#nj devils fluff

Quickly scanning the DVD collection, Y/n selected a classic rom-com, one she knew would be a safe choice for the group. She popped it into the player then turning around to see the only places to sit were either sharing with Jack or between her brother and Luke. She settled onto the couch between her brother and Luke, her heart palpitating with anticipation. The opening credits rolled, and as the movie began, the room filled with laughter from jokes Rutger and Jack continued to make. Y/n felt the tension ease between her and Luke dissipate as they sank into the familiar rhythm of shared laughter and quiet glances. It was a simple pleasure, one they hadn’t had the luxury of in a while when not behind closed doors.

As the film progressed, the room grew quieter. The only sounds were the occasional giggles from Y/n and the distant croak of frogs from outside the window. Quinn’s head had lolled back onto the armrest, mouth slightly ajar, and his eyes closed in sleep. Rutger’s eyes remained glued to the screen, but his eyelids grew heavier with each passing second. Y/n felt her own eyelids drooping, the comfort of the couch and the warmth of Luke’s presence beside her lulling her into a gentle doze. She didn’t even notice when the last scene played out and the credits began to roll. The only indication she had of the passing time was the gentle weight of Rutger’s arm as they slid under her legs and around her shoulders lifting her off the couch.

“Off to bed sis.” Rutger mumbled in his own tired state.

Over his shoulder, Luke and the other two sluggishly followed behind. Y/n’s sleep ridden and glossed over eyes met Luke’s and for a moment they were the only two in the house for the night.

Rutger kicked open the door to the guest room and gently placed her on the bed. The room was bathed in the soft moonlight that filtered through the blinds, casting a serene glow over the room. The bed sheets smelled faintly of fresh fabric softener and the faint scent of Luke’s cologne lingered in the air from when he had brought her suitcase up earlier. She felt safe, nestled between the comfort of her twin’s arms and the thought of Luke just outside her door.

As Rutger tucked her in, she mumbled a sleepy goodnight, her eyelids fluttering shut. He brushed her hair back before he kissed the top of her head, whispering, "Night, sis. Love you." His footsteps grew distant as he left the room, and she could hear the other boys bid their farewells and stumble to their own rooms. The house grew still, the only sounds the occasional creaks of the old floorboards settling and the rhythmic chirp of crickets outside.

Luke waited, anxiously and as if the word patient didn’t exist, until the darkness was absolute. He tiptoed across the hall, each step feeling like a mile. His hand hovered over the doorknob, and he took a deep breath, willing himself to be silent. He turned it gently, the door opening without a sound. He stepped into the room, his eyes falling right over to the bed where Y/n lay, her chest rising and falling with deep, even breaths. Each time he looked at her he couldn’t believe she was his. He wanted to yell it from the roof of Yost. No from the top of the Empire State Building, but she was terrified of ruining relationships with her brother between Luke and him and herself and him.

He stepped closer, his bare feet making no sound on the cool wooden floor. The moon cast a silver path to her bed, and he followed it like a moth to a flame. He sat on the edge, his hand reaching out to brush a stray lock of hair from her cheek. His finger traced the curve of her jaw and the line of her neck, feeling the warmth of her skin. Her eyes fluttered open, and she looked at him with a sleepy smile. She didn’t even question his presence, she just reached out making grabby hands for him. Luke took his place next to her and she immediately pulled him closer, her hand resting on his chest. He felt her breathing change, her heart rate slowed, as she snuggled into him, her head finding the crook of his shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her, his hand resting on her hip, and held her tightly.

“Hi, baby.” Luke placed a kiss to her forehead. “I couldn’t sleep knowing you were right across the hall. I had to be able to hold you, kiss you, wake up next to you.” Luke pressed multiple kisses around her face before ending with a soft kiss to her lips.

“You’re going to get us caught, Luke.” She whispered but her words lacked any real warning. Her arms wrapped around his neck and she pulled him closer for a deeper kiss. They both knew the risks but the thrill of the secret just added to the allure.

He chuckled, the sound vibrating through her. “We’re adults, Y/n. It’s just a kiss. Besides, I don’t think anyone’s up to hear us. Now, let’s get some sleep before we have to pretend to barely know each other tomorrow morning.”

With a sigh, she nodded and they lay there, the quiet of the night wrapping around them like a cozy blanket. The only sounds were their soft breaths mingling together, the chirping crickets, and the occasional hoot of an owl in the distance. The comfort of their shared silence grew deeper, the weight of their secret pressing down like a gentle lullaby.

As the night progressed, the moon climbed higher in the sky, casting shifting patterns of light and shadow across their entwined forms. Luke’s thumb stroked gentle circles on Y/n’s back, her breathing evened out as she relaxed into his embrace. The warmth of their bodies seemed to push the coolness of the room away, creating a pocket of serenity that neither wanted to disturb.

But the peace was shattered when Y/n’s eyes snapped open, her body jolting with a scream that pierced the quiet of the night. Her heart hammered in her chest, and she thrashed about in the bed, lost in a nightmare she couldn’t escape. Luke’s arms tightened around her, trying to soothe her, but she pushed him away, her eyes wild with fear.

"No, no, no," she murmured, her voice frantic and trembling. Luke sat up, his own heart racing, and gently touched her shoulder. "Y/n, babygirl, it’s okay. It’s just a bad dream, you’re safe. You’re safe with me always."

Her eyes snapped open, and she took in the sight of him, the fear in her gaze slowly morphing into relief. The moon had traveled further across the sky, casting new patterns of light and shadow over their tangled forms. She took a deep, shuddering breath and reached out to him, her nails digging into his skin as she held onto him tightly. He held her trembling body against his firm strong body, her body heat drastically increased from fear against the coolness of the room.

“It’s okay, it’s just me. You’re safe here.” He whispered against her ear, his breath warm and soothing. He felt her body begin to relax as his words sank in, the tension slowly seeping out of her like water from a squeezed sponge.

But just as Luke’s heartbeat returned to a steady rhythm, the door to the room flew open with a bang, making them both jump. Rutger stood in the doorway, his eyes wide with concern, the light from the hallway spilling into the room and highlighting his features. He had clearly heard his sister’s distress and come to her aid. However, the scene that greeted him was not what he expected.

Y/n sat up in bed, her eyes red and puffy from the tears she hadn’t even realized she’d shed. Rutger’s gaze flitted from her to Luke and back again, his expression unreadable. The silence stretched out like a tightrope, each second feeling like an eternity as they waited for him to speak.

"You okay, sis?" Rutger’s voice was gentle, belying the storm of emotions that had to be raging within him. He stepped into the room, his eyes searching hers for any signs of distress beyond the nightmare. - Silently communicating with her about the boy next to her. His close friend, his teammate, but at the moment his enemy.

