Chapter 48: Going Away

July 2025

"You don't have to go baby girl. You can stay home, finish school and go to college if you want."

"But I'll disappoint daddy if I don't go."

"Nicki, baby listen to me" Karen said stopping her daughter from packing "this has to be your dream. Your dad will understand if you don't want to play hockey this way. If you still want to play for the fun of it, finish school and play in college. There's always the Women's National team."

"But this would be my chance to be one of the lucky girls to maybe get to play in the NHL mom."

"I know sweetie and I would love to watch you play at that level."

"Then let me go to Shattucks with Sidney."

Karen sat on the bed and smiled "you are so much like your dad."

"You say that like it's a bad thing mommy" she said as she continued packing.

"It's not baby girl, it's the best thing you could have learned growing up. You know, he might not show it because of how much he wants this for you and your brother, but he is so proud for you for wanting to follow in his footsteps."

Nicki sat back down on the bed "every time I watched daddy out there for games I knew I wanted to play like him, be like him."

"You already are baby girl" she said getting up and hugging her "but my little piece of advice to you...play like your dad, but be you." Karen kissed her daughter's head then left her to finish packing on her own. She headed downstairs and went into the kitchen to get something to drink.

"Is Nicki almost ready?" Sidney asked coming into the kitchen.

"Yeah, she's finishing up now."

"You're still not happy with all this are you?"

"I'm happy as long as this remains her choice, her dream Sid."

"Who said it wasn't?"

Karen turned around to face him "Sid, I know this is what you wanted for them ever since the day they were born. You said it yourself that you would never pressure them into this decision."

"I don't think I did baby."

"Yes you did. Every dinner conversation, every late night puck drills in the driveway before bedtime...that was telling them to do it your way."

"Karen, they're good. Their team won every tournament they've been in since they were 8. This should be a natural decision for them to want this."

"Well call me selfish but I'm not ready to let them go yet" she said walking away from him.

"I'm not ready either baby" he whispered to himself.

A half hour later, the bags were loaded into the car as was everyone else and they started the drive to Minnesota. Karen wondered why they weren't flying and Sidney responded to have more time with the kids. It was only a 14 hour drive from Pittsburgh, but Sidney decided they would stay somewhere close and finish the drive the next morning.

The next day, the Crosbys drove up to the school and Sidney parked the car. They got out and went inside to register before grabbing any bags.

"This is it Nic" Sidney told her "we are at the base camp for greatness to be like dad."

"I know. I was scared to want to do this, but now that we're here I can't wait to get started."

"Hey" he said stopping her "whatever happens, we have each other sis. We help each other and we both make ourselves great for dad to be proud of us."

"You think he'll be disappointed if we don't make it or want to come home?"

"Think about it Nicki, he wants this for us."

"But you have to want it for yourself too Sidney."

"I do sis but to be like daddy, come on. He is the greatest in the NHL right now with multiple Stanley Cups, all those scoring titles and records he's broken in his 20 years. I want that. I want to be up there with him."

"I just want the chance to play with daddy."

"Well this is where we need to make that dream happen. If we stayed at home and went to RMU after graduation, it would take us forever to get there. Even dad can't play forever. I also want to play on a line with him before he retires. We get that chance starting today."

"You're right Sidney. To be as great as daddy, we need to be where daddy started it all."

Karen looked back and saw the kids were 10 feet behind them "Sid, wait."

Sidney stopped and looked behind him "wonder what they're talking about."

"Don't know but I'm sure everythings ok with the smiles they have on their faces."

"Thank you baby."

"For what?"

"For letting this happen and not debating me about it. I can see the potential they have and if they stayed at home, it would be wasted. I just feel like they need this to advance."

"I never wanted to admit it to them or you but they do need this. Besides, they have each other." Sidney smiled and hugged Karen as the kids ran to catch up to them. They got them all registered and found their dorms. They got Sidney settled first before going to help Nicki in her room. After they were all settled, Sidney and Karen knew it was time to let go.

"I just want both of you to know how proud I am that you wanted to come here" Sidney told the twins.

"Thanks dad and we wanted to come here as much as you wanted us to."

"Sidney's right daddy, we both wanted to come here to start our dream."

Karen just stood there and smiled realizing what they were doing "you both are going to do great" she said hugging Nicki first then Sidney. "Take care of each other and if you need anything, we're just a phone call away."

"We love you mom" Nicki said hugging her again.

"Sidney, let me talk to you for a minute" Sid said moving them away "I know you said this was both your dreams and I just wanted to make sure that it truly is."

"It is dad. Nic and I have talked about it and we both want to get the chance to play in the NHL...with you."

"What?" Sidney asked in shocked.

"We know you can't play forever dad and we wanted this so we could get in the NHL when we both turn 18. We just hope to be on the same team with you."

Sidney grabbed his son and hugged him "you and your sister have made me the proudest father in the world."

They got out of their hug and went back over to the girls. Karen and Sidney told them goodbye for one final time and got in the car to leave.

As they were driving, Karen noticed Sidney was quiet and put her hand over his "what's wrong?"

"You won't believe what Sidney told me."

"Which was?"

"They wanted to go to Shattucks to basically get better to be drafted in the NHL when they're 18 and they both want to play with me."

"Oh Sid."

"I knew one day if I was still playing that I would get the chance to play against them but for my own children to want to play on the same team with me would be the ultimate dream come true."

"It sounds like they've thought about this more than you thought. But what are the chances that the Pens would get both of them. If they improve like you know they will, I think a few teams will want them."

"Then I find a way to make it happen."

"I don't doubt that you will" she told him and leaned over to kiss his cheek before putting her head on his shoulder to enjoy the drive back home to Pittsburgh.

Chapter 47: First Skate with the Twins

October 2014

Sidney had Karen and the kids in the car going for a ride.

"Where we goin daddy?" Nicki asked in her small voice.

"Just for a ride princess."

"We goin to daddy's house" Sidney told his sister.

"Silly, daddy lives wif mommy" Nicki answered back.

"We goin to daddy's utter house, see" he said pointing out the window.

Karen looked out the window and heard the kids laughing in the back seat. She just looked at Sidney who shrugged his shoulder "you're not right" she told him.

Sidney picked up her hand and kissed the inside of her wrist "you love me anyway." Karen shook her head as Sidney parked in the players lot. They got out and got the kids out of their car seats, holding their hands as they all walked inside. They headed to the lounge and Karen sat down with the kids as Sidney went to the locker room. He came back out with skates for the kids then disappeared before coming back with his and a pair for Karen. They got the skates on the kids before putting theirs on. Helping to walk them to the ice, Karen smiled knowing Sidney had waited for this moment.

