Chapter 29

The next month had passed and it was now October and the home opener was just around the corner. Karen had gotten bigger and was somewhat happy she was now in her third trimester. The uneasy feelings were still in her mind though.

Karen had stayed home from work since she's been feeling off. Nothing bad, but she didn't want to chance doing too much at one time. She had gotten out of the shower and dried off but before she got dressed, Karen stood in front of the mirror looking at her body.

Sidney had come home from practice and called for Karen but got no answer. He panicked for a minute and went to find her. He went upstairs and as he was about to walk into the bedroom, he stopped at the doorway and watched her. He saw her rub over her stomach and just really looked at herself.

Karen looked from her feet all the way up to her face, seeing every inch of her body. She couldn't believe she was really pregnant and in her 7th month. A couple tears escaped and she brought her hand up to wipe it off.

"You know, if I come home everyday and you greet me like this, I may have to leave and come back about 20 times a day" Sidney said walking into the room.

Karen saw him through the mirror and smiled "how about you just never leave" she said turning around to him.

"I could but then that means the team comes over here to play."

"Well that would give you the reason to build that hockey rink in the back yard you always wanted."

Sidney just smiled "you're beautiful. You were beautiful before you got pregnant and after you bring our baby into the world, you will still be beautiful." He saw Karen's smile start to fade and got out of his grip going to get her robe and put it on "what just happened?"

"I'm scared Sid."

"Baby, we've come this far and..."

"I know we've come this far and there's still a possibility that something could happen."

Sidney brought her over to the bed and sat her down, kneeling in front of her "I'm scared about that too Karen but thinking that we are going to have our family in 3 months puts all those bad thoughts out of my mind. You need to think that too."

"I know I do."

"How about if you get dressed and we'll go out to dinner? I'll take you to your favorite Mexican place."

"You need to stop spoiling me."

"Never in a million years" he said kissing her then leaving her alone to get dressed. Twenty minutes later, Karen was downstairs and they left for a night out.

During the middle of the night, Karen was moving around because she couldn't get comfortable. She moved onto her back and closed her eyes, drifting back into a peaceful sleep.

"Sexy" he said whispering to her "wake up for me beautiful."

Karen slowly opened her eyes to the voice and was startled "Jordan? What are you doing here?" she said looking over and not seeing Sidney beside her.

"I came for you. I came to have my last time with you."

"I told you no Jordan."

"Well if you look down, I think you're saying yes."

Jordan moved off her and Karen looked at herself. She saw she was now naked and so was he "I'm not saying yes Jordan" she said pulling the sheet over her "you need to leave."

Jordan climbed back on the bed "isn't this what you wanted baby" Sidney said as he walked into the room, climbing on the bed beside her.

"What's going on Sid?"

"You wanted us both, here's your chance."

"I don't understand this."

"Its not for you to understand sexy" Jordan said caressing her cheek and pulling the sheet off "just go with it." Jordan leaned in and kissed her and Karen hesitated for a moment before kissing him back. She felt herself being moved in a sitting position and Sidney moved in behind her. Jordan broke the kiss and leaned her back against Sidney's chest. Karen turned her head to look at Sidney, only to have his lips meet hers for a searing kiss. Karen let go of his lips to let out a whimpering moan when she felt Jordan's tongue lick all around her aching lips. As Jordan went deeper, Karen pushed her head back into Sidney's shoulder and loved the feelings that were coming over her. Sidney reached his hands around and attacked her breasts, massaging them hard to help draw out those feelings. Karen moaned out when her orgasm hit her. She didn't know what was to come next and it wasn't long before she found out.

Jordan scooted up her naked, pregnant body and kissed her. He sat her up and brought her to her knees. This also made room for Sidney to move off the bed and walked over to the lounge chair in the room, sitting down and watching Jordan with his wife. Jordan moved behind her and just ran his hands over her body as he kissed her neck. Pushing her forward a little, he was able to slide inside of her with ease before bringing her back up against his chest. Jordan grabbed her hips to help pound into her and Karen reached her hands around grabbing his ass and leaving fingernail marks in his skin.

Sidney sat there and watched how much Karen enjoyed being touched by Jordan. Watching Jordan pound his hard cock inside her making her moan out for him. His anger started to rise within his body and he walked over to them, standing at the foot of the bed and infront of Karen. When she felt another set of hands on her body, her focus went from Jordan behind her to Sidney who was now touching her. Karen brought one of her hands around and wrapped it around Sidney's body letting their lips meet again. The more feelings Jordan brought out in her, there was an intensity when she kissed Sidney. She felt his fingers begin to play with her clit and it helped bring her second orgasm rushing through her body. Jordan felt the tightness and came hard after the last few hard pounding thrusts he gave her. Sidney left her lips only to have Jordan turn her head around and reclaiming them in a fiery kiss.

Sidney broke them apart to Jordan's dismay "my wife, my turn" he told him. Jordan snuck in one last kiss before he pulled out from behind her and got off the bed. Sidney stepped back up to her body and wrapped his arms around her body, bringing her in for his own searing kiss. When they broke apart, Karen didn't know how much more she could take.

"Baby, relax" he said tracing his finger over her cheek to calm her down "it's just you and me now" he whispered to her before pulling her in for another kiss. Karen left his lips and Sidney got on the bed in front of her. He managed to lay down and Karen instinctively staddled his cock and slid down on him. Karen started off slow but moved a little faster when she couldn't get enough. Jordan had moved back over to the bed and stood beside Karen. As she laced her fingers with Sidney's, Jordan's hands were touching her breasts and went to find her clit to help her out. Karen couldn't handle all the sensations and turned her head to meet Jordan's lips as her third and final orgasm ripped through her body making her leave his lips and scream out....

Sidney shot up in bed when he heard Karen let out a small scream "baby. what's wrong?" he said frantic.

Karen sat up like she was gasping for breath and looked around "what happened?"

"That's what I'm trying to find out. You let out a scream and then shot up breathing all heavy. Are you ok? Is it the baby?"

Karen grabbed her stomach and felt around not feeling any pain or liquid "no, the baby's fine. I guess I just had a bad dream." She started to remember everything and telling him what she dreamt was not what she had planned. "I'm sorry I scared you" she said caressing his cheek.

"I just want you safe baby."

"I'm here with you, so I am definitely safe" she said leaning into him for a gentle kiss. Sidney laid back down and brought her with him, letting her get comfortable and falling back asleep.

Two days later, it was the home opener and Karen wasn't about to miss it. Sidney could tell she had been feeling off and wasn't about to tell her to stay home. He got her to go into the arena with him so he knew where she was and he could keep an eye on her until he had to get ready for warm ups.

Karen was sitting in the lounge with some other girlfriends and wives while the guys were having their soccer game to warm up. Natalie came over to sit with her friend and could sense something was wrong.

"Hey, feel like going for a walk?"

"Yeah. It does seem to be getting a little crowded in here."

"And we can talk about what happened."

They got up and started walking out of the lounge and locker room, going down the corridor "where would you get something happened?"

"Girl please, I know you. What happened?"

"Ok but I need you to be sworn to secrecy for what I tell you."

"No details will leave my lips, what is it?"

"Apparently I dreamt that I sex with Sidney..."

"Oh please, that's not news" she said interrupting her.

"....and Jordan."

Natalie stopped her friend from walking "say that again but as a whole sentence."

"I had a dream that I had sex with Sidney and Jordan."

"Like, together? As a threesome?" she asked with disbelief.

"No, not as a threesome. I was asleep and Jordan woke me up. Sidney wasn't in bed with us but then walked in and said that I wanted them both so here was my chance. Then it just started and Jordan went first as Sidney watched us. Then he wanted his turn and Jordan watched but started touching me as Sidney and I were having sex. I guess when my final orgasm came, I screamed out literally and woke up."

"Damn girl. What triggered that?"

"I don't know" she said with some hesitation "maybe its because Jordan said he wouldn't give up until he's been with me again and the fear he would try something."

"Or it could be you never got over your feelings for him fully."

Karen just looked at her friend "I don't love him Nat."

"I didn't say you did Karen....unless you have some underlying feeling of love for him that you don't want to admit to yourself."

"Everything is perfect between Sid and I now. I'm not going to jeopardize that again."

"Kiki, I didn't mean anything by it. I know you love Sid and this baby is proof of that."

"So, that dream meant nothing...right?"

"Not unless you want it to" she told her friend before they finished their walk. They got near the lounge and Karen saw Sidney and Max outside waiting for them "well?"

"I don't want anything to happen with Jordan again."

"Then there's your answer. Just chaulk it up to pregnancy hormones." Natalie walked over to Max when Sidney made a beeline for Karen.

"I got worried when you weren't in the lounge."

"Sorry, Nat and I couldn't sit still and went for a walk."

"Everything ok?" he said rubbing her stomach.

Karen saw Jordan walk out and go the other way, smiling when she locked eyes with Sidney "everything's perfect." They shared a kiss and headed back into the lounge for a little bit. A while later, everyone left the guys to get ready and Sidney held Karen back to just get one last kiss in before the game.

"Tonight's the night to start defending what's yours" she told him as they locked eyes.

"You've put up with so much and here it is another year just beginning."