Y/n nodded, her voice shaky. "It was just a bad dream." She didn’t dare look at Luke, the secret they’d been keeping from Rutger suddenly feeling like it was written across the room in flashing neon lights. Rutger’s eyes narrowed at her as he nodded.

“And you? Why are you in here?” Rutger asked dropping emphasis on the second you.

Luke swallowed hard. Unwrapping his arms from y/n, he sat up straight, the cold air of the room hitting him like a slap. “I heard her scream and I came to check on her.” He tried to keep his voice calm and even, but the lie tasted bitter on his tongue.

Rutger's eyebrows shot up, the tension in the room thickening. “Really?” He stepped closer to the bed, his gaze unwavering. “It’s just a little odd, don’t you think?”

Luke’s eyes darted to Y/n’s, the weight of their shared secret palpable between them. He knew he couldn’t lie to Rutger, not anymore. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Okay, I can’t lie to you, man. Y/n and I are together. We’ve been seeing each other since November.”

Rutger’s expression froze, his eyes widening in shock. For a moment, no one said a word. Then, a chuckle escaped his lips, turning into a full-blown laugh. “You’re kidding, right? This is some kind of sick joke?” But the seriousness in Luke’s eyes told him it was no joke. The laughter died away, and the room grew tense again.

Y/n looked up at her brother, her eyes brimming with tears. She knew this moment had been inevitable, but she had hoped it would come under better circumstances. With a trembling voice, she said, “Rutger, it’s true. I’m sorry we didn’t tell you sooner. We didn’t know how you’d react, and we didn’t want to ruin your all’s friendship or how close we are..”

Rutger’s laughter had turned into a scoff. He sat on the edge of the bed, his expression a mix of confusion and frustration. He looked at his teammate, then back at his sister, his jaw clenched. “You two are together?”

“Yes, Rutger.” Y/n’s voice was firm, her eyes never leaving brother’s .

Rutger’s gaze bore into Luke, his voice tight. “You better not be playing games with my sister, Luke. You know she’s had enough of that already.”

Luke’s face grew serious, his eyes searching Rutger’s for any hint of understanding. He took a deep breath, his heart racing as he gathered his thoughts. “I can’t believe you would even think that of me. I’m not playing games, Rutger. I love your sister. More than I’ve ever loved anyone. She’s my everything, and I’d do anything to make her happy. Before you even ask me, yes that includes keeping our relationship a secret from everyone for months on months. Even though I’d love to go out somewhere with hundreds of people and just scream that she’s mine. Not in a territorial way but an I love her way.”

Rutger only saw pure sincerity and a fierce protectiveness that matched his own feelings for his sister when he searched over Luke’s features.

Rutger looked at the two of them, his twin, so vulnerable and Luke, so earnest. He took a deep breath and let it out in a sigh that seemed to carry the weight of the world. "If it has to be any of my friends, I’d rather it be you than any of the others." He paused, looking at them both, "But you guys have to promise me, you won’t let it affect our friendship, the group, or the team."

Y/n felt a weight lift off her chest, she had been holding her breath without realizing it. "We promise," she whispered, her voice barely audible. Luke nodded in agreement, his eyes never leaving Rutger’s. "We'll do everything we can to keep things normal. Now leave so I can celebratory kiss my boyfriend and go back to sleep." Y/n shoved at her brother.

Rutger rolled his eyes, but ultimately listened to her. “Just don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”

On the frost-tipped grass, (Y/N) sat beneath a canopy of stars, her back propped against the rough bark of an old oak tree. A light dusting of snow had settled over the ground, transforming the world into a perfect winter wonderland. She shivered, not necessarily from the cold evening, but from the heart wrenching realization that tonight was supposed to go different. It was New Year's Eve, and every year since they were six, she and her childhood best friend, Quinn had celebrated together. But this year, he had up and ditched her last minute. Just like that. He gave her zero explanation and no apology. He had just vanished into the night with his middle brother, leaving her feeling more alone than ever. Which when he left for the NHL was pretty hard to top, yet he somehow managed to do it when he was only somewhere in the same town. The two barely get to see each other anymore as it is. He lives in Vancouver and she lives in Michigan. Quinn flies her out to a few games a season and of course she attends any Canucks vs Redwings games as well as Canucks vs Devils games. However the time the two have available with one another is so restricted at that time, she may as well be just another fan in the arena.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps crunching through the frosted snow. A warm blanket was draped over her shoulders, and a steaming cup of hot chocolate was pressed into her hands. She looked up, her eyes falling on her best friend’s youngest brother, Luke, as he joined her. She briefly looked over his features, his cheeks were already flushed from the growing colder night, but the smile he gave her was warm and genuine.

"Hey, (Y/N)," he whispered as if they were amongst a huge crowd of people and not alone in an empty yard. His voice still highly audible over the silence of the night. "I came out here for a few reasons but one being because I…” Luke’s words ran out into the night. His right hand pulling off his beanie then he was slipping his fingers through his messy curls. A tell tale sign he was nervous about whatever he was about to say. “I wanted to apologize for what Quinn did to you tonight. He had no right to leave you like that. I don’t know what is going on with him and what would make him decide to leave behind the one person who has been consistent for him that isn’t family. The one person in his life that still sees him as Quinn and not as big shot Quinn..” Luke shoved his beanie back on and sighed. He had been looking up at the night sky watching the night clouds move uncovering the stars. “He has been a bit of a jerk here lately, and I'm sorry I couldn't do anything to stop him."

(Y/N) smiled weakly at the rambling boy next to her. Her gaze slowly drifting back up to the now clear sky and where the stars were twinkling like Christmas lights. "It's fine, really. I mean, it stung a lot at first, but..." Her voice trailed off, and she shrugged halfheartedly. "I'm just glad you were here tonight." The butterflies in Luke’s stomach flapped back to life and were going insane at her last statement. “Who knows Lukey. Maybe we can start our own tradition together this New Year’s.” Luke was watching her body languagefor any signs of a joke before speaking up. “I wouldn’t mind. It would teach Quinn to ditch someone as special as you.” (Y/N) slightly smiled, still looking up at the stars. “Special? No. Just me Luke.” (Y/N) argued, Luke didn’t want to have the silly argument back and forth. He knew just how special she is. Given the chance he would show her too. After all, a girl like her deserves to be treated, loved, and respected the way she treats, loves, and respects everyone else. (Y/N) was the girl has sought after ever since Luke stopped thinking he was supposed to marry his mom when he was older. Luke shook his head and groaned at her words. “One day (Y/N/N). Just you wait, one day you’ll know just how special you truly are.” He tells her before they fell into another comfortable silent state. His words confidently spilled out. (Y/N) turned her head opposite from Luke so he couldn’t see the true smile she was wearing across her face because of him. She also hoped he couldn’t hear her heartbeat as a result of his words.