"Sid, becareful with them their first time out."

"I will baby" he said kissing her cheek. "Ok guys, we're going to start off easy and just learn balance today." Sidney took Nicki who was attached to his leg and Karen had to literally slow Sidney down because he was practically running to the ice.

"My God, he is just like you" she said as they passed them. Sidney just laughed as Karen scooped him up and went onto the ice.

"You say that like it's a bad thing" he said picking up Nicki and going out on the ice.

"I just wanted it to wait a few years. Was that too much to ask?"

"Mommy, down" Sidney said squirming in her arms and she put him on the ice, holding onto him.

"Apparently not" Sid told her as he started skating around with Nicki in his arms until she wanted to get down and try on her own.

Sidney was going a little fast and Karen was having a hard time keeping up with him. Her motherly instincts wanted to hold on to him but the fan in her wanted to see if he could do it on his own at 4 years old. Karen let go and Sidney skated over with Nicki giving her to Karen and went after Sidney. She just smiled and took Nicki's hands and slowly skated with her until she felt comfortable on her skates. After a while, Nicki was getting stronger and Karen let her hands go so she could go on her own. Karen just stood back by the bench and watched as her son, daughter, and husband skated around.

"How long have you waited for this moment?" a voice rang out behind her.

Karen turned around and saw Mario standing there "not as long as the big kid out there has."

"You know after he found out you were pregnant, I would find him just standing at center ice and staring around the ice. After a few times watching him, I asked him what he was doing."

"And his answer was what?"

"That he was trying to imagine this moment that's happening now."

"I knew this was going to be inevitable but just watching him with the twins it's overwhelming. Sidney couldn't wait to get on the ice and it took Nicki a little while to get comfortable, but look at them now."

"They have hockey in their blood." Karen just looked at Mario and smiled as he gave her a wink and left them alone.

"Come on mommy. Daddy said you need to come have fun wif us" Sidney said as he skated over to get his mom.

"Only daddy?" she said bending over, grabbing him and started to tickle his sides.

"No" he said laughing.

"No? Who else wants me to come have fun?"

"Me and Nicki."

Karen stopped tickling her son and knelt down to his level "I would love to come have fun with you and Nicki and your daddy." Sidney threw his arms around Karen's neck and hugged her before they skated off and over to where the other two were.

Awhile after skating around, Sidney went towards the bench and grabbed a couple of small sticks and two of his own. He stuck a couple of pucks in his pocket as he skated back over to his family.

"Here baby" he said handing her one of his sticks.

"Oh no, the world is going to end now" Karen said as the kids looked at her "someone other than daddy is touching his stick" she said getting a laugh out of the twins.

"They're two young to understand baby."

"Give them another few years and they'll understand."

"You're funny."

"Well I try to be" she said seeing him give a small stick to both Nicki and Sidney.

He put the pucks on the ice and showed the twins a couple of simple moves to get the puck going. They both picked it up quickly and made short strides to the net. Sidney kept it up until they felt a little more comfortable on their own. Karen had just watched them take the pucks around the net when Sidney skated up to her.

"I'm not pushing them if that's what you're thinking."

"I'm not thinking that Sid."

"Then why aren't you playing with us?"

"It's the being supportive role. If I can stand back to watch them and resist the urge to go be right beside them to keep them from falling then I believe I can let this happen."

"Tell me what you're afraid of."

"I'm afraid they'll love this. I don't think I'm ready to be a hockey mom when being a hockey wife takes all my time."

"Karen, if all I get out of today is that they had fun and no aspiring dreams come out of it, then I'll be happy."

"Really?"

"Yes really. I want them to know what I do and if they choose on their own to keep doing it, then I know they're truly my kids" he said getting a look from Karen "what I meant was, if they didn't like today then the hospital must have switched the babies."

"Oh god" she said rolling her eyes and skated over to the twins.

"What, it could be a possibility" he yelled as he skated towards her. She looked up and smiled as they continued playing around with the twins.

After a couple more hours, Sidney and Karen got the kids back to the locker room and took off their skates. They headed out and went to get a late lunch. When they finished lunch, the kids fell asleep in the back seat on their way home. When Sidney pulled into the driveway, they each took a kid and carried them inside, taking them directly to their room and putting them in bed for a nap.

"You wore them out today."

"Yes I did and I'm proud of it" Sidney said smiling as they left the room.

They headed downstairs to the living room and sat on the couch "I know I had reservations about this moment, but I loved watching you out there with them today."

"Thanks baby I appreciate that. I've been dreaming about this moment for so long."

"I think I saw how you must of felt when you first stepped foot on the ice at that age."

"I'm just glad I got to have this moment."

"I don't doubt that you wouldn't have had this moment Sid."

"I know. Before you finally got pregnant and you told me about those other times, I was actually scared that I wouldn't get that moment like we had today."

"I was scared too. I knew you wanted an heir to follow in your footsteps, now you have two. I don't think today could have went any better and I will forever remember it."

"Me too baby, me too" he said leaning in for a kiss before Karen laid her head on his shoulder as they enjoyed the quiet.

Chapter 46

They laid on the bed kissing and making the moment intense between them. Karen was hoping Sidney would just pounce on her as turned on he was getting her, but the slow and sensual pace was getting her hotter by the minute.

Sidney broke the kiss and moved down her body. He lifted up the babydoll towards her breasts to expose her stomach. He place light kisses over the skin as he made his way to the top of her panties. Putting his thumbs inside the fabric, Sidney pulled her panties down off her hips and proceeded to take them off completely, leaving her womanhood open to him. He threw the panties to the floor and came back to her. Karen bent her knees, spreading her legs to give him better access. Sidney dipped his head down and kissed her inner thighs making her squirm. He reached her mound and blew cool air over the swollen lips begging to be touched.

Karen drew in a deep breath when Sidney stuck out his tongue and ran it over her lips, aiming directly for her clit. He flicked it numerous times hearing whimpers and moans come from her. After a few minutes of torture, Sidney placed his mouth directly over her opening and started sucking, making sure to dart his tongue in and out of her core. Karen reached her hands above her head to grab the pillows around her as the sensations were driving her wild. As her orgasm was ready to explode, Karen moved her hand and put it in his hair, lightly tugging as she moaned out her release. She felt her body tremble as Sidney left her mound and moved back up her body, waiting for her to calm down. He kissed her neck as he felt her breathing return to normal. Sidney looked up and into her eyes, no words needed to where they took it next.