"I only worry on the days inbetween pay days" Karen smiled to get him to "this is what you love and I love watching you live your dream."

"My dream also includes you and this little one. Thank you for standing by me, I couldn't do all this without you."

"I think you could have but I'm glad through everything we're together."

"I'll let you in on a little secret...not at any time did I ever not want to be with you."

As soon as Karen heard those words, the tears she was holding began to fall "I love you and I want you to go out there tonight, take in the ceremony and watch that banner raise to the roof, then kick some Ranger ass."

"How about a goal tonight just for you."

"How about one for your child instead."

"Alright one for both of you."

"And if you only score one during the whole game?"

"I'll let you choose who it belongs to."

"I think that will work."

"I love you Karen. See you after?"

"I love you too Sid and unless I get a better offer, you're stuck with me." They shared another kiss until Sidney got pulled away by Flower and Geno and left her there laughing. She turned and headed up to Mario's suite to watch the game with everyone.

Chapter 28

After the first night of training camp, Jordan decided to take fate into his own hands and go see Sidney. He went to his room and knocked on the door. Marc answered to his surprise to see Jordan standing there.

"Are you nuts Gronk?" Flower told him.

"Just let me in Flower" Jordan said with an unamused look to his face.

"It's your funeral." Marc stepped aside and let Jordan in. Sidney was lying on his bed talking to Karen when he saw Jordan appear.

"Baby, let me call you back."

"Why, what's wrong?"

"It seems I have a visitor."

"You will play nice right Crosby?"

"I'll let you know later. I love you."

"Love you too." They hung up from each other and Sidney stood up, a safe distance from Jordan.

"I think we need to talk about what happened in the locker room."

"I think you know I hit you."

"Why did you hit him Darryl?" Flower chimed in.

"Because Staalsy here decided to make a move on Karen and kiss her after we won the Cup."

"I thought you were over her man?"

"Flower could you leave us alone please?"

"Nope, someone's gotta stay and play referee." Both Sidney and Jordan looked at Marc and he took the hint by leaving the room "I'm not going far and if I here things breaking, I will be back in" he said before walking out the door.

"Did you think Karen wouldn't tell me what you did. Preyed on her like some drunk puck bunny at Diesel after a game. She is my wife Jordan and you will stay away from her."

"You just won't get it. I love her Sid and there's nothing that will change that."

Sidney walked up to Jordan, his 5'11" frame standing up tall to him "it better change Jordy or you won't make it through the rest of training camp. I'm done holding back and playing it off that you'll leave her alone. You do anything to her or I hear from her that you tried anything, you're done and that sucker punch I gave you earlier will be nothing to what I will do to you."

Jordan saw the intensity in his eyes and knew what that look meant, but wondered if he would really take it that far "one day might surprise you Siddo and all you'll be able to do is stand on the sidelines and watch how happy I make Karen." Jordan gave one last stare into his eyes before walking backwards towards the door. He opened it but turned around "by the way, how does it feel to know when you make love to her, her thoughts are going back to me? Being compared to others doesn't really suit you Crosby."

"Fuck you Staal" Sidney said with his fists clenched. Jordan just laughed as he walked out letting the door slam shut behind him. Sidney paced around the room trying to let off some steam when Marc came back in.

"What happened?"

"I only restrained myself because we have a shot of repeating this year. I could have killed him Flower."

"Look man, I'm never one to pry but what is going on with you two?"

"Karen had an affair with Jordan a while back."

"What?"

"They had a couple nights together before we had gotten together and I guess it continued on from there. They had been together after we got married until I caught them together."

"That was the reason you were pissed and left anytime Jordan was around."

"Yeah, I couldn't stand to be in the same room with him. It was like a piece of my heart died everytime I saw him and pictured them together."

"Did anyone else know about this?"

"Max knew because Karen had talked to Natalie about what to do and fix it between us but other than that if anyone else did, they didn't talk to me about it."

"I wish you would have said something, I could have helped."

"I know but you know how private I am. Didn't want the media picking up on my life falling apart when were trying to win games and make the playoffs."

"So Jordan's not letting up?"

"No and he's picking his moments to keep trying to get to her."

"Well Karen must be over him if she told you what happened."

"She says she is and I do believe her."

"But..."

"I just think Jordan's too strong and she may give in but not under her own power."

"You think Staalsy would force himself on her?" Marc asked with disbelief.

"Not sure, but if he can't get over his feelings for her, anything is possible."

"Let's just hope if he does think about doing anything, he waits until after she gives birth." Sidney just looked at Marc and nodded. They decided to head down to the pool for a little bit to unwind before bed. After an hour, Sidney went back to the room to shower and call Karen back.

"You killed him didn't you? You killed him and took the time to hide the body before calling me back."

Sidney just laughed "no, Flower and I went to the pool to swim some laps."

"And to blow off some steam from what Jordan said to you."

"That could be it too."

"Sid just don't let him get to you."

"I'm trying baby, but it drives me crazy when he talks about you like he owns you."

"Well no one owns me, but I do belong to you."

Sidney smiled "that makes me feel a lot better."

"Good. Now get some sleep so you can actually concentrate on playing hockey the rest of this week. Show them how good you really are."

"I love you, you know that right?"

"All the way to my heart. I love you too, night."

"Night baby." They hung up and Sidney fell asleep shortly after, forgetting about Jordan and thinking about Karen and his soon to be family.

Before long, it was nearing the end of summer and Sidney and Karen were back in Pittsburgh. Sidney was asked to once again deliver some season tickets and there was one in particular he needed to do. One ticketholder, Alice, predicted they would get the Cup when he delivered the tickets to her before and Sidney wanted to bring her the tickets and the Cup to her to show how right she was. Karen knew this was one part of the fame of being an NHL hockey player was giving back to the fans and didn't mind when this took up his time.

As training camp opened, Karen hoped that Sidney and Jordan could get over their feelings and focus on what they need to. She stopped at the arena to go talk to Ray about coming back in to work and hoped her job was still there.

Karen went towards the offices and noticed Ray's door was open. She walked up and knocked on the door frame getting his attention.

"Karen, what a nice surprise. Please come in."

"Thanks, it's good to see you too."

"So what do I owe to this wonderful visit?"

"I'm hoping my job and desk is still available to come back."

"Your job was always here for you. Are you sure you feel ok for coming back in?"

"Yeah, absolutely. I'm nearing my 6th month and everything is progressing very well. I think I can handle coming in and helping out with the new season starting."

"Well I would be very happy to have you back in the office. You helped out so much with the work I sent to you and it was fantastic work. I'm assuming Sid is ok with all this?"

"I really didn't tell him I was coming to see you today but if I tell him that I'll come to the arena with him, he won't be able to say no to that."

"Because he'll be here if anything happens."

"Exactly."

"Did you want to come in during camp or wait until the season starts?"

"It's whenever you need me to start."

"Do you have time today? We can go over some things."

"I have the time" she said smiling at him. Ray got some files and they went to sit on the couch so Karen could be more comfortable while they talked.

A couple hours had past and Ray told Karen to go get something to eat.

"Before I go, could I maybe ask a favor?"

"Sure, anything."

"Do you remember when I had the family problems last year and needed the leave of absent?"

"Yeah, Sidney confided in me that you and him had a falling out."

"Yeah, um, not sure what all he told you but I had an affair with another player."

"Ok" Ray said sounding confused.

"It started before Sid and I got together but it became a force bigger than me. Anyway, it was Jordan and my favor I am about to ask is, could you maybe talk to them to make sure they leave any anger for off the ice? I don't need them to fight and jeopordize the team coming together before the season actually starts."

"Well this is technically Sid's team. I'm sure there are other teams that would want Jordan."

"NO, Ray that's not what I'm asking. I don't know if they need to just fight and get over it or what needs to happen but.."

"But you want harmony in the team."

"Basically yeah. Maybe see how they act around each other and if you notice a problem brewing bring them in for a meeting. But I don't want either to lose their spot on the team. Eventhough Jordan won't give up on me, he's still a friend and I don't want me or Sid to be hated by the city of Pittsburgh if this comes out and they know the real reason Jordan left."

"I understand Karen, really I do and I will make sure they don't kill each other."

"Thanks Ray. I'll see you back here in an hour."

"Sounds good."

As Karen was leaving, she saw Sidney walking down the hallway by himself.

"You know, walking around like that can give a girl a heart attack for looking so sexy and hot."

Sidney turned around at the sound of the voice and smiled "well that's my plan and now that you found it out, I will have to bound you to silence."

Karen seductively walked up to him "and how would you bound a girl to silence?"

Sidney wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her "like that."

"Mmm, I like that" she said with a content sigh.

"What are you doing here?" he asked surprised.

"To see you?" she said smiling sweetly.

"Nice try baby, why?"

"I wanted to talk to Ray about coming back to work."

"You did what? Karen, I don't want you stressing yourself out."

"Sid, think about it. I can come in with you when you're here for practice and morning skates and if anything happens you're already here."

"True."

"Come on, I'm getting bored sitting at home and working via email. Let me have some human contact" she said almost whining playfully.

"Oh alright. And you know, you want human contact, I can provide that for you."

