Gemma followed her brothers into the rink in Michigan.
The Fantilli’s were staying in Michigan for a few weeks during the summer as Adam and Luca would both be attending the University of Michigan within a few weeks.
Last season Gemma got to play with her brothers for the first time ever and they lived together away from their parents in Chicago.
Gemma would be going back to Chicago alone in the fall for her last season in the USHL.
After one more season with the Chicago Steel she would be heading to Boston College having committed only a few weeks ago. There was something about Boston that she just loved and she felt like Boston College was perfect for her.
Luca and Adam got into Michigan before Gemma did and have skated a few times at this rink already and met some of the players who skated at the rink during the summer and some who also goes to Umich.
“Fants!” Rutger Mcgroarty beamed seeing the three Fantillis and walked over squeezing sixteen year old Gemma in tight hug, “When did you get so big Little Fantilli!”
Gemma has known the Mcgroarty family for years knows. Luca had dated Molly for a bit having recently broken up. Molly has always been Gemma’s favorite.
“I know right.” Luca agreed with Rutger, His little sister is not so little anymore.
“Did you get taller too?” Rutger stepped back letting her go and raised an eyebrow shocked with how much Gemma seemed to have grown since he saw her a few months ago.
“I’m 5”5 now.” Gemma said with a proud smile. She grew up always been the smallest to everyone her age but the last year she has finally started growing pretty quickly and now can keep muscle on easier. She was now pretty tall for her age.
“Atta girl.” Rutger ruffled her hair before giving Adam and Luca a hug too and he grabbed Gemma’s hockey bag for her and carried it as the Fantilli siblings followed Rutger to the locker room.
“Oi Hughesy!” Adam called out making Luke Hughes turn around and he saw a girl that looked very similar to Adam and Luca with freckles all across her face and bright green eyes.
“This is our sister Gemma.” Luca introduced Luke to Gemma and then Gemma to Luke, “And Gems this is Luke.”
“Ah the sister they talk about a lot, i heard your playing in Chicago?” Luke shook her hand softly, He’s know Luca and Adam for a couple of weeks and they both love to talk about their siblings.
“Yeah my last year.” Gemma gave him a sweet smile in return. There was something about Luke that she immediately liked, she felt comfortable around him and he was a stranger.
“Oh that’s awesome, where are you going after?” Luke asked curiously as Gemma is younger so she technically could have stayed at Chicago for another year but she had also started playing in USHL early. Gemma followed him to the stall Rutger gave her which happened to be close to Luke.
Adam and Luca shared a slight surprised look as Gemma can be a bit shy at times with new people but she seems to like Luke already.
“Boston College.” Gemma told Luke as she sat down in the stall.
“Not Umich.” Luke teased with a joking smile. Gemma laughed softly shaking her head no.
Gemma and Luke kept talking as they both got ready for the ice.
Luke gave her a surprised look as she followed him onto the ice and not one of the brothers. She stayed close to him the entire time on the ice.
Luke raised an eyebrow in genuine surprise seeing with his own two eyes how incredibly Gemma is on the ice especially with how young she is. Luke looked forward to watch her career grow.
Gemma skated with Luke for the next week in Michigan and she followed him around the entire time like a ducking and always looking at him in awe.
There was something to Luke that drew Gemma in like a magnet.
Luke had no idea why Gemma seemed to come to him, no one has before but he didn’t mind. He really grew fond of the sweet girl quickly.
They become quick friends and it wasn’t uncommon for the two to text and call often. Everytime she came out to see Luca and Adam in Michigan she always made sure to see Luke.
Anya is live and ready to show you everything. Watch her strip, dance, and perform exclusive shows just for you. Interact in real-time and make your fantasies come true.
âś“ Live Streamingâś“ Interactive Chatâś“ Private Showsâś“ HD Quality
Anya is LIVE right now
FREE
Free to watch • No registration required • HD streaming
Gemma was sitting on the floor in front of Luke’s stall resting her head on Luke’s knee messing with a pen in her hand as she has just been signing stuff before warms ups.
Luke noticed Gemma fidgeting and looking bored and he handed her his glove making her take the glove and look confused, “Go ahead.” Luke gestured to the pen, he knows she likes to doodle on her gloves and stick.
Gemma’s face lite up with a smile and she immediately started doodling on Luke’s glove.
Gemma started doodling flowers across the palm of the glove and towards each finger.
Luke let Gemma doodle on his glove until she needed to get up and start warming up.
Luke smiled looking at his glove as she handed him it to him, it was adorable and very Gemma, “Thanks Emmie.” Luke ruffled her hair softly as she smiled at him.
Gemma and Luke headed out of the locker room to start warming up before the game.
Gemma was skating across the ice skating around the Krakens defender and passed the puck to Luke.
Luke shot the puck and got his first goal of the season.
Gemma beamed and immediately skated over to Luke jumping on him hugging his tightly.
Luke laughed as Gemma gave him a head pat and was beaming at him so proudly.
Gemma has wanted to see Luke score so bad and she was able to assist his first goal of the around.
Luke and Gemma shared a grin and a fist bump before heading back to the bench.
Later in the third period Luke assisted on Gemma’s goal.
The Devils won 3-2 against the Krakens.
Luke ruffled Gemma’s hair after they both showered after the game, “I guess i need your doddles more now.” Luke mused with a fond grin, it seemed like her doddles were good luck.
Gemma grinned at Luke’s words.
“Bows!” Stefan called out walking over to Gemma, “Do you have a second?” Stefan asked seeing Gemma was about to head out.
“Sure.” Gemma nodded.
“My daughter really was hoping she could see you after the game.” Stefan explained to Gemma.
“Oh she wants to see me?” Gemma blinked looking surprised, sure she has met most of the team’s kids so far but she has not gotten closer to any of them or talked more that a few words to any of them.