Karen pulled down Sidney's shorts off his ass and down his hips. She brought her foot up and pushed them down the rest of the way until she got them off completely. Their lips met again as Sidney took one of Karen's hands and placed it over his cock. She instinctly began to massage his manhood hearing a low growl escape his throat. When she had him hard as a rock, she took her hand away as Sidney replaced his hand to guide himself inside her wet core. He stayed still for a few minutes before he bent one of his knees for better access. Karen wrapped her leg around his thigh, locking her ankle against his ass. He started out slow, rocking his hips as his cock went deep inside her. The closeness of their bodies was more erotic then their normal routine as they held onto one another while letting their souls speak to each other. Karen could feel her orgasm build and dug her fingernails into his skin every time a wave hit. Sidney took the hint and lifted himself up on his hands, bending his elbows to stay close to her body. His hip movements got a little bigger and faster as he started to pound into her, letting the moans fill the room. Sidney felt the tightness around his cock and that made him bring out her orgasm by coming all the way out and slamming back into her, milking both of theirs out. Karen unwrapped her leg and relaxed it as Sidney placed his forehead to hers.

"I love you" Karen mustered out between breaths.

"I love you too baby" Sidney said issuing the same sentiment before pulling off her and slipping to her side and holding her.

"I don't think this night could have been any more perfect."

"Me either. Do you know how hard it was to keep all this away from you?"

"And to make sure everyone else didn't say anything either."

"That's what made it perfect baby" he whispered. "You said you needed something to smack you in the face to realize my love for you, so that's when I came up with the impromtu wedding."

"So the deal with the ring is?" she said holding up her hand.

"I was looking for an anniversary present for you and I wasn't sure what to get you until I saw this" he said putting his hand over hers and interlocked their fingers together.

Karen turned her head to kiss him "you didn't need to get me anything Sid."

"I know I didn't but you know how it is, to give you anything and everything your heart desires or whatever I want to buy you...whichever comes first."

"So then what's my role?"

"Hmmm, I'll let you know later" he said kissing her temple "but I do need to sound selfish and ask where my present is."

"Well I didn't bring it since I thought we'd be home after the party."

"You could tell me what you got me."

"I could but then it won't be a surprise."

"Oh come on, I'll still be surprised when I see it baby."

"Well that's the thing, you won't see it until we go to Nova Scotia next summer."

Sidney sat up and looked at her "what did you get me Karen?"

"I bought that boat you were looking at last summer before we left to come home."

"How did you...why...wait, what?"

"I think you heard me."

"But why, it's so expensive and you didn't need to."

"I know I didn't need to but I wanted to. You give me so much without realizing it and I have my own money, let me give you something special."

"Thank you baby, really" he said kissing her.

Your welcome. Happy Anniversary Sidney."

"Happy Anniversay Karen" he said as they kissed again before cuddling up against each other and let sleep overcome them.

Later that morning, Karen managed to get untangled from Sidney arms and get out of bed to go to the bathroom. She came out a few minutes later and saw Sidney still sleeping. Karen smiled at the sight and went out of the bedroom and towards the balcony, looking out the window. Sidney had woken up ten minutes later and noticed Karen wasn't beside him. He got up and put on his shorts before going to find her. He left the bedroom and was about to head towards the door when he saw her standing by the balcony door looking lost in thought. He walked over and stood behind her wrapping his arms around her waist.

"I thought you left me."

"That would never happen."

"Why did you leave the bed?"

"Had to go to the bathroom."

"Ok but that doesn't explain why you didn't come back."

"I didn't feel like falling back asleep."

"You could have woke me up and we could have done something else."

"I know."

"Something wrong baby?"

"No, everything is perfect. Just standing here thinking how very blessed I am."

"We're are both blessed and we have two beautiful kids to help prove that."

"Speaking of them, would you mind if we headed home?"

"You miss them huh?"

"Please don't be disappointed."

"I'm not" he said turning her around "I miss them too baby. Why don't we get ready and head home to them."

"Thank you for last night."

"Your welcome" he said kissing her then leading her back to the bedroom to get ready to head home.

After a half hour, Sidney and Karen headed home. They walked into the house and saw his parents in the living room drinking some coffee.

"Didn't expect you two back so early" Trina said putting her cup down and hugging them both.

"Separation anxiety from the twins" Karen told her with a smile.

"Totally understand dear" she said as they went upstairs to see the them.

"So last night really surprised Karen huh?" Troy asked his son.

"Definitely dad, she had no idea."

"I'm happy everything worked out and you two are back on track Sid."

"Thanks dad. I didn't want to lose her after what happened and this is what I had to do. I'll marry her every year if I need to" he said smiling as his dad nodded in agreement.

A while later, Sidney's parents left and he went upstairs to find Karen in the nursery with the twins. She just got done feeding Nicki and was putting her back into the crib.

"Do you need Sidney?"

"No, I fed him first."

They stood inbetween the cribs and looked from one to the other "I know what your role is?"

"And that would be?"

Sidney took her into his arms "to be my wife and mother to our children. Your role is to love us everyday no matter what the world throws at us."

"I think that is a perfect role for me considering how much I already love you and our children."

"Is it safe to say that this is the first day of the rest of our lives?"

"Yeah, I think it is but I want to look at it as living happily ever after."

"We will definitely be doing that too baby" he said as they shared a kiss to cement their love and future together as a family.

The End

Chapter 45

A minute later, a minister came out and stood infront of Sidney and Karen. They let go of each other and faced him, still holding hands.

"When I was asked here tonight, I knew something special was going to happen. A year ago when I married Sidney and Karen the first time, I saw a love between these two that I hadn't seen in a long time and I am honored to get the pleasure to rejoin them in their vows once again. Sidney, Karen please face each other" the minister said and they turned towards each other as they took each other's hands. "Since these two are already married, I think it's appropriate that they say what exactly is in their hearts. Karen, would you like to go first?"

"I guess if I knew this was going to happen I could have at least knew what I was going to say" she said getting a laugh out of the crowd "but seeing the man I love standing infront of me, it's not hard to speak how I feel about him" she started as s few tears began to fall. Sidney brought his hand up and lightly wiped away the ones that fell "on this night a year ago, we stood infront of, pretty much the same friends and family and professed our love for each other. And here a year later, you made it possible for us to do it again. This year had been filled with both the good and the bad, which I'm sure we both wish the bad never happened. It scared me that there was a brief moment we wouldn't have gotten to where we are right now but our love fought through and got us not only back together but it brought us two of the most beautiful children in the world and I can't wait to see what the world has in store for all of us. I love you with all my heart and nothing can or will ever change that" she said as the tears flowed freely down her cheeks.

"Sidney?"

