to center ice and tapped sticks three times. Miriya won the face-off and went off on a break-away into Kris's zone. He skated hard trying to catch up, hooking Miriya around the waist. She took a wrister from the slot and scored top shelf. After skating back to center ice Kris put his stick down for the face-off. "I took if you've played center before?"

"Yea, for two years I probably should have told you that before we started."

Later on Kris had the puck along the boards and they were both battling hard. She threw a hard check and he went down. She took the puck and launched a slapper from the hash, scoring her third goal in the right hand corner. Kris won the face-off and took it back into his own zone. Bringing it into Miriya's zone wasn't as easy as he thought it was going to be, she was back-checking hard and he was trying to fake. He took a shot, she went down to block it and it hit her in the chest.

"That's why we wear chest protectors," Kris said quickly skating over to her. "But I'm really sorry."

"No it's my fault, I went down to block the shot."

"I guess we`re done for today?"

"Yea, I`ll suffer through the rest of my work-out."

"You want me to stay and work out with you?"

"Sure, if you want to, but first I'm gonna get some ice and wait like ten minutes."

They walked into the lounge, grabbed a baggie from the cabinet, and some ice from the freezer. She walked over to the couch and sat down next to Jordan putting the ice on her chest. "What happend?" he asked looking away from the TV.

"Me and Kris were playing some one on one and I went down to block a shot."

"And lets just say that she blocked it," Kris said with a laugh.

"Good job baby, that's why we wear chest protectors.

"Yes baby, I know, but it's worse for me."

About ten minutes later they walked into the gym and Miriya stretched again. She did all the weight machines, working all of her muscles, then did twenty minutes on the elliptical. She quickly showered, said good-bye to Kris and headed home with Jordan. She lay down on the couch and drifted into a peaceful sleep.

"This is it, this is it Bourquey, there's just seconds left. It's game seven of the Stanley Cup finals, the Chicago Blackhawks verse the Pittsburgh Penguins in Pittsburgh. The Guins are up 3-1 and the face-off is in the Hawks' zone."

"You said it Staalsy the Guins have the chance to bring Stanley Cup number three to the burgh."

"The puck's dropped, Jordan Staal wins it back to his defense. Ryan Whitney winds up, just five seconds left Bourquey. Whitney shoots, but it's stopped, Staal tries for the rebound but the final buzzer goes off. The Pittsburgh Penguins have just won the Stanley Cup!"

"Congratulations on a great season Staalsy it's been great calling games with you," Bourquey said during the commercial break.

"You too Bourquey," Miriya said taking her headset off then ran out of the commentators box and down to the ice surface.

Sid skated to center ice and picked up the cup off the table. The smile on his face was unbelievable, like never before. Everyone was getting the cup and being interviewed. The cup game to Miriya who raised it above her head. Jordan skated over to her and got a picture with her and the cup. Colby came over and took the cup from them and skated away.

"You did amazing boys, all of your hard work finally paid off," Miriya said loud enough for the team to hear.

"You were right Staalsy this was out year," Bugsy said.

"Congrats baby," Miriya said. "The third cup has finally come."

"I don`t think anything could make me happier,"Jordan said with a smile.

"I wouldn`t be so sure about that,"Miriya paused. "Jordan we're gonna have a baby."

"I love you," he said, picked her up, and spun her around.

"I love you too," she said and he kissed her.

"When did you find out?"

"This morning, but I didn't want you to focus on anything but the game."
"We have to fix up a room and get close, and think of a name."
"I know baby, but right now, tonight let's focus on the win, let's think about the cup."

The team went to center ice for the picture with the cup an Miriya woke up on the couch in her living room in Fox Chapel. He handsome husband sat on the the couch with her three week old son. she couldn't help but smile when she saw her husband of almost two years holding her infant son. She lie there in silence for a few minutes then decided to sit up when her chest started hurting again.

"Hey beautiful, did you have a good sleep?"


"Yea, is Scotty hungry?"

"Probably," he said handing the baby to her. She lifted up her shirt to start feeding him and exposed her injury. Her entire right breast was covered in a black and blue bruise. "Oh my God baby, what kind of shot did he take?"

"Slapper."

"It looks like it hurts, I'll get some ice for when you're done feeding him."

"Really babe you think it hurts, but thanks."