“She told me to ask you.” Stefan grinned shrugging.
“Sure.” Gemma smiled slightly awkwardly but started following Stefan to the family room.
“She doesn’t go there often does she.” Nico spoke to Luke and Jack just realizing now he’s only seen Gemma in the family room for a few minutes over the past few months.
“She isn’t use to kids.” Luke whispered to Jack and Nico and they followed Gemma and Stefan to the family room. Luke knew Gemma has barely been around kids especially younger ones if they aren’t fans and she doesn’t necessarily know what to do.
“Because she is the youngest?” Nico realized, he was pretty similar as he was the youngest is all of his family growing up and there was never really anyone younger than him.
Luke nodded as they walked through the doors together.
“Leigh!” Stefan called out smiling ad his daughter rushed over to him and he bent down hugging her gently, “There’s someone here for you?”
Leighton gasped seeing Gemma, “Hi!” She beamed as Gemma kneeled down in front of her.
“Hello.” Gemma smiled sweetly and spoke awkwardly speaking, she felt out of her comfort zone and didn’t know what she was supposed to be doing. She was a bit better with kids a few years old but she had no idea what to do with babies.
“Mom said i can get your jersey.” Leighton beamed making Stefan sigh and shake his head fondly.
“You want to wear my jersey?” Gemma looked shocked but touched.
“Of course you’re the coolest on the team.” Leighton giggled as Stefan playfully gasped.
“Why don’t i help your Dad get the jersey for you?” Gemma offered giving Stefan a small look as she had a plan for the jersey and Stefan nodded smiling seeing how well Gemma was doing with his daughter even if she was being awkward.
“Really!” Leighton gasped and clapped her hands happily as Gemma nodded.
“I made something for you.” Leighton pulled out something from her tiny little purse and handed it to Gemma.
Gemma delicately took and saw it was a beaded bracelet that had red and white beads and her name spelled out with red bow charms, “Woah this is so pretty thank you Leighton.” Gemma softly spoke to the younger girl making Leighton perk up happily.
“We match!” Leighton held up her arm that was covered in hand made bracelets and a lot of them had things for Gemma.
“We do. They are very pretty.” Gemma softly spoke feeling a bit more comfortable talking to the child.
Eventually Stefan had to take Leighton away to head home and Gemma waved bye.
She was standing with Nico, Luke and Jack talking with Jacob and his wife Amanda when she felt something tap her leg and she looked down seeing Jacob’s one year old son Clark holding two mini sticks and looking up at her.
Gemma’s eyes widened in worry she had no idea what the baby wanted, Gemma looked at Jacob for help.
“He wants to play mini stick with you.” Jacob explained with a fond smile. He’s realized Gemma doesn’t really know what to do with kids.
“Uh okay.” Gemma slowly nodded and walked a few steps following Clarke and she sat down.
“Ba.” Clark babbled as he handed her a stick making her nod at him.
Clark backed up and hit the ball at her and Gemma softly hit it back at Clark. She felt a bit more comfortable with the baby playing mini sticks with him.
It was adorable seeing Gemma playing with Clark and it was a soft reminder to the ones in the room that Gemma has only been officially been an adult for a few months, she’s still incredibly young.
Clark was babbling to Gemma as they played and it seems to make her more comfortable with him.
Gemma gripped her hands together as she watched nervously as Adam skated to the center of the ice.
Gemma was currently at the New York Rangers rink for the Rangers vs Blue Jackets game.
Gemma was happy to finally be able to go to one of Macklin’s games. She luckily had a earlier game today and just headed to Macklin and Adam’s game after getting there with more then enough time and getting to watch the entire game.
Adam had gotten into town this morning and would be heading with Gemma back to her and Macklin’s apartment for the night and most of the day tomorrow.
The game was currently in overtime and starting shootout and Adam was up first.
Gemma bit her lip and closed her eyes briefly as Adam’s shot was blocked.
Rangers got blocked too. Second round both goals were blocked.
Gemma watched intently as Macklin went out for the third round and held back a smile as he got the goal and he was immediately tackled by his teammates for the game winning goal.
Gemma got up for her seat and headed down close to the locker room to wait for Adam and Macklin.
She ignored the surprised look she got as she showed her full access Ranger’s pass and was let into the hallway.
She just scrolled on her phone waiting for them to come out.
Will came out first and gave Gemma an excited smile, “He’s right behind me.” Will ruffled Gemma’s hair before walking away.
Gemma watched and saw a smiley Macklin walking over to her.
Macklin looked around and gave his girlfriend a quick but soft hug squeezing her for a moment before taking a step back.
Gemma gave him a soft smile, “I’m proud of you Amore.” Gemma whispered softly making Macklin perk up even more and smiling more.
He was glad this was the first game she was at.
“Thank you Hope. I’ll be home late tomorrow. I love you.” Macklin whispered back giving her a sweet smile.
“Love you too.” Gemma smiled softly back.
Macklin gave Adam a grin seeing Adam walking over and they shared a quick hug before Macklin was heading down the tunnel.
“Gemmie!” Adam smiled despite the game he just lost and rushed for hugging his little sister.
“Hi Adamo.” Gemma smiled and hugged him happily back.
Adam frowned a bit seeing her bruised face and stitches, “How is it?” Adam asked looking at her face seeing it did look a bit better.
“I’m getting the stitches out soon!” Gemma grinned giving him a reassuring look making him nod.
Adam linked his arm with hers as they started walking out together, they got Adam suitcase at the bus before heading to Gemma’s car.
Gemma and Adam picked up dinner on the way back to her apartment.
Gemma opened the front door letting Adam walk in and they both slipped their shoes off as Gemma set her purse and keys down and hung up her jacket.
Adam headed to the bathroom and got changed immediately into more comfortable clothes.