The silence stretched between them, as she snuggled further into the blanket, (y/n) suddenly became aware that Luke was only wearing a thin jacket as he shivered. She glanced over at him, her eyes meeting his. "Here," she said, pulling the blanket off from around her shoulders. "You can have this. It's getting kind of cold out here." Luke hesitated for a moment, debating on offering to share the blanket. "No, really. It's fine. I'm warm enough." She shot him a glare. “Luke Warren Hughes. I just saw you shiver.” Her tone, at best, was barely strict. He held eye contact waiting for her to continue, he could practically see the gears turning in her mind. “If you won’t take it for yourself, we will share it.” She says wrapping it around him and snuggling into his side. Luke was trying his best to calm the butterflies and his racing heart. While also fighting the mental battle on if he should shoot his shot at midnight.

(Y/N) is the girl I have wanted for years now. She is right here. Cuddling into my side, a couple moves and I could easily be her new year’s kiss. If she hates it? I just play it off as a friendly new year’s kiss. Her and Quinn have been each other’s midnight kiss before, I can play it off as if I’m filling his shoes if she questions me and she’s angry. I can do this. I can do this. I think I can do this?

As midnight was quickly approaching the air was thick with anticipation between the both of them and more people were gathering outside.

The countdowns echoed throughout the night, each one louder than the last.

Fireworks lit up the sky, casting a multitude of colors over everyone. The fireworks also casting iridescent colors across the blanket of snow on the ground. Making a beautiful picturesque scene.

Luke decided it was definitely now or never. He may not have done it 12am but right now under the colorful display of the many fireworks was perfect. He smiled down at (Y/N), feeling a warmth spread through his chest, for the first time the butterflies in his stomach calmed. He leaned in, his breath fanning her cheek. "Happy New Year, (Y/n)." She felt his lips brush against her ear, sending a shiver down her spine. That is when he froze up. Her reaction to his lips barely touching her sent his heart racing. He was scared she was going to send him flying into the snow. Her best friend’s baby brother’s lips just touched her. But she didn’t move. She was waiting? Luke quickly finished his well wishes to her before she snapped out of it, "I hope this year brings you everything you wish for." Her breath caught in her throat as he pulled back, their gazes locked.

“Do it Luke. Her eyes are basically screaming, begging for you to.” why do you have to be in my head now jack dear god please shut up.

In a seconds time he was leaning back in, his left hand making its way softly to the back of her head. His fingers interlacing in her hair. (Y/N)’s breaths were slow and deep awaiting Luke’s next move. “Tell me if this isn’t something you want.” Luke swallows down the anxiety he was feeling. Mentally silencing the jack he hears in his head telling him to go for it. “Because once I do this once.. I’m going to want to do this again and again. Everyday for the next foreseeable future.” Luke’s voice was trembling in want, desire, need. All of his feelings rushing to the forefront of his mind. “Shut up and kiss me Luke.” (Y/N) sighed grasping his face pulling him to her.

As their lips touched, the grand finale of the fireworks show was set off. The energy of the grand finale matching the energy sparking off the two of them. Luke and (y/n)’s kiss was hot enough to melt the snow underneath them. The way their mouths moved in perfect harmony. The small nips Luke made against her bottom lip as he pulled away. It left them both wanting more, needing more.

“Remind me to thank my brother for being an ass.” Luke mumbles against her lips before getting lost in another languid kiss. “Lukey let’s go home. It’s the new year, I’m cold and I also want to thank Quinn, because now I know who the better kisser is...well I’ve not kissed Jack.” She pauses and makes a playful gagging noise. “And because it finally got you to make a move.” Luke’s face went more red than it already was where it was tinged from the cold. “That..what?” He was baffled by her admittance . “I had my assumptions. I’m just happy I wasn’t wrong. Now let’s goooo. I wanna go get in bed and get warm.” (Y/N) sent a wink his way.

She was hinting towards cuddling. But with how fast Luke was grabbing up the blankets that they had been sitting on and were wrapped up in, before grabbing her hand and heading to the car…She is pretty sure his mind went a different direction.

“Quinn now owes me $10, he said you didn’t like me.” (Y/N) says once they were in the car and headed down the road. “You two had a bet on if I had a crush on you or not?” Luke laughed while asking. “No we had a bet on if you even liked me as a person. Because you avoided me. He’s going to be so shocked to know that you like-like me.” She clarifies with a giggle when she says ‘like-like’. Luke rolls his eyes at the thought of his older brother being naive enough to believe he didn’t like his best friend. “So back to what you said earlier tonight…Same thing and same place next new year’s?” Luke asks her. She nods with a smile. “New tradition, with you. Starting this year.” (Y/N) confirms with a nod. “Only maybe we hang out inside until right before midnight.” She adds grabbing for Luke’s hand to wrap both of her freezing ones around. The two sat in a comfortable silence stealing quick glances, with smiles plastered across their faces, and glimmers in their eyes the rest of the way to the Hughes home.

The work day had just come to a close when the bells on the door jingled signaling someone had just entered. Out of instinct your head jerked to look towards the door. Thankfully, to be greeted by your sweet boyfriend who usually wore quirky half smile. Only tonight he was your stress stricken looking boyfriend. After swiftly leaning the broom that you had in your hand back up against the wall, you quickly approached him. “Luke? Is everything alright? You look like you did the day of your draft…” You let your voice drift to almost nothing as you reached him. He didn’t make a sound. Only made grabby hands, just like your toddler nephew does, signaling he wanted to hold you. Moments passed where the only sounds were the music still playing over speakers and your alls breathing. “The guys are chirping me about my hair again. Even my own brother is in on it this time.” His mumbling almost inaudible as he’s pressed his face down into your neck. But after two years of dating and three years of friendship prior, you’re a Luke Hughes mumbling specialist. Luke lifted his head and rested his chin atop of your head.