"I don't doubt you will."

"So where are you going now?"

"To go get some lunch then coming back to finish up with Ray."

"Why don't you wait and let me see if I can go with you. We're between work outs anyway."

"Ok, but don't keep me waiting too long."

"I won't baby, I'll be right back." Sidney gave Karen a kiss before running off.

"Hey there sexy momma" Max said coming up to Karen "how's the future Sidney Jr doing?" he said rubbing her bump.

"Oh God, you and Sidney just can't help yourselves."

"Please girl, you know this child being a product of the next great one is going to be a boy and have all the same skills if not better ones."

"I know but a little girl Sidney could be just like her daddy too."

"Maybe, but we all know it's going to be a boy."

"Glad to know everyone is so sure."

"Do you know what you're having yet?"

"Not yet but at my next appointment, I should find out...if I want to. I might want Sid and I to be surprised."

"Surprised about what?"

"She thinks she'll be surprised she's carrying the next Sidney Crosby when she knows I'm right."

Karen took a deep breath and let it out "it's exhausting talking to you Max. I don't know how Nat puts up with you day in and day out."

"Ask her one day, I'm sure she'll tell you" Max said winking at her before leaving them alone.

"Are you allowed to leave?" she said still shaking her head at Max.

"Yep."

"How did you manage that?"

"Told Coach Dan that my pregnant wife was hungry and if I don't feed you, you'll take it out on me that I might be too hurt to play to my full potential."

"Nice lie there Crosby."

"I had to make it convincing."

Karen just laughed then kissed him "where do you want to go for lunch?"

"I have the perfect place." Sidney and Karen left the arena and he took them home.

"Why did you bring me all the way home for lunch?"

"I wanted dessert too" Sidney said with his sexy smirk. They walked into the house and was immediately attacking each other.

"Don't...you..want...to...eat...first?" Karen tried to stammer out between kisses.

"Later" Sidney said just as breathless. He led her to the kitchen and put her on the table, lifting her dress up before he sat her down. Karen spread her legs, letting Sidney fit inbetween them. "I've been thinking about you all morning baby" he said moving his hands over her breasts still covered by fabric "seeing you just increased those feelings."

"Then by all means, act on those feelings" she said pulling his shorts down. Sidney finished taking off his shorts then went for Karen's underwear. She lifted up her hips to help Sidney take them off her, throwing them to the side. He scooted her closer to the edge of the table and plunged into her, making her take in a sharp breath. Karen put her hands to her sides and let Sidney do whatever he wanted to her. He grabbed ahold of her hips and pounded into her, making the table move a little. Karen watched Sidney's face and all the emotions that went through him with each thrust he made into her. She never really just watched him enjoy himself as he fucked her hard. Before long, the sensations succumbed to her and Karen dropped her head back increasing her moans as her peak neared. She felt her orgasm hit and screamed out, grabbing for Sidney's shoulder. Sidney felt her vaginal muscles clamp down on him hard and leaned into Karen, making her lay down on the table until his last thrust brought out his own orgasm and his juices flowed inside of her. Sidney let go of her hips and leaned up on his hands to not lay directly on top of her until he was strong enough to stand.

"I'm glad you had exactly what I wanted for lunch" Karen said smiling up at him.

"You always have what I want baby." Sidney stood up and brought Karen with him.

"So why won't you lay on me? You're not going to hurt me or the baby."

"Deep down I know that, but I just don't want to take any chances."

Karen put her hand on Sidney's cheek "I appreciate the concern but I'm fine and the baby's fine."

"It'll be back to normal in a few months."

"Is there normal for us Sid? Is there a 'back to where we once were'?"

"Yes there is. After the baby is born, we will be a family and believe it or not, we will be like we once were."

"You know anyone else would not fight this hard if the other man was still forcing his way into the picture."

"I'm not like anyone else and I fight to keep what's mine." Sidney pulled out of her, only to bring her off the table and turn her around. He lifted up her dress again and found her enterance again, entering her from behind. Karen put her hands on the edge of the table to keep her stomach from going into it when Sidney got harder with his thrusts. Sidney moved a hand around and found Karen's mound, cupping around her clit and massaging her roughly.

"Oh God Sid...don't stop."

Sidney rolled her clit between his thumb and finger making a shiver shoot through Karen's body "come for me baby." Karen's moans got louder "are you close baby?" All Karen could do was moan out a 'yes' as Sidney's grip on her hips tightened and he pounded nonstop into her until she released her second orgasm and Sidney soon followed. Sidney wrapped his arms around her and brought her back into his chest until they calmed down.

"I do believe I like being yours" Karen said turning her head to kiss him. Sidney pulled out of her again and turned her around fully to face him.

"This was all me baby" he said grazing his finger down her cheek.

"I know" she said smiling before their lips met in an amazing kiss. Karen broke the kiss after a few minutes "can we feed your child now?"

"Definitely." Sidney let her go and they got their clothes back on. Karen got some food out of the fridge to make a huge salad as Sidney went to get cleaned up. When he came back down, she had two plates for them for lunch.

"So what did you and Ray talk about all morning?"

"Besides coming back to work?"

"Yep."

"I talked to him about you and Jordan" she said getting a look from Sidney "I asked him to watch the two of you and if he sees a problem brewing, he'll have a meeting with you both."

"Why did you do that baby?"

"Because I love you and I don't want to see this year go down the drain if something else has your concentration."

"It won't"

"Sid, I've seen how you get when something distracts your mind. Jordan being on the ice with you might make your mind wonder and you'll lose focus."

"Karen, I know you have a good heart and good intentions here, but it'll be fine."

"Apparently you'll just kick the shit of each other until you both feel it's over huh?"

"I didn't mean it that way Karen. We had a little confrontation during the Olympic training camp and he knows how I feel."

"What confrontation? All I knew of was the talk you two had."

"Yeah, I sort of punched him in the jaw the first day before we hit the ice."

"You did what?"

"I saw him there laughing with his brothers and as I got ready I thought back to all you told me when we went home. My blood started boiling and I went over and decked him." Karen just sat there and looked at him "well you wouldn't let me board a plane to Thunder Bay so it had to wait until I saw him again."

"What am I going to do with you?"

"Hmm, be my wife and have my baby?"

"Already am and will soon enough."

"That's all I need to concentrate on then." Sidney picked up her hand and kissed the back of it before finishing up their lunch and heading back to the arena.

Chapter 27

Over the next month, Karen had practically jumped Sidney any given chance. Sidney on the other hand didn't mind as long as Karen was fine after each time. They had fun too, which was different then when they first got married. Karen saw a change with Sidney and hoped it was there for the duration.

Soon it was Sidney birthday and his day with the Stanley Cup. They town had a huge day of festivities planned and Karen couldn't wait to watch him be adorned by everyone that loves him. When Karen saw Max had come with the Cup, she was surprised to see Natalie as well. She was happy to have someone to be with today and hadn't seen Natalie since the last Cup party in Pittsburgh and when everyone headed out of town for the summer.

After the parade, celebration at the stage, and a street hockey game, Sidney finally brought the Cup home for just friends and family to enjoy. Everyone took turns taking pictures with the Cup and Karen and Natalie even got a couple together. When Sidney grabbed Karen to get a few, she saw his smile fade after they were done.

"What's wrong?"

"It's nothing" he said kissing her head.

"I'd like to believe that."

"It's just, when this little one is born who's to say he'll get a chance to exprience this" he said lightly rubbing her stomach.

"I'm sure she will be like her daddy and win a few of these. Sid this won't be the only one you'll get and it certainly isn't the last. We will get our family picture with it one day."

"I know it won't." Sidney kissed her to a couple of 'awws', breaking away to see Max there with a camera taking pictures and mocking their tender moment. Sidney just laughed, kissed Karen on the cheek before running after Max.

"They will always be children at heart."

"Yes they will, but how can you not love them like this."

"So, how you been feeling?"

"Great actually. Just started my fifth month and so thankful I've made it this far."

"Maybe this was the blessing you needed."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, you wanted your life and marriage to Sidney to be stronger and you've obviously surpassed the other pregnancies by a few months. This is what you guys needed to get back on track for everything to be fine."

"Yeah, maybe it is. I guess I never really thought of it. I guess I would have to wonder if I couldn't have gotten pregnant or lost this one like the others if Sid and I would still be together."

"Karen, I didn't mean to start putting doubts in your head."

"I know and you didn't. I'm happy that Sidney forgave me and still wanted me in his life. If he couldn't have forgiven me, I would've had to live with the consequences."

"With Jordan?"

"No. Being with Jordan wasn't a back up plan if this failed with Sid. I know how Jordan is and how he treats women. He isn't a one woman man Nat and I feel sorry for Britnie. I think she'll just get hurt in the long run."

"That's what I always thought about Max but he's seemed to have changed."

"Only because of you my dear friend."

"True. If he would have kept up his womanizing ways and left me for the next puck bunny that trolled her way in, I would have had to kill him." Both women laughed before going to get something to eat and sat down with their husbands.

A while later as they people began to leave, it was finally just Karen and Sidney. She got done getting some stuff cleaned up but couldn't find Sidney anywhere. She walked around the house until she saw him sitting at the dining room table and just staring at the Cup. She stood watching him for a minute before deciding to leave him alone.