He wiped his eyes and smiled "maybe I should have gone first" he said as everyone, including Karen laughed. "I don't know what else I can say that you already did but it's all true. My love for you started the first day I saw you and each day since then, I was able to find more and more love to share with you. Yes, we had a bad stint but those two beautiful babies were a result of the love that fought through. I don't know how you were able to put up with all the commitments that pulled me in so many directions but you never complained once when I had to leave at a moments notice. For that, I am grateful and love you so much more for it. I can't wait to see what the next 18 years hold raising our son and daughter, and many more years after that spending the rest of my life with you. Remember that I will always love you everyday for the rest of our lives."

"Well from what I heard, it tells me that no two other people should be together more than Sidney and Karen. I was told that you have a ring for Karen?"

"Yes I do" Sidney said reaching into his pocket.

"You didn't need to get me a new ring Sid."

"Yes I did" he said taking her hand and placing the new white gold diamond band with her other ones "the old rings still symbolize my love for you, this one symbolizes our love for many more years to come."

"It's beautiful."

"So are you."

"Since we can all see where this is going I will make this short and sweet. Sidney, do you take Karen to be your wife?" the minister asked.

"I forever do" he said with a smile.

"Karen, do you take Sidney to be your husband?"

"I forever do" she said as a tear escaped down her cheek.

"For the second time, I proudly pronounce you husband and wife. Sidney, you may kiss you bride."

Sidney took a step closer and wrapped his arms around Karen's waist as hers went around his neck. Their lips met in a soft kiss, which got a little too intense until the crowd got involved and they broke apart "sorry, couldn't help myself" Karen said blushing.

"Save it for later" Max said to get everyone laughing only to have Natalie hit him on the arm "what, like I'm the only one thinking it."

"You can think it all you want Max, I just have two things left to say...one, Happy Anniversary to my beautiful wife and two, Happy New Year everyone" he said realizing it was now midnight. Everyone ushered the same sentiment as they all hugged and kiss to celebrate the new year.

After another hour, Sidney's parents decided to leave and as promised took the twins with them. The night was winding down and more people were leaving to head home.

"So are we heading home anytime soon, oh husband of mine" she asked him taking him away from his conversation with Max, Jordan, and Kris Letang. The other three just looked at each other "oh please, not like you all have someone that you want to go home with." They all just smiled and bid the happy couple goodnight.

"Actually, I lied earlier."

"You're not my husband?"

"Oh I am definitely your husband but I lied about going back home after the party. Mom and dad are staying at the house with the twins and we have a room upstairs."

"Let me guess, you already had a bag packed just for this occasion."

"I actually had the room ready with our bag in it since yesterday. I had to make sure it was perfect for tonight."

"Any more surprises my dear?"

"Just what I have planned for you in bed, but then again we're so great together that it's no surprise there." Karen just shook her head and smiled as they said goodnight to everyone else left and went upstairs to their room.

When they got to the floor and their room Sidney unlocked the door and turned to Karen "close your eyes" he told her and she did. Sidney got the door open slightly before picking her up and carrying her into their room. He got her a ways in and set her down "open your eyes baby."

Karen opened her eyes and scanned the room. It was filled with roses of all colors and there was a plate of fruit and a bottle of champagne on the table by the patio door. "I can't believe you did all this for us."

"Well, more for you" he said wrapping his arms around her waist from behind "I just wanted to show you how much you mean to me."

Karen turned around to face him "I know how much you love me Sid, you know I never needed anything expensive or fancy to prove that."

"I know and I love the fact that you never asked for more than what you wanted. You always kept it simple which told me you loved me for me."

"When have I ever never loved you for just being you?"

Sidney smiled "never. Why don't you get changed into something a little more comfortable and I will open the champagne?"

"I'm assuming my Christmas present is in the bag."

"But of course beautiful" he said kissing her then letting her go change. Karen went to pick up the bag and took it into the bathroom with her. She decided to jump in the shower real quick and got undressed, putting her hair up. After her shower, Karen dried off, put on some lotion and found her present in the bag. She smiled as she held it up then put on the babydoll and matching panties. Karen looked in the mirror once more and smiled before walking out into the living room area.

Before Karen came out, Sidney had moved the fruit and champagne over to the coffee table. He was opening the bottle when he saw the bathroom door open and Karen walk out in the lingerie that he bought her. Karen stood in the doorway for a minute as she caught Sidney's eye. He forgot what he was doing and the cork of the champagne bottle popped out and flew across the room, making both of them laugh.

"You're dangerous with those as I remember."

"Well they do tend to have a mind of their own when something stunning walks into the room."

"I don't think the bottle can tell if something is stunning."

"No, but I can and you look beautiful Karen."

"Thank you but you need to credit my handsome husband for picking it out."

"He did a great job if I say so myself."

"Don't get all cocky on me now."

"Oh I can get cocky baby, you just need to be open to it."

"For you, I am open to anything."

"Anything???"

Karen smiled "almost anything."

"I think we can play with that" he said handing her a glass of champagne. "To my beautiful wife, who I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with."

"And to my sexy husband who loves me enough to want to spend the rest of his life with me and our beautiful children."

They clinked glasses "I will definitely drink to that" he said as they took a drink. "I love you."

"I love you too."

They finished their glass and Sidney sat down, pulling Karen down onto the couch with him. She reached for the bottle and refilled their glasses "planning on getting me drunk?"

"I don't know, maybe" she said smiling at him "you were pretty fun the last time you had too much to drink."

"If I remember correctly, we were celebrating something then too."

"Do I dare ask if you are going to compare them?"

"I might but I think this celebration will win out" he said kissing her but after a minute Karen broke the kiss "what's wrong?"

"Nothing except for the fact that you are way to overdressed to be doing this with me."

"I think I might be able to fix that, here" he said giving her his glass and leaving the room. Karen saw him head to the bathroom and she just smiled sitting back and finishing her drink and his.

A couple minutes later, Sidney emerged in only a pair of shorts "is this better?"

Karen looked up and smiled "much better." Sidney walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her "I think I know what that look means."

"You better know" he said leaning down to kiss her. The kiss began slow but heated up immediately. Hands were roaming over every inch of each other's bodies knowing where to take the night. Karen let out a whimper when Sidney pulled his lips away breaking the kiss "tell me you believe that this was meant to be between us. Tell me everything that happened tonight will put away every doubt you have that I want this to be over."

"It did" she said as tears welled up in her eyes "my doubt was the fear of being without you. I thought I would be able to handle not being married to you or substaintually have the family that we do now."

"I don't want anyone else baby. You have been my life and now it's you and the twins. This is my family and to know you want that to, makes me love you even more."

Karen giggled through her tears and wiped her eyes "why do you have to turn every romantic evening into something sappy?"

"Because I can" he said smiling "and because I love you."

