My life just got a bit busy. Anyway, I'm sorry for the serious lack of posting. Like I said, I've been pretty busy lately, from school work to baton season to graduation, things have been a little more hectic than usual. But I'm all done with everything and now I have my free time back, which is good news for all of you that have stuck with me and still follow Candles Whisper What Our Hearts Can't Say. I'm in the process of writing Chapter Seven and with some inspiration, it should be up soon. I hope that you'll like it and pleasepleaseplease comment! I love to hear what you think. Sorry again for the huge delay. Thank you to those who still read this story!(:
-Carrie.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Chapter Six
Chapter Six
As she strolled down the snow covered sidewalk, she stopped for a moment to gaze into one of the store fronts along her path. A hockey stick and puck lay in the right corner of the well lit cabinet, a pair of gloves and mouth guard sitting to their left. As her eyes scaled across the length of the display, they came to an abrupt halt as her gaze met the middle of the case. Hanging underneath the glow of two spotlights was a black and gold jersey. The lights shone down upon six white letters carefully stitched across the back of the jersey. The last name of a league's savior, the pride and joy of a town, the hero of a city could all be read among the six letters. But in the light of Cameron Wilson's blue eyes, the letters signified a person much different.
Sidney Crosby was not a famous hockey player or the savior of the NHL to her. He was not just the pretty faced captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins or the hero of her hometown. He was not the human highlight reel or the rock star hockey player who could only dream of escaping the media. Sidney Crosby was the boy with the crooked grin who lived a few houses down the street. The boy that had once contemplated a career as a hairdresser over a career as a hockey player. The boy she had to remind everyday he was going to be something big because he never thought he was good enough. The boy that laughed at all of her stupid jokes and the same one who always made her laugh with his corny lines. The boy that she spent her summers with. The boy she spent everyday with. The boy that she called her best friend. The boy who was never seen more than a footstep behind her. The boy that was there with open arms every time a boy broke her heart. The boy who broke her heart.
She stood staring into the large case for a few moments more, the memories piling into her mind
as fast as the snow piled onto her shoulders. She quickly batted away the stray flakes of snow that had caught on her long lashes, at the same time batting away the memory that was never far from her mind. She turned from the case, walking back in the direction of her house.
A stack of Christmas movies layed on the coffee table to the left of her, as she sat cross-legged on the couch, her eyes glued to the television screen. She clutched a steaming cup of hot chocolate in her hands as she recited Hermie's lines.
"I want to be a dentist. It's fascinating work. Molars.. bicuspids." She pulled the blanket resting across her knees closer to her neck as she glanced outside at the snow whirling past the window. She was thankful she had gotten back to the house before the snow storm had picked up. As she began to sing along to the Misfit song, she heard a knock at the door and jumped up from the couch.
"Coming!" She quickly removed the chain from the door, unlocked it, and opened it to come face-to-face with someone she prayed she would not have to.
"Um, hey, Cam," Sidney smiled sheepishly from the light of the front porch, his dark curls adorned with thousands of tiny snowflakes.
"Uh. Hey, Sid. Come on in." She moved back a few steps to let him in the door. She wondered why he had picked tonight to come. The wind was whipping, the snow seemed to be coming down faster with each second, and it was even colder than normal. As he finished taking off his shoes, she lead him into the living room. She cursed herself, remembering that the only source of light was coming in the form of a candle. She motioned for him to sit down.
"Do you want anything to drink or eat? Mom made tons of cookies."
"That's alright. I'm good," he smiled, taking a seat on the couch.
"Rudolph and hot cocoa? You'll never grow up," Sidney laughed, bringing a smile to Cameron's face.
"You have a problem with Rudolph and hot chocolate, big shot?" She smirked, nudging him as she sat down next him on the couch.
"What if I do?"
"Then tough luck, kiddo."
"You're such a bad ass. But you know, now that I think of it I could go for some of your famous hot cocoa."
"Famous? Now you're just sucking up. Rip on my Rudolph and you expect me to make you hot chocolate?"
"Fine. Come on," she smiled, walking toward the kitchen.
Cameron tried her best to remind herself of the wall that she had built between Sidney and herself. She tried to remember how she had felt that morning when she realized he had left. She had even tried to remember the words scribbled across that tear stained note hiding beneath her bed. But no matter how hard she tried, she could not. It was as if all of the hurt, all of the pain, all of those memories had vanished when she saw his soft smile standing at her doorstep and try as she might, she found it impossible to hate him.
"So where are your mum and dad?" He asked, breaking the silence.
"They're at a conference in Quebec City. They were supposed to be flying home tonight, but their flight was cancelled because of the snow storm."
"Are you serious? It's Christmas Eve."
"Yes. Business is business, you know," she replied in low tone, mocking her dad.
"Are they going to be home sometime tomorrow?"
"They're not sure yet. It all depends on how long it takes for the storm to pass over. Which judging by the last weather report I watched, I'd say it's a safe bet that they won't be." Cameron placed a mug of hot chocolate on the counter in front of Sidney and pulled out a chair next to him.
"You're not spending Christmas alone," he stated bluntly, leaning over the counter top.
"And who do you suppose I'm going to spend it with. Those dust bunnies over there in the corner?"
"You could spend it with my family," he answered quietly.
"Sidney, no. I don't want to butt in on your Christmas."
"You wouldn't be butting in. No one deserves to spend Christmas alone."
"No. I'll be fine. Really. Now let's go in the living room. These chairs are so uncomfortable." With that, she got up from the chair and headed towards the living room, leaving him sitting alone at the kitchen counter.
Sidney watched for a moment as Cameron walked in the direction of the living room. He wished for just once that Cameron would swallow her pride and let her guard down, but she never did. She had always been independent, stubborn. She hardly ever let anyone in, let them know what she was feeling.
"Are you coming or are you going to sit there by yourself?" Cameron questioned from the doorway, interrupting his thoughts.
"Yeah, I'm coming," he replied, picking himself up from the chair.
"You have Sing Star?" Sidney half laughed.
"Um, yes. It's amazing. You're just jealous because you can't sing." Cameron spat back, haughtily.
"Excuse me? I'm pretty sure my singing skills blow yours out of the water any day," Sidney shot back.
"Was that a challenge I just heard, Mr. Crosby?"
"You know it."
As Cameron set the game to shuffle and hit play, she smirked viciously at Sidney.
"You do realize you're going to get your ass kicked, right?"
"Pshh. You wish."
The opening line of Joe Nichols, "Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off" began to run across the bottom of the screen and Sidney started to sing, never hitting one note correctly. Cameron laughed hysterically as Sidney whipped his hoodie off and swung it in circles above his head while "singing" along to the chorus. He sauntered over to her and sat down on her lap, slipping his socks off and throwing each of them over his shoulders to fall on Cameron's head. His voice cracked high above the proper octave and she continued to giggle uncontrollably as he slyly slid his belt off, swinging his hips from side to side. He dropped the belt beside his feet then, winking at her as he sang the last verse of the song.
"And that's how it's done, my friend," he grinned, placing the mic on the coffee table.
Cameron rolled off the couch, shaking with laughter on the hardwood floor.
"So I win?" He smiled, hovering over top of her.
"I really don't think I could follow that up, so I'll just let it go," Cameron laughed, sitting back down on the couch.
Soft, small flakes of snow fell from the sky in every direction, gently piling up into layers on the hard ground beneath her feet. She quietly continued along her path, down the softly illuminated sidewalk of Nova Scotia. The streets were empty, the sidewalks deserted in the small town. A glance at her watch revealed the time to be 11:30. She took a deep breath of the cool, winter air, steam rising up around her rosy complexion as she slowly exhaled. She had always enjoyed late night walks such as these. She could recall as a teenager slyly creeping down the stairs and out of the front door after her parents had retired to bed for the night. It was times like these she could truly think without interruption or just savor the beauty and serenity of Cole Harbour.
As she strolled down the snow covered sidewalk, she stopped for a moment to gaze into one of the store fronts along her path. A hockey stick and puck lay in the right corner of the well lit cabinet, a pair of gloves and mouth guard sitting to their left. As her eyes scaled across the length of the display, they came to an abrupt halt as her gaze met the middle of the case. Hanging underneath the glow of two spotlights was a black and gold jersey. The lights shone down upon six white letters carefully stitched across the back of the jersey. The last name of a league's savior, the pride and joy of a town, the hero of a city could all be read among the six letters. But in the light of Cameron Wilson's blue eyes, the letters signified a person much different.
Sidney Crosby was not a famous hockey player or the savior of the NHL to her. He was not just the pretty faced captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins or the hero of her hometown. He was not the human highlight reel or the rock star hockey player who could only dream of escaping the media. Sidney Crosby was the boy with the crooked grin who lived a few houses down the street. The boy that had once contemplated a career as a hairdresser over a career as a hockey player. The boy she had to remind everyday he was going to be something big because he never thought he was good enough. The boy that laughed at all of her stupid jokes and the same one who always made her laugh with his corny lines. The boy that she spent her summers with. The boy she spent everyday with. The boy that she called her best friend. The boy who was never seen more than a footstep behind her. The boy that was there with open arms every time a boy broke her heart. The boy who broke her heart.