He looked around the apartment as he came out of the bathroom noticing the differences from the last time he was here, He has only been at her apartment once when she was moving in.
Adam could tell his sister decorated the whole places but there were little things that were Macklin’s. The apartment felt very Gemma which Adam knew Macklin definitely loves.
He raised an eyebrow not even surprised by the multiple vases of flowers around the apartment.
Adam saw Gemma sitting at the dining room table and he headed over and sat down next to her and they started eating dinner catching up in person.
Gemma fondly rolled her eyes as Adam pushed her out of the dinning room so she wouldn’t clean up after dinner.
Gemma changed into a pair of sweatpants and long sleeve shirt that was both Macklin’s and plopped down on the couch as Adam finished and came over sitting down next to her.
Gemma grabbed her throw blanket throwing it over both of them as she tossed the remote to Adam for him to choose something for them to watch.
Adam tossed his arm over her shoulder letting Gemma use his shoulder a pillow.
Adam felt his phone buzzing and grinned seeing who it was, Gemma smiled as well seeing who was facetiming.
“Look who it is!” Adam teased smiling at their older brother.
“Hi you two.” Luca greeted softly smiling at his little siblings, he missed both of them already and he couldn’t wait till they are all back together again.
“Hi Luc!” Gemma smiled widely at the screen her nose scrunching up as she smiled.
“Hi Gems.” Luca’s face softened looking at his little sister.
Adam and Gemma never ended up watching anything as they stayed on facetime with Luca for a really long time.
Long enough they Gemma was half asleep on Adam trying to stay awake.
“Goodnight.” Luca softly spoke to Adam and Gemma.
“Night Luca.” Adam gave him a tired grin in return.
“Night.“ Gemma mumbled out through her yawns.
Gemma waved good night to Adam as she slowly walked down the hallway to Macklin’s room.
She plugged her phone in and answered Macklin’s face time as she burrowed under his covers and writhing in a minute was fast asleep in Macklin’s bed.
January 19, 2025
Adam and Gemma only got about half of the day as Gemma had a game and Adam was traveling closer to the Isles for his game the next day.
They started their day walking to one of Gemma’s favorite breakfast and coffee places and had breakfast together.
Neither of them mind the cold so they just walked around together for a bit enjoying their time together as time with just Adam and Gemma is very rare and it’s been awhile since they got to spend time together just them.
They might not have gotten as much time as they would have liked but got some time together at least.
Gemma and Adam shared a tight hug as she dropped him off at the hotel his team was staying at.
Gemma watched Adam walk into the hotel. She has learned that sometimes anytime with someone you care about is always good enough especially with the NHL schedule, of course she would liked more time but she would take whatever she could get.
Gemma slowly woke up wincing a bit as she felt her face moving and the immediate pain and tug on her stitches.
She frowned waking up not feeling Macklin touching her like he always is, she couldn’t remember a time she woke up in bed with Macklin and they weren’t touching.
She turned over seeing Macklin lying on the edge on the other side of the bed and lying on his back looking up at the ceiling.
“Macky?” Gemma said softly her voice raspy from just waking up.
Macklin glanced over at her and saw how much worse her black eye got again and her black eye was fully shut, her face around her eye and eyebrow was also now bruised, her nose had a gash now and her stitches was even thicker now, he managed a week smile at her.
Macklin barely slept just watching her seeing her wince in her self and kept moving uncomfortably in her sleep. He just could not get over the fact that she went through all of this without him over a week ago.
He’s supposed to protect her and he wasn’t even there for her.
Gemma frowned as he gave he a small but not real smile and didn’t speak. She rolled over and grabbed her pain medicine taking her next doze and her iron pills, iron pills she has been taking over the past week with how much blood she has been loosing.
“I should get you some breakfast.” Macklin said with a frown watching her take her medication and he was so in his head he missed the frown from Gemma as he didn’t kiss her.
“Ok.” Gemma mumbled sadly, she had a feeling she knew why Macklin was acting like this but she wanted her boyfriend.
Gemma cuddled up with her stuff animal from Macklin and snuggled under the blanket.
Macklin didn’t realize how long he spaced out before snapping out of it and making Gemma breakfast, by the time he walked back in it’s been an hour since he left.
Macklin sat on her bed making her glance at him and the yoghurt bowl that she usually loves, “Thanks but i’m not hungry.” Gemma said softly, she felt uncomfortable from the dried blood on her and in to much pain and she is worried about Macklin.
Macklin frowned but nodded, “Okay i can put it in the fridge till you’re hungry.” Gemma just softly nodded and watched him leave again.
She winced feeling a drop of blood start to come down her face from her stitches.
Gemma slowly sat up taking a deep breath taking her time to stand up knowing she will feel dizzy.
Macklin walked in seeing her sitting up and she stood up swaying a bit and he rushed over touching her finally steading her.
Gemma started walking to the bathroom and Macklin followed watching intently to make sure she didn’t sway again.
Gemma grabbed the soft throw away towels as she leaned against the cabinet, “Could you help with this?” Gemma asked him softly knowing Macklin like the back of her hand.
Macklin slowly nodded taking the towel and gently reached up not touching her as the towel just brushed her face.
“You can touch me you know Mack.” Gemma told him firmly but softly.
Macklin glanced away, “I wasn’t there for you Hope. You were hurt and in pain and seeing you hurt even more and getting stitches again, i wasn’t there.” Macklin’s voice cracked.
Gemma’s face just softened and she cupped his face making him look at her, “And you couldn’t have been.” Gemma said simply.
“Mack we have our own careers, our own schedules. There is gonna be times we are injured and we can’t be three for each other. I do not blame you for not being there because you couldn’t have been there but i know if you could you would have been.” Gemma softly told him.
Macklin frowned sighing but leaned into her hand.