"You do have to go baby."

Karen walked over to him "I figured you needed this time alone."

"Thanks but I'd rather share this time with you. Can you believe all these names of great players and teams that won this?"

"It's a hard trophy to win and just think, before the home opener in October your name will be here" she said taking his hand and placing it over the next open spot.

"It's fitting that its directly under the other time the Pens won."

"Maybe it's fate."

"You love to tell me things like that huh?"

"I kind of have to when its true."

Sidney sat down and brought Karen down on his lap "you know, we could have some alone time with it now."

Karen lightly shook her head "how is it alone time when you're preoccupied with it?"

"All it has to do is be in the room baby" he said leaning in to kiss her neck.

"Is the presence of the Cup turning you on?"

Sidney brought his hand up to cup her breasts "what would give you that idea?" Karen just smiled and kissed him before getting of his lap and standing in front of him. Sidney ran his hands up her legs and felt the smooth skin all the way to her shorts. He found the hem and brought the shorts and her underwear off her hips and down her legs. Karen kicked them to the side as Sidney stood briefly to get his shorts off as well. He sat back down and Karen straddled his lap, leaning in for a heated kiss. Karen grabbed the bottom of his shirt and broke the kiss to take it completely off. Sidney repaid the favor and took off Karen's shirt and bra, tossing them away. Karen reached inbetween them and took Sidney's cock in her hand, lightly massaging him. Their kisses got intense and more heated as Karen played with Sidney. He couldn't stand it anymore and removed her hand. Karen stood up letting Sidney position himself at her entrance and letting her slide back down on him. Sidney placed his hands under her ass to help her move on him. Karen grabbed the back of the chair and let her head fall back as she moved up and down on him. She let go of the chair and leaned back, laying her head on the table. Sidney moved his hands to her hips and pushed her hard onto him as Karen reached up and played with her breasts. She moved her hands over her head and held onto the Stanley Cup as the sensations drove her crazy. Sidney looked up and saw Karen was touching the Cup, turning him on even more. He watched her move her hands over the silver chalice lightly as his grip got tighter into her skin. He could feel they were both close and brought Karen back up to him letting their orgasms reach their peaks. Karen slowed down until her body stopped shaking and was able to get everything out of Sidney. Their lips met in a passionate kiss before they pulled away from each other.

"I think we may need to take a picture of the Cup and blow it up, putting it on the wall behind our bed."

"That might not be a bad idea."

Karen got off him and stood up, moving to the side of Sidney. She glanced between Sidney and the Cup getting an idea. She grabbed the Cup and walked out of the room.

"WHERE ARE YOU GOING WITH THAT?" Sidney yelled to her.

"UPSTAIRS" he heard her yell back. Sidney got up and ran after her, seeing her place the Cup on the bed. She moved the pillows and turned into Sidney's arms.

"So what do you have planned?"

"Just trying to turn you on again." Karen kissed him and climbed on the bed on her knees, facing the Cup.

"Before we do anything" Sidney grabbed his camera and snapped a couple pictures of Karen kneeling naked beside the Cup. Sidney put the camera down and knelt behind Karen. His lips found the bottom of the back of her neck letting the feelings make him hard again. He grabbed his cock and entered her from behind. Karen reached for his hands placing them on the bowl of the Cup, putting hers over his, holding them there. Sidney got a rhythm going and Karen was pretty much sandwiched inbetween him and the Cup. There was something different as using the Cup was intoxicating to them both. Sidney got harder and faster, pounding into Karen and making the Cup move with them. Karen knew she was ready to explode and Sidney soon felt the tightness around him. A few more hard thrusts and they both came together. Sidney let go of the Cup and sat back on his knees, bringing Karen with him. They sat there settling down their breathing as Karen turned her head to capture Sidney's lips.

"I don't want the blown up picture, I always want this in our bed."

"Well take it all in now because it goes away tomorrow."

"Why do you ruin my fun?"

"I'm trying not to but for this to continue, you'll have to buy a replica."

"I don't think it would have the same effect."

Karen turned to look at him "probably not" she said before kissing him. Sidney got off the bed to let Karen up as she went to the bathroom. When she got up, she felt the familiar tightness and sat back down for a minute. The feeling went away without anything getting worse and she finished up in the bathroom heading back to the bedroom to go to bed. When she came out, she couldn't help but laugh at the sight she was looking at. "You have got to be kidding me."

"What?" Sidney said nochalantly. He had out the Cup in bed with them and had a different cover over it, like he just tucked it in.

"Sid, are we seriously going to sleep with that in bed with us?"

"Its a king size bed, there is plenty of room" he said getting in bed beside the Cup and turned to Karen, patting the spot beside him.

"This is crazy" she said getting in and snuggling up to Sidney.

"Yeah it is" he said kissing her head and falling asleep.

The next morning, Karen got up and found Sidney had turned during the night and was now sleeping with his arms around the Cup. Karen grabbed the camera and took a picture of it because he looked like a kid at Christmas going to sleep with his favorite toy. She smiled and put the camera away, going to the bathroom and starting up the shower. When she was done, she came out and woke up Sidney.

"Hey sleeping beauty, wake up."

Sidney came to and realized he had his arm around the Cup "morning baby."

"Yeah whatever" she said pretending to be mad and getting dressed.

"Why are you acting like that?"

"We have a beautiful night and you end up cuddling with that instead of me. I felt so dirty and used, I had to get a shower."

"Oh stop it" he said getting out of bed "the best part was before we went to sleep."

"I know, just had to give you a hard time" she said wrapping her arms around him.

"Mmm, speaking of hard..."

"Uh sorry honey, but we need to take the Cup and meet your parents. There's that ceremony downtown for you remember."

"Oh right. The want to unveil the shrine to me at the center."

"Don't make it sound like you aren't to enthused there."

"I am, believe me I am. It's just I have to give up the Cup and my time with it is over soon."

"You'll get it again trust me."

"I do. I'll meet you downstairs after I'm done."

"Ok, I'm going to call your mom and tell her we'll meet everyone there." Sidney kissed her as she finished getting ready and Sidney got his shower.

A while later, everyone was at the center and there was a brief ceremony before they unveiled all the memoribilia that they had for Sidney throughout his hockey career. Sidney held Karen's hand as they walked to each case looking at all the pictures and trophies. Sidney explained to her when they all took place and she saw the sparkle in his eyes as he was brought back to his childhood. Karen couldn't have been more proud of him as she watched him talk to everyone. After the ceremony, they had a breakfast buffet for everyone to enjoy before they headed back to the house for one last get together before the Cup went to the next player.

After an hour or so, Karen couldn't find Sidney and didn't see the Cup at all. She saw a small gathering outside and walked out seeing Sidney washing the Cup. Karen smiled at the thought of how dirty it really was and laughed to herself getting a look from the few there, including Sidney.

"What?"

Karen walked over to him and whispered in his ear "if they only knew why it was dirty." She kissed his cheek and left him alone to finish up. When Sidney was done washing and drying it, he reluctantly gave it to the guys and let them put it back into its box and left. Sidney stood there for a few minutes before going in and finding his parents and wife sitting in the living room talking, joining them.

A couple weeks later, Sidney had left to go to Calgary for the Olympic team tryouts. As Sidney walked into the locker room and got dressed, he saw Jordan with his brothers and shook his head before getting his gear on. As he was getting ready, Sidney thought back to all what Karen told him on the plane as they went home. His blood started to boil and got madder the more he thought about it. As Sidney saw Jordan standing there laughing, he reached his boiling point, walked over to Jordan and drew his arm back, letting his fist fly and connecting it with Jordan's jaw.

"What the hell Crosby?" Eric said getting inbetween him and Jordan.

"Staalsy knows exactly why I hit him and knows he deserved it too." Sidney turned and grabbed his stick, leaving the locker room to hit the ice.

"What was that about Jordy?" Marc asked him confused.

"Just Sid doing what he needed to do" he said grabbing his stick and leaving his brothers standing there more confused then ever.

Chapter 26

Sidney and Karen had been home for a few weeks. It was July 4th and Sidney had invited some friends and family to the house to celebrate. Karen had felt good the last few weeks an was happy no pain had popped up. They did curb their lovemaking with the exception of a few blow jobs to make him happy. Karen didn't mind for the fact Sidney would never really let her before the Jordan incident, but since he was open to being more unreserved it made them stronger. But it was no secret Karen wasn't getting anxious either but knew waiting for a little bit longer would be for the best.

After everyone got there, they had a huge cookout and some fireworks planned when the sun went down. Karen had tried to help do things, but every time she tried Sidney ran over to stop her. She just rolled her eyes and shook her head when he carried her plate of food to the table, like a paper plate with less than a pound of food could really harm her or the baby. Sidney kissed her cheek before they sat down and said he was just being gentlemanly.

As the night fell, they were getting the fireworks set up. Sidney had found Karen and went over to her, grabbing her hand and walking her to a lounge chair.

"What? Was I standing too close to the fireworks? Talking too much to your mother? Contrary to popular belief, none of that will harm a baby."