She stood staring into the large case for a few moments more, the memories piling into her mind
as fast as the snow piled onto her shoulders. She quickly batted away the stray flakes of snow that had caught on her long lashes, at the same time batting away the memory that was never far from her mind. She turned from the case, walking back in the direction of her house.
A stack of Christmas movies layed on the coffee table to the left of her, as she sat cross-legged on the couch, her eyes glued to the television screen. She clutched a steaming cup of hot chocolate in her hands as she recited Hermie's lines.
"I want to be a dentist. It's fascinating work. Molars.. bicuspids." She pulled the blanket resting across her knees closer to her neck as she glanced outside at the snow whirling past the window. She was thankful she had gotten back to the house before the snow storm had picked up. As she began to sing along to the Misfit song, she heard a knock at the door and jumped up from the couch.
"Coming!" She quickly removed the chain from the door, unlocked it, and opened it to come face-to-face with someone she prayed she would not have to.
"Um, hey, Cam," Sidney smiled sheepishly from the light of the front porch, his dark curls adorned with thousands of tiny snowflakes.
"Uh. Hey, Sid. Come on in." She moved back a few steps to let him in the door. She wondered why he had picked tonight to come. The wind was whipping, the snow seemed to be coming down faster with each second, and it was even colder than normal. As he finished taking off his shoes, she lead him into the living room. She cursed herself, remembering that the only source of light was coming in the form of a candle. She motioned for him to sit down.
"Do you want anything to drink or eat? Mom made tons of cookies."
"That's alright. I'm good," he smiled, taking a seat on the couch.
"Rudolph and hot cocoa? You'll never grow up," Sidney laughed, bringing a smile to Cameron's face.
"You have a problem with Rudolph and hot chocolate, big shot?" She smirked, nudging him as she sat down next him on the couch.
"What if I do?"
"Then tough luck, kiddo."
"You're such a bad ass. But you know, now that I think of it I could go for some of your famous hot cocoa."
"Famous? Now you're just sucking up. Rip on my Rudolph and you expect me to make you hot chocolate?"
"Pleaseee," he begged, pushing his lower lip out into a sad, puppy dog face.
"Fine. Come on," she smiled, walking toward the kitchen.
Cameron tried her best to remind herself of the wall that she had built between Sidney and herself. She tried to remember how she had felt that morning when she realized he had left. She had even tried to remember the words scribbled across that tear stained note hiding beneath her bed. But no matter how hard she tried, she could not. It was as if all of the hurt, all of the pain, all of those memories had vanished when she saw his soft smile standing at her doorstep and try as she might, she found it impossible to hate him.
"So where are your mum and dad?" He asked, breaking the silence.
"They're at a conference in Quebec City. They were supposed to be flying home tonight, but their flight was cancelled because of the snow storm."
"Are you serious? It's Christmas Eve."
"Yes. Business is business, you know," she replied in low tone, mocking her dad.
"Are they going to be home sometime tomorrow?"
"They're not sure yet. It all depends on how long it takes for the storm to pass over. Which judging by the last weather report I watched, I'd say it's a safe bet that they won't be." Cameron placed a mug of hot chocolate on the counter in front of Sidney and pulled out a chair next to him.
"You're not spending Christmas alone," he stated bluntly, leaning over the counter top.
"And who do you suppose I'm going to spend it with. Those dust bunnies over there in the corner?"
"You could spend it with my family," he answered quietly.
"Sidney, no. I don't want to butt in on your Christmas."
"You wouldn't be butting in. No one deserves to spend Christmas alone."
"No. I'll be fine. Really. Now let's go in the living room. These chairs are so uncomfortable." With that, she got up from the chair and headed towards the living room, leaving him sitting alone at the kitchen counter.
Sidney watched for a moment as Cameron walked in the direction of the living room. He wished for just once that Cameron would swallow her pride and let her guard down, but she never did. She had always been independent, stubborn. She hardly ever let anyone in, let them know what she was feeling.
"Are you coming or are you going to sit there by yourself?" Cameron questioned from the doorway, interrupting his thoughts.
"Yeah, I'm coming," he replied, picking himself up from the chair.
"You have Sing Star?" Sidney half laughed.
"Um, yes. It's amazing. You're just jealous because you can't sing." Cameron spat back, haughtily.
"Excuse me? I'm pretty sure my singing skills blow yours out of the water any day," Sidney shot back.
"Was that a challenge I just heard, Mr. Crosby?"
"You know it."
As Cameron set the game to shuffle and hit play, she smirked viciously at Sidney.
"You do realize you're going to get your ass kicked, right?"
"Pshh. You wish."
The opening line of Joe Nichols, "Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off" began to run across the bottom of the screen and Sidney started to sing, never hitting one note correctly. Cameron laughed hysterically as Sidney whipped his hoodie off and swung it in circles above his head while "singing" along to the chorus. He sauntered over to her and sat down on her lap, slipping his socks off and throwing each of them over his shoulders to fall on Cameron's head. His voice cracked high above the proper octave and she continued to giggle uncontrollably as he slyly slid his belt off, swinging his hips from side to side. He dropped the belt beside his feet then, winking at her as he sang the last verse of the song.
"And that's how it's done, my friend," he grinned, placing the mic on the coffee table.
Cameron rolled off the couch, shaking with laughter on the hardwood floor.
"So I win?" He smiled, hovering over top of her.
"I really don't think I could follow that up, so I'll just let it go," Cameron laughed, sitting back down on the couch.
"You still have this picture?" Sidney smiled over at her, holding a wooden picture frame in his hands.
"Yeah," she laughed. She stared over at the picture. It was a photo taken of the two of them when they were only six. It was sunny, summer day in July and their families had decided to have a picnic at the lake nearby. Their parents had told them both to sit at the picnic table close to where they were grilling until the food was ready. Being kids, they both grew tired of sitting and got up from the table when no one was looking. Their parents began to panic when they realized they were gone and ran around the park looking for them. Ten minutes later, they spotted them on the dock near the table they had been sitting at. They were holding hands, smiling as they ran back towards them.
"Mom and Dad refuse to ever take it down. They love it. I moved it up to my room once just to see what they'd do. They yelled at me for moving it and ordered me to put it back."
"Those were good times," Sidney smiled, his eyes still fixated on the picture.
"Yeah, they were... ah, I love this song."
They had both forgotten that the Singstar was still shuffling through songs and Kenny Chesney's, "Anything But Mine," was now blaring through the speakers of the television.
"When did you become such a country fan?"
"I don't really know, to be honest with you. I just kind of fell for it, I guess."
The room fell silent as they both listened intently to the song. It was soft, easy... the perfect summer song, the perfect summer love song. And now as they each let the lyrics sink in, everything was coming back.
"I've really missed you, Cam," Sidney spoke quietly, his soft, hazel eyes locked on hers.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Chapter Five
Chapter Five
It had been two years since Sidney had last seen Cameron. After that night, he had realized the extent of the mistake he had made. That Christmas, he nervously stood at her doorstep, a red rose clutched in his hand, praying she would answer. But, to his dismay no one had. He had tried several times since then to regain contact with her, but never had. Looking at her now, she was as beautiful as he had remembered. Although it was not how Sidney had imagined meeting up with her again, he thanked God that he had placed her back into his life. He knew now he would not let her go again.
"Sidney, put me down!" She screamed once more.
"Sid, seriously. I don't feel good," she pleaded.
He contemplated his decision for a few, short seconds. 'What if she runs off? I do not want to lose her.'
Cameron began to cough and soon Sidney felt something trickle down his back.
"Shit," he muttered, setting her gently on the ground.
"I told you to put me down, but no. You have to be the same stubborn asshole you've always been," she sneered at him, before quickly kneeling to the ground to throw up again.
Sidney knelt down beside her, sweeping her hair up into his hands and softly rubbing her back with his other hand.
"No... no. Just go away, I don't need your help. I... I don't need you." She coughed again and turned her head back to the pavement.
His heart broke at the sound of her words. Did she really mean that? Was it just the alcohol talking? She must have meant something by it. Even so, he refused to leave her side.
"No, I'm not leaving you. Cam, you're a mess. You need someone here."
"You didn't have a problem leaving me two years ago. What makes things different now? Sid, just leave."
She continued to vomit on the sidewalk. He deeply regretted what he had done two years ago. Now more than ever. At the time, he thought it was the best thing for the both of them. But now, now he knew how much it had hurt her. He wished he could take back everything.
"You need to get her off of the sidewalk now," a man in black demanded from beside them.
"Excuse me?" Sidney questioned, angered.
"She can't be on our property. Get her out of here."
"Can't you see she's sick? I'll get her out of her as soon as she's feeling better and that'll have to be soon enough," Sidney snarled back, still kneeling by Cameron's side.
"Get her off the property now or I'll have the police handle this."
Sidney sighed. "Fine. Don't think I'm ever coming back here though."
"Are you going to be okay, Cam?" He asked her, concern evident in his hazel eyes.