Staal [A Jordan Staal Story] Forty-Nine

Hey all, I`m very sorry for the lack of updates reccently. I`ve been so busy with school work and had even fallen behind on writing game reviews because case of the mass amounts of homework. However I found a little extra time today to type up a chapter and I hope you all enjoy it. Comments would be greatly appreciated, and I`m not sure when I`ll find time to update again. Thank you all for reading!

********

Forty-Nine

March nineteenth came and the team was having breakfast at the arena. The game that day was set for an unusual time, one thirty, so everyone had planned on just staying until game time. Everyone was in the lounge and Kris was making breakfast. "Scrambled or sunny-side up?" he asked Jordan.

"Well Kris can you make sunny-side up or does it all just end up scrambled with you?" he asked jokingly.

"All scrambled, but I thought I would give you a choice."

"Well scrambled it is."

"Hey Bugsy you bring the bagels and cream cheese?" Michelle asked.

"Yep, strawberry cream cheese," he said pulling it from his bag.

"You`re so adorable."

After everyone had finished eating Michelle started cleaning up and couldn`t help but laugh when she saw Kris doing the dishes. "You`re just like Jordan, no wonder Miriya loves you."

At around quarter to twelve everyone was just about to start getting ready when Michelle stood up from her seat next to Sid. "I don`t feel good, I`m gonna go for a walk." She left the lounge and started into the locker room.

Miriya got up from Jordan's lap and started after her, "I`ll be back guys." She saw Michelle walking slowly down the hall and caught up with her. "Let`s go for a nice, slow walk."

They made it about one hundred yards before Michelle screamed and fell to her knees. "Contraction?" Miriya asked holding her hand.

"Yea," she said as all the guys ran down the hallway to see what was wrong. Jordan and some of the other guys were telling her what to do having gone through it all with their wives as Sid stood there worried and excited. Miriya pulled her cell phone from her pocket to see what time it was and turned to Erik.

"Michelle this is our baby, not just Sid`s," he said looking at Sid who smiled. "We`re all coming with you."

"But what about the game?" Mark asked.

"They don`t let people in for an hour," Miriya said. "Crush call up to the ticket office and have them tell people the game is postponed until tonight and that we`re really sorry."

Erik called the ticket office upstairs as Jordan called Sid and Michelle's parents and Miriya and Sid helped Michelle out to the car. Sid jumped into the driver's seat after helping Michelle into the back, Jordan and Miriya were in the back with her to help keep her calm and breathe through the contractions.

At the arena ticket people walked out the door to make the announcement, "Ladies and gentlemen the game has been postponed until tonight at seven-thirty. You make stay out here and wait if you would like to, I`m sorry for the inconvenience."

The pre-game show started at one like it was supposed to and Bourquey was all alone. "Ladies and gentlemen today's game has been postponed and will start at seven-thirty; so we`ll be back for the pre-game show at seven."

Back at the hospital Kris was with Sid and Michelle in the room, "Sid I`m so glad we`re having our baby."

Sid laughed saying, "Tanger I`ve told you a thousand times, not really your`s, maybe Colby's." Michelle shrugged. "But you can be like a father to it like you are with Scotty."

Michelle started to cry as sweat poured down her face, "Michelle you`re doing so well, you couldn`t make me happier."

She smiled, then let out a scream, and after many pushes the little baby boy came into the world. The nurse took him to get cleaned up; she wrapped him in a blanket and place him gently in Michelle's arms. The whole team came running in with smiles, who knows how all twenty-three guys, Cassie, and Miriya all fit in the little hospital room.

A tear ran down her cheek, Sid wiped it away with his thumb, kissed her cheek and then the baby's forehead. Sid had one of his old practice jerseys and wrapped the baby in it. He had Michelle's lips and eyes, and had brown peach fuzz.

"What's his name?" One of the guys asked.

She looked at Sidney and said, "Christiano Patrick Crosby, Patrick like his incredible daddy."

"Hey Sid, he looks just like me," Colby said with a laugh.

"You know what Arms," he paused. "Congratulations."

After a while most of the team had gone to get something to eat and Colby sat on one side of Michelle and Sid on the other. "Colby did you ever sleep with Michelle?"

"I wanted to."

"What?"

"I`ve wanted, but no I`ve never slept with her, the baby's all yours."