"I love you to Sid" she said bringing him back down to her lips to seal their love.

Their kissing got more intense and Sidney broke away once again. Karen was about to question his intentions when she realized what they were. He led them into the bedroom and kissed her briefly before picking her up and placing her in the middle of the bed. Sidney crawled on the bed and over her body. Karen made a move to touch him, but he held her hands to stop her.

"This night is about you baby."

"But..."

"No buts, I'll get what I want out of tonight but the first part is all for you."

Chapter 44

The week had passed by and New Year's was approaching fast. The Pens had an early game on New Year's eve so they could celebrate with friends and family afterwards. Since Karen was at home with the twins, Sidney got through the media and rushed through his shower to get home to them. He had left instructions to be showered and dressed by the time he got home. Karen just laughed because unless both kids fell asleep that would be near impossible.

At 6p, Sidney made it home and saw Karen in her robe feeding one of the babies.

"I thought I told you to be ready" Sidney said coming into the house.

"Well I at least managed to get my shower when these two fell asleep finally. Your son decided he was hungry and being the wonderful mother that I am decided to feed him."

Just then a small cry rang out from upstairs "finish up with junior here and I will get Nicki fed then I'll go change."

"What is with the rushing and dictating?"

"I'm sorry for rushing you and I'm trying not to dictate but I want to get the the New Year's party."

"What's going on Sid?"

Sidney leaned down to kiss her "you'll find out in time" he said running up the steps to feed his daughter leaving Karen to shake her head.

"Your dad has something planned. Do you know what it is?" she asked her son as he ate with his eyes closed "no huh, didn't think you'd rat him out." Karen let Sidney finish nursing before taking him upstairs to put him in the crib so she could get dressed.

"Do you mind wearing this?" Sidney asked holding up a white cocktail dress with lace trimmed edges and straps.

"Not what I had in mind but if that's what you want me to wear I'll wear it tonight."

"Good. I'll go get the kids changed and dressed as you get ready." Karen watched him practically run out of the room and smiled wondering what was going to happen tonight.

After a half hour of getting the kids ready and packing an overnight bag, Sidney had them downstairs and was waiting on Karen. She saw him pacing around and slowly walked down the steps.

"Sid, will you calm down. It's a New Year's eve party. It's a safe bet it'll be going on for another 6 or 7 hours if not all night."

"I know, I just want to beat traffic and get there."

"Nice cover" she said looking at the bags by the door "are we not coming back?"

"We are the kids aren't."

"What?"

"Mom and dad will probably leave after midnight and she decided to give us a night alone so she offered to take the twins tonight."

"I'm sure you did some begging first."

"Me? I would never do that."

"Then tell me what you have planned."

"Nope, can't do that. It's a surprise and you will love what ever happens."

"But I hate surprises."

"Yeah I know, but you will still love me after this." Karen laughed and shook her head before grabbing one of the carriers and a bag then heading out to the car. Sidney smiled and took the other carrier and bag, following her and getting the twins settled in the back seat.

The whole way to the hotel, Karen kept trying to get what Sidney had planned but he just kissed her hand and kept mum. They got to the hotel and went to the room where the team was having their party. Karen looked around and made her way to Sidney's parents and hers, giving them a hug and setting the twins down. Sidney walked over to some of his teammates and talked about the upcoming events.

"Does she suspect anything Sid?" Max asked.

"No and it's killing her that I won't tell her."

"When do you want us to get everything ready?" Jordan chimed in.

"After I take Karen outside the room, you guys can get everyone to change the room and I'll bring her back in about 5 minutes later to start everything" Sidney said smiling hoping his plan goes off without a hitch.

Meanwhile, Karen had found Natalie and Britnie and was talking to them.

"Ok, I have to ask. Sid has something planned and I know both of you know what it is. So, what's is it?"

"I have no idea sis, really."

"Seriously Karen, Max hasn't said anything to me about something happening tonight."

"Really? So your men are just plotting something over there with my husband and you two have no idea." Karen saw the smirk they gave each other "yeah and neither of you know."

"Just enjoy the party Karen, you'll love what happens" Natalie said as she walked away laughing.

"So tell me Brit, does everyone in this room know what's going to happen tonight?"

"Yep....well everyone but you" she said smiling as she left Karen alone.

Karen had enough and walked over to Sidney who quit talking when she walked up "can we talk for a minute Sid?"

"Sure, why don't we step out of the room for a minute. It's a little noisy in here" he told her and gave Max and Jordan a look before leading Karen away from everyone. They left the room and Sidney walked her away from the door "what's the matter?"

"Why don't you tell me. Something's going on that everyone else knows about but me."

"Did I tell you how beautiful you look tonight?" he said caressing her cheek.

"Sid, I'm being serious."

"So am I. Do you know how much I love you?"

"Sid, please?"

"Alright, I'll tell you what's going on after this" he said before leaning in to meet her lips with a soft, passionate kiss.

"You're stalling" she said breaking the kiss.

"I'm showing you how much I love you."

"I love you too, now tell me what's going on."

Sidney just smiled and nodded his head yes. He took her hand and led her back into the room, standing behind her to let her soak in what she was now looking at.

"Why are all the chairs and everyone sitting like they are waiting for something to happen?"

"You do know what tonight is, right?"

Karen smiled "its our wedding anniversary."

"Well, this is your surprise" he said still holding her hand and walking her down between everyone and standing in front of them. "Ever since the first day I saw you, I knew I wanted, needed you in my life. You brought so much love, joy and surprises that I thought the world was nothing but a hockey game."

"What are you doing?" she whispered knowing everyone was staring at them.

"I don't think I could have picked anyone better to share my life with and I want to continue to share my life with you." Sidney slowly moved down on to one knee and a breath caught in Karen's throat "tonight isn't just about celebrating a New Year, but the start of a new journey with each other and our children. Karen, the love of my life, will you do me the honor and marry me...again?"

Karen looked around at all their friends and then laid her eyes upon her children, her babies that she never thought would happen. She turned back to look at Sidney as the tears stained her cheeks and nodded her head "yes, I'll marry you again" she said making Sidney jump up and kiss her.

Chapter 43

A few hours later, Karen jolted out of bed and startled Sidney beside her.

"Baby, what's wrong?"

"I thought I heard crying."

"I don't hear anything. The twins are probably still asleep. Come here" he said lying down and pulling her with him. As soon as they cuddled into each other, a cry rang out "ok, that was spooky."

Karen got up and put on her robe "you're telling me." Sidney got up and went to get his shower so he could keep an eye on the twins when Karen got hers. Twenty minutes later, he was downstairs getting some breakfast ready for them as the phone rang.