"I think so," she replied, attempting to stand back up.
"Oh no, you're not walking."
Sidney carefully lifted her into his arms, carrying her bridal style towards the parking lot.
"I'll call my friend to come take me home," she slurred.
"No, you can come stay with me for the night. I wouldn't feel right leaving you with anyone else."
"Sid, really. It's okay. I... I don't want to ruin your night."
"You could never ruin my night. It's fine. And if you don't trust me taking care of you, Natalie makes a great nurse," he smiled.
"Okay," she smiled back.
Even though she had convinced herself she hated Sidney, she was happy she had stumbled over him. She could not think of anyone else that would kneel with her and take care of her after she threw up all over their shirt. Maybe, she was being harsh with him.
"Are you going to be okay if I put you down for a second to get my keys out and open the door?"
"Yeah, I think."
He slowly set her on the ground and steadied her against himself. He fumbled for his keys and quickly opened the passenger side door.
"Alright, let's get you in here." He scooped her into his arms again and delicately lowered her into the seat. He then fastened the seat belt and hurried to the hatch of the car.
"Here. Just in case," he winked, handing her a plastic shopping bag.
"Thanks," she laughed as he shut the door and ran to the other side of the car.
The drive to the house went by slowly and quietly. Neither knew what to say to the other. Confused thoughts continued to pour through Cameron's mind. Meanwhile, Sidney reflected on that night and on the note he had written. He pondered how he could apologize to her. He knew, "sorry" would never be enough and no excuses could ever cover his actions.
"Welcome to the Lemieux's," Sidney grinned, pulling up to the colossal house.
"Wow," Cameron uttered.
The name seemed familiar to her, but she was too drunk to remember at the moment. She pulled at the door handle as Sidney got out of the drivers side.
"Woah, woah. No walking for you, missy. I don't need you getting hurt."
"Sid, come on. I'm fine," she said, stumbling out of the car.
"Yeah, fine," he mimicked, catching her and pulling her up into his arms once more.
He carried her up the walk and rang the doorbell.
"Sid? Who's that?" A woman with blond hair questioned, opening the door.
"Remember when I was telling you about that girl that I grew up with? Well, this is Cameron Wilson. She's not feeling very well, so I figured we could take care of her for the night. I didn't feel right leaving her with anyone else."
"Oh, okay! Poor girl! Don't worry, sweetie, we'll take good care of you. Let's get you set up in one of the guest rooms. Take her up to the room across from yours Sid," Natalie smiled sweetly.
Sidney carried her up the staircase and down a carpeted hallway. He swiftly kicked a door open and walked inside. He gingerly lowered he into the bed and kneltdown beside the bed.
"I'm going to go change out of this. I'll get you something to wear. Nat, should be up in a bit. But in the meantime if you need to use the bathroom, it's right down the hall on your right."
"Alright."
"Okay, I'll be right back," he got up and walked out of the room, closing the door behind him.
Just as Sidney had said, the door creaked open a few seconds later and Natalie popped into the room.
"Hi Cameron. I'm Natalie, just in case Sidney didn't tell you. How are you feeling?" She smiled, setting a tray of saltines and ginger ale on the night stand and putting a bucket at the side of the bed.
"I'm starting to feel a bit better. And thank you for letting me stay the night. I feel like I'm putting you guys out."
"Oh, it's no problem, hunny. We're glad to have you here. Sidney's told me so much about you."
"Really?"
"Yes. From what I've heard, you're a real sweet girl. I just wish we could have met on better terms... I'm sorry. My husband's calling. But we really are glad to have you. If you need anything, just give us a yell," she smiled, walking out of the room.
"Thank you, Natalie."
As Natalie walked out of the room, Sidney walked back in holding a pair of boxer shorts and a black tee-shirt in his hand.
"Feeling any better?" He asked, seating himself on the edge of the bed.
"A little. I still have a massive headache though. I'm going to go change real quick. I'll be right back."
"Okay."
Cameron returned a few minutes later, dressed in the clothes Sidney have given her.
"So, who are the Penguins?" She questioned him, laying back down on the side of the bed opposite of where he was laying.
"They're the NHL team here. I play for them."
"So that's where you were drafted."
"You didn't know?"
"No, I stopped following hockey after... well, you know."
"Oh. Cam, listen..."
She cut him off, "No. Not tonight, Sid. I'm not ready to talk about that."
"Okay."
The room fell silent. Sidney looked up to the clock on the wall.
"It's getting late and I have practice tomorrow morning, so I think I'm going to bed. If you're not up before I leave, you're more than welcome to hang around. Actually, I'd feel better if you did. And Cam, it's great to see you. I really missed you. Anyway, goodnight," he smiled, his hand on the light switch as he began to close the door.
"Sidney," she called.
He turned back toward her.
"Yeah?"
"Thanks."
"Anytime. Goodnight."
"Night," she smiled, snuggling into the covers.
It had been two years since Sidney had last seen Cameron. After that night, he had realized the extent of the mistake he had made. That Christmas, he nervously stood at her doorstep, a red rose clutched in his hand, praying she would answer. But, to his dismay no one had. He had tried several times since then to regain contact with her, but never had. Looking at her now, she was as beautiful as he had remembered. Although it was not how Sidney had imagined meeting up with her again, he thanked God that he had placed her back into his life. He knew now he would not let her go again.
"Sidney, put me down!" She screamed once more.
"Sid, seriously. I don't feel good," she pleaded.
He contemplated his decision for a few, short seconds. 'What if she runs off? I do not want to lose her.'
Cameron began to cough and soon Sidney felt something trickle down his back.
"Shit," he muttered, setting her gently on the ground.
"I told you to put me down, but no. You have to be the same stubborn asshole you've always been," she sneered at him, before quickly kneeling to the ground to throw up again.
Sidney knelt down beside her, sweeping her hair up into his hands and softly rubbing her back with his other hand.
"No... no. Just go away, I don't need your help. I... I don't need you." She coughed again and turned her head back to the pavement.
His heart broke at the sound of her words. Did she really mean that? Was it just the alcohol talking? She must have meant something by it. Even so, he refused to leave her side.
"No, I'm not leaving you. Cam, you're a mess. You need someone here."
"You didn't have a problem leaving me two years ago. What makes things different now? Sid, just leave."
She continued to vomit on the sidewalk. He deeply regretted what he had done two years ago. Now more than ever. At the time, he thought it was the best thing for the both of them. But now, now he knew how much it had hurt her. He wished he could take back everything.
"You need to get her off of the sidewalk now," a man in black demanded from beside them.
"Excuse me?" Sidney questioned, angered.
"She can't be on our property. Get her out of here."
"Can't you see she's sick? I'll get her out of her as soon as she's feeling better and that'll have to be soon enough," Sidney snarled back, still kneeling by Cameron's side.
"Get her off the property now or I'll have the police handle this."
Sidney sighed. "Fine. Don't think I'm ever coming back here though."
"Are you going to be okay, Cam?" He asked her, concern evident in his hazel eyes.
"I think so," she replied, attempting to stand back up.
"Oh no, you're not walking."
Sidney carefully lifted her into his arms, carrying her bridal style towards the parking lot.
"I'll call my friend to come take me home," she slurred.
"No, you can come stay with me for the night. I wouldn't feel right leaving you with anyone else."
"Sid, really. It's okay. I... I don't want to ruin your night."
"You could never ruin my night. It's fine. And if you don't trust me taking care of you, Natalie makes a great nurse," he smiled.
"Okay," she smiled back.
Even though she had convinced herself she hated Sidney, she was happy she had stumbled over him. She could not think of anyone else that would kneel with her and take care of her after she threw up all over their shirt. Maybe, she was being harsh with him.
"Are you going to be okay if I put you down for a second to get my keys out and open the door?"
"Yeah, I think."
He slowly set her on the ground and steadied her against himself. He fumbled for his keys and quickly opened the passenger side door.
"Alright, let's get you in here." He scooped her into his arms again and delicately lowered her into the seat. He then fastened the seat belt and hurried to the hatch of the car.
"Here. Just in case," he winked, handing her a plastic shopping bag.
"Thanks," she laughed as he shut the door and ran to the other side of the car.
The drive to the house went by slowly and quietly. Neither knew what to say to the other. Confused thoughts continued to pour through Cameron's mind. Meanwhile, Sidney reflected on that night and on the note he had written. He pondered how he could apologize to her. He knew, "sorry" would never be enough and no excuses could ever cover his actions.
"Welcome to the Lemieux's," Sidney grinned, pulling up to the colossal house.
"Wow," Cameron uttered.
The name seemed familiar to her, but she was too drunk to remember at the moment. She pulled at the door handle as Sidney got out of the drivers side.
"Woah, woah. No walking for you, missy. I don't need you getting hurt."
"Sid, come on. I'm fine," she said, stumbling out of the car.
"Yeah, fine," he mimicked, catching her and pulling her up into his arms once more.
He carried her up the walk and rang the doorbell.
"Sid? Who's that?" A woman with blond hair questioned, opening the door.