“It’s okay you weren’t there Mack, i promise.” Gemma gave him a reassuring smile.
Macklin sighed but softly nodded at her words, “I’m sorry i was off this morning.”
“Fully forgiven.” Gemma gave him a loving smile making Macklin smile back, “Now could you help me wipe the rest off?” Gemma broke their moment with a small laugh.
Macklin quickly nodded and softly held her face and wiped her face gently.
The bleeding stopped again and Macklin threw the towel away and they both washed their hands.
Macklin wrapped his arms around her from behind and kissed the side of her head, “Do you need anything else right now?”
“Actually a bath would be really nice.” Gemma softly admitted, she was to tired and in pain last night, “I can’t shower till tomorrow but if you could help me take a bath and not get my face wet?” Gemma asked hopefully, she had to wait to get the blood out of her hair the first time for a full day and it was very gross.
Macklin’s face softened, “Of course, You sit and i’ll draw you a bath.” Macklin had Gemma sit on her stool in her bathroom as he started the bath putting her favorite essential oils, bath salts and bubbles.
Macklin helped her get rid of her clothes and get into the bath. He reached over grabbing the cup and filled the cup as he leaned her head back as he gently wet her hair and started cleaning all the blood out of her hair.
Macklin helped Gemma take a bath and once they were finished she got into a pair of Macklin’s sweatpants and long sleeve shirt.
Macklin did her skincare and gently brushed out Gemma’s wet hair before they headed towards the kitchen and Macklin grabbed her yogurt bowl as she was hungry now and she started eating with Macklin just sitting next to her watching the softly.
Once Gemma was finished eating Macklin brought her to the couch and got her comfortable under all of their throw blankets and he laid down next to her letting Gemma cuddle up to him.
Macklin turned on one of their shows and they started watching.
It was maybe an hour later when there was a knock on the door and Gemma and Macklin shared a look knowing who it is and Macklin got up and opened the door letting Will in.
“Hello my favorite couple.” Will called out playfully and took off his jacket and shoes.
“Hi Will.” Gemma called back very quietly.
He followed Macklin back to the living tom and Will laid down on the other side of Gemma getting comfortable under the blankets as Macklin laid back down and Gemma got her pillow back and Will rested his chin on her shoulder.
“How you feeling Gem?” Will asked his best friend softly.
“Like i hate getting a sticks to the face.” Gemma mumbled out making Will and Macklin both laugh at her rare sass.
“You still look beautiful.” Will reassured her making Macklin fondly roll his eyes.
“My girlfriend.” Macklin playfully said giving Will a teasing glare.
“Our girlfriend.” Will teasingly suggested making Gemma laugh to herself.
Nothing amused Gemma more than hearing online about Willmack. She loves the edits she sees on tik tok and she always teases the boys about it.
“Willmack.” Gemma just piped in teasingly making Macklin and Will both let out fond sighs.
Gemma just smiled and nuzzled her head on Macklin’s shoulder.
Macklin slowly blinked awake and immediately started pouting not feeling Gemma in his arms but the spot next to him on his bed was still warm.
He slowly looked around his room and saw Gemma standing at the window with the blinds fully open and he just smiled seeing it snowing and wasn’t surprised to see her up to look at the snow.
“Hope.” Macklin’s voice was raspy as he spoke softly.
Gemma spun around her smile soft looking at her boyfriend. Her face looked a lot better as it has been two weeks now succes the last accident, her swelling was completely gone, her bruising almost completely gone, the gash on her nose was closed and scabbing and she gets her stitches out today.
“Morning Amore.” Gemma spoke softly.
“Come back to bed.” Macklin gave her a pout and sad puppy dog eyes reaching his hands out. They don’t get a lot of mornings waking up together but also cuddling together making him cherish the mornings they get.
Gemma smiled more but walked over getting into their bed making Macklin sigh happily as she cuddled into him as he wrapped his arms around her and hiding his face in her hair.
“Morning baby.” Macklin mumbled against her hair pressing a soft kiss.
Gemma hummed back pressing a kiss on his collarbone and closing her eyes contently.
“It’s snowing.” Gemma mumbled happily.
“We can go on a walk after your appointment.” Macklin offered to her knowing she would want to walk in the snow and they were free till later today when he had to go to his game.
Gemma made a happy sound nodding quickly making Macklin’s smile widened.
Macklin’s hand slipped under her shirt softly tracing patterns on her back as they both contently laid together till they had to get up from her appointment.
Gemma got up first kissing Macklin’s cheek as she got up and headed to her room to her ready.
Macklin groaned rubbing his face getting up ask got ready too.
Gemma walked out towards the front door seeing Macklin waiting in a pair of black sweatpants and a pink sweatshirt that is definitely hers.
“That’s mine.” Gemma teased as if she wasn’t wearing one of Macklin’s grey hoodies with her black leggings right now.
“What’s yours is mine.” Macklin gave her a smile kissing her cheek as she shook her head looking at him so fondly while Macklin opened the door for her and grabbed their winter coats.
Gemma drove them to the prudential center parking in her spot and leaving the car on to Macklin.
“It’s gonna be fine.” Macklin cupped her cheek reassuring her softly, “I can still come in.”
Gemma’s lips quirked up and rested her hand over Macklin’s, “It’s okay, i’ll be okay.”
Macklin nodded and watched Gemma leave the car heading inside the rink.
Macklin scrolled on his phone mostly texting Will for the half an hour Gemma was inside and glanced up hearing the car door open and smiled seeing Gemma with no stitches and a happy smile on her face.
“Went okay?” Macklin immediately checked and got a happy smile and nod.
“Went great!” Gemma smiled, “Can we get breakfast now?”
Macklin softly grabbing her right hand, “Of course.”