After Karen got both kids fed and changed, she had them back in their cribs and they fell back asleep giving her ample opportunity to get her shower and ready for the family to come over for Christmas. When she got out and got dryed off, she went to the dresser to get clothes when she saw both necklaces Sidney and Jordan gave her. Picking them up and holding them in each hand, she thought back to when everything that happened between them wondering if she would be where she was today.

"I did love you Jordan but I couldn't let my heart realize that" she said looking at his. She turned to Sidney's locket "I had always loved you since our first date and I can't believe you still wanted to be with me after everything." She let out a sigh and didn't want to disappoint either of them. Karen put on Jordan's first then the locket Sidney gave her. It was perfect that one had a longer chain then the other and they sat perfectly one above the other. She hoped they both didn't get offended that she had both necklaces on and the first test would be Sidney. Karen got dressed and headed downstairs, letting the smell of food hit her nose and telling her how hungry she was. Walking into the kitchen, Sidney asked her to get the juice from the fridge and she did before sitting down. Sidney looked at her and smiled then glanced down to her chest. Karen's eyes looked at his and a small fear stopped her heart until he spoke.

"They both look beautiful on you and I know why you put them both on, you don't want to disappoint either of us today."

"I'm hoping to wear them both everyday, just not today because he'll be here with Britnie."

Sidney took one of Karen's hand and held it "just because one of those came from Jordan, it still came from a friend."

"And it doesn't mean I love yours any less Sid. They both represent me being a mother and they are both special to me."

"I know baby" he said kissing her hand and smiling at her telling her he was ok with it "but maybe sometimes you could wear just mine."

"I think I can make that happen the majority of the time." They leaned in for a kiss then began eating their breakfast.

After breakfast and getting the dishes done, Sidney and Karen sat in the living room for a undefined quiet moment.

"When is everyone suppose to get here?" Karen asked him.

"Well mom called while you were with the kids and she said that they would be here by 10a. What about yours?"

"Probably around the same time. Mom said she wanted us to enjoy some time before everyone got here."

"Then I can give you your other present."

"Sid" she said as he got up "that's not fair. I only got the painting for you."

"Well, I saw this and couldn't resist" he said handing her the box. Karen opened it and smiled as she pulled out the lace trimed baby doll lingerie and matching panties. "I saw that on a mannequin and instantly thought of you."

"Its beautiful."

"So are you and after getting off all the baby weight, you'll look even more beautiful in it." Karen just shot him a look "you know what I mean baby."

"I do and I love it. Maybe I'll wear it tonight after everyone goes home."

"You could but I gave it to you now to have it to wear on New Years."

"Why do you want me to wait until then to wear it?"

"New Years is special and if the kids let me, I want to make it as romantic as I can for us to where by the end of the night, you have this one."

"Sounds wonderful, but um, if the kids let you?"

"Well, I'll have to have a talk with them but hopefully they won't yell for their mom after a certain time that night."

Karen shook her head and giggled "why don't we just see if either of our moms will take them after a certain time? I know we'll all be celebrating New Years together, maybe after midnight when they head home they can take the kids with them."

"Or, maybe they could take them earlier, let me do what I want to you before we meet up with everyone to celebrate before midnight."

"You have something planned already."

"I don't know what you're talking about. All I know is that I want at least an hour to make love to my beautiful wife without any possible interruptions."

"A full hour? Wow, someone's ambitious."

"Let's just say I want to ring in the New Year right. Forget everything that happened this year...well with the exception of the twins being born" he smiled at Karen "and have our fresh start as a family."

"I'd like that" she said with tears forming in her eyes. Sidney brought up his hand and caressed her cheek before leaning in to attack her lips with his. They stayed locked in an embrace until Karen heard a car pull up and got out of his grasp to Sidney's dismay. She went to the door and opened it seeing her parents, grandparents, Britnie and Jordan "apparently I missed the family gathering at the house."

"Nah, we just all pulled up at the same time" Britnie told her sister as she hugged her.

"Well perfect timing then" she said hugging her back "hi Jordan."

"Hey" he said somewhat shyly hugging her "Merry Christmas Karen."

"Merry Christmas to you too."

"Pretty necklace you have on" he said smiling.

"Thanks, my best friend gave it to me. Come on in" she said ushering them in and out of the cold so she could greet everyone else.

After everyone got inside, they sat around talking until the twins woke up to join them. Dinner was in the oven, so they decided to open up all the presents. Karen just watched Jordan, Sidney and Taylor all be kids and rip open presents. They only had two each, the rest belonged to the twins. Sidney would pick up the toys that were opened and proudly show them to the twins, virtually getting no response which just made everyone laugh.

"Mom, could you take Nicki, I need to check on dinner."

"Don't be silly. You stay and enjoy the family time, I will go check on dinner."

"And I will help you" Trina said handing Sidney off to Troy and getting up to follow Nicole in the kitchen.

"I'm not helpless you know" Karen yelled to them and smiled when she heard laughing coming from there. She sat and finished watching all the presents being opened then Sidney and Jordan trying to get the twins to play with them.

Awhile later, Karen and Britnie took the twins upstairs so she could feed them and put them down for their naps while the grown ups ate dinner.

"So, Jordan told me he told you everything that had happened that day at the arena" Karen said after getting situated and feeding Nicki.

Britnie sat on the couch with Sidney and nodded her head "yeah and I was more shocked that it had come to that."

"What do you mean?"

"I knew Jordan was having a hard time getting over you. When we were together, he would get this faraway look in his eyes and I knew he was thinking of you. I asked him straight out if he loved you and he said he did. But then after a second of silence, I asked him if he loved me."

"I hope he told you he did."

"He did. He looked me straight in the eyes and told me that eventhough he still loved you, he wanted the love he had for me help him get over the love for you."

"I'm happy for you Brit."

"It sounds like you are but I'm wondering if you really are."

"Yes Brit, I did love him. Maybe for a brief second I did fall in love with him. But I think it was more of the freedom that I was in love with. My life is wrapped around being Sidney Crosby's wife, but Jordan brought feelings of spontaneous, wreckless sex that was unhibited to both of us. It became a force bigger than both of us, only I was able to see what I really wanted and that was Sid. I do regret that you got hurt in all this. I was hoping to break it off with Jordan before it got to where it did but it didn't, for that I apologize."

"I forgive you sis, just if the urge hits again...go for someone other than Jordan" Britnie said then smiled.

Karen smiled back at her sister and nodded "I don't think I ever want to jeopardize what's in front of me again" she said looking down at Nicki then over at Sidney.

Meanwhile downstairs, Sidney and Jordan were alone by the tree putting a couple toys together for the twins.