"Remember when I was telling you about that girl that I grew up with? Well, this is Cameron Wilson. She's not feeling very well, so I figured we could take care of her for the night. I didn't feel right leaving her with anyone else."
"Oh, okay! Poor girl! Don't worry, sweetie, we'll take good care of you. Let's get you set up in one of the guest rooms. Take her up to the room across from yours Sid," Natalie smiled sweetly.
Sidney carried her up the staircase and down a carpeted hallway. He swiftly kicked a door open and walked inside. He gingerly lowered he into the bed and kneltdown beside the bed.
"I'm going to go change out of this. I'll get you something to wear. Nat, should be up in a bit. But in the meantime if you need to use the bathroom, it's right down the hall on your right."
"Alright."
"Okay, I'll be right back," he got up and walked out of the room, closing the door behind him.
Just as Sidney had said, the door creaked open a few seconds later and Natalie popped into the room.
"Hi Cameron. I'm Natalie, just in case Sidney didn't tell you. How are you feeling?" She smiled, setting a tray of saltines and ginger ale on the night stand and putting a bucket at the side of the bed.
"I'm starting to feel a bit better. And thank you for letting me stay the night. I feel like I'm putting you guys out."
"Oh, it's no problem, hunny. We're glad to have you here. Sidney's told me so much about you."
"Really?"
"Yes. From what I've heard, you're a real sweet girl. I just wish we could have met on better terms... I'm sorry. My husband's calling. But we really are glad to have you. If you need anything, just give us a yell," she smiled, walking out of the room.
"Thank you, Natalie."
As Natalie walked out of the room, Sidney walked back in holding a pair of boxer shorts and a black tee-shirt in his hand.
"Feeling any better?" He asked, seating himself on the edge of the bed.
"A little. I still have a massive headache though. I'm going to go change real quick. I'll be right back."
"Okay."
Cameron returned a few minutes later, dressed in the clothes Sidney have given her.
"So, who are the Penguins?" She questioned him, laying back down on the side of the bed opposite of where he was laying.
"They're the NHL team here. I play for them."
"So that's where you were drafted."
"You didn't know?"
"No, I stopped following hockey after... well, you know."
"Oh. Cam, listen..."
She cut him off, "No. Not tonight, Sid. I'm not ready to talk about that."
"Okay."
The room fell silent. Sidney looked up to the clock on the wall.
"It's getting late and I have practice tomorrow morning, so I think I'm going to bed. If you're not up before I leave, you're more than welcome to hang around. Actually, I'd feel better if you did. And Cam, it's great to see you. I really missed you. Anyway, goodnight," he smiled, his hand on the light switch as he began to close the door.
"Sidney," she called.
He turned back toward her.
"Yeah?"
"Thanks."
"Anytime. Goodnight."
"Night," she smiled, snuggling into the covers.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Chapter Four
Chapter Four
Three words… three simple words. Then, another four, equally as simple. Each individual word binding together as a whole to create a meaning worth more than could ever be expressed. They danced about his mind, flowing effortlessly through his body.
"I love you," he whispered into her ear. "I love you too," she murmured back softly.
He could feel her touch now... soft, easy... her warm body pressing against his, her soft breathe gently grazing his neck, her ghost touching every inch of his skin. He watched as she walked toward the elevator, unable to move... speak... unable to think. She was a part of him. A part that would never leave him.
"I love you," he breathed silently as the elevator doors shut.
*****
"Cameron, you promised me if I let you borrow my car you'd come out with us! You're not weaseling your way out this time," Jil yelled, flailing her arms through the air.
Cameron turned from her desk to face Jil.
"Does it look like I can come out and play? Jil, I have a huge bio test next Tuesday and this stupid chem project. I'm sorry. I don't have the time!"
Jil stared straight into Cameron's eyes, a serious, stern look draped across her olive features. Cameron had yet to see this side of Jil.
"You have the time. You know you do. I don't know what the hell you're trying to cover... I wish I did, but whatever it is, I'm not buying it. You're coming with us if I have to drag you by your hair. A promise is a promise. So, I'd suggest getting your ass in gear. We're leaving at 8:00." With that, Jil turned and headed to her room.
Cameron ran through the hallway and into the living room in her sleek red pumps.
"Guys, wait up! I can't run in these," she shouted teetering behind Jil and Audrey.
Jil smiled and nudged Audrey with a wink.
"Oh, so now little miss bookworm decides she wants to tag along."
"You didn't really give me a choice. A promise is a promise you know." Cameron smirked breathlessly, catching up to the two.
"That it is, my friend. That it is. Now let's get going, the boys won't wait forever," she smiled walking in the direction of the car, the other two following close behind.
"Um, not to sound stupid... but where are we?" Cameron asked, scanning the room.
She squinted as a bright light whirled past her eyes, then looked back to Jil and Audrey.
"Diesel, my love. Now let's go get something to drink," Audrey grinned, sauntering off in the direction of the bar.
Cameron and Jil followed close behind, winding through the herds of people, and up to the bar. Cameron gently squeezed herself into the bar, flashing a gracious smile toward the dark-haired guy sitting at the stool beside her. Simply, he sent a wink in her direction and turned his attention back to who Cameron assumed was his friend, sitting beside him.
"What do you guys want?" Audrey questioned.
"An apple martini for me," Jil replied.
"Jack on the Rocks please," Cameron chimed in.
"That'll be on me."
Cameron spun around to face the same tall, blond haired boy she had met earlier at the hospital. She cursed the butterflies that found their way back to her stomach as she smiled up at him.
"Hey Cameron," he grinned, unexpectedly pulling her into a hug.
She furrowed her brows at his action. She had only known of his existence for a few short hours and he had only talked with her long enough to be aware of her first name. Now he was hugging her? She took a deep breath, in the meantime catching his scent. That alone quieted her thoughts.
"So, I saw you walking in and I was wondering if you'd want to come up to V.I.P. with me? Your friends are more that welcome to come too. It looks a little crazy down here," he laughed.
Cameron hesitated a moment, "Um..."
"Sure. We'd love to," Jil interrupted, elbowing Cameron as she handed her the drink she had ordered.
"Great. Just follow me," Jordan smiled, snaking his arm around Cameron, who sent a death glare back to Jil.
The three followed Jordan as they made their way to the V.I.P. section. Cameron began to wonder what was so special about this Jordan guy. He had said that he played hockey for the Pens, but who were the Pens? Maybe he was just having a party and booked a V.I.P. room. She pushed the thought from her mind, figuring all of her questions would be answered soon enough.
"Yo, Gronk. Who's the arm candy?"
Cameron began to feel uneasy and somewhat angry as they stepped through the doors of the V.I.P. section. They walked up towards the shorter, dark haired guy and stopped in front of him.
"Max, this is Cameron. She's the girl I was telling you about. Cameron, this is one of my teammates, Max."
"Nice to meet you," she smiled, hiding her newly established annoyance with Max and Jordan.
"Pleasure to meet you, too," Max winked, taking her hand and kissing it gently.
She made a mental note to excuse herself to the bathroom to wash her hands. They continued to converse for a few minutes before Max wandered away and left she and Jordan alone.
****
"That's a sight I wouldn't mind seeing," Jordan smirked.
"I'm glad you regard being pantsed on stage as a turn on." Cameron slapped his chest playfully, then rested her arm around his shoulders again.
The few Jack's she had drank were beginning to catch up to her and she was now seated comfortably on Jordan's lap.
"So, Mr. Staal... what's your most embarrassing moment?" She prodded, grinning widely at him.
"Hm... well, there was this one time when I played in the OHL. I went to take a shower and a few minutes into it I heard all of my teammates yelling that something in the locker room caught fire. So, of course, I ran 90 miles an hour out of the showers only to find all of my teammates standing there laughing at me and the girl I was after at the time standing with them. I don't think my face has ever turned that red since."
"Well, that's a sight I wouldn't mind seeing either," she breathed heavily, inches from his ear.
Swiftly, she moved her left leg over both of his, straddling him comfortably. She gently trailed kisses over his cheek and to the corner of his lips. He reacted quickly, moving his lips to catch hers in a lingering kiss, then pulled away.
"How about we go some place a little more private."
"I like the way you think, Staal," she smirked, before Jordan effortlessly lifted her into his arms and carried her towards the door.
Cameron continued to plant kisses along his jaw line as they moved closer to the door. She softly ran her fingers over his face and moved her mouth upward to find his again.
"What the hell is this!"
Her heart immediately stopped and she scrunched her eyes shut. She knew the voice. She knew it better than any other. However, she hoped she would never hear it again.
"Again, what the hell is this?"
She opened her eyes to come face to face with the man she wished she would never see again... Sidney. His eyes were filled with anger, but she noticed a twinge of something else in them... hurt. She could hardly bare to look at him.
"What it looks like. Why does it matter to you," Jordan snarled back.
"You're drunk. I can smell it on your breath. You're not going anywhere with him. You're coming with me," Sidney blurted out.
"What do you mean, she's going with you? She's coming with me, Sid."
"No. That's Cameron Alison Wilson and she's coming with me."