Gemma drove them back to Hoboken and they chose one of their favorite breakfasts places right near the water but first parked the car at their apartment before walking over.
Macklin grabbed her hand intertwining their hands as they walked outside and he pulled her winter coat hood on making Gemma look fond as Macklin fussed over her and pressed a kiss to her forehead once he was done and they started their walk to breakfast.
Gemma gasped softly as they got close to the Hudson river and it was frozen, “Mack look!” Gemma tugged on their intertwined hands pointing to the river.
“Woah.” Macklin’s mouth dropped a bit in shock and awe, “Hasn’t it been years since it froze?”
Gemma quickly nodded, “Over five years.”
“We get breakfasts and then we can walk around the water?” Macklin suggested getting a happy beam and she started tugging him to walk quicker to their breakfast place.
Macklin of course made sure they got a seat at the window so Gemma could see the snow and look at the frozen river.
Gemma ordered a savory breakfast and Macklin a sweet breakfast that they would be splitting with each other as they always do when they get breakfast.
“You sure you’re fine with it?” Macklin’s doubled checked as they were going over their schedules for the next few weeks with the four nations break coming up.
“Amore of course i am.” Gemma softly reassured as Macklin has been thinking about possibly going to the Bean Pot final game during the break with Will depending on how the first two games go.
Macklin probably wouldn’t even be missing one of her games for the four nations unless he ends up going golfing with Will and she could wait a few more days to see her boyfriend if he wanted to go to Boston.
“Have you picked out your bet yet?” Gemma asked as Macklin cut up the pancakes for them while she took a bite of bacon.
Macklin grinned mischievously thinking about the bet he wants to do with Will for the BC VS BU games this weekend.
“Mhm i’m gonna win.” Macklin said so surely.
“No way.” Gemma shook her head with a grin, “My boys have it.”
“Sure sure.” Macklin lifted his chin up making her break into giggles.
Once they finished their breakfast they headed outside and Gemma linked their arms leaning her cheek on his shoulder as they started their walk.
“Love you.” Gemma mumbled so happy to walk around in the snow near the frozen river with her favorite person.
“I love you.” Macklin looked down smiling lovingly as he kissed the top of her head.
They don’t always get their scheduled overlapping a lot so even a few hours together is always special for them.
Anya is live and ready to show you everything. Watch her strip, dance, and perform exclusive shows just for you. Interact in real-time and make your fantasies come true.
âś“ Live Streamingâś“ Interactive Chatâś“ Private Showsâś“ HD Quality
Anya is LIVE right now
FREE
Free to watch • No registration required • HD streaming
Luke softly shook Gemma’s shoulder as the plane was almost landed in LA around four in the morning.
Gemma fell asleep immediately before the plane even took off and hasn’t move once since her head hit Luke’s shoulder, Luke slept most of the flight waking up and looking down ever so often checking on Gemma.
Luke wiped her face a couple of times because her stitches are still bleeding. Nico and Jack both got up a couple times to check on Gemma to make sure she is okay.
Gemma grimaced immediately as she started waking up, her head and entire face was throbbing, even more than it was when she went to sleep.
“Here.” Luke handed her more pain medication knowing she can take more after the six hour flight.
Gemma quickly took the medication wincing as she did. Her whole face just hurt even more now and she clenched her teeth.
Brett looked across the row a seeing Gemma’s discomfort and leaned over speaking softly to her, “It’s worse isn’t it.” He has had many high stitches and stitches on his face before maybe not as bad Gemma has right now but it’s always worst after the first sleep.
Gemma slowly nodded focusing on him rather than her pain.
“It won’t help now but tomorrow when you can put ice on it, it will feel better.” Brett told her knowing there isn’t that is gonna help right now.
The plane landed and Luke helped Gemma off the plane and to the bus.
Gemma kept letting out small hisses as the bus drove them to the hotel, she texted Macklin who wasn’t awake yet before turning her phone off as they got it the hotel.
Nico got Luke and Gemma’s key handing it to Luke, “You got her?” Nico asked Luke giving Gemma another worried look.
“I got her.” Luke reassured and guided Gemma to them room.
Gemma fell right into bed cuddling her stuff animal and immediately fell asleep.
Luke closed all the blinds and fell asleep.
Gemma mostly slept the whole day getting up twice for room service but she didn’t leave the room only talking with Luke and face timing Macklin. She was in too much pain to be around anyone else right now.
December 30, 2024
Gemma looked in the mirror in the morning and her jaw dropped, her whole left eye was black and blue and she could see all of her stitches, she hasn’t seen her face yet after the high stick.
Gemma took a shower allowed to wash her face now and got to wash her hair a lot better and get the remaining dry blood completely off.
The boys were at practice but she got a maintenance day because of her injury.
Gemma threw on a pair of floral linen pants and a simple white cropped long sleeve and she was slipping on her pink shoes just as Luke opened the door and Jack was with him.
“Gigi!” Jack quickly walked over to her and hugged her gently and pulled back scanning her face noticing her dark her eye has gotten, “Are you feeling better?” Jack knew she had a hard day yesterday.
“Getting use to it.” Gemma shrugged softly.
“Okay to see Z?” Jack checked and Gemma softly nodded. Jack beamed and they started walking out do the room, Gemma grabbed her purse and they headed down to the lobby.
Trevor beamed seeing the three walking down and his smile dimmed a bit seeing how bad Gemma’s face was, “Little G!” Trevor pulled her into an excited but gentle hug.
“Hi Z.” Gemma giggled slightly and hugged him back, she winced as she giggled.
“That’s a good black eye.” Trevor winced and patted her shoulder softly.
Gemma just smiled as much as she can at his words because she wouldn’t expect anything else from Trevor.
Gemma immediately winced when she stepped outside for the first time since she got injuried and Jack immediately was handing her a pair of sunglasses, he had grabbed a pair having a feeling she was gonna need them.