He pulls out of the embrace and starts pacing while he keeps rambling about the absurd claims his teammates have made recently. “They’ve gone as far to point out that my girlfriend is a professional beautician for all sorts of people. Celebrities, athletes, everyday people, and I go around with an unruly mop of whatever.” He stressed the importance of ‘I’ and made a gesture to himself when talking. You grab ahold of him by the waist pulling him back into your arms. Unable to watch him pace any longer. “They go on and on about how they don’t know how you’re not embarrassed of me.” His voice waivers at the end of his statement. “You.. you’re not embarrassed of me are you?” His voice completely cracks, he can’t stay in your arms he has to look at your face. You feel a fragment of your heart break. Pulling out of the embrace completely, he turns away unable to look you in the eyes anymore. You can tell he’s struggling. You know he grew up with kids bullying him for his curls and how unruly they could be. Kids are cruel but they are kids. It’s something that happens growing up. It isn’t something that happens when you’re 20 and surrounded by professional athletes. Or at least it shouldn’t. Reaching out to grab his hand, you slightly tug him at him to come back into your arms. Loosely holding him with one arm, using your other to be able to lift your hand to cup his cheek softly. Running your thumb across his cheek. “Baby I promise you, the last thing I am is embarrassed of you. I am nowhere near being embarrassed. I love you every way that you are. Hair unruly. Hair fixed. I’d love you if you had me shave your head. But please don’t make me do that. I love your curls so much. You’re perfect the way you are.” Luke exhales a breath he was holding since you had pulled him back to you. “There is only a couple things I am and those are, proud of you beyond what words can express, in love with you more than you know, and the luckiest girl there has ever been to be your girlfriend.” The two of you holding eye contact, nothing but pure love shining in your eyes and contentment breaking through Luke’s. He slowly begins to relax. He is still far from letting himself forget and let go what’s happening with the team, but knowing that the most important person to him doesn’t care how he looks and when he looks it.

Taking a moment to contemplate a way to help him further feel better, you rub your thumb slightly across his cheek again, he leans into it sighing. “What if we experiment on styling your curls baby? I have different products for curls. Curly hair is all different, so we can try one and if you don’t like it we can try another?” Luke slowly nodded, feeling even better already. Although he trusts and believes what you just told him about loving him in anyway he looks, he also knows you’re doing this for him. He has always been your soft boy. Luke is apprehensive, always considerate, questions his actions, and wants you to be a part of his decisions. That is until you’re both having your alone time, then he is a completely different person. And well that is a story for another time.. Luke sat down in your chair waiting for you to gather whatever it was that you were going to try first. His eyelids were beginning to feel heavy, he knew it wouldn’t be easy to stay awake once your fingers were in his hair.

Only after a few short minutes of working working shampoo through his hair, his eyelids fluttered shut. It was so hard to have to wake him up to move back to the other chair. His groggy face was precious as he teetered over to the seat and plopped down. Moments later you looked in the mirror and caught a glimpse of his face. The sweet boy had fallen asleep again. Finishing up quickly you decided to let him rest instead of waking him to go home, you leaned down and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and a ‘I love you Hughes’ before cleaning up your station again.

After cleaning everything up, you locked everything up and decided to wake Luke up. You two really needed to leave. “Lukey, I’m done. Let me drive you home.” Instead he pulled you in his lap and mumbled an I love you. Giggling an I love you back, you patted on his chest and insisted he get up. “Baby please let me sleep” he whimpered. “You can sleep when I get you home. I’ll stay with you if you get up.” You bargained. He opened one eye to look at you. “Do you promise? You’re not going to just leave once you drop me off?” “No lukey, let’s go”

At Luke’s the two of you get changed into pajamas quickly. You are both so exhausted. Luke lays down first, so you have to crawl over him to “your spot”. “Hey (y/n)” Luke whispers. “Yes?” “Thank you for loving me for me and not for being in the NHL or for being rich or for having a boat or for having a-“ you cut him off with a soft kiss. “Luke, we met before you were drafted, before I knew you had a boat, before you had money. None of that matters to me now that I do know. Just like you said. I love you for you. and well your unruly curls are plus.” You say eliciting a groan from Luke. “Not funny. Goodnight baby girl, I love you.” With his last words for the night, you cuddled as close as you could into his side and let your eye lids close. Mentally telling yourself to text Quinn tomorrow to go off on Jack for what he’s done to Luke’s confidence.

As they finished their dinner, Trevor nudged Jack and motioned for him to follow him to the bathroom. "Look," Trevor whispered, "I know you love her and all, but she's holding you back, man. You need to live a little, go out with all of us, have some fun." Jack sighed, feeling torn. He knew that Trevor was his best friend, but he also knew how important y/n was to him. He didn't want to lose her, no he couldn’t lose her, but he didn't want to miss out on all the adventures he could still be having with his friends.

"Why don't you come out with us anymore?" Trevor asked bluntly. "You used to be the life of the party. Now you're just...different." Jack hung his head, unsure how to respond. "I just want you to be happy, man. I really think you're making a mistake by staying with her." Trevor opened the bathroom door and walked back towards the tables. It was purely happen chance he was even here and Jack was too. Trevor on a date while Jack was on one too.

The two boys returned to their respective tables, Jack couldn't shake the uneasy feeling in tightly churning in his gut. Trevor was on to something; he did miss going out with all their friends and having their crazy adventures. But y/n was everything to him. She made him feel loved in ways he had never experienced and supported him in everything he did. It may have only been two years, but Jack couldn't imagine his life without her now. He knew he couldn't continue like this, though. Something had to give.

That night after dinner, as the two walked hand in hand through the park, Jack managed to gather up the courage to confront his new worries with y/n. "Hey, there's something I want to talk to you about," he said, his voice barely registering over the children still playing on the playground. Y/n stopped and turned to face him, her eyes instantly filled with concern. "What's wrong, Jack?"

He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "I love you, y/n. I love you so much. You know that. But I feel like I'm missing out on a lot with my friends. I want to be able to spend time with them like I used to." He looked down at his girlfriend who drew in and chewed on her lower lip, clearly being hurt by his words.

"Jackie, I thought we had talked about this.. I thought you trusted me enough to know that I would never stand in the way of your friendships?. If anything, I want you to have them in your life more. You are my life, today, tomorrow, hopefully next week and further, but I want you to have a life outside of me too. I love you more than you probably think I do, but that doesn’t mean we always have to be together.” Y/n told the sweet boy standing before her. He was awestruck while she was speaking.

He looked at her, his eyes searching hers for any hint of deception. An action he instantly felt guilty for. He should’ve never let his friends inside his head. Seeing nothing but sincerity, he exhaled slowly.

"I guess I just... I just need to find a balance, huh?" She nodded, wrapping her arms around him. "I'll always be here for you, jackie. And I want you to know that I understand. We'll figure this out together."

The next weekend, Jack and y/n arranged a "double date night" with Trevor and his newest girl. The four of them went to one of the local art galleries, something y/n loved to do, afterwards they went to a cozy Italian restaurant for dinner.

As they walked side by side, Jack was overcome with a sense of excitement and anticipation. Both had been building within him since the plans were made. For the first time since meeting y/n, he felt like he was truly experiencing something elating again.

The entirety of the night was filled with wholesome laughter and conversations about everything and anything, as both couples shared stories and experiences, and found common ground in their shared love for art and food. Y/n and Trevor even managed to strike up a conversation about their favorite artists and sport teams, which surprised Jack and made him smile. He had never really thought of his best friend and y/n having much in common, but it seemed like tonight was proving him wrong.