"I know none of that will harm our baby, I just wanted to enjoy the fireworks with you" he said sitting down on the lounge chair and having Karen sit inbetween his legs, leaning up against his chest. "I loved today, just being around you and everyone. I miss this a lot."

"I loved it too, of course when I was allowed to do things for myself" she said getting a kiss to the head from Sidney "maybe when you have a few days apart from games we can invite some friends and family down to stay with us. That way you don't have to wait until the offseason to see everyone."

"That sounds like a great idea baby, but with the new baby are you going to be able to stand having all those people around?"

"More people to help take care of her."

"I'm sure they'll all help out to take care of HIM when HE arrives" he said getting a giggle out of her. They snuggled up closer together as the first sights and sounds of the fireworks went off.

As the next couple weeks went by, Karen was getting more anxious and knew she needed Sidney in the worst way possible. She had certainly hit her fourth month and it was eating away at her. When Sidney got home from his work out, Karen wanted nothing more than to attack him, but decided to wait until later.

After dinner and a nice walk through the neighborhood, Karen stopped Sidney when he was about to open the door. She wrapped her arms around his neck and brought him down for a heated kiss.

"You sure you can handle where this will lead us?" Sidney asked breaking the kiss and trying to find his breath.

"The question of the night will be, can you handle it?" Karen kissed him again before walking inside and directly up the steps. Sidney closed and locked the door behind him, following her upstairs.

"Baby, it's been almost a month...you sure?" Sidney asked concern.

"That's the thing, it's been a month. Maybe we can play to see what the next 5 months hold for us." Karen looked into his eyes hoping he didn't want to play it safe. She also knew if the pain popped up and he wasn't around, she wouldn't tell him for knowing she'd be sexually active this month. Sidney thought for a minute before dropping his head and capturing her lips. They began to undress each other until all clothes were distributed around the room.

After they got in bed. Sidney didn't exactly jump into the sex. They laid there kissing and fondling each other, making Karen a little impatient, but she understood why he was taking his time. Karen made a move and Sidney had gingerly crawled on top of her. With her bump more apparent Sidney still wasn't sure about laying directly on her. He got into position and entered her, sitting up on his hands to give a little space between them. Sidney went slow and Karen started to feel a little tightness but when he picked up the pace, all was ok. Karen arched her back up as the sensations tore through her body and telling Sidney she was close. She whimpered out for him to go faster and harder to which he obliged sending her orgasm over the edge and bringing out his own. Sidney dipped his head down and kissed her before rolling off her body to capture his breath.

"You ok?" he asked.

"No" Karen said shaking her head.

Sidney shot up "what, another pain?"

Karen smiled and climbed on top of him, sliding down on his semi-hard cock "no, another wave of pleasure." She sat up and began grinding on him before opening it up and fully riding him. Sidney couldn't believe what was happening and grabbed onto her hips, digging his fingers into her skin. Karen leaned back and soon enough, screamed out her release for the second time. Sidney was almost there and Karen leaned down to kiss him, milking his second orgasm out of him. After Sidney shot off inside of her, Karen kissed him before getting off of him and lying back down beside him.

"Ok, that was certainly interesting" Sidney said looking to the ceiling. Eventhough they were trying to be a little more uninhibited with their lovemaking, they had never gone more than once during the same time.

"Yeah it was, but there's still another problem, feel this" she said putting Sidney's hand over her opening. He could feel the heat coming from her opening and her lips were pulsating.

Sidney shot a look to her "baby, as much as I would love to I need a few minutes."

Karen just held his hand there and closed her eyes "just start rubbing Sid, please." Sidney did what he was asked and began rubbing over her lips. He could see Karen squirm as she was enjoying just the simple pleasure. Sidney decided to help her out a little more and moved down her body as he was continuing his assault. He brought his mouth down and blew cool air over her opening as a couple fingers slipped inside of her. He started to nip at her clit as Karen would moan out as each wave hit her. Sidney removed his mouth and slipped all four fingers inside, having his thumb apply pressure to her clit bringing out her third and final orgasm. As she came, Karen dug her fingernails into his shoulders until her breathing slowed and she opened her eyes looking directly at Sidney.

"Are you done now?" he said with a slight giggle.

"I think so. I knew the fourth month was going to be interesting but I didn't realize it was going to be like this."

"So we have a month of this to look forward to?"

"I'm afraid so."

"I'm going to have to really save my strength for nights like this."

"Not like you'll really need to do much."

"Excuse me?"

"Well, you helped out for the initial part but we found out you could just lie there and let me get my fill."

"I am not going to just lie here and let you take advantage of me" he said getting out of bed and putting on a pair of shorts.

"My god, you are acting just like a girl. I can't help it if the first time won't satisfy me right now and need more until the feelings are curbed."

"Well until you apologize, you may need to curb those feelings on your own" he said before walking out of the room. Karen laid there and silently laughed when she heard him stomp downstairs. She got out of bed and went for a shower wondering how she would handle this.

As Sidney was down in the living room, he had a beer in hand and heard the shower start up. Grabbing his computer, he went to WebMD.com and searched for 'pregnancy and fourth month'. He sat there reading all about the heightened sexual feelings and how it was normal for the next few months the feelings would decrease as the woman would get bigger and feel less sexual towards the end of her term. Sidney started to feel bad, but knew she got a little laugh out of his overreaction. In fact, he didn't mind being used like he did when she took control. He thought back to how they were when they got together and after they were married and how every time they made love, it was always him on top and he never let her express what she wanted. "Maybe that's why she connected with Jordan" he said to himself.

"What do you mean, maybe that's why I connected with Jordan?" Karen said startling him as she walked into the room.

"I've heard how Jordan is with women and just thought back to when were together."

"Ok, you're not making sense. What are you talking about Sid?"

"What just happened upstairs. was that what it was like with Jordan?"

"Why do you want to know that? Especially after what just did happen."

"Look, when we got together it was all me when we had sex. I never let you express anything and maybe with the way Jordan is with women, I thought that you got fulfilled by him and never with me."

"I'm not going to sugar coat it for you Sid because you know that's not me, but yes Jordan has this aminalistic way of having sex and he takes control but did let me do whatever I wanted too. That was never the reason why I went to him a couple times. I love when you get all romantic and make me feel like I'm the only woman in the world. You always touched me with love and with Jordan, it was just getting to the point. There was never a comparison to either of you...he was just different. You have always satisfied me Sid, there was never any doubt about that."

"Maybe I did overreact upstairs, sorry."

"You didn't overreact per say, it's just you to want to be in control. We've had our moments when you've been like Jordan and hopefully that's over."

"You didn't like that?"

"No because it wasn't you. Sid, if you want to add spice to our marriage and lovemaking, then do it to where it's coming from here" she said pointing to his heart "and not what you think how Jordan would be. If you want to be rough or attack me in the middle of dinner, then you think of how you would like it."

"What about you?"

"Me? I'll like it no matter what" she said getting a laugh out of him "please don't keep comparing yourself to him. He is not what I want anymore, it's you and how you do things, how you make me feel is what I want." Karen leaned in and kissed him. Their kiss was full of electricity and it sent sparks through her body. She knew if Sidney didn't want to do anything, she wasn't going to put pressure on him and find a way to take care it herself. When they broke apart, Karen looked to the computer and read a little bit of what it said "did you not believe me?" she asked pointing to the screen.

"It's not that baby, I'm just trying to figure out what this month holds for us. Besides it says that from the 5th month on, your desire will decrease because the bigger you get, the less attractive you'll feel and may not want to have sex close to the end."

"They obviously don't know me then huh?"

"Apparently not. After I left the room, did you get a pain or anything?"

"Surprisingly no. Maybe knowing what my body is going through I'm getting a reprieve for this month."

"Let's hope it stays that way until end."

"I am definitely for that."

Sidney pulled her in for a kiss as they got comfortable on the couch. karen could feel her body heat rise and knew where this was about to lead. She moved out of his grip and climbed on his lap, straddling his hips. Karen recaptured his lips as she lightly grinded her crotch over his. As their kiss intensified, Sidney brought his hand up to rub her crotch over her shorts knowing what it would do to her. After a few minutes, Sidney managed to get them both off the couch and standing in front of it. He broke the kiss and took off Karen's shorts and underwear as Karen took his shorts off as well. Sidney wanted to let Karen do what she wanted and sat back down on the couch, letting her restraddle his hips. Karen sat up on her knees positioning herself over his cock and sliding down on in. Sidney could feel how ready she was as she coated his cock with her juices. Karen started off rocking up and down on her knees getting a rhythm going. As their bodies moved, Karen reached down to the bottom of her shirt and pulled it off revealing her swollen breasts and hard nipples. Sidney couldn't resist and attached his mouth to one of her nipples. Karen picked up her pace and moved faster on him until she moaned out her release. Sidney let her calm down for a minute before pulling out of her to her dismay. Sidney knew she wasn't done yet and wanted to show her it was time for something he wanted. They switched positions and Sidney put Karen back on her knees facing the back of the couch. Sidney got on his knees and reentered her from behind, slowly pounding into her. Karen went from gripping the top of the couch to reaching her hand down and rubbing her clit. Not that she wanted this to end soon, she just had so much building inside her, she needed another release to let the other one through. Her muscles clamped down on Sidney when her orgasm hit and Sidney again pulled out not wanting to end it yet. he was determined to last as long as she did. When Karen slowed her breathing Sidney turned her around to him. She sat down on the edge of the couch and Sidney knelt down on the floor. He was lightly massaging his cock to keep it hard and moved closer plunging back into her. He wrapped his arms around her waist letting his hips move into her. Karen wrapped her arms around his lower back, keeping him as close to her as she can. She managed to move her hands to his ass and helped push him into her. Karen couldn't stand sitting up and laid back bringing Sidney with her. Sidney kept up his pace but got harder when they were both close. This time when Karen came, Sidney unleashed his juices and came hard from all that had built up inside him. Sidney sat back up and brought Karen with him, not wanting to lay on her longer than he needed to. They switched position yet again, but this time to rest. Sidney laid down on the couch having Karen lie in front of him, spooning her from behind. He pulled the cover over them and they laid there content fromt he last few hours.