Gemma mumbled a thank you putting them on and letting out a sigh of relief.
Gemma got into Trevor’s car with Luke and Jack and Trevor started his little tour of his city.
Gemma may have been in pain but she had a fun afternoon with Trevor and she had a fun time getting to see more of his city as she hasn’t been in LA/Orange County area much.
December 31, 2024
Gemma was sitting on a barstool in a bar in LA after the game against the Ducks and while they lost, the Devils were still all out for New Year’s eve.
This is Gemma’s first New Year since meeting Macklin that they aren’t together. She had face time him and Will when it was New Years for him but he was asleep by now as she is three hours behind him.
Luke plopped back down in the seat next to her with a plate of soft pretzels and pushed them closer to her making Gemma smile and pick up a pretzel.
Gemma and Luke shared a small laugh seeing Jack and Trevor both very drunk and singing together it was even funnier as Nico was near them just shaking his head.
The countdown happened and it was officially 2025.
“Happy new year’s Emmie.” Luke gently kissed her cheek smiling softly at her.
“Happy new year’s Lukey.” Gemma softly spoke back.
Jack came over to two of his favorite people tossing an arm over both of them and kissing both of their cheeks being careful of Gemma’s injury.
They didn’t see Nico taking a photo of them before he came over kissing Gemma’s cheek too.
Gemma might not be able to be with Macklin but her Devils aren’t a bad second choice.
January 3, 2025
“Oh Gemma are you coming?” Nico asked her as a bunch of them were walking out of the rink after a practice in San Jose.
A bunch of the team was going out to dinner with Tyler Toffoli wanting to catch up with an old teammate and they all wanted Gemma to come.
“Sorry i’m seeing some family.” Gemma apologized, she could only see who she was seeing today and she missed them.
Gemma saw a familiar car waiting for her in the parking lot and she waved bye to the boys and she walked to the car getting in.
“Ow i’m sure Mack is worrying over that.” Aiden said as he winced at her stitches and very black eye as she got into the car.
“Hello to you too A.” Gemma fondly rolled her eyes.
“Sorry Gem.” Aiden sheepishly smiled and pulled her into a hug, “Hi my favorite future sister in law.” He gave her a mischievous smile.
“I’m your only future sister in law right now.” Gemma looked amused and Aiden just shrugged.
Gemma couldn’t come to San Jose and not see the Celebrini’s, luckily she gets to see Aiden too as he is still on break.
Aiden and Gemma just chatted as Aiden drove them back to the Celebrini house. The second he parked the car in the driveway Charlie and Rj were rushing out of the house.
“Gemma!” Charlie and Rj both yelled in excitement as they rushed right to her.
“Hi Char, Hi R.” Gemma laughed softly hugging the two.
“Is your face okay?” Rj peeked up at her looking worried.
“It’s okay just healing.” Gemma softly reassured both of them and kept her arms wrapped around their shoulders as they walked into the house.
“Gemma darling!” Robyn beamed setting down the two in the kitchen and quickly walking over hugging Gemma.
“Oh darling.” Robyn frowned softly at Gemma’s face.
Rick walked over and pulled Gemma in a firm hug and clapped her shoulder softly.
“Come sit. Foods almost ready.” Robyn made Gemma go sit down in her seat at the Celebrini table as Robyn finished up dinner.
Gemma listened to Charlie and Rj both ramble to her for most of the dinner, Robyn and Rick asking her some questions but not much as she just saw everyone for the holidays.
Gemma was happy to spend time with all of them as the Celebrini’s are family to her and she’s comfortable to spend time with them without Macklin.
Gemma stole a few more of Macklin’s hoodies out of his room before Aiden drove her back to the hotel.
January 5, 2025
Gemma was curled up on a couch in a one of the TV rooms in the hotel in Seattle. More than half for the Devils were in the room all sitting around the couches, chairs and some on the floor as they were all watching the WJC gold medal game.
Gemma watched as the clock was getting closer of the third period ending and the game was tied up.
Gemma frowned slightly, a part of her really hated not playing in the tournament with some of her best friends but she was also happy to be playing with the Devils.
Luke reached over gently grabbing her hand recognizing the look in her eyes, he understood completely what she was feeling because he felt the same last year.
Gemma watched as Zeev pass the puck up and Teddy scored, she smiled happy for her friends as they just won the gold medal even if she wished she could have been there.
Gemma clapped softly with the other US Devils as USA just got a gold medal. She smiled softly seeing the beaming smiles on the team’s face but especially Ryan and Gabe and her BC boys she missed them.
January 7, 2025
Gemma yawned as she leaned against the elevator, she just back to New Jersey early this morning after flying out of Seattle right after the game.
She didn’t want to make Macklin get out of bed this early so Jack and Luke happily dropped her off.
Gemma unlocked the front door and took her jacket and shoes off tossing the keys on the table, she let out a tired sighs and just dropped her bags on the floor, she would deal with them later.
She looked at the hallway hearing footsteps seeing a sleepy Macklin walking towards her, she felt her shoulders start to loosen seeing him and they both rushed to each other hugging tightly.
“I missed you.” Gemma softly whispered blinking back happy and sad tears, it’s always hard to be apart from Macklin.
“You’re okay.” Macklin breathed out his hands shaking softly as he held her again in his arms, he hasn’t been able to stop worrying over her since he saw her drop on the ice.
“I’m okay amore.” Gemma softly mumbled back pressing a kiss to Macklin’s neck.
Macklin reluctantly pulled back but he wanted to see her face, he cupped her face softly and looked at her face. Her stitches were still there but seemed to be closing well but the black eye was still very bad.