“Seems you picked a good one Rowdy.” Trevor snickered referring to y/n. “I’m glad you changed your mind about her Zegras. But I didn’t just pick a good one, I picked the best one. At least for me.” Jack was smitten with her and Trevor fake gagged. Earning himself a laugh from all of them.

While they finished their meals and sipped on their respective drinks, the atmosphere in the restaurant shifted ever so slightly. The lights were dimmed, and a soft, romantic medley filled the room. Jack caught y/n glancing at him out of the corner of her eye, an expanse flush of warmth spread through his chest.

In that moment, Jack realized that this was exactly what he needed: a balance between his relationship with her and his friendship. He didn't have to choose between them anymore.

As the music continued, Trevor and his date excused themselves to the dance floor, leaving Jack and y/n with a moment to themselves. She smiled up at him, her eyes sparkling practically screaming out her love for him and Jack himself was flooded with a rush of his affection for her.

He leaned down, gently brushing his lips against hers, whispering a quick intimate “i love you”. He placed another kiss on her lips, meant to be soft and innocent but as their kiss deepened, the warm, content feeling of love and happiness spread throughout both of them.

The rest of the night flew by in a blur of conversation, laughter, and dancing. They all truly seemed to enjoy each other's company, and Jack couldn't help but feel grateful for this unexpected gift. As the night drew to a close, they agreed to get together again in the coming weeks. Trevor and Jack said their goodbyes before everyone went their separate ways.

“Y/n?” Jack called out softly from beside her. She glanced up at him, as if to ask him ‘what?’ “Thank you for tonight. I really appreciate what you’ve done for me. For us.” She squeezed his hand and smiled up at him. “I love you, I don’t know how I got so lucky to have you but I hope I keep staying lucky.” Jack brought her hand up to his lips placing a quick kiss to the top of it.

The doorknob rattled slightly before the living room door was finally swinging open, revealing Luke and y/n standing there, Luke’s hands his in pockets. Both had their eyes averted avoiding the two boys on the couch. Quinn felt a strange wave of relief wash over him as he saw that they were both there. His heart raced as they walked slowly towards the couch, neither of them speaking. The silence was deafening.

Quinn glanced over at Jack, who gave him a reassuring nod. He took a deep tremulous breath, steeling himself for what was about to come their way. He could feel the weight of their friendship, the years of memories and inside jokes, hanging in the balance between them. He can’t believe he let his middle brother let him talk him into doing this on a holiday with a tradition between him and y/n.

Y/N hesitated for a moment, her gaze flickering between the three Hughes brothers. She wanted to turn around and go right back out the front door, get back in Luke’s car, and go somewhere that wasn’t where Quinn Hughes was. Her features twisted in a mixture of sadness and anger.

Quinn knew that his best friend was hurting. He wanted nothing more than to reach out and comfort her, but he couldn't bring himself to do that. Not yet at least, not when he was pretty sure his idiotic ways of following Jack’s lead is why she was feeling this way. All he could do was ask her to talk.

Luke took a step forward, his hand gently brushing against her shoulder. She subconsciously leaned towards his touch. "Hey, you don't have to talk to him if you don't want to," he murmured, his voice low and soothing. "It's okay if you're not ready to tackle it tonight." She bit her lip, her eyes darting back and forth between Luke and Quinn. She could see the worry in Luke's face, the fear that he'd somehow messed everything up between them already, just by walking into the house. And she could see the guilt in Quinn's eyes, the knowledge that he actually had done just that.

Quinn cleared his throat, feeling an unprecedented twinge of jealousy. It has always been him who was her rock and source of comfort in situations like this. An awkward tension spread as he glanced between his two brothers. "Y/n/n, I'm really sorry about what happened, with our usual plans..." He trailed off, not quite sure how to explain his position in Jack’s meddling. "I just thought..." He pulled his hands through his already disgruntled hair and let out a sigh of frustration. "I just thought it would be a good idea for you two to talk, I guess."Motioning between Luke and her.

Y/n bit her lip, her gaze flickering from Quinn to Luke and back again. "Quinn," she began, her voice barely above a whisper. "Can we talk about this in private, please?" The word private held a tone of different of all the others. A tone of seriousness that alerted the other two boys in the room just how far he and Jack had gone. Quinn stood up from the couch slowly. He followed her down the hall towards the bedrooms, expecting to stop at his own but instead she entered Luke’s. “We’ll talk in here. I don’t want to be surrounded by a childhood that may or may not have been fake.” Her words hit hard to Quinn. He didn’t expect to be accused of being a fake friend just for missing out on one night. A night that was to help her.

Quinn closed the door behind them, taking a seat on Luke's bed. She paced across the room, her hands twisting together anxiously. She didn't know where to begin, how to explain the depth of her pain. "You know I've always had your back, Quinn," she said, her voice shaking with emotion. "I've always been there for you, through thick and thin. And you know I would do anything for you. I have never left you high and dry. Ever. When we were 16 and your team made it to some huge championship all the way in Florida I missed my drivers license test to go and had to wait 3 more months for a retake date. I didn’t care because I was supporting my best friend. When you were drafted I missed a huge job interview because all we ever talked about growing up was that moment. Was you making it to the league. There was no way I was missing it. We made these traditions between us so we always had these moments together and then you just...you just abandon me on the night of one of them." She had started pulling at the ends of her hair a sign she was on the verge of an anxiety breakdown. “You left me behind as if I wasn’t important anymore or like you didn’t want to keep special dates to insure we had time. It was painful.”

Quinn's heart ached as he listened to her words, feeling the weight of his actions pressing down on him. "I'm sorry, y/n/n. I didn't realize..." he began, unable to finish the sentence. He knew she was upset, but he didn't realize how badly until now. He never meant to make her feel like she wasn't important to him. Next to his mom, she was the most important female in his life. "I didn't mean for it to seem like I didn't want to spend time with you." He watched her pace the floor and pull on her hair. “Hey…hey, stop that.” Quinn insisted pulling her hands down gently. “It’s okay. Take a few deep breaths. I’ll finish telling you everything and tell you why I went with Jack if you can ease your way out of this world your head has gone to.”

For the first time since she came into the house Quinn felt himself relax slightly when she let him guide her away from her anxiety breakdown she was edging to. Quinn let out breath he had been holding .

She took a few deep breaths, calming herself down. "Okay," she said, her voice still shaky. "I'm sorry for that. I just...I just don't understand why you would ditch me so suddenly, and without an explanation? It isn’t like you. We don’t get to see each other that often as it is and then you do this. It was like a slap in the face." She sat down on the bed beside him, her eyes searching his face for signs of the explanation.