Colby decided to go get something to eat & Miriya & Jordan stayed behind. Miriya stayed in the room with Michelle while Sid and Jordan went for a walk. "Pretty amazing huh Sid, holding your first child in your arms," Jordan said with his hands in his hoodie pocket.

"Right up there with meeting and marrying Michelle, it was without a doubt the happiest moment in my life. That night paid off," he said with a laugh. "But really, she worked so hard and when she was feeding him and tears were running down her cheeks she was so," he paused, stopped walking, and turned to face Jordan. "So beautiful. I love her so much Jordan."

"I know man, I feel the same way about Miriya. When Scott was born it was the happiest day of my life. It was two weeks ago and I still can`t get over how small he is and how hard Miriya worked."

Back in Michelle's room Miriya was holding Christiano. "Two weeks ago Scott was born and it is amazing how good Jordan is with him. When we got home from the hospital he said the sweetest thing, 'This beats the Stanley Cup any day, when I raised that over my head it was my greatest day as a hockey player, this is my greatest day as a father!'"

"Aww," Michelle said trying to sit up in bed. "Oh that wasn`t bright, I don`t feel well at all."

The doctor came to check on her and her temperature was rising quickly. Miriya started to get worried and lay Christiano in his little bed, before sitting back down beside Michelle and holding her hand. The doctor looked into her eyes and then called in a specialist. Sidney came back into the room to see Michelle with a crimson red face and shivering.

"Baby what`s wrong?"

"I don`t know, the doctor called in a specialist."

Sidney wasn`t the only one worried, Miriya was wrapped tightly in Jordan`s strong, protective arms.

Michelle didn`t know what was happening until she woke up with two IVs in her arm. "Hey baby."

"Hey Sidney," she said sitting up in bed.

"Feeling better?"

"Mmhmm, what happened?"

"Well at first we all thought it was some post delivery thing, but that was only part of it, you were allergic to something, but everything's ok now."

"When's the game?"

"Not for a while, it`s only three, but I`m not gonna play tonight, I`m gonna be here with you."

"Thanks baby, but are you sure?"

"Yea, they can live with you me tonight."

"Where is everyone?"

"I`m not--"

"Mommy!" she said as her mom walked into the room with Christiano in her arms.

"Told you it was going to hurt," she said with a laugh. "Everyone at the church can`t wait to see the baby." She turned to Sid, "Not sure they know it`s yours, but Sid I`m so glad you`re in our family. I`ve considered you my son since you two started dating. I`ll always be here and I`ll help you out along the way. I do want Christiano to call me Sito."

"It`s Arabic for grandmother habibi," Michelle said to Sid.

"Schmoops," Michelle's brother and dad said as they walked into the room.

"Daddy it hurt so much, worse than when I bruised my ribs."

He walked over and took Christiano, "Hey lil squirt."

"Oh Sid I forgot to tell you I gave him two middle names, Patrick like yours and Robert like his grandpa."

Sidney smiled, "I love it."

A little while later the boys came back with balloons, flowers, and baskets of stuff. "Well Michelle, Sid, the guys and I are gonna get going. But I`ll make sure that everyone knows all about what caused the game to be postponed."

"Thanks Mir, I`ll see you tomorrow."

Miriya gave Michelle and Sid a hug, and then left with the rest of the team to go to the arena. Miriya got into the front seat of the car with Jordan and smiled. "He`s so cute," she said changing the radio station.

"Just like Scotty, oh are we picking him up from your mom's house after the game?"

"Yea, it`s been two weeks & I still can`t believe how good you are with him. You`re a natural and I`m so glad that you help out with him so much."

"Anything for you baby," he said pulling into the player parking lot. All of the fans that had been there earlier were still there and waiting to be let in. Both Miriya and Jordan signed autographs on their way into the arena, kissed, and then went their separate ways.

"It`s a hockey night in Pittsburgh, good evening everyone we`re sorry for the delay. This afternoon the team was getting ready for the game when team doctor Michelle Crosby went into labor. The whole team went to the hospital for the birth of the second new Penguin in two weeks. My son Scott Staal is at his grandmother's house tonight and baby Crosby is resting in the hospital along with his mother. Sidney will not be playing tonight, he is spending time with his wife, and new son."

"Well Staalsy you were at the hospital, tell us a little more about the baby."

"Christiano Robert Patrick Crosby was born at around one-thirty this afternoon. He looks like both of his parents, he weighs eight pounds one ounce and is twenty one inches."