“Oh my sweet girl.” Macklin whispered looking sad, he hated knowing she was in so much pain and he couldn’t be there for her. He’s seen with a few stitches and bruises but he’s never seen her injured before and this is the worst he’s ever seen her hurt.
Macklin pressed the gentlest kiss under her eye and on her eye.
Gemma melted into Macklin, “Cuddles?”
“Of course.” Macklin pressed a soft kiss to her forehead both of them just so happy to be back together again.
Gemma had her hand intertwined with Macklin as she drove them to Brett’s house.
Brett and his wife Amy had invited Gemma over for dinner on one of their free afternoons after the Devils had an early game today that they won.
Gemma has had the dinner planned for a couple weeks now and Jack, Luke and Nico were joining as well.
Brett had only just found out about Macklin but he made sure to let Gemma know Macklin was more than welcome to dinner if he wanted.
Gemma parked the car and let go of Macklin’s hand as she grabbed the bouquet of flowers and Macklin grabbed the cupcakes she made and they got out of the car together.
Brett opened the door before they knocked and his dog Starkey ran out quickly making Gemma smile and she quickly pet the dog with Macklin.
“Hey Bows.” Brett pulled her into a quick hug after the rookies stopped petting his dog.
“Pesc this is Mack.” Gemma officially introduced them as they kinda met when Gemma was getting stitches.
Brett gave him a kind smile and shook his hand firmly and Macklin grinned back.
Gemma and Macklin stepped into the house taking off their wet shoes and jackets, Macklin helped her take off her jacket and they followed Brett into the kitten where Amy, Nico, Jack and Luke already there.
“Gemma!” Amy smiled rounding the corner and smiled even more as Gemma handed her a bouquet of flowers, Amy softly hugged her.
“Hi Amy.” Gemma spoke softly hugging her softly back, She stepped back closer to Macklin, “Amy this is Macklin my partner.”
Amy smiled at her words looking excited, Brett had told her about meeting Gemma’s boyfriend, “Hi.” Amy smiled softly shaking Macklin’s hand as Gemma took the case of cupcakes from Macklin’s other hand.
Luke clapped Macklin on his shoulder as Macklin stood next to him and Nico and Jack both said hello.
“Are those your cupcakes?” Luke immediately asked almost drooling over the idea of her cupcakes.
Gemma fondly rolled her eyes, “Yes.” She quickly grabbed his hand before he could open the box, “Don’t eat all of them, either of you.” Gemma gave Luke and Macklin a look.
“How could i not they are so good!” Luke protested as Macklin nodded in agreement.
“I won’t make them again if you eat all of them.” Gemma threatened making Macklin and Luke both blanch at the idea.
“Deal.” Luke agreed as Brett was shaking his head chuckling.
“They ate all of them before?” Amy asked knowingly.
Gemma nodded, “All of them and not just one time.”
“I didn’t even get one last time because of Rusty.” Jack piped up giving his little brother an annoyed look.
Brett and Nico both chuckled not surprised because it’s Luke. Amy smiled amused as she put the flowers form Gemma and Macklin in vase setting them on the island.
Brett reached back and opened his freezer grabbing a soft ice pack and handing it to Gemma giving her a knowing look.
Her face was still in a lot of pain and her stitches were healing all over again, she was obviously still injured.
“Thanks.” Gemma mumbled quietly and held the ice pack up to her face, her face was still throbbing even with the pain medication but her face has been throbbing almost the entire day every day for the last three weeks so she had grown accustomed to it.
“So how did you two meet?” Amy curiously asked the young couple.
Macklin and Gemma shared a look, “We were teammates for a season a couple of years ago in Chicago and we’ve been together for over a year.” Gemma explained simply, she definitely has had a crush on Macklin the entire knowing him and she doesn’t know if they were ever just platonic.
“And pinned after each other for over a year.” Luke deadpanned reaching for the cupcakes and pouted as Brett smacked his hand away.
“Okay so where did the media start the rivalry between you two?” Amy looked interested as everyone knows of the “rivalry” around Gemma Fantilli and Macklin Celebrini.
Macklin and Gemma shared an amused look laughing as nothing is funnier to them than the rivalry they apparently have.
“No clue, we were starting our seasons in College and it just became this big thing.” Macklin said, “Especially because of the draft and that we played on rival teams for College and for WJC.”
“It’s stupid because we literally played together before and everyone just forget that.” Gemma shook her head confused how anyone saw a rivalry between her and Macklin.
“The ref thought Mack was gonna hit Bows during the last game.” Jack spoke up laughing as he remembered that making the room laugh.
“Ah yes because i would hit my girlfriend.” Macklin nodded sarcastically with an amused grin making Gemma snort and then wince at the pain from her face but she just nudged Macklin’s arm shaking her head amused.
“Do you plan on letting the public know your relationship?” Brett asked the two as everyone was just standing around the island talking.
“Maybe?” Gemma looked at Macklin as he nodded in agreement, “We like our privacy. It’s why besides our families only a few on our teams and a few friends know.”
Gemma and Macklin just liked it being them and they didn’t feel they were hiding anything because if anyone asked them if they are dating they would say yes but they aren’t broadcasting their relationship for anyone to see.
“We aren’t hiding it, i mean we lived together so if anyone wanted to find out they could.” Macklin said simply getting understanding nods.
Brett started pulling out everything cold that Amy and him prepped for dinner as the oven was almost done and Gemma paused as she set her ice pack on the counter and noticed the cold ingredients on the counter, “Spring rolls?” Gemma’s face lit up so much seeing her favorite food.
Brett smiled at her reaction as that is exactly why he picked them, “Yeah.”
Gemma was bouncing with excitement making the whole kitchen smile fondly and Amy turned around grabbing the dishes in the oven that were done.
The boys helped carry all the dishes to the table and Gemma carried the dish for all the spring roll ingredients and she sat down in between Macklin and Luke.