Quinn nodded, understanding her hurt. "I know it sounds crazy, but Jack had come with this plan. He's been trying to convince Luke to make a move on you for months now. He thought that if we went out together and left you two alone, Luke would feel more inclined to just go for it." He looked down at his hands, feeling guilty for manipulating the entire situation. "I know it was wrong of us to do that, but I wanted you two to be happy. I didn't want Luke to keep pining after you and never say anything." Y/N stared at her best friend in disbelief. Did she hear him correctly? “Not being here to witness any of the last few months to a year of how the two of you interact with each other I was very torn about whether I should of followed through with Jack’s plan.” He laughed a genuine tiny laugh. “But then i remembered how you only talked about Luke the last time you visited me in Vancouver. Every other story was ‘Luke this or Luke that’ and I knew then you were smitten with my baby brother. Plus the last time we played in Detroit you road with Luke to the game, why you couldn’t ride with mom and dad I couldn’t figure out. Jack listed all these other scenarios that made it impossible for me not to go along with his plan or I suppose scheme since it caused a problem. It is whatever you want to call it. Because regardless of the fact it was intended for Luke to buck up and make a move, I was hoping you would come out of it happy. Happier than if you had spent the night with me.”

She was silent for a moment, taking in everything he had said. She didn't know what to feel. Part of her was angry that he had gone along with Jack's scheme, but another part of her understood why both brothers did what they did. "I guess I never really thought about it that way," she said finally. "I just felt like you abandoned me." She looked at him, searching his eyes for any sign that he was potentially lying about the entire situation, however the whole story was too spot on. "And I don't know if I should be happy that you and Jack noticed Luke might have feelings for me or scared that Jack wants to push us together." Quinn scoffs and shakes his head with a slight smile. “Jack doesn’t have to do any pushing now. We could read it all over his face the second he opened the door to the living room. We know that something happened between the two of you tonight. We just don’t know what.” Quinn turns his head slightly to look at her, raising an eyebrow as if to ask the question ‘what happened’.

Y/n sighs and flops back against the bed. "Well, it's not like I've been trying to hide my attraction or feelings either as you pointed out, but it only got more obvious. But I guess Luke didn’t notice or catch on. I’m not sure. What can I say brother grew up to be the most attractive and the best kisser out of you all. Well again, only have kissed you and him and no plans to kiss the other. I’ve seen the best of Luke and the worst of him growing up around you all. Plus I’m younger than you as it is so it’s not a crazy weird age gap…We do hang out sometimes alone already. And well tonight we were at the usual New Year’s Eve party...and he sat with me outside in the freezing cold, with absolutely no complaints for I don’t know how long. I noticed that he only had his coat and beanie on after a while, so I offered up the blanket. We were wrapped up close under the blanket he brought out to me, and then he kissed me a few minutes after midnight.." She pauses, remembering the kiss, well kisses, the way Luke had looked at her as if he had waited for that moment his entire life, the way it had felt. "I don't know what it means or where it's going, other than we both agreed to start a new tradition of he and I on new years since you missed out, but I've been thinking about it ever since." She hadn’t noticed the smile across her face when she mentioned a tradition starting with Luke.

“Why not ask him about it? I’m sure both my dweeb brothers have their ears stuck to the door right now” Quinn rolled his eyes getting up off the bed. Y/n’s face turning a deep maroon as she blushed so hard.

"Well? Do you not want to know what he has to say for himself?" Quinn asked, leaning against the door frame casually, his arms crossed over his chest. His younger brothers flailing over the other as their balance was lost with the suddenly opening of the door.

Y/n sighed, rolling her eyes as she sat up on the bed. "Fine," she huffed, glancing at Quinn before turning her attention to the brothers standing in front of her. "Luke.” She playfully tsks. “What do you have to say for yourself?" she challenged, her tone teasing. l

Both older brothers shoved each other out of the way, stepping out of the room and closing the door behind them. Luke cleared his throat, taking a deep breath before looking at her. "I'm not sure if I completely understand what was going on in either of my brothers’ brains when they planned tonight out, but I want to be honest with you," he began. "After tonight, I won’t be able to stop thinking about it, and...well, I just want to see where things could go between us. I know it's crazy considering my oldest brother is your longest friend but..."

Y/N smiled, her cheeks still flushed. "It's not that crazy, Luke. I mean, we've known each other for years, we've seen each other at our best and worst, and...I want to see where things could go too. It's not like I didn't notice how attractive you are," she teased, reaching up to mess with the collar of his sweatshirt.

Luke chuckled, feeling a wave of heat spread through his chest. "Well, you've always been beautiful, yourself. And I mean that sincerely. Not just because we're in this...moment." He paused, taking a deep shaky breath. Suddenly aware he was alone with her in his bedroom.

She smiled up at him, feeling the warmth in her cheeks. "So, what do we do now?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Luke leaned down, his eyes locked on hers, and kissed her gently. The touch of his lips sent a shiver down her spine. He pulled back slightly, his breath mixing with hers. "We could...explore this. Us," he suggested, reaching out to take her hand. "If you want." He whispered. “Or you can go out there and thank Quinn for being an ass like you wanted to.”

She grinned, feeling her heart race. She knew exactly what she wanted to do, and it had nothing to do with her best friend. "Let's explore," she breathed, allowing him to pull her closer and into a kiss. His touch sent waves of desire coursing through her veins. She could feel the heat between them, and she wanted more.

Luke's left hand slid down her back, over the curves of her waist, and up under her sweater. He gently caressed her bare skin, making her shiver with pleasure. His other hand cupped her cheek, holding her close as he slowly deepened their kiss.

Her body responded to his touch subconsciously, her hips pressing against his. She moaned into the kiss, her fingers tangling in his hair as she arched her back, wanting him closer. She could feel the heat between them, and she knew she was losing control. Restraining herself she withdrew from the kiss. “I.. I think that’s far enough.” She huffed trying to catch her breath. Luke nodded, pressing a kiss to her head before backing her up to his bed. “Let’s cuddle and call it a night like you wanted pretty girl.” Luke whispered to her as if anyone else would hear him.

Luke searched through his clothing drawers and handed her some clothes to swear for bed. Giving her privacy to change before laying down in the bed.

Y/N smiled as she joined him and nestled into his chest. She wrapped her arms around his waist, feeling the warmth of his skin through the thin fabric of his shirt. Luke caressed her hair, playing with the ends while he kissed her forehead. The soft rustle of the sheets and the gentle rhythm of their breathing filled the room as they laid there, lost in the moment. She closed her eyes, enjoying the feeling of being close to him, mentally thanking Quinn and Jack for their scheming support. Who would have ever thought that the two of them being pesky brothers would have given her the boy of her dreams.

She just has one last question for Quinn. If he knew she had feelings for his younger brother, why did he bet that she didn’t like him at all? Was it to fuel his competitive spirit and make him want to try for her? She would have to ask him the first chance she got, but she would have to pry herself out of the arms of Luke first. She’s already decided though that his arms are her new home. In other words, the answer may remain a mystery forever.