"I guess you didn't mind Karen wearing the necklace I gave her" Jordan asked cautiously.

"No I don't. She's your friend Jordan and she's not about to do anything to ruin that."

"I know you're thinking I only asked Brit to marry me to keep me close to Karen."

"Jordan, I..."

"Let me finish please" he said sternly and Sidney just nodded "Brit and I had it out and I told her everything, I mean everything. The love I have for Karen, I don't know if it will ever go away but at least I know I can let go of the feelings to keep pursuing her. It's over Sid and I wanted you to hear it from me. You have a beautiful family and I can't destroy that for either of you."

Sidney sat there in silence for a minute "I appreciate that, really and I'm glad you finally told me the truth."

"What makes you think I wasn't telling you the truth before?"

"I could tell from your eyes. Before I still saw a need you had for Karen and this time, it was gone. I hope you and Britnie can truly get past this and be happy."

"Thanks man" he said as they shook hands "so hopefully this means that you won't try and take my head off at practice anymore?"

"Unless you steal the puck away, I don't see it happening again." They both laughed and finished putting the toys together.

Twenty minutes later, all the grown ups were sitting in the dining room eating their Christmas Dinner. Karen had looked around the table and saw what might not have been if her choices went another way. She was brought out of her thoughts when Sidney caressed her hand. Karen offered and smile and finished eating, joining back into the conversations. After they ate, Karen was in the kitchen getting some of the dishes done as everyone moved into the living room to continue talking until their dinner digested enough for some dessert. Sidney realized Karen hadn't been back out and went to check on her. He saw her at the sink and wrapped his arms around her waist.

"What's wrong?" he asked casually.

"Why do you always ask me if something's wrong?" she said turning around in his arms.

"Because I can always tell by either the way you get quiet in a room full of people or when you get a faraway look I know something's bothering you. So spill it."

"Nothing's wrong, I just saw everyone and was glad we were all together."

"Because it might not have happened."

"I can't help but wonder if this day would have been just me and my family if..." she said but Sidney put his finger over her lips to silence her.

"I am going to say this one last time. Are you listening because I will not be repeating it and we will never have this conversation again" he said getting a nod from Karen. "It might have seem like it, but I never wanted us apart. We both fought to be together and look how it worked out. Everyone is happy, everyone is right where they need to be. You need to get that through your head before I take a drill and bore it in there."

"I'm sorry and maybe it's the holidays but I can't help but still wonder how you went from being furious at me to being the most lovable, caring, and forgiving husband around. Most men that would have walked in on their wives with another man would have left long ago."

"But I think I've proved to not be like all men."

"And you're not Sid."

"Then why are you still doubting all this?"

"I don't know. Maybe I need something to just popped out of nowhere to make me truly realize it on my own."

"Well I hope it happens soon because I can't handle anymore hormone-related philosophical ramblings from you" he said getting a laugh out of her. "I love you. I've lost you once and I am never going to make that mistake again. Like you said, you will believe it when you see it."

"All I have to say is, it better smack me hard in the face so I don't miss it."

"Not too hard" he said bringing his hand up to caress her cheek "I don't need to see a bruise on this beautiful face." Karen just smiled and leaned in for a kiss before breaking apart and heading in to join everyone.

Chapter 42

Karen went into the bedroom for a minute as Sidney held his daughter "your mom's not as complicated as she seems most days" he said in a voice above a whisper.

"I heard that" Karen said as she stopped by the doorway on her way downstairs. She looked at her son who was staring at her "I think your dad has gotten knocked around one too many times on the ice buddy."

"I HEARD THAT" Sidney yelled from the nursery as he heard Karen laugh before she totally disappeared downstairs.

"Well baby girl, now we get our father/daughter time. I won't beat around the bush and tell you I wanted a son to follow me in my footsteps, but I think having a daughter to reach the NHL and break all kinds of records has me giddy" he said smiling. "Let's see here. I'm guessing you heard what I told your brother huh? Well, I'm glad so I don't have to repeat my life story. Don't want to bore your mom again who's listening downstairs." Karen just smiled knowing she was as she sat on the couch with Sidney cradled in her arms. "I have a lot of plans for you and Sidney. I hope you enjoy being a hockey kid, hell...sorry heck, I just hope you enjoy having me as your dad."

"You know they will Sid" Karen said into the monitor. She looked at Sidney in her arms and he had his eyes closed, falling asleep "your dad is so amazing Sid, I can't wait for you to see him play. I had to name him after you because when I first saw you, you had that same determination in your eyes to get better as he does before he goes on the ice for a game. You and Nicki were in mommy's tummy when he won the Cup and you probably wondered what all the noise was huh? That was the sound of the world being proud of him. I have no doubt you guys will be just as proud of him as I am" she said kissing his head then went back listen to Sidney talk to his daughter.

"I am going to teach you all kinds of shi...stuff little girl. You my dear will have a wicked slap shot that even the toughest players will dive out of the way. I will make goalies fear you as you come down the ice."

"Why do I think there is going to be heavy competition in this house as you two grow up" Karen said shaking her head.

"Of course Nicki, I will have to be really tough on the guys you date. I'm sorry but I don't think a hockey player will be in your future. I know, I know...if it was good enough for your mom it can be good enough for you. Your mom didn't know what she was thinking when she picked me but I will definitely pick the right one for you. Get that baby, all potential boyfriends must meet my final approval" he said into the speaker as Karen quietly laughed downstairs. "You're special Trina Nicole Crosby and I will make sure all your talents come through. You know your mom named you after both your grandmothers. My mom, Trina, is no stranger to helping provide a hockey atmosphere in the family. Karen's mom, Nicole, well let's just say she was no fan of mine. I guess she thought your mom could have done better. She didn't think a professional hockey player could be good enough for her daughter."

Karen listened intently. She knew her mom tolerated Sidney but never really knew why she didn't like him.

"There was this other guy, Nathan I think, that also wanted your mom's heart. He was in and out of the picture a lot with his job and I saw them together one day while we were dating. They were having lunch in a cafe downtown and a couple teammates and I were going nearby for lunch after practice one day. She looked like she was happy being with him. The smile that I thought was meant for me came out for him too. I felt sad to wonder if the next time I saw her, she was going to break it off with me."

"I didn't know he knew about that day" she whispered to herself.

"But she didn't. Since she didn't mention it, I knew in my heart she wanted to be with me as much as I wanted to be with her. Anyway, back to your grandmother Nicole, she would throw Nathan in my face when your mom wasn't around. I blew it off knowing where her heart was. Even when we had our own little time apart I knew she always loved me, I just had to make myself believe it again. You and your brother are a product of that love that fought to be together." Sidney looked down and saw the bottle was empty. He took it from her mouth and put it aside as he lifted her to his shoulder and rubbed her back waiting for her to burp. After she did, Sidney got up and brought his daughter downstairs to sit with his wife and son.