Chapter 25

As the night wound down, Karen had left with Natalie, Britnie and the Lemieux family to head back to Pittsburgh. Sidney told her that they will all acclimate to Mario's for a long after party and to just go there with Nathalie and the kids. When the families got into Pittsburgh, most went home and a few had gone to Mario's to wait for the guys. Karen told Nathalie she was feeling tired and she said to go lay down in Sidney's old room. She told her she'd let Sidney know where she was when he got in.

A couple hours later, the team plane landed and as expected they all wound up at Mario's. Sidney came in with Cup in hand and sat it down in the kitchen. Nathalie told him that Karen was tired and was laying down in his old room. Sidney just smiled and went to find her. As he walked into the room, he saw Karen lying on her side asleep. Sidney walked over to the bed quietly and got in bed with her, spooning up against her. The alcohol had taken its toll and he moved his hands over her legs up to her ass. Sidney put his hands inside her shorts, moving them to the front and finding her mound. Karen stirred and woke up startled until Sidney spoke up.

"Its me baby" he said bringing her head around to capture her lips.

Karen could taste all the alcohol from his lips and knew he wasn't in the right frame of mind. She let the kiss get more passionate and the feelings intensified. Sidney removed his hand from her shorts, only to pull them down off her hips. He unbuttoned and unzipped his pants to unleash his now hard cock from its prison. Sidney lifted Karen's top leg and slid his leg between as he plunged deep into her. Sidney was hard and rough with each thrust he made into her. Karen grabbed the sheets infront of her tightly as the sensations ripped through her body. Soon her orgasm came and she all but screamed her release. Sidney continued to pound into her until he released his own orgasm, coming hard inside of her. They laid there breathless until Sidney pulled out of her.

"You ok?" he asked her.

Karen didn't feel any pain and it usually hit right after her orgasm hit "yeah, I'm fine. Where did all that come from?"

"It just built up baby" he said getting a giggle out of her. Karen rolled over and snuggled up to him "do you want to go out and celebrate with me?"

"Do you have to? I like the private celebration we started."

"We will have plenty of time to celebrate privately, trust me."

"Then why don't you go out and see the guys and I will be out in a little bit."

Sidney took his hand and brought her chin up "thank you for believing in me."

"I've always believed in you Sid" she told him before their lips met again in another passionate kiss. Sidney reluctantly got up and changed his clothes before leaving to head out by the pool. Karen pulled her shorts back up and covered her legs, falling back asleep for a little bit.

Awhile later as Karen slept, she felt a sharp pain and shot up in bed "OH GOD" she said loudly as the pain overwhelmed her. She stayed curled up and had her hand pressed when the pain was. She was rocking back and forth and taking deep breaths willing the pain to go away quickly. She let the tears fall as the pain wasn't going away fast enough. Karen thought that maybe Sidney was right and they should stop having sex for fear of keeping her and the baby safe. The pain finally started to subside after what seemed like an eternity and laid back down, straightening out her leg and lightly rubbing the area. Karen looked at the clock and laid there for another 20 minutes until she was able to get out of bed and walk outside to join Sidney. She figured she wouldn't tell him until they went to the house in Nova Scotia or if he wanted to make love again...which ever came first. Karen went outside and met up with everyone to enjoy the rest of the celebration.

A couple days later and the city held a parade for the team. Sidney told Karen that he wanted her to go with the families on the bus for fear she would get hurt riding in the back of the truck with him and the Cup. She just laughed and told him he didn't want his wife interferring with his time with his mistress. She gave him a kiss and went to join his mother and the other families.

When they got to the stage, Jordan had tried to get close to her, but Karen would walk away as she saw him get near her. At Mario's when he tried something, she made sure to stick close to Sidney. She wasn't going to let any left over feelings for him ruin what she worked so hard to get back with Sidney, but Karen was still afraid to wonder if he would be capable of anything violent towards her if she kept resisting him. She was thankful that Sidney and her would be leaving in a couple weeks and hoped he would get over her in three months.

After the celebrations died down, Sidney and Karen were on their way to Nova Scotia to spend the summer together. They had to plan for Sidney's birthday and his day with the Cup to share with the community. He knew what he wanted and when they got home, him and his dad would get the ball rolling. As they were on the plane, Karen wondered if it was the right time to talk to Sidney.

"Hey, can we talk for a minute?" she asked somewhat quietly.

"Sure baby, what's wrong?" he said putting his magazine down.

"I wasn't sure when I was going to tell you this, and I was going to tell you I just wanted to pick the perfect moment."

"Karen, you're rambling. Just tell me what's going on."

She took a deep breath before turning to face him "Jordan's been making advances towards me." Karen saw the expression change on Sidney's face and feared he was going to blow up right there on the plane.

"When?" he said through clenched teeth.

"He's been doing little things like glaring at me but during dinner before game 7 he touched my ass and then after you won the Cup, he pinned me up against the wall and kissed me." Karen could see the anger arise and hoped he didn't start yelling at her.

"Was that all?" Sidney said trying to remain calm on the plane.

"He said that he wouldn't stop until he had another chance with me and when I told him it would never happen, he said it would like he would do whatever he had to, to make it happen."

Sidney looked at the frighten look on her face and his anger soften "why did you wait to tell me now?"

"Because you were in a safe place and wouldn't go kick his ass. If we were already home, you would have chartered a plane to Thunder Bay."

Sidney let out a small laugh because that would have been exactly what he would have done "were you truly going to tell me or did you figure you would clear your conscience?"

"I was always planning to tell you I just didn't know how when he started his advances. I thought it would stay harmless by him but when he actually got phsycal, it got uneasy."

"I'm sure it did. Where was I when he did this?"

"Um, you had gone to sit down with your plate and facing the other way, then you were whisked away for the media after the game."

"I could kill him right now."

"I know and that's why I'm telling you while you're stuck inside a big metal capsule."

"There's nothing stopping me from getting off this plane in Halifax and taking one over to Ontario, you do realize that?"

"I do realize it but I think you'd rather spend three months with me forgeting him and what he did."

Sidney look at her "that's all I want to do, but come training camp all bets are off baby."

"Retailiation after a three month grudge, he better watch out." Sidney smiled and leaned over to kiss her letting her know everything would be alright.

The plane landed and Karen tugged on Sidney's arm when he tried to head back to the ticketing counter. They saw his dad and went to get the bags. Karen reached for hers, but Sidney grabbed it before she could, getting a look from him. She still had to tell him about the pain she felt at Mario's and limiting their lovemaking. Karen was now a little over 3 months pregnant, her bump proudly showing, but Sidney was still keeping her from doing anything to strenuous.

After they got home, his dad stayed around for a little bit then left. Karen could sense Sidney was glad to be home and away from everything that he would be eager to rebuild their life together since everything happened. She felt Sidney's hand on her leg and knew she needed to tell him.

"Um, before you get all sexual on me, we need to talk about something else."

"You've been having pains again huh?"

"Just one and it was really bad" she said in a tone louder than a whisper.

"When?"

"After you came back to Mario's after the game, before you went out to celebrate. I went back to sleep and got woken up with a very sharp pain. It lasted probably a half hour."

"That's pretty long baby. Why didn't...nevermind I know why you didn't tell me. You didn't want to worry me after winning the Cup."

"Wow, you have that down pat now."

"Why do you have this need to not tell me things when they happen?"

"Because I'm afraid that you'll be disappointed or mad or scared like I am."

"Wouldn't it be better if I was scared with you than have you go through it alone all the time? I can see not telling me right away about Jordan because I would tie him to the goal posts and shoot pucks at him until he stops, but this is about your health...and it now involves our child."

"I know and keeping the last two pregnancies from you shouldn't have happened. Would it make a difference that from here on out, I will tell you everything that happens the time it happens?"

"It would make a huge difference baby" he said hugging her.

"But that brings me to the pain, maybe you're right and we need to hold off on the lovemaking for a little while."

"It could still be one sided though right?"

"Are you seriously asking me that?" she said with a slight giggle.

Sidney just smirked at her "well if you can't why do I have to suffer?"

"Keep going and you will suffer or you might develop carpal tunnel syndrome."

"Don't be cruel baby, you know when you feel safe enough to have sex I will repay the favor."

