eight.

Roxanne collapsed onto her bed, her arms spread out, exhaling deeply. Her body felt like new; almost refreshed and reworked. She laid there for a moment, eyes closed, remembering the incredible sex she'd had only a few hours before.

And as usual, Mandy interrupted her thoughts, "I think we should stop doing this."

Roxy sat up, "Hey. You're the one who said we shouldn't take Petra's shit."

"Yes well I'm having second thoughts," Mandy snapped, beginning to pace, "I saved your ass today. Well, Jordan and me. She was looking for Lander and we distracted her."

"By doing what, exactly?"

"I pretended to hit on him, doesn't matter," Mandy replied hastily, "Look. All I'm saying is you were dangerously close to being caught, and as much as I hate her and would love to spite the bitch, I can't afford to lose this job." She paused. "Or this apartment."

"Guess you're right," Roxy sighed, "Mandy, he was quite amazing."

"Yes, and you're just going to have to remember that," Mandy replied dryly, "As am I, about Taylor." She crossed her arms and leaned against the doorframe. "It just sucks, because earlier today..."

"Mhmm?"

Mandy smirked, "I was touching his abs."

"You're a sucker for a guy with abs!"

"Oh you know it!" Mandy gushed, "Mmm, I was admiring and he mentioned I needed to come over, and I said that I hadn't quite had the time to admire them..."

Roxy laughed, "Oh, you're terrible, Manders."

"I know, I know," Mandy nodded, "I just...ughh. I would love nothing more than to have another go with him. He's got an amazing body, you know, he's tanned all over, and god, his tongue, I just-"

"Whatever happened to playing it safe?"

Mandy's face fell, her fantasy destroyed, "Of course. My own plans turn around and stab me right in the face."

"Maybe just, one more time?" Roxy asked hopefully, "I mean, I never got to to..." she giggled. "Do my famous...move."

Mandy's eyes widened, "You didn't...?"

Roxy sighed, "Well, he was kind of, you know...."

"Small?"

Roxanne shook her head, "No. The other way around."

"How big, then?"

Roxanne made a gesture with her hands and Mandy's mouth dropped open, "You're kidding!"

She shook her head, "Otherwise, I would've given it."

"Geez," Mandy scoffed, "Maybe you should, I don't know, practice on something."

"So you're taking my proposal."

"I'm just saying if you plan on showing him how legendary you are, then you'll need to make sure it won't backfire on you."

Roxanne paused.

"When are you going to get Taylor, then?"

Mandy smirked, "I'll find a way. A perfect spot, to let it all go down. Because, well, if it's the last time I get to do it-"

"-then you'll want it to be perfect."

"One last time."

They shook on it.

---

Anton Lander grimaced at the site of Petra's naked body next to his. He absolutely hated when he had to do this with her, as if kissing wasn't bad enough. No, if he was part of a deal, he had to be part of all of it.

"Mmm, baby, that was fantastic," she purred, snuggling up to him, "Are you in the mood for another round?"

"Oh, well, it'll be at least fifteen minutes before I can-"

"So that's a yes, then." Petra whispered, biting his earlobe painfully, which like all other things he did with her, Lander pretended to like.

"I'll go freshen up a little," she said, hopping out of bed and turning to face him; her badly drawn tattoo above her navel just visible. Lander nodded as she scurried off into the bathroom.

Sex with Petra was like having sex with a sleeping person- he had to do all the work and experienced little to no pleasure. The only way he'd willed himself to come was to watch dirty movies before the event (not to Petra's knowledge, of course). This time, however, he'd imagined he was having sex with Roxanne. Lander pictured the tight feeling of her around him, her breasts in the bustier, the smell of her hair, the sound of her- you get the idea. It was the only way he could make it through.

Sadly, he looked up at the ceiling and wondered what Roxy was doing at that moment. He thought perhaps since it was later in the evening, she'd be taking a shower. Since Lander actually hadn't seen her completely nude, he tried to imagine how she might look. What her body would look like with steamy, hot water rushing down her curves. The slick wetness not only on her skin, but between her legs. How it might feel as it washed down all over her, from her shoulders to her chest, to her-

Petra smirked from the doorway, nodding at his now-ready manhood. Lander sighed. Hopefully this would tire her out so he could sleep- or at least escape to the comfort of his own apartment to drown in thoughts of Roxanne.

---

"Are you bored?"

Magnus blinked, seeing Geraldine's face looking at him blankly. He had hardly touched his food; it just sat there on his plate. It appeared she had done the same.

"Sorry..." he began.

"It's ok, I am too," Geraldine sighed, gazing out the window at the people passing by, "I wonder how long she expects us to go through with this."

"If we break up, she'll assume it's my fault and I'll end up in the minors," Magnus said sadly.

"Or she'll assume it's mine, and despite whatever I say to her, she'll force us back together," Geraldine said with a nod, "Can't win no matter what we try."