Rosey’s mother had stayed seated on the sofa waiting Ellen to bring them out, a concerned expression etched on her face. She had never seen her daughter this distressed and it was a side of Luke she had never encountered either. They sat down at the small table in Rosey’s dorm room’s common area, the silence echoing around them like a question left unanswered.

Ellen’s eyes bore into Luke’s, her words a gentle yet firm reprimand. “You need to learn to communicate without letting your anger control you. You’re not just hurting Rosey, you’re also damaging the trust between you two. She’s your partner, not someone to be talked down to or dismissed like that. You have to apologize to her, not just to me. Your actions in there were unacceptable and unnecessary. You two acted as adults, you bear the responsibility of adults.” She wasn’t condescending or rude to her youngest son when reprimanding him, but she made sure he knew that she was serious.

Luke nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of his actions. His eyes reflected the storm of emotions brewing inside him: regret, anger at himself, and a desperate longing to take back his harsh words. He turned to Rosey, who sat with her arms folded tightly across her chest, her eyes downcast. The room felt as if it had shrunk, the weight of the silence pressing down on them like a heavy blanket.

"Rosey," he began, his voice quivering with sincerity. "I'm so sorry for what I said. I had no right to accuse you of joking about something so serious." He reached out a hand to her, but she didn't move to take it. The air was thick with unspoken words and the scent of her perfume, which usually brought him comfort, now seemed to taunt him with its sweetness. He got up off the couch moving to kneel in front of her, “I’m sorry I called you by your legal name..Rosey, honey please.”

Her eyes remained downcast, but he could see the slight tremble in her chin as she tried to hold back tears. He knew he had hurt her deeply, and the sight was like a knife twisting in his gut. The room was a canvas of shadows and soft light, painting a stark contrast to the turmoil inside him.

"Rosey, please," Luke's voice was a whisper, as if the weight of his apology could somehow break the delicate silence. "Look at me." He took a deep breath, bracing himself for her reaction. When she finally met his gaze, her eyes were brimming with unshed tears, and it was all Luke could do to keep his own emotions in check.

Ellen and Rosey's mother exchanged glances, both of them feeling the tension in the room. They had raised their children to communicate with respect and love, and this was a moment of truth for all of them. Luke's mother gave him a subtle nod, urging him to continue, to express the depth of his regret.

"I know you didn't mean to hurt me, Luke," Rosey's voice was barely audible, "but when you shouted like that, it felt like you didn't trust me." She paused, her eyes searching his face for any signs of understanding. "And calling me ‘y/n'... it's like you didn't even see me as the person I have always been to you."

Her words hung in the air, a gentle rebuke that resonated through Luke's entire being. He nodded, his throat feeling as if it had been sewn shut. He desperately wanted to explain, to make her see that his outburst was born from fear and shock, not from a lack of faith in her. But the knot in his throat only grew tighter, making it difficult to breathe, let alone speak. He swallowed hard, trying to dislodge the lump that had formed.

"I know," he croaked out, his voice hoarse with emotion. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you or make you feel like I didn't trust you." He took another deep breath, willing his voice to steady. "It just...it all came out wrong. I was scared, and I didn't know how to handle it." His eyes searched hers, seeking any glimmer of forgiveness or understanding.

Rosey reached out and brushed her hand through his curls, a gesture that was as tender as it was surprising. The touch was feather-light, but it sent a jolt of warmth through him, grounding him in a way that nothing else could. She didn't pull away from his gaze, and the warmth in her eyes grew, slowly thawing the ice that had constricted his throat. It was a silent apology of her own, an acknowledgment that she had contributed to the situation as well.

“Lukey, I’m scared too.. terrified really. But if I have you I think I’ll be just fine yeah?”

The moment the words left her lips, Luke felt the tightness in his chest ease just a bit. Her use of the nickname she had for him brought a ghost of a smile to his face, and he nodded, feeling some of the tension dissipate. He took her hand in his, the warmth of her skin calming the storm in his own.

He leaned in and pressed a soft, lingering kiss to the back of her hand, his eyes never leaving hers. "So, we're going to be parents, huh?" he whispered to himself, his voice a mix of wonder and fear. The reality of it all was sinking in, but the love he felt for her was unshakeable. He could feel the steady beat of her pulse under his lips, a rhythm that matched his own racing heart.

If Luke knew anything besides hockey, it was that his baby was going to have one hell of a mom. He had seen the way Rosey lit up around children, the gentle way she had with animals, and the fierce determination in her eyes when she set her mind to something. He knew she would be a natural, that she would love and protect their child with every fiber of her being. The thought filled him with a warmth that surpassed the guilt and anger that had consumed him moments ago.

“It may not be what we had planned, but there’s no one else in this world that I would ever, in any lifetime, want to be experiencing this with.” Luke assured Rosey.

Rosey giggled. “Silly boy, we don’t have a plan!”

“I know that I plan to marry you someday.” Luke’s tone was serious and she was shocked silent. “I don’t need to plan for anything else, you’re all I need.”

“Okay, okay, baby girl, let’s go for a nap, yeah?” Luke’s voice was strained with worry. He scooped her up into his arms, the softness of her skin burning against his. She didn’t protest, a sign that something was seriously off. Usually, she’d fight naps like a champ, insisting she was a big kid. But today she just snuggled into his neck, the heat from her forehead seeping into his skin. He carried her to her room, the hallway seeming to stretch on forever. The gentle squeak of his shoes on the floor was the only sound except for her shallow breaths.

Her nursery was a soft explosion of pink and white, but today it felt like a prison cell. The curtains were drawn, leaving only a sliver of light that painted the room in a sad, yellow glow. He laid her down on the crib mattress, her favorite blanket underneath her. He could hear the faint rattle in her breathing, and it was like nails on a chalkboard to his overworked nerves. He leaned over to kiss her forehead, and that’s when it all clicked. He realized how hot she was against him. She was a little furnace that had been running on overdrive. When he had picked her up first thought was she was warm from overworking herself. All the crying she had been doing was what made her warm. But no. This was definitely different.

Panic took over him like a wildfire. He knew that sound all too well. It was the same sound he heard last winter when she had croup. He didn’t want to jump to conclusions, but the feeling in his gut was heavy. He grabbed the thermometer and quickly scanned her forehead. The beep was like a gunshot, echoing through the room. He checked the display. 102 degrees. His heart plummeted.

With trembling hands, he picked Emersyn up again, cradling her closer to his chest. He didn’t know what to do. Was this just a cold or something more? His mind raced with all the worst scenarios. He needed Rosey, she’d know what to do. He fumbled with his phone, his thumbs slipping over the screen as he typed out a frantic text. “Come home. Emmy’s not okay. Something’s wrong.”