"I want that in writing now."

"How about we just seal it this way" he said leaning into her for a very sensual kiss.

Chapter 24

Game 7 approached fast and it seemed like the team never had a brief couple of days off. Sidney and the team flew out the day before and Karen would head up with Mario and other family members the morning of the game. Karen had felt off getting ready and it wasn't a bad feeling for the upcoming game. She had told Sidney the night before that she had figured out the final score would be 2-1. He asked how she could be so confident in a prediction and she told him to look at all the previous games, except game 5. They all had the same scores. One and two was won by Detroit and was both 4-2. The next two won by the Pens was 3-1. Detroit had the upset with game 5 but when the Pens won game six by the score 2-1, it was inevitable that they won by that same score. Sidney had just laughed at her but Karen said it would hold up.

Natalie had gone to pick Karen up. As Karen locked the door, she felt a tightness grow and she stood still breathing hard to soothe her. It helped and she was able to finish and head to the car. Once she sat down, she felt another wave but she got on her tip toes and brought her thigh into her body without actually doubling over. After a minute it was gone again and she hoped that was all she felt for the rest of the night.

After the short airplane ride, they were headed to the team's hotel to wait for the guys to get back from practice. Karen had decided to lay down and wait for Sidney.

Sidney was on his way to his room when he got out his cell and check it for messages. He thought it was weird Karen hadn't text or called him yet. He hoped she was ok and was about to call when he smiled walking into his room. Sidney put his phone away in his pocket and went over to the bed, kneeling beside it brushing a stray piece of hair off Karen's cheek.

"Baby?" he whispered "hey, wake up my sleeping beauty."

Karen stirred and opened her eyes looking directly into Sidney's "hey, how was practice?"

"It went well. You ok?"

"Yeah, why do you ask?"

"Just making sure my wife and child are fine."

Karen smiled but wondered herself if they were both fine "we're fine Sid, stop worrying."

Sidney shook his head "never. How about I change and you move over so I can join you?"

"Why do I have to move over? I'm comfortable where I am."

"Baby, you know I nap on this side of the bed. Don't throw me off my routine."

Karen smirked and didn't move "maybe you need thrown off." After the look Sidney gave her, Karen sat up and moved over to make room "learn to take a joke there."

"Maybe before some other game, but not game 7 in the Stanley Cup finals" he said kissing her then went to change into a pair of shorts and a t-shirt. He came back and crawled into bed with her. "I just want to win tonight" he said in a whisper like he didn't want anyone to hear it.

"Would you still believe me if I said you will?"

Sidney kissed her head "probably but if you're wrong, I will get my revenge afterwards."

"And if I'm right, do I get rewarded?"

"Definitely baby." Karen smiled and curled into him more as his arm tightened his grip.

An hour and a half later, Karen stirred and saw Sidney was still asleep. She got out of his grip and got up going to the bathroom. When she came out, she saw Sidney had moved and was lying on his back. Karen crawled onto his body and straddled him placing light kisses to his lips until he woke up.

"I like the way you wake me up baby."

"Too bad you have a game in a couple hours or I could really wake you up."

Sidney's smiled faded "I would love that, but I don't want to take any chances." Karen started to get off him but his grip got tighter on her hips "I'm not saying this to get you mad."

"I know and it's scaring me to, but how do we know it's going to happen every time unless....you want to stop all together until the baby's born." Karen saw him briefly look away before getting off him and lying beside him.

"Would it be so bad to keep you AND our child safe?" he said sitting up to look at her.

Karen thought back to the two twinges she had just locking up to leave this morning "no, I guess not" she said softly.

"Why don't we wait to see after tonight and what happens with the game. We'll just go from there." Sidney turned her head towards him and kissed her before getting up to get his shower. Karen just stayed in bed and sighed but realized he was right. She knew her doctor assured her the pain wasn't near the baby to harm it and she trusted her completely, but she still felt the sadness of possibly losing a connection with Sidney if they stop all together for at least 7 more months. They had gotten back on track with everything from Jordan and hoped it would stay as strong without the sex. Karen got up and got situated so they could go down for dinner before Sidney had to go to the arena. As they were leaving the room, Sidney noticed Karen was real quiet and didn't really say much. After they got into the elevator, Sidney brought Karen to him and held her, looking directly into her eyes "please don't be mad at me baby. I only have your best interest here."

Karen sighed and saw the sincerity in his eyes "I'm not mad and I know you mean well. I love you for wanting to keep us safe, really."

"Then what is it?"

"Maybe I'm just afraid that not only us having sex is the cause of this. What if we stop and the pain happens out of nowhere?"

Sidney took a step back to really look at her "you've had the pain again at other times and not told me."

"Yes" she whispered as the elevator dinged and the doors opened. Sidney pulled her to the side and just looked at her waiting for her to tell him. "One night at the arena as Brit and I were walking up the steps to the suite and then a couple small waves as I was locking the door to leave this morning." Sidney looked down and ran his hand through his hair breathing out the breath he was holding.

"How bad were they?"

"The ones this morning wasn't too bad but the one going up the steps was bad enough to double me over on the steps."

"So the more strenuous is what really hits hard and that is why we should stop baby."

"I know."

"You weren't going to tell me were you?"

"I didn't want you to worry, at least not now."

"Whether I have a game or not, I am always going to worry."

"I know and I'm sorry."

Sidney sighed and pulled her in for a hug "I know baby. We'll just take it one day at a time and just see what happens, ok?"

"Ok." Their lips met for a kiss before heading to have dinner with the team and other members of the families that came for the game.

As Karen and Sidney were getting their food, Karen saw Jordan step up to grab some. Sidney had left to go sit down as Karen was still getting hers. Jordan looked up and saw she was by herself and looked behind him to see Sidney had his back to them. He stepped closer and walked behind Karen, grazing her ass with his hand. Karen about jumped when she felt the touch and saw Jordan standing beside her smiling.

"Did I bump you? I'm sorry" he told her nonchalantly.

"You're not sorry when you purposely did it" she said moving to the other side of him.

"I miss that ass" he said taking a glance and then walking away. Karen just lightly shook her head and finished getting her food before going to sit down. When she did, she looked up and saw Jordan was sitting at their table with Britnie and he was directly in front of her. Jordan would look up while he was eating and would only look at Karen when both Sid and Britnie looked down at their food. It was like he was making it hard for Karen to avoid him. She knew what Jordan was doing and knew he was going to make this difficult for her. The fact of the matter was, she still had a small place in her heart for Jordan, she just wasn't going to be stupid enough to jeopardize hurting Sidney again. They got through dinner and everyone parted ways. Karen and Sidney headed back to their room.

"You ok, you seemed quiet at dinner."

"Yeah, just thinking positive thoughts for tonight."

"But other than that, we're ok right?" he said to her before unlocking the door.

Karen smiled and kissed him "yes, we're ok Sid." They walked into the room and Sidney pulled her to the bed sitting on his lap. They didn't say anything and Sidney just held onto her with his head buried into her neck. Karen knew not to say anything as he just needed a few minutes before leaving for the arena.

"Promise me one thing."

"Anything."

"That no matter what happens tonight, you still love me."

Karen smiled and thought about teasing him but knew this wasn't the time "I'll love you no matter what Sid but this is yours to win tonight and you will win it."

"Thank you baby" he said kissing her "I better change and head out to meet the guys." Karen got off his lap and let him go. She turned on the TV for a few minutes to a pre-game show while he got ready. When Sidney was ready to leave, Karen walked him to the door and gave him the longest, most passionate kiss they had ever shared. Sidney broke the kiss and gave her a wink before heading to the elevator. Karen got ready herself to meet up with Natalie, Britnie and Sidney's parents to go to the arena to settle in for the final game of the season.

The game was intense as both teams brought their A game. The play would go back and forth until Max scored the first goal of the game. Karen and Natalie couldn't hold in their excitement and screamed as loud as they could. As the game went on, the Pens kept the lead and would try everything to defend their goal. When Max scored the second goal of the game, Karen knew the outcome she predicted was half way there but what she didn't predict was Sidney getting hurt. He got hit into the boards and his leg got caught. She feared the worse that he was done for the game and knew he wouldn't want to end his season this way. As the third period started, Karensaw Sidney take a few laps around the ice then go sit down. She prayed that Detroit didn't find a way to get two unanswered goals to tie this game and put the Cup out of reach for the Pens, especially if Sid was hurt and didn't return to the ice. With 6 minutes left, Detroit had scored to cut the lead by half. The clock ticked down and the Pens had fought hard to keep the lead. Marc was playing his heart out and blocked everything that was put in front of him. Karen watched between the clock and the play on the ice not sure which one she wanted to go faster. As she saw all zeros on the scoreboard and heard the horn sound, she saw the celebration on the ice and it was the boys in white crowding around Marc-Andre. Karen and Natalie hugged each other first before she found Britnie, then Sidney's parents. They stopped their own celebration and headed down to ice level to see the guys.

Karen got to the bench and waited for Sidney to come over after he got the Cup from Gary Bettman. When he handed it off, Sidney skated over to the bench and got a hug from his dad that had come onto the ice. Karen was going to step onto the ice when Sidney picked her up into a hug and skated them back towards the bench.