"You needed to wait to feed your daughter to tell me all that?" Karen asked as he walked into the living room. "When we were dating, why didn't you tell me you saw me with Nathan?"

"I didn't want to bring it up for fear you were going to tell me it was over."

"When you saw me smiling, we were talking about old times. That smile didn't last long when he started talking about doing anything and everything to get me to be his wife. I had no intention to be with a man I didn't love Sid."

"I figured that when you never brought it up."

"And I knew my mom hated the fact that I married a hockey player but you should have told me how she treated you when I wasn't around."

"Any porfessional athlete is prone to have extracurricular activities when they go away for games but she couldn't or didn't want to believe I wasn't like that."

"I think she likes you now."

"Only because of these two beauties. We gave her grandchildren, how can she not like me now."

"Maybe I'll have a talk with her."

"No, let's just let it die and it'll work itself out as time goes on."

"I love you for tolerating her behavior towards you."

"I'll find a way to charm her" he said to get Karen to smile. He looked at the clock on the wall "Merry Christmas baby, it's midnight."

"Merry Christmas Sid" she said as they leaned in for a sweet, slow passionate kiss. When they broke apart, they looked at the sleeping children in their arms "Merry Christmas Sidney and Nicki" she said only to have Sidney reiterate the sentiment. Sidney slowly got off the couch and went over by the tree, grabbing a small box and bringing it back over to the couch.

"I know we said not to get presents for each other this year and concentrate on the kids, but I had to get this for you" he said handing her the box.

Karen took the box with her free hand, only to put it in the hand under Sidney and opened it with the other. She looked inside and saw a heart shaped locket with the Penguins logo on it. "Sid, it's beautiful."

"Open it."

Karen put her thumbnail inbetween and heard a small click then pryed it apart with her thumb to reveal pictures inside "oh Sid, how did you do this?"

"When you were sleeping one morning and I got up to check on the twins, they were both awake so I got the camera, turned off the flash and snapped a picture of both of them. When I saw this pendant available, I went to get it and they were able to shrink the pictures to fit for me. I've had it for a little while now, waiting patiently for Christmas to get here to give it to you."

"I love it, and I love you. Thank you, I will always cherish this" she said before kissing him. "Do you want yours now?"

"If you want to give it to me now."

"Ok" Karen got up and put Sidney in his bassinette, going back over taking Nicki and putting her down as well. She walked over to the tree and got the huge package bringing it back over and laying it on the coffee table.

"What could this possibly be?" Sidney asked shocked as to what Karen got him.

"Well open it and find out."

Sidney ripped off the paper and saw the back of a picture frame. He lifted the picture up and turned it over, looking at it in awe. "How....when.....how...?"

Karen just laughed at his bewilderment "I found a local artist that paints the athletes for all three Pittsburgh teams. I gave him a photo of Mellon Arena, both outside and in and a couple different pictures of you on and off the ice that I love. I asked him to use his own imagination and create a mural of you with Mellon behind you to commenorate the years you played there before you guys move into the new one next year."

"Baby, out of all my hockey trophies and everything I've collected through the years of playing, this is what I will treasure the most. Thank you so much for thinking of this, I love you beyond words right now."

"I was thinking, if you have no objections, we could hang it in the nursery so the kids can see you everyday even when you're on road trips."

"I can't think of a better place to hang it" he said smiling through the tears in his eyes as he leaned in to kiss her. "How about we take the kids back up to bed and head there ourselves? Think they'll get us up in a few hours anyway for their presents."

"I don't think the whole holiday and what it means has sunken in for them yet. Besides, I think you'll have more fun opening their presents then they will."

"That's probably true" he said laughing "but it's their first Christmas, I think in some shape or form they'll remember."

Maybe you're right" she said as they got up and each picked up a baby and headed upstairs. After tucking them in, they left the room and went into their own bedroom. Sidney laid down as Karen went into the bathroom before coming out to join him. She curled up to his side and played with his necklace, getting lost in thought about what all she heard Sidney talk about tonight. She was brought out of her thoughts when she heard Sidney clear his throat and looked to see him holding a condom package between his fingers.

"Are you serious?" Sidney took her hand and placed it over his crotch that was definitely showing signs of life "apparently you are."

He rolled them over onto Karen's back and lifted up her nightgown, seeing she took off her underwear "apparently you had something in mind too baby."

"Well you know, I can't play hard to get all the time."

Sidney moved and rolled the condom over his hard cock. He grabbed the base and guided himself inside Karen's wet core. They both let out a gasp as each felt the sensations of being connected. Sidney's lips made contact with Karen's for a searing kiss as his hips began to move upward slowly to torture her. Karen let Sidney do what he wanted to her and go as slow, fast, hard, or easy as he saw fit. She arched her back and lifted her hips off the bed to match his thrusts. Karen felt her orgasm building and wanted to take over. She made a move to get them to roll over onto Sidney's back and got repositioned. She started out slow to get the rhythm going again before speeding up as the feeling began to grow inside her again. As she was almost drawn over the edge, Karen reached down and pulled Sidney up to her, wrapping her arms around him and holding on tight as her body shook hard. Sidney felt the tightness around his cock and dug his fingers into her hips, keeping her tight over his cock and not letting her move until his orgasm finished taking over. When their bodies calmed down, they were holding on to each other until Karen pulled back and stared deeply into Sidney's eyes before their lips met again. Sidney carefully moved them to put them back on the bed and Karen on her back before pulling out and rolling off to her side. Karen felt the bed shift and saw Sidney head to the bathroom, smiling at him when he came back to cuddle up beside her.

"That is the main reason why I hate wearing those. It spoils the mood afterwards."

"I know and I'm sorry."

"It's not your fault, besides, you'd kill me if you ended up pregnant again so soon."

"Let's hope I can if we choose to expand our family a few years down the road."

"Baby, these two were a miracle and if something happens and you can't carry to term like the others, then we will be blessed with the ones we have. I know I've talked about wanting a whole line change plus a goalie, but I'm not going to be disappointed if I don't get it." Karen started to moved to get up "where you going?"

"To get a piece of paper and a pen so I can have that in writing for a later time" she said smiling but Sidney grabbed her and brought her back down to him "it was worth a shot."

"Yeah it was." Sidney kissed her head "get some sleep beautiful, tomorrow will be a hectic one with both our families here." Karen smiled into his chest and Sidney held on tighter as they fell asleep in each other's arms.