"Too true."

They were quiet for a moment. Geraldine tried to read Magnus, but she couldn't. She wasn't completely stupid; it was just how Petra had tried to make her be. To Petra, she had to have everything, and Geraldine had to have what Petra said she could.

"What are you thinking about?" she asked him, "Are you thinking about...a girl?"

Magnus blushed, "Oh, uh, no..."

"Who?" Geraldine smiled.

"If I tell you, you'll report me."

"No I won't," Geraldine replied, "I mean, sometimes I let things slip out. But I won't tell. I promise."

Magnus paused, "No, I can't. I'm sorry." He shook his head, "I just really need to get going. I need some air."

After getting the cheque, Magnus and Geraldine parted ways with a kiss (forced- in case Petra was somehow watching; she had her ways) and went home. As he walked alone in the dark city, passing only lit lamp posts, Magnus thought of how badly he needed to talk to someone. How he wanted to get things off his chest and have things feel better.

But the only person that could do that was gone.

seven;

"Where's Lander?" Mandy heard Petra around the corner, as she continued folding towels. She looked at her phone and realized they'd been in there longer than planned.

"Where are they?" Mandy whispered to Jordan as he came out of the locker room.

"Taylor walked by" he smirked, "Said they were going at it pretty hard"

"It's Petra" she said pointing behind her, "We've got to--"

"Stop talking and get to work intern" she sneered, "By the way, where's the other one?"

"Sick, she left early"

"Why do I find that hard to believe?" she said looking out onto the ice again.

"I wouldn't lie about it..." Mandy replied.

"Where's Lander?" she asked.

"I don't know" Jordan shrugged, "Went off the ice a while ago"

"Okay...maybe he's in the medical room or something" she said turning in that direction.

"No!" I said quickly grabbing Jordan's arm. She turned around and stared intently at both of us, waiting for an answer, "Tell 'em baby" I smirked stroking my hand up and down Jordan's arm, "You know...if you..." my voice trailed off into a whisper in his ear, in hopes Petra wouldn't here the nonsense I was saying. Hoping this plan would work.

She just chuckled, "Desperate huh?"

"Excuse me?" I replied slapping Jordan's wandering hand.

"You can have gap tooth" she laughed, "Not interested"

Mandy just huffed and crossed her arms, seeing Roxy strolling behind Petra. Roxy's eyes widened and she started walking the other way, quickly. Lander suddenly appeared and I sighed with relief. It's done.

"Hey Petra" I said, "There's your boy toy"

She just glared at me and smiled at Lander as he came up beside her, "Hey guys"

"Where have you been?" she asked.

"Oh..." he said nervously eyeing Jordan and I, "You know...around"

"Oh" she shrugged, "Well uh, I have a surprise for you"

He just let out a small smile and she grabbed his hand and they started walking the other way. He just looked behind him and mouthed 'Thank you' to both of them.

"You'll never get her in bed" Mandy said to him.

"Rude" he huffed crossing his arms.

"Oh come on, she basically shredded you in front of me"

"Whatever, I'll get her yet"

"Good luck with that"

"Hey Mandy" Taylor said coming up beside Jordan.

"Hey" I nodded, "What's up?"

"You doing anything tonight?" he smirked.

"I'm working late actually" I sighed, "Sorry"

"Too bad" he replied, "Could have had some fun"

"Seriously guys" Jordan huffed, "Get a room"

"I would if I could" Taylor smirked, keeping his eyes on Mandy.

Jordan just walked away shaking his head and Taylor just leaned against the wall, not daring taking his eyes off of her. She got close to him and slowly lifted up his t-shirt, "You know..." she said, her finger tracing down his stomach, "I don't think I've really had time to admire these..."

"You can have time...if you want it"

"You know I--"

"Manders!" Roxy yelled from the end of the hall, "Boss man's coming"

"Gotta run" Mandy said quickly placing a kiss on his lips, "Call me"

six;

Roxanne stood in front of the mirror, looking herself up and down. It'd been a long time since she'd worn lingerie, let alone this little black number. A small but tight-fitting bustier that made her breasts look enormous, paired with a tiny pair of lacey underwear linked to garters and stockings. She pinched her hips, wondering if it was too late to try wearing it.

"Whoa, hey."

Roxy glared at Mandy, "Don't you knock?"

"I forgot you still had that," Mandy said, leaning on the doorframe, "I remember when you bought it. Josh was way too much of a loser for something that sexy."

"I know," Roxy sighed, "He walked out before I even got to show him."

"Yeah, to screw his cousin," Mandy rolled her eyes, "So, is Lander gonna get to see this...and make it all splotchy?"

Roxy sent daggers to her, "That happened once. And I'm sorry."

"It was MY shirt."

"Again. Sorry."

"I don't know, I mean...I want to, but..."

"But?"

"But I don't wanna get caught."