A look of horror struck Jordan's face. He knew why Cameron would be going with Sidney. She was his.
"I'm not going anywhere with you, you arrogant asshole!" Cameron slurred.
She began to stalk towards the door. Her head was spinning, not only from the drinks, but from him. Dizzily, she stumbled, falling directly into his Sidney's arms.
"Come on, let's go," he stated, lifting her over his shoulder.
"No! Sidney Patrick Crosby, put me the hell down!" She screamed, pounding on his back and kicking her legs.
"Sidney, put me down now! I hate you!" She cried out.
Three words… three simple words. Then, another four, equally as simple. Each individual word binding together as a whole to create a meaning worth more than could ever be expressed. They danced about his mind, flowing effortlessly through his body.
"I love you," he whispered into her ear. "I love you too," she murmured back softly.
He could feel her touch now... soft, easy... her warm body pressing against his, her soft breathe gently grazing his neck, her ghost touching every inch of his skin. He watched as she walked toward the elevator, unable to move... speak... unable to think. She was a part of him. A part that would never leave him.
"I love you," he breathed silently as the elevator doors shut.
*****
"Cameron, you promised me if I let you borrow my car you'd come out with us! You're not weaseling your way out this time," Jil yelled, flailing her arms through the air.
Cameron turned from her desk to face Jil.
"Does it look like I can come out and play? Jil, I have a huge bio test next Tuesday and this stupid chem project. I'm sorry. I don't have the time!"
Jil stared straight into Cameron's eyes, a serious, stern look draped across her olive features. Cameron had yet to see this side of Jil.
"You have the time. You know you do. I don't know what the hell you're trying to cover... I wish I did, but whatever it is, I'm not buying it. You're coming with us if I have to drag you by your hair. A promise is a promise. So, I'd suggest getting your ass in gear. We're leaving at 8:00." With that, Jil turned and headed to her room.
Cameron ran through the hallway and into the living room in her sleek red pumps.
"Guys, wait up! I can't run in these," she shouted teetering behind Jil and Audrey.
Jil smiled and nudged Audrey with a wink.
"Oh, so now little miss bookworm decides she wants to tag along."
"You didn't really give me a choice. A promise is a promise you know." Cameron smirked breathlessly, catching up to the two.
"That it is, my friend. That it is. Now let's get going, the boys won't wait forever," she smiled walking in the direction of the car, the other two following close behind.
"Um, not to sound stupid... but where are we?" Cameron asked, scanning the room.
She squinted as a bright light whirled past her eyes, then looked back to Jil and Audrey.
"Diesel, my love. Now let's go get something to drink," Audrey grinned, sauntering off in the direction of the bar.
Cameron and Jil followed close behind, winding through the herds of people, and up to the bar. Cameron gently squeezed herself into the bar, flashing a gracious smile toward the dark-haired guy sitting at the stool beside her. Simply, he sent a wink in her direction and turned his attention back to who Cameron assumed was his friend, sitting beside him.
"What do you guys want?" Audrey questioned.
"An apple martini for me," Jil replied.
"Jack on the Rocks please," Cameron chimed in.
"That'll be on me."
Cameron spun around to face the same tall, blond haired boy she had met earlier at the hospital. She cursed the butterflies that found their way back to her stomach as she smiled up at him.
"Hey Cameron," he grinned, unexpectedly pulling her into a hug.
She furrowed her brows at his action. She had only known of his existence for a few short hours and he had only talked with her long enough to be aware of her first name. Now he was hugging her? She took a deep breath, in the meantime catching his scent. That alone quieted her thoughts.
"So, I saw you walking in and I was wondering if you'd want to come up to V.I.P. with me? Your friends are more that welcome to come too. It looks a little crazy down here," he laughed.
Cameron hesitated a moment, "Um..."
"Sure. We'd love to," Jil interrupted, elbowing Cameron as she handed her the drink she had ordered.
"Great. Just follow me," Jordan smiled, snaking his arm around Cameron, who sent a death glare back to Jil.
The three followed Jordan as they made their way to the V.I.P. section. Cameron began to wonder what was so special about this Jordan guy. He had said that he played hockey for the Pens, but who were the Pens? Maybe he was just having a party and booked a V.I.P. room. She pushed the thought from her mind, figuring all of her questions would be answered soon enough.
"Yo, Gronk. Who's the arm candy?"
Cameron began to feel uneasy and somewhat angry as they stepped through the doors of the V.I.P. section. They walked up towards the shorter, dark haired guy and stopped in front of him.
"Max, this is Cameron. She's the girl I was telling you about. Cameron, this is one of my teammates, Max."
"Nice to meet you," she smiled, hiding her newly established annoyance with Max and Jordan.
"Pleasure to meet you, too," Max winked, taking her hand and kissing it gently.
She made a mental note to excuse herself to the bathroom to wash her hands. They continued to converse for a few minutes before Max wandered away and left she and Jordan alone.
****
"That's a sight I wouldn't mind seeing," Jordan smirked.
"I'm glad you regard being pantsed on stage as a turn on." Cameron slapped his chest playfully, then rested her arm around his shoulders again.
The few Jack's she had drank were beginning to catch up to her and she was now seated comfortably on Jordan's lap.
"So, Mr. Staal... what's your most embarrassing moment?" She prodded, grinning widely at him.
"Hm... well, there was this one time when I played in the OHL. I went to take a shower and a few minutes into it I heard all of my teammates yelling that something in the locker room caught fire. So, of course, I ran 90 miles an hour out of the showers only to find all of my teammates standing there laughing at me and the girl I was after at the time standing with them. I don't think my face has ever turned that red since."
"Well, that's a sight I wouldn't mind seeing either," she breathed heavily, inches from his ear.
Swiftly, she moved her left leg over both of his, straddling him comfortably. She gently trailed kisses over his cheek and to the corner of his lips. He reacted quickly, moving his lips to catch hers in a lingering kiss, then pulled away.
"How about we go some place a little more private."
"I like the way you think, Staal," she smirked, before Jordan effortlessly lifted her into his arms and carried her towards the door.
Cameron continued to plant kisses along his jaw line as they moved closer to the door. She softly ran her fingers over his face and moved her mouth upward to find his again.
"What the hell is this!"
Her heart immediately stopped and she scrunched her eyes shut. She knew the voice. She knew it better than any other. However, she hoped she would never hear it again.
"Again, what the hell is this?"
She opened her eyes to come face to face with the man she wished she would never see again... Sidney. His eyes were filled with anger, but she noticed a twinge of something else in them... hurt. She could hardly bare to look at him.
"What it looks like. Why does it matter to you," Jordan snarled back.
"You're drunk. I can smell it on your breath. You're not going anywhere with him. You're coming with me," Sidney blurted out.
"What do you mean, she's going with you? She's coming with me, Sid."
"No. That's Cameron Alison Wilson and she's coming with me."
A look of horror struck Jordan's face. He knew why Cameron would be going with Sidney. She was his.
"I'm not going anywhere with you, you arrogant asshole!" Cameron slurred.
She began to stalk towards the door. Her head was spinning, not only from the drinks, but from him. Dizzily, she stumbled, falling directly into his Sidney's arms.
"Come on, let's go," he stated, lifting her over his shoulder.
"No! Sidney Patrick Crosby, put me the hell down!" She screamed, pounding on his back and kicking her legs.
"Sidney, put me down now! I hate you!" She cried out.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Chapter Three
While only three months had passed since the beginning of the school year, Cameron had already begun to feel the mounting pressures that accompanied her choice of a college career. She vacantly stared at the chemistry project sitting on the desk in front of her, praying for some sort of inspiration. Running a hand through her hair, she sighed and leaned back in her chair. "What ever possessed me to do this?" She whined, resting her head in her hands. A slight vibration came from beside her and she picked her cellphone up from the desk. Flipping it open, she quickly dismissed the alarm and began clearing up her work.
"Do you think you're ever going to take a breath and just relax for once? Get out and smell the roses?" "One: I can't smell any roses during the winter and two: you know I would if I had the time." She continued buzzing around the small room, gathering up a few items before pulling on a blue Duquesne hoodie that was draped over her chair. "Cameron, you don't make the time. That's your problem." She raised her head to look at Jil, who was leaning against the door frame. "Jil, I don't have the time to make," she replied, brushing past her.
Cameron made what seemed to be the the trek to her car and slid into the drivers seat. The chill from the winter air remained fresh on her skin and she took a moment to warm up before pulling the keys from her pocket. She closed her eyes and slipped one into the ignition, trusting that it would roar to life and she would be on her way. The sound emanating from the engine made it seem as if it would turn over at any second, giving her a new heir of confidence. "Come on, baby. You can do it," she cooed, using her left hand to rub the steering wheel. She cringed, however, when she heard the engine begin to sputter. Within a few short seconds, her new found confidence in the car had vanished and she walked back to the apartment in anguish.