But as he hit send, he knew that wasn’t enough. He needed advice now, and his mother, Ellen, was the next best thing. He dialed her number, his voice wavering when she answered.

“Mom, Emersyn’s not right. She’s so warm and... I don’t know. Her breathing is funny again.” The words tumbled out of him like a waterfall.

Ellen’s voice was calm and soothing, a stark contrast to the chaos in Luke’s mind. “Okay, sweetheart, just breathe. Tell me what’s happening. Is she still crying?”

“No, she’s just... listless. And her breathing, it’s like she’s fighting to get air in. And she’s so warm, Mom. So warm. What if I’ve missed something? What if I’m not doing this right?” The doubt in his voice was palpable, even through the phone.

Ellen’s calmness was a balm to his fear. “You’re doing everything right, Luke. You’re a wonderful father. It’s probably just a fever, but we’ll figure it out together. Has she had any other symptoms? Runny nose, cough, anything?”

Luke’s eyes searched Emersyn’s face as he talked to his mom, looking for any sign of distress she might be trying to hide. “No, nothing like that. She’s just been clingy and whiny all day. And her breathing... I.. I didn’t notice it until I tried to put her down for a nap but I swear..it’s like she’s fighting for every breath she takes. Just like last winter.”

Ellen’s voice remained calm, her years of experience as a mother and grandmother steadying him. “Alright, let’s not panic. It could just be a summer cold, but you’re doing the right thing by keeping an eye on her. Give her some children’s Tylenol to bring down the fever. It’s in the medicine cabinet, right?”

Luke nodded, even though she couldn’t see him. “Yes, but I’m scared, Mom. What if it’s more than just a cold?” His voice cracked, and he felt his eyes burn with unshed tears.

Before his mother could respond, he heard the sound of the front door bursting open, followed by the thunder of quick footsteps. “Luke? Emmy?” Rosey’s voice echoed through the house, filled with urgency. Relief flooded him, and he rushed out of the nursery, Emersyn still in his arms.

Her eyes searched the room, finding him in the hallway. They widened when she took in their daughters state. “What’s wrong?” She demanded, breathless.

He met her gaze, his eyes pleading. “Her breathing, it’s off. And she’s so warm. I don’t know what to do. I called you because...” His voice trailed off, his throat tight with emotion.

Rosey took Emersyn from his arms, her eyes scanning her daughter’s flushed face. She felt her forehead and nodded gravely. “We need to get her temperature down. Did you give her anything?”

“No, I just took her temperature and texted you. I didn’t know what to do. I called my mom too. She reminded me to give her medicine but then you got home.. God Ro. See I can’t do this without you here I don’t know what I’m doing.”

Rosey’s heart ached for the fear etched on Luke’s face. He was a fantastic father, but she knew he had moments of doubt like anyone else. She couldn’t help but feel a twinge of guilt for not being there when he needed her most, but he only has a couple free mornings and errands were demanding her attention. But now was not the time for self-recrimination. Emersyn’s health was the priority.

“Let’s get her some water and meds,” she said, taking the lead. She moved swiftly to the kitchen, her shoes slapping against the cold tile floor. Luke followed, his eyes never leaving their daughter. Rosey grabbed the children’s Tylenol and a sippy cup filled with lukewarm water. The kitchen was bathed in the yellow glow from the nursery, a stark reminder of the concern that now filled their usually cheerful home.

Back in the living room, she placed Emersyn in her play pen, surrounded by her favorite toys. The play pen had seen countless moments of giggles and growth, but today it was a makeshift sick bay. She unwrapped the fever reducer, and with a gentle touch, gave it to Emersyn. Their daughter’s eyes searched hers, full of trust despite her discomfort. With trembling hands, Luke gave her the water, his eyes never leaving hers. They watched as she took a sip, the medicine quickly following. Emersyn’s tiny hand clutched the cup, her grip tight.

Once the medicine was down, Rosey turned to Luke, her eyes softening. “Thank you for texting me. You did the right thing. We’re in this together, okay? Everything with Em is on both of us, not just on you or on me. It takes two, or an army as momma Ellen says.” She leaned in, pressing a kiss to his cheek. The tension between them eased slightly.

“Thank you, believing in me, Ro,” Luke murmured, his eyes never leaving their daughter. The words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. It wasn’t just about this moment, it was about every moment he felt inadequate as a father. Every time he didn’t know what to do, every time he second-guessed himself, every time he thought he was failing. Her belief in him was like a beacon in the fog.

Rosey leaned her head on his shoulder, her hands intertwined with his. “Lukey, I’ve believed in you since we were kids, of course I’m going to believe in you with our baby girl,” she whispered, her voice a balm to his fear.

nj.hockeytea

liked by user63, user22, and 12,438 others

tagged: jackhughes, youruser

nj.hockeytea: These pictures sent in by an anonymous user of Jack Hughes and a mystery girl. The message attached with their pictures:

Jack and his family were staying in a beach house [redacted]. This girl came with them. So she isn’t a random hook up. Unless he picked her up at the airport but by the way he was all over her I doubt that’s the story. When they were outside and it was just the two of them it was pure couple stuff, but if his brothers were around she became one of them. I don’t know if she’s trying too hard or if she’s just that in with them.

load more comments

user98 ➤ shes been seen with jack before

user3 ➤ could they not give them privacy???

jackhughes ➤ she isnt a mystery girl, she is MY girl and has been my girl.

⟱youruser ➤ jackhughes dont get too worked up j, they just want something to get excited about.

jackhughes

liked by _quinnhughes, njdevils, lhughes_06, and 84,387

tagged: youruser

jackhughes: (y/n) and I have never believed that we have to post one another to prove our love to each other. We have have never believed that we should have to come straight out to the media and say “hey we’re together!!” That is why you don’t see these pictures or any other. Our lives are chaotic and when we are together we want to be able to freeze time just like anyone else but it be for us, not the world.

comments have been limited by user

_quinnhughes➤ did jack just go soft...

⟱jackhughes ➤ shut up. ill be anything i need to be for (youruser)

youruser ➤ jack, you have always been the sweetest. except when you let your brothers dump ice cream on me when we were 12. :( but i wouldnt trade you for anything or anyone

youruser

liked by jackhughes, trevorzegras, and 287 others

youruser: im begging for you to take my hand, wreck my plans, thats my maaaan♡︎

trevorzegras➤ hes going to be so upset you used swift lyrics and he wrote a book

_quinnhughes➤ ignore the idiot above me

_quinnhughes➤ your account is private no one would see if you called out media

_quinnhughes ➤ trevorzegras rowdy is probably staring at them in the pictures and hasn’t looked at the caption

youruser➤ im going to block u spammer

jackhughes➤ willow is damn jam

lhughes_06➤ dear god youruser what did you do to my brother. 23 years around each other is too long…….