"So, take him somewhere that's far off," Mandy suggested, "Like the massage table or something. Generally one of the rooms they're not using yet."

"Well, it's also getting him," Roxy admitted, "He has Petra."

"Yes, and he's practically eye-fucking you!" Mandy exclaimed, "I mean, come on, you have to admit he's given you some lusty looks."

Roxy smirked, "Yeah, a couple..."

"Tell you what," Mandy said, "Taylor pretty much will do anything for me right now, so I'll have him send Lander to the massage table room, where you will wait, wearing that." She paused. "She hasn't shown up to every training camp, but if she shows, Jordan can occupy her until you're finished."

Roxy broke into a wide smile, "Really? That would be awesome!"

Mandy nodded, "And considering how much Jordan likes Petra...well, for her looks, at least...he'd be more than happy to."

"Just one thing," Roxy said quickly, "Medical room. Metal table."

"Why not the cushiony massage table?"

Roxy paused, "The medical table sounds a bit more dangerous and fun."

Mandy smirked at her, "You don't want splotches left behind."

"Oh go fuck yourself!"

---

"I'm so nervous," Roxy said, shaking, "I don't know..."

"You'll be fine," Mandy insisted, pushing her towards the medical room, "Just go in there and wait. He'll be there."

As her friend disappeared into the room, Mandy busied herself calling over Jordan, who seemed to drool the closer her got to her.

"Hey Jordan, I need a favor."

Jordan smirked, "Oh yeah?"

Mandy was always blunt, "I'm trying to hook up Lander and Roxy, you think you guys could somehow get him into the medical room?"

Jordan raised his eyebrows, "What's in it for me?"

"What do you want?"

"Well...as long as you're handing out party favors..."

Mandy glared at him, "Sex? Really?"

"Not from you, from Petra," he said, eying the skinny girl as she walked around the other side of the rink, "When you're around her, pretend you've got it bad for me. Then she'll want me. That's how she is.

"Jordan, she's a bitch."

"And she's hot."

Mandy sighed, "Fine. I'll pretend I'm interested, you get Lander to the medical room. You've got yourself a deal."

Jordan skated off and casually took the puck away from Lander, who met his look, "You're needed in the medical room."

"For what?"

"Physicals." Jordan replied, somehow able to keep a straight face as Lander nodded and skated away.

Lander wandered back to the locker room and changed into just his underarmour, knowing that athlete physicals generally took a good hour or so. He hated them back in Sweden, and wondered if they'd be any different here. Hopefully less embarrassing.

Roxanne received the confirmation text from Mandy just moments before Lander opened the door. She stood there, a gentle smile on her lips, seeing his cheeks flush briefly. Her nervousness was instantly cured with lust.

Lander raised his eyebrows upon seeing Roxanne, “It’s you.”

“Yes,” she said, stepping around the table and dropping her shirt to the floor, “It is me.”

Lander’s eyes grew wide as he surveyed her. Her breasts looked amazing in the barely-there bustier, and the rest of her complimented the shape he had admired only through her navy blue uniform. Now she was almost naked in front of him, and only in his dirty mind had he seen this happening.

“Oh, um, wow...” he managed to choke.

Roxy smiled at him, “You gonna give me what I want?”

He nodded quickly, feeling the familiar tightness in his pants, “I’ll give you that and more.”

“Good,” she replied, hopping onto the medical table, “Now get over here.”

Lander flew at her and crashed his mouth into hers. His lips were soft and he tasted sweet, like some kind of candy she’d had as a child. His tongue was amazing; he knew how to kiss a girl. Roxy nibbled on his lip, sometimes biting him, which only made him more excited.

“Get these off,” she said, tugging at his pants.

Following her request, Lander quickly removed them and the athleticup, tossing them to the side. He licked his lips as he went in for another kiss, letting his hands fall to below her collarbone, squeezing her breasts. Roxy smiled against his lips; her hands slowly undoing the bustier.

But he had already moved on. Taking off his shirt, Lander eagerly slipped two fingers inside her underwear, feeling around. He relished in seeing her reaction; a bit more wetness coating her. If there was one thing that turned him on, it was putting his fingers inside a girl. And Roxanne’s eyes were begging him to.

Roxy closed her eyes and moaned; this boy was talented with his hands. Two fingers inside her and his thumb stimulating her. It drove her crazy and she continued to release more on his hands. Lander loved the feeling of her; soft, wet and sweet.

She kissed his neck, sucking in some spots. Lander tilted his head back in hopes she’d keep going, and the further she went, the quicker the pace of his fingers. Her hands ran along the outside of his pants; pressing on the hard bulge. How badly she wanted to see him.

The noises she made not only made him hot, but they were cute. Lander played with her until she climaxed, which of course left her still hungry for all of him. Once he was finished there, he watched her play with the elastic band of his boxers. She bit her lip and looked at