"Back so soon?" "Yes. I don't know why I thought it would start in the first place. I guess I'm going to have to schedule a date with the mechanic," she groaned, sinking into a seat at the island. "This is just starting to get old, you know? I fight the same battle everyday. I haven't even been able to get to the hospital in a week." She reached for the Coke that Jil had placed in front of her and took a swig of it. The old Ford had seen it's glory days quite some time ago. There was no disputing that, and there was no shame in the way the car had been acting. But despite the trials and tribulations she faced with it, Cameron could not part with her prized red 1965 Mustang. She had been thrilled when her dad pulled up in it at her 16th birthday party and dropped the keys in her hands. She treated it like it was her own child, never letting a speck of dirt come in contact with it and making sure it was in tip-top shape at all times. Over the years, though, it had slowly began to deteriorate and no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't bring herself to let go of it.
"Well, if you'd like, you can borrow my car for the time being," Jil offered. Cameron looked up at her in disbelief. "Seriously? You'd do that?" "Cam, it's not like you're some idiot that'll beat my car to death. Look at the way you treat yours. You'd think it was gold." "Hey, it is," she shot back defensively. "Okay, okay.. But, I'm only letting you borrow it on one condition." "What?" "You go out with us tomorrow night," Jil smirked. "But, I have so much work to do. I can't. I still have-" "Either you come with us or you're not borrowing my car and you can sit here everyday." She lifted her head and cast daggers at Jil. "So, what'll it be?"
Cameron lowered her gaze and placed her hands on the half-empty glass of Coke occupying the space in front of her. She twirled it around the counter top for a few minutes before glancing up at Jil, whose lips were still curled into the same smirk. "I'm not budging if that's what you think." She continued to throw dirty looks at Jil until she finally picked herself up from the bar stool and begrudgingly walked into the living room.
After almost an hour, Cameron let out a heavy sigh and trudged back into the kitchen. "Give me your keys," she groaned. ""I knew you'd cave," Jil boasted triumphantly, tossing them over to her. "Shut up," Cameron grumbled, stomping to the door. "You'll thank me later," were the last words she heard as she stepped into the hallway. 'Yeah. I'll thank you later. Later, when all my grades are in the toilet.'
Cameron treaded through the snowy parking lot and stomped the white fluff off of her boots as she entered the Children's Hospital. As she made her way into the nearest elevator, she carefully unraveled the black scarf from her neck and slipped out of her coat. Holding the clothing in her right hand, she exited the elevator and walked over to the nurses station. "Hey, Cam! Haven't seen you in a while," she was greeted as she checked in. "Yeah. My car's broke down, but Jil's letting me borrow her's until I can get it fixed. So what's new Holls?" "Not to much. Except for this!" She beamed, extending her left hand to reveal a diamond gleaming from her ring finger. "Oh my God! Why the hell didn't you call me?!" Cameron squealed, inspecting the diamond. "I wanted to see your reaction." "So when, where, and how did this happen. I want every detail. And I mean every single tiny detail."
The two sat talking about the engagement over a few cups of coffee for the next half hour, until Cameron decided she should let Hollie get back to work. "Cameron, there's a cart full of food that needs to be taken around to the patients if you're not busy," Emma called from behind the light of her computer. "Alright," she replied heading around the corner and grabbing the cart. As she started though the hall, Cameron could hear a few male voices coming from the first room to her right. She knocked on the open door and slowly walked in, catching the eye of a tall shaggy haired blonde with bright blue eyes. Pushing the cart further into the room she could see two men standing beside the bed, one with long brown hair flowing out of the hat that sat atop his head and the other a bit shorter in height with somewhat curly brown hair. Each of the men were wearing black jersey's with penguins on the front, hockey stick in hand. "Hey, I'm Jordan," the blonde smiled, sauntering over to her. "Hi. I'm, I'm Cameron," she stuttered, gazing up at him. "I'm Kris." "And I'm Tyler," the other men greeted. "Nice to meet you," she grinned. "You guys play hockey?" "Yeah, we play for the Pens." "Oh, cool... Hey Noah. How are we doing today?" She made her way over to the small boy laying in the bed. "I'm good. I missed you." "Aw, I missed you too, buddy," she smiled, ruffling his hair. "You want anything? I have soda, cookies.. ice cream.." "Is there chocolate ice cream?" "Always." Before she could get to the cart, Jordan had already picked up a cup of chocolate ice cream and handed it to her. "Here ya go, kiddo. You guys want anything?" She said, redirecting her attention to the three. "Nah, but thanks," Kris replied, a French accent playing with his words. "Okay. Well, I better get going. More rooms to do. It was nice to meet you guys. See ya later, Noah!" She waved as she strolled out of the room.
An hour later, Cameron had finished her trip around the floor and was pushing the empty cart back to the nurses station. She looked up to the clock hanging on the wall. 2:00. "I have class in about an hour, so hopefully I'll be back tomorrow. Bye," she smiled, picking up her scarf and coat and walking to the elevator.
Sidney and the boys had just finished their visit and were now walking out of the last room. "See ya later, Brandon," he and Max Talbot uttered, starting down the hallway. As they walked past the nurses station, Sidney noticed something glittering from the corner of his eye. He turned his head and saw a diamond heart dangling off of a silver chain. The necklace looked familiar to him. His eyes followed the chain upwards to the owner's neck. He let his gaze draw further up and to the woman's face. A pair of smokey blue eyes burned his memory. 'Cameron.'
"Do you think you're ever going to take a breath and just relax for once? Get out and smell the roses?" "One: I can't smell any roses during the winter and two: you know I would if I had the time." She continued buzzing around the small room, gathering up a few items before pulling on a blue Duquesne hoodie that was draped over her chair. "Cameron, you don't make the time. That's your problem." She raised her head to look at Jil, who was leaning against the door frame. "Jil, I don't have the time to make," she replied, brushing past her.
Cameron made what seemed to be the the trek to her car and slid into the drivers seat. The chill from the winter air remained fresh on her skin and she took a moment to warm up before pulling the keys from her pocket. She closed her eyes and slipped one into the ignition, trusting that it would roar to life and she would be on her way. The sound emanating from the engine made it seem as if it would turn over at any second, giving her a new heir of confidence. "Come on, baby. You can do it," she cooed, using her left hand to rub the steering wheel. She cringed, however, when she heard the engine begin to sputter. Within a few short seconds, her new found confidence in the car had vanished and she walked back to the apartment in anguish.
"Back so soon?" "Yes. I don't know why I thought it would start in the first place. I guess I'm going to have to schedule a date with the mechanic," she groaned, sinking into a seat at the island. "This is just starting to get old, you know? I fight the same battle everyday. I haven't even been able to get to the hospital in a week." She reached for the Coke that Jil had placed in front of her and took a swig of it. The old Ford had seen it's glory days quite some time ago. There was no disputing that, and there was no shame in the way the car had been acting. But despite the trials and tribulations she faced with it, Cameron could not part with her prized red 1965 Mustang. She had been thrilled when her dad pulled up in it at her 16th birthday party and dropped the keys in her hands. She treated it like it was her own child, never letting a speck of dirt come in contact with it and making sure it was in tip-top shape at all times. Over the years, though, it had slowly began to deteriorate and no matter how hard she tried, she couldn't bring herself to let go of it.
"Well, if you'd like, you can borrow my car for the time being," Jil offered. Cameron looked up at her in disbelief. "Seriously? You'd do that?" "Cam, it's not like you're some idiot that'll beat my car to death. Look at the way you treat yours. You'd think it was gold." "Hey, it is," she shot back defensively. "Okay, okay.. But, I'm only letting you borrow it on one condition." "What?" "You go out with us tomorrow night," Jil smirked. "But, I have so much work to do. I can't. I still have-" "Either you come with us or you're not borrowing my car and you can sit here everyday." She lifted her head and cast daggers at Jil. "So, what'll it be?"
Cameron lowered her gaze and placed her hands on the half-empty glass of Coke occupying the space in front of her. She twirled it around the counter top for a few minutes before glancing up at Jil, whose lips were still curled into the same smirk. "I'm not budging if that's what you think." She continued to throw dirty looks at Jil until she finally picked herself up from the bar stool and begrudgingly walked into the living room.
After almost an hour, Cameron let out a heavy sigh and trudged back into the kitchen. "Give me your keys," she groaned. ""I knew you'd cave," Jil boasted triumphantly, tossing them over to her. "Shut up," Cameron grumbled, stomping to the door. "You'll thank me later," were the last words she heard as she stepped into the hallway. 'Yeah. I'll thank you later. Later, when all my grades are in the toilet.'
Cameron treaded through the snowy parking lot and stomped the white fluff off of her boots as she entered the Children's Hospital. As she made her way into the nearest elevator, she carefully unraveled the black scarf from her neck and slipped out of her coat. Holding the clothing in her right hand, she exited the elevator and walked over to the nurses station. "Hey, Cam! Haven't seen you in a while," she was greeted as she checked in. "Yeah. My car's broke down, but Jil's letting me borrow her's until I can get it fixed. So what's new Holls?" "Not to much. Except for this!" She beamed, extending her left hand to reveal a diamond gleaming from her ring finger. "Oh my God! Why the hell didn't you call me?!" Cameron squealed, inspecting the diamond. "I wanted to see your reaction." "So when, where, and how did this happen. I want every detail. And I mean every single tiny detail."