Macklin smiled softly at how excited she was and he noticed there was nothing peanut on the table even though this type of cuisine always has something with peanuts.
Macklin gave Brett a thankful look for remembering and caring about Gemma’s allergy, he can see how much Brett cares for Gemma and it makes Macklin so happy and glad that Gemma has so many peoplecarrying about her on the team.
Brett gave him a grin and nod back.
Macklin and Luke did end up eating all of the cupcakes after everyone else only got one.
Gemma smiled fondly at her mother’s worrying and just let her mother ramble while she hugged her.
Gemma knew her parents were sad and nervous with Gemma moving out officially, it was a bit different than when she was away from home because of hockey and staying with someone or her going to collage, she is officially moving out of her home and starting a new chapter in her life.
“Mom i’ll be fine.” Gemma softly reassured her mom, she knew her mom would be worried because she was just as worried last year when Adam moved out.
“I know.” Julia agreed cupping her youngest cheek, it still shocked her everyday how fast her kids had all grown up and that Gemma is already eighteen.
“I’ll see you in a few weeks.” Gemma reminded her parents squeezing her Dad’s hand.
Gemma was already confirmed to be on the team on the upcoming season and her parents were planning to come see her first game that would be in Prague, unfortunately Adam definitely won’t be able to go and Luca most likely won’t be able to either.
Julia nodded and pressed a kiss to her only daughter’s head, “Ti Amo my Gem.” Julia softly whispered to her daughter.
“Ti Amo Mama.” Gemma sweetly whispered back and politely ignored the tears in her mom’s eye and she hugged her Dad softly.
Giuliano pressed a gentle kiss to his only daughter’s cheek. They didn’t need to share any words just a look with a smile before he let her go and wrapped an arm around his wife.
Luca frowned feeling incredibly old that his baby sister is old enough to live in her own apartment with her boyfriend all alone in a new city, “Are you going to be okay Gems?” Luca asked worriedly.
Luca has always has hated how much Gemma has been alone because of hockey because for almost his entire life he always had Adam and when he moved away from home he had Adam with him but Gemma is always on her own.
“I’m gonna be okay.” Gemma softly reassured her eldest brother, she was looking forward to start a new chapter in her life especially with Macklin. She was about to start living out the dream she has had for years she was excited not sad.
Luca slowly nodded believing Gemma’s words, “Okay.” Luca pulled her into a hug, “I’ll see you soon.” Luca promised and hugged her tighter before reluctantly letting her go and ticking her hair behind her ear and giving her one more soft smile before walking over to their parents.
“Come here.” Adam opened his arms for his baby sister and hugged her tightly, “Have fun okay. Enjoy this you have earned it.” Adam softly told her rubbing her back and he kissed the top of her head.
They pulled back from each other sharing one more smile with each other before Gemma started walking them out
She leaned on the door watching her family get in the elevator as she waved softly at them. She thought she would be more sad but if anything she’s excited to be living with Macklin.
Gemma watched the elevator doors close, Macklin came up behind her wrapping his arms around and his chin resting on her shoulder as she closed their front door.
Macklin’s family had only left a few minutes before Gemma’s family after they said their goodbyes to Macklin.
“You okay?” Macklin asked her softly kissing her cheek softly.
Gemma nodded slowly, “Yeah i’m okay.” Gemma softly reassured him as her hand rested over his hands. Leaving for Chicago a few years was a lot harder for Gemma but she is use to being away form her family most of the year now, doesn’t mean she doesn’t miss them all the time but she is used to it.
Macklin nodded accepting her answer as he knows what’s she means as Gemma started walking to their couch with Macklin still holding her from behind.
Macklin reluctantly let go of her so they go sit together in the couch and they looked out at the windows of the beautiful view of New Jersey.
Macklin wrapped an arm over her shoulder as Gemma cuddled into his side with her legs draped over his lap and he grabbed the pink throw blanket that was on the couch and threw it over them.
Macklin and Gemma were almost fully moved in already as their family were there to help them unpack and they also don’t have a lot of stuff between them yet.
Macklin thought Gemma had done really well decorating their apartment not that he expected anything else.
Gemma kept it pretty simple in decorations but there are few pink accents decorations that Macklin loves because it reminds him of her.
“We should get flowers when we get groceries later.” Gemma told Macklin as she was looking around the living room, dinning room and kitchen from where she was sitting on the couch and she saw the empty vases that she wanted pink flowers in.
“Whatever you want.” Macklin smiled softly kissing the top of her head, he had already planned to get flowers when they went out later knowing how much Gemma loves to have fresh flowers.
Gemma hummed softly back and closed her eyes letting out a soft sigh as she leaned her head on his chest, “I love you.” Gemma softly whispered to her best friend who is also her boyfriend.
“I love you too my sweet girl.” Macklin softly whispered back rubbing her back gently, “I got you a present.” Macklin grinned as he saw her head look up for her to peak at him.
“What is it?” Gemma asked curiously.
“Let me go get it.” Macklin gently sat up letting go of Gemma and walked to his room real quick and grabbed the small box out of his bag and opened it grabbing the thing in the box and walked back.
“Close your eyes.” Macklin softly told her hiding his hand behind his back. Gemma smiled and closed her eyes.
Macklin sat back down on the couch and moved her hair off her back and gently laid the necklace down on her chest shutting it close. He pressed a kiss to the back of her neck, “Open it.”
Macklin smiled watching as she looked down at the necklace and noticed the charm, a small 17, “Since it’s our number now.” Macklin told her already loving seeing her in their number.
Gemma beamed touching the necklace gently, it was perfect, small enough she could wear it all the time even for hockey, she turned towards him and pressed her lips to his, “Thank you Amore.”
“Always.” Macklin flushed a little red as he smiled at her and kissed her again.