"Baby, I am not to have you slip on the ice or get trampled on by players and media. Please stay on the bench."

"Man, you just won the Cup and all you can do is worry about me."

"Yep and that is how it's always going to be" he said putting her down by the boards,

"I'm so happy for you" she said changing the subject "I knew you would win tonight."

"And by the score you predicted too baby."

Karen just smiled at him as he shook his head at her "I love you."

"I love you too."

"Good, now go finish celebrating and I will meet you in the locker room in a little bit." She kissed him again and let him go join the guys.

A while later, the team and their families were in the locker room celebrating even more. The champagne was spraying and the guys were acting like kids on Christmas. Sidney was wisked away to do some media and Karen had gone to the bathroom. When she came out, she was met with someone she wasn't expecting. Jordan had watched her leave a few minutes ago and followed her waiting for her to come out. He saqw her emerge and grabbed her, pinning her to the wall.

"Jordan, let me go" she told him seriously.

"Aren't you going to congratulate me?" he said looking around before settling his eyes back on her.

"Congratulations Jordan."

"Thanks sexy" he said pushing his lips onto hers.

Karen fought to get out of his grip and pushed him away "stop it Jordan. It's never going to happen between us again. You have to and will accept that."

"I'll only accept it when I get one last time with you...and I will get one last time with you."

"No you won't Jordan, it's over whether you want to accept it now or later. We will never happen again."

Jordan brought his lips to hers again but this time it was a soft and gentle kiss "if it's really over, then you wouldn't have kissed me back" he said before letting her go and leaving her standing there alone. Karen looked around and didn't see anyone, but that didn't mean someone couldn't have seen them and prayed that no one did. She closed her eyes and hoped she was in a dream but wasn't as she heard all the screaming and yelling. Karen went back in and waited for Sidney to return from the media hounding him about the win and his leg. A little while later, Sidney came back and went right to Karen, hugging and kissing her until he got pulled away to drink out of the Cup. Karen just stood back and watched how happy he was, smiling at him that he finally accomplished his dream. Her smiled faded when she looked over and saw Jordan and Britnie kissing wondering if it would ever truly be over with him.

Chapter 23

A couple days later, game four was the same as game three with the Pens winning by the same score. Karen wondered if that was something with Detroit winning the first two by the same score and then the Pens winning by the same score to even the series. She hoped at least two more games went the way Sidney and the guys wanted it to.

Sidney got ready to head to the arena for their morning skate. Karen wasn't going to make the day trip to Detroit for game 5 knowing they were coming back for a game 6 at Mellon. She had either limited or no pain over the last couple days and knew it came on when it wanted to. She thought it was strange one morning after she had slept for 8 hours that the pain returned after she went to the bathroom. Karen felt the tightness but it subsided as quickly as it came. She wasn't going to write it down in her journal but figured it could pinpoint something better if she did. Karen kept the journal in a hidden place that she knew Sidney wouldn't find it. Not to be sneaky of course, just he didn't need to worry about all the little times it happened, but she would tell him about the bigger times.

Karen settled in to watch game 5 and couldn't believe the tragedy that unfolded before her eyes. Detroit went on a killing spree of goals and blank the Pens 5-0. She couldn't believe how lopsided this game was and wondered where it came from. She was thankful they had a game 6 to redeem themselves but hoped being down 3-2 in the series was enough to hold on.

As the night ticked away, Karen tried to stay awake for when Sidney came home. She couldn't and went up to bed. A while later, Karen heard the front door close and looked at the clock, reading 2:15am. She sat up but didn't hear Sidney come upstairs, so she got out of bed and went looking for him. As she walked downstairs, she saw him sitting on the couch and just staring at nothing.

"Hey" she said softly to not startle him.

"Baby, you should be in bed resting" he said holding out his hand for her.

"Sid, I'm not that far along right now so you can worry about me resting when I'm 7 or 8 months pregnant. I heard you come in and wanted to see if you were alright."

"I can't believe that game tonight, it was like we weren't even there to play them."

"What happened?"

"I don't know if we just couldn't get any good passes or bounces or if the puck just didn't want to go in."

"There are still two more games Sid and one is in front of your home crowd. You know we'll all be behind you guys cheering loudly Tuesday night."

"I know. You been feeling ok?"

"Sid, you just saw me yesterday before you left."

"I know but today is a different day and I didn't see you yesterday."

"Are you going to be like this for the remainder of the pregnancy?"

Sidney sat there for a minute pretending to be contemplating a thought "yes."

"Then I will begin to ignore you starting now."

"That will never happen baby, you can't stop talking to me. I'm too irresistable for that to happen."

"You're too irresistable for me to keep my hands off of you, not talk to you."

"We'll see about that" Sidney said before pulling her in for a kiss. "Come on, let's head to bed so I can forget this game once and for all."

"Want me to help?"

"Just being beside me and holding you all night will help."

"Saving everything else for a celebration Friday night?"

"Pretty much" he said as they both smiled and headed upstairs for the night.

As game 6 neared, Karen had a good feeling all day and knew tonight's game would be high energy for both the players and crowd. Sidney and Karen arrived at the arena and went inside. He led her to the lounge and told her to sit while he took care of a couple of things. He came back a few minutes later and found her talking to Vero.

"Well if you two are talking, Flower and I need to run for the hills."

"It's no different than what you guys say when talking about us."

"Then I am definitely scared" Sidney said sitting down.

"All we're doing is comparing the both of you" Vero said getting a scared look from Sidney.

"Yeah, she's giving some advice of things Marc does that I might have you try."

"I am definitely scared" Sidney said getting a laugh out of the girls. Vero soon left them alone and Karen looked at Sidney "what were you two really talking about?"

"Just some baby talk about what to do with the nursery and if we thought of any names yet."

"Did you have any plans for what to do for the nursery yet?"

"Well I was thinking we just really need a crib, a changing table, maybe a rocking chair, and just the necessities of clothes, diapers, toys, things like that."

"The room directly across from ours would be the best room to change into the nursery."

"Where would you put all the gym equipment and your hockey stuff?"

"Stuff? My hockey stuff? My dear wife, all that is not stuff its hockey memorabila from past games and tournaments."

"Sorry my adoring husband, to you its memorabilia...to me its your hockey stuff."

"Good to know now, I'll leave all my hockey stuff to my son or daughter since their mother is being cruel."

"I'm not being cruel, but one day when you're on a long trip I may have all that appraised then I may change my mind."

"You hear how cruel your mommy is to your daddy" Sidney said leaning down to talk to Karen's stomach "you better get everything from my side of the family."

"Tell her anything you want Sid, she'll see who has to put up with what being married to a star hockey player."

"HER?"

"Well I'm not going to call my unborn child 'it', thank you very much."

"So then you don't know if its a girl?"

"No. It's to early to tell right now."

"Maybe its a boy?"

"And god help us if it is....another Sidney."

"Just be glad I love you so much."

"Good, cause you're stuck with me and our child."

Sidney leaned down and kissed her lips "only way I want it baby." He kissed her again before getting told to go get ready. Karen wished him luck and headed up to the suite with Britnie and a few other wives.

Game 6 was just how Karen pictured it, the Pens coming back to fight and forget game 5 evcer happened. They came out hard and played the entire 60 minutes winning by a score of 2-1, making the series even 3-3. As Karen neared the locker room, she heard all the guys cheering and carrying on for sending this series to a seventh and deciding game. She went into the lounge and waited, knowing Sidney would be drug away for interviews and would be back a little later.

Karen must have gotten a little to comfortable and closed her eyes, falling asleep. When she felt lips on her cheek, she stirred and opened her eyes.

"Jordan? What are you doing?" she said getting up and stepping away from him.

"Look, no one is around and you looked so peaceful sitting there, I couldn't resist."

"It doesn't matter, you shouldn't have done that" she said walking past him, only to get stopped by his arm. "Let me go Jordan."

"I think I figured it out."

"You figured what out?"

"That child you're carrying is really mine and after the baby's born, we will be together again."

"Why are you saying this? What about Britnie?"

"Brit is good while I'm waiting for the one thing I will never give up on...you." Jordan leaned in to kiss her but Karen turned her head and he got her cheek again "it inevitable Karen, just wait and see." Karen was able to get out of his grasp and walk out of the lounge and to the hallway. She walked until she saw no one really around and leaned against the wall. She soon realized she was near the media area and peeked her head in seeing Sidney sitting, still answering questions. She watched him and knew she didn't want to be with anyone else but him. Karen walked around to the back where Sidney would go out at to meet up with him.

"What are you doing here?" he said seeing her wait for him.

"I got bored waiting for you and wanted to come find you."

"Well I'm here now. Why don't we head back so I can change and we can go home?"

Karen didn't want to go back if she would be alone with Jordan again "ok." She was thankful that there were more people around and didn't see Jordan at all. Sidney left her to go shower and Karen sat talking to Natalie who was still around waiting on Max. Twenty minutes later, both Sidney and Max came out ready and got their wives, heading out. Karen knew Sidney would stop to sign autographs with Max so she headed to the car to wait for him. After he was done, they got in the car and headed home.