The two sat talking about the engagement over a few cups of coffee for the next half hour, until Cameron decided she should let Hollie get back to work. "Cameron, there's a cart full of food that needs to be taken around to the patients if you're not busy," Emma called from behind the light of her computer. "Alright," she replied heading around the corner and grabbing the cart. As she started though the hall, Cameron could hear a few male voices coming from the first room to her right. She knocked on the open door and slowly walked in, catching the eye of a tall shaggy haired blonde with bright blue eyes. Pushing the cart further into the room she could see two men standing beside the bed, one with long brown hair flowing out of the hat that sat atop his head and the other a bit shorter in height with somewhat curly brown hair. Each of the men were wearing black jersey's with penguins on the front, hockey stick in hand. "Hey, I'm Jordan," the blonde smiled, sauntering over to her. "Hi. I'm, I'm Cameron," she stuttered, gazing up at him. "I'm Kris." "And I'm Tyler," the other men greeted. "Nice to meet you," she grinned. "You guys play hockey?" "Yeah, we play for the Pens." "Oh, cool... Hey Noah. How are we doing today?" She made her way over to the small boy laying in the bed. "I'm good. I missed you." "Aw, I missed you too, buddy," she smiled, ruffling his hair. "You want anything? I have soda, cookies.. ice cream.." "Is there chocolate ice cream?" "Always." Before she could get to the cart, Jordan had already picked up a cup of chocolate ice cream and handed it to her. "Here ya go, kiddo. You guys want anything?" She said, redirecting her attention to the three. "Nah, but thanks," Kris replied, a French accent playing with his words. "Okay. Well, I better get going. More rooms to do. It was nice to meet you guys. See ya later, Noah!" She waved as she strolled out of the room.
An hour later, Cameron had finished her trip around the floor and was pushing the empty cart back to the nurses station. She looked up to the clock hanging on the wall. 2:00. "I have class in about an hour, so hopefully I'll be back tomorrow. Bye," she smiled, picking up her scarf and coat and walking to the elevator.
Sidney and the boys had just finished their visit and were now walking out of the last room. "See ya later, Brandon," he and Max Talbot uttered, starting down the hallway. As they walked past the nurses station, Sidney noticed something glittering from the corner of his eye. He turned his head and saw a diamond heart dangling off of a silver chain. The necklace looked familiar to him. His eyes followed the chain upwards to the owner's neck. He let his gaze draw further up and to the woman's face. A pair of smokey blue eyes burned his memory. 'Cameron.'
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Chapter Two
It had been two days since he had left and still nothing had changed. She felt empty, like she had lost everything that meant anything to her. 'I shouldn't have listened to my heart,' she thought. 'He would have still been here.' The sound of her cell phone echoed through the house once more and she pushed it aside again like she had the previous times. She continued to flip through the pages of the tattered old photo album laying in her lap. Her fingers lightly trailed across the pictures and lingered on one.
Flashback
"Sidney.. stop!" She cried out amongst her laughter. "Not until you say it." "Say what?" She asked, knowing well of what he wanted her to tell him. "That I'm the best hockey player to ever walk this universe and you're not, even if you did beat me this time." He stopped tickling her for a few seconds, taking notice to the serious look plastered on her face. "Sidney Crosby is.." He began to move himself off of her, now standing tall in front of her. "GAY!" She laughed, then darted off towards the house. "Oh, it's on now."
They chased each other up the walk and through the yard, running circles a few times before sprinting into the house. The stairs were now within a few feet and she tore up them, leaving Sid in the dust. As her left foot cleared the last step, her right caught on it and she fell in a heap at the top of the stairs. "Ha, I got you now!" He yelled excitedly, scooping her up into his arms and carrying her into his bedroom. Squeals of laughter erupted from her as he pinned her to his bed and proceeded to tickle her again. "Are you going to say it now?" "No.. way!" She managed to get out as he moved his hands up to her neck. "Oh my God, no!" She screamed, kicking her feet as he found her most ticklish spot. "Well..." "Okay fine!" He stopped and stared down at her intently. "Sidney Crosby is the best hockey player to ever walk the universe and I'm not, even if I did just kick your ass." "Take back the kicking my ass part and I'll let you go." "Geez you sissy. Okay, even if I did beat you this time." "That'll do," he smiled, rolling over to lay beside her.
End
A knock on the door brought her back to reality. She sat for a few seconds, deciding whether to open it or not. She knew what had happened the last time she had. "Cameron. Please let me in," a female voice called. She slowly got up from the couch and walked to the door, opening it to reveal the only best friend she had left, Laura. "Cam, what's wrong? Are you okay?" She asked, her voice full of concern. "He.. I.. Just come in."
They made their way over to the couch and sat down, brushing a few stray tissues out of the way. Silence fell over them for a few minutes before Laura broke it. "What happened?" Cameron took a deep breath before speaking. "I.. Um, remember how I told you since he never made a move, that I was going to?" Her voice shook, "Well, I did." "Did he.." "Last night turned out to be the best night of my life and apparently his too, but.. just read this," she said, handing her the tear stained note.
"Oh God. Cameron, I'm so sorry. I.. I can't believe he did this. Why would he.. I'm sorry." Tears streamed down Cameron's face once more, following the trails they had took for the past two days. Laura wrapped her up in a hug, trying in any way to comfort her. She had no words. She knew Sidney had feelings for Cameron and vice versa. She had served as the middle grounds between the two. But not once did she think things would turn out like this. "I just don't understand. Why did he do this to me? He even told me he loved me. God, I miss him Laur." "I don't know, Cam. I don't know," she replied, rubbing her back.
Hours later and a couple dozen boxes of tissues used, the two rose. "I really think you need to get out of this house. It's doing you no good," Laura spoke. "But.." "No, buts. Go get cleaned up and dressed. We're going on a road trip." Cameron smiled and headed up the stairs. "Remind me of what I ever did without you." "Nothing. You were a lost puppy I picked up on the streets. Now go," she laughed.
Flashback
"Sidney.. stop!" She cried out amongst her laughter. "Not until you say it." "Say what?" She asked, knowing well of what he wanted her to tell him. "That I'm the best hockey player to ever walk this universe and you're not, even if you did beat me this time." He stopped tickling her for a few seconds, taking notice to the serious look plastered on her face. "Sidney Crosby is.." He began to move himself off of her, now standing tall in front of her. "GAY!" She laughed, then darted off towards the house. "Oh, it's on now."
They chased each other up the walk and through the yard, running circles a few times before sprinting into the house. The stairs were now within a few feet and she tore up them, leaving Sid in the dust. As her left foot cleared the last step, her right caught on it and she fell in a heap at the top of the stairs. "Ha, I got you now!" He yelled excitedly, scooping her up into his arms and carrying her into his bedroom. Squeals of laughter erupted from her as he pinned her to his bed and proceeded to tickle her again. "Are you going to say it now?" "No.. way!" She managed to get out as he moved his hands up to her neck. "Oh my God, no!" She screamed, kicking her feet as he found her most ticklish spot. "Well..." "Okay fine!" He stopped and stared down at her intently. "Sidney Crosby is the best hockey player to ever walk the universe and I'm not, even if I did just kick your ass." "Take back the kicking my ass part and I'll let you go." "Geez you sissy. Okay, even if I did beat you this time." "That'll do," he smiled, rolling over to lay beside her.
End
A knock on the door brought her back to reality. She sat for a few seconds, deciding whether to open it or not. She knew what had happened the last time she had. "Cameron. Please let me in," a female voice called. She slowly got up from the couch and walked to the door, opening it to reveal the only best friend she had left, Laura. "Cam, what's wrong? Are you okay?" She asked, her voice full of concern. "He.. I.. Just come in."
They made their way over to the couch and sat down, brushing a few stray tissues out of the way. Silence fell over them for a few minutes before Laura broke it. "What happened?" Cameron took a deep breath before speaking. "I.. Um, remember how I told you since he never made a move, that I was going to?" Her voice shook, "Well, I did." "Did he.." "Last night turned out to be the best night of my life and apparently his too, but.. just read this," she said, handing her the tear stained note.
"Oh God. Cameron, I'm so sorry. I.. I can't believe he did this. Why would he.. I'm sorry." Tears streamed down Cameron's face once more, following the trails they had took for the past two days. Laura wrapped her up in a hug, trying in any way to comfort her. She had no words. She knew Sidney had feelings for Cameron and vice versa. She had served as the middle grounds between the two. But not once did she think things would turn out like this. "I just don't understand. Why did he do this to me? He even told me he loved me. God, I miss him Laur." "I don't know, Cam. I don't know," she replied, rubbing her back.
Hours later and a couple dozen boxes of tissues used, the two rose. "I really think you need to get out of this house. It's doing you no good," Laura spoke. "But.." "No, buts. Go get cleaned up and dressed. We're going on a road trip." Cameron smiled and headed up the stairs. "Remind me of what I ever did without you." "Nothing. You were a lost puppy I picked up on the streets. Now go," she laughed.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Chapter One
She sat lifelessly at the edge of the bed, staring down into her empty hands, desperately searching for answers. Searching for anything but that lone tear sparkling in the light. As she watched another fall to the floor and soak up in the carpet, a gust of wind lightly grazed her bare skin and the room went dark. The soft glow of the once burning candle was gone and she sat amidst the darkness.
Flashback
She stood at the middle of the floor studying the clock on the wall as it ticked closer to the hour. Her eyes followed the arms as they counted down the seconds, each mark seeming to stand alone as the light reflected off of the silver tip. The clock struck eight and she heard it. It rang slowly through her ears, each beat with more emphasis than the last. She could almost feel it now, pounding in her head. Nothing had ever changed about it. It began with one long beat and ended in two shorter, more steady ones. Her mind brought her back to her last thought.. 'Nothing had ever changed.' Those few words echoed and her decision was made.
Her footsteps became more and more cautious as they carried her closer to the door. Her hand shook as she reached for the golden knob and she drew in one last breath before turning it.
"Hey," he smiled, walking into the room. "Where's your mum and dad? I didn't see them when I walked in." "Oh, um.. they're out of town for the week. They have a business trip in Montreal," she stuttered, closing the door behind them. Her heart told her to lock it, it was the only way, but her brain continued to fight the impulse, saying everything would fall apart if she did. Eventually, her brain fell captive to heart and the door was locked.
"I brought you your favorite. Double mocha latte with whipped cream on top, just like you like it," he smirked, shaking it at her. "Thanks. You can set it on the nightstand." She watched as he turned and put it down. She could see the muscles in his back and shoulders retract and flex as he bent down and stood back up. Her gaze trailed from his torso down to his thighs and calves as he turned to face her again.
She began to walk towards him, never letting her smokey blue eyes fall from his. Gradually, she closed the gap between them and lifted her arms to fall on his shoulders. Her lips moved up to find his warm cheek and she delicately caressed it. Her soft breath lingered on his skin as her mouth trailed down to gently catch his. His lips began to close on hers, but he quickly pulled away. "Cam.. Cam, what are you doing?" He almost pleaded, his voice filled with confusion. She drew back to face him. "Exactly what I've wanted to do for the past ten years."
Everything changed with those words. All that they had ever known was tossed aside and a blank canvas was left in front of them. Bright colors and beautiful pictures would lie atop a fresh, white page and memories of the past could be carried off with the wind.
"I've wanted it too," he whispered, still peering deeply into her eyes. Slowly, he lowered his lips to hers and they met in a passionate kiss. Years of unspoken emotion flowed through their lips, touching every inch of their bodies. She could feel his hands lightly trail across her back and move down to rest on her waist. She let her hands glide across the back of his neck and sweep around to settle on his cheek. His hands started to roam again and he slipped them underneath her shirt, feeling every bit of skin as he lifted it over her head. He paused for a moment, looking at her with innocent eyes. "Are you sure you want to do this?" "I've never been so sure about anything in my life," she murmured, letting her lips come to his again.
They began to move toward the bed, never breaking the kiss. Her fingers swirled circles through his soft brown curls, then drifted down to take the bottom of his shirt into her hands. She swiftly pulled it over his head and let it fall to the floor. Carefully, he lifted her up into his arms and gently set her on the bed.
Later that night
His hand reached for hers as they lay in bed wrapped up in each others arms. He linked them together, then brought them up to his mouth and softly kissed each of her fingers. A sweet smile formed on her lips as she stared into his light brown eyes and she nuzzled her head into his neck. She could feel herself starting to fall asleep, her heartbeat steadying with each passing minute. Just as she she was about to drift off, he kissed the top of her head and whispered so softly into her ear, "I love you." In a quiet voice, she whispered back, "I love you too."
Morning
Her hand fell on the other side of the bed as she rolled over. She slowly opened her eyes and looked to her right to see only sheets and covers. 'Where is he,' she thought. She glanced over to the nightstand and saw a note laying beside the still full latte cup. She picked it up and began to read the words.
Cameron,
I know that you're wondering where I am right now. I had to leave at 8:00 to go to the gym for my workout. But that isn't the point of this note. Last night was the best night of my life and I'm glad that we shared that together. I've never felt so close to anyone like I do you. You are beautiful in every sense and I really did mean what I said. But I don't feel like now is the right time to start a relationship. With the draft coming up, I have no idea where I'll be a few months from now and I don't know how either of us would handle the distance. I just don't want to see either of us heartbroken. I feel horrible for leaving you like this, but I don't know how else to. I'm sorry.
-Sidney
She dropped the note. As it fell to the floor, a single tear followed in it's path. The words, "I'm sorry," could no longer be recognized as the tear drowned them. Lonely and empty, she sat on the bed.
Flashback
She stood at the middle of the floor studying the clock on the wall as it ticked closer to the hour. Her eyes followed the arms as they counted down the seconds, each mark seeming to stand alone as the light reflected off of the silver tip. The clock struck eight and she heard it. It rang slowly through her ears, each beat with more emphasis than the last. She could almost feel it now, pounding in her head. Nothing had ever changed about it. It began with one long beat and ended in two shorter, more steady ones. Her mind brought her back to her last thought.. 'Nothing had ever changed.' Those few words echoed and her decision was made.
Her footsteps became more and more cautious as they carried her closer to the door. Her hand shook as she reached for the golden knob and she drew in one last breath before turning it.
"Hey," he smiled, walking into the room. "Where's your mum and dad? I didn't see them when I walked in." "Oh, um.. they're out of town for the week. They have a business trip in Montreal," she stuttered, closing the door behind them. Her heart told her to lock it, it was the only way, but her brain continued to fight the impulse, saying everything would fall apart if she did. Eventually, her brain fell captive to heart and the door was locked.
"I brought you your favorite. Double mocha latte with whipped cream on top, just like you like it," he smirked, shaking it at her. "Thanks. You can set it on the nightstand." She watched as he turned and put it down. She could see the muscles in his back and shoulders retract and flex as he bent down and stood back up. Her gaze trailed from his torso down to his thighs and calves as he turned to face her again.
She began to walk towards him, never letting her smokey blue eyes fall from his. Gradually, she closed the gap between them and lifted her arms to fall on his shoulders. Her lips moved up to find his warm cheek and she delicately caressed it. Her soft breath lingered on his skin as her mouth trailed down to gently catch his. His lips began to close on hers, but he quickly pulled away. "Cam.. Cam, what are you doing?" He almost pleaded, his voice filled with confusion. She drew back to face him. "Exactly what I've wanted to do for the past ten years."
Everything changed with those words. All that they had ever known was tossed aside and a blank canvas was left in front of them. Bright colors and beautiful pictures would lie atop a fresh, white page and memories of the past could be carried off with the wind.
"I've wanted it too," he whispered, still peering deeply into her eyes. Slowly, he lowered his lips to hers and they met in a passionate kiss. Years of unspoken emotion flowed through their lips, touching every inch of their bodies. She could feel his hands lightly trail across her back and move down to rest on her waist. She let her hands glide across the back of his neck and sweep around to settle on his cheek. His hands started to roam again and he slipped them underneath her shirt, feeling every bit of skin as he lifted it over her head. He paused for a moment, looking at her with innocent eyes. "Are you sure you want to do this?" "I've never been so sure about anything in my life," she murmured, letting her lips come to his again.
They began to move toward the bed, never breaking the kiss. Her fingers swirled circles through his soft brown curls, then drifted down to take the bottom of his shirt into her hands. She swiftly pulled it over his head and let it fall to the floor. Carefully, he lifted her up into his arms and gently set her on the bed.
Later that night
His hand reached for hers as they lay in bed wrapped up in each others arms. He linked them together, then brought them up to his mouth and softly kissed each of her fingers. A sweet smile formed on her lips as she stared into his light brown eyes and she nuzzled her head into his neck. She could feel herself starting to fall asleep, her heartbeat steadying with each passing minute. Just as she she was about to drift off, he kissed the top of her head and whispered so softly into her ear, "I love you." In a quiet voice, she whispered back, "I love you too."
Morning
Her hand fell on the other side of the bed as she rolled over. She slowly opened her eyes and looked to her right to see only sheets and covers. 'Where is he,' she thought. She glanced over to the nightstand and saw a note laying beside the still full latte cup. She picked it up and began to read the words.
Cameron,
I know that you're wondering where I am right now. I had to leave at 8:00 to go to the gym for my workout. But that isn't the point of this note. Last night was the best night of my life and I'm glad that we shared that together. I've never felt so close to anyone like I do you. You are beautiful in every sense and I really did mean what I said. But I don't feel like now is the right time to start a relationship. With the draft coming up, I have no idea where I'll be a few months from now and I don't know how either of us would handle the distance. I just don't want to see either of us heartbroken. I feel horrible for leaving you like this, but I don't know how else to. I'm sorry.
-Sidney
She dropped the note. As it fell to the floor, a single tear followed in it's path. The words, "I'm sorry," could no longer be recognized as the tear drowned them. Lonely and empty, she sat on the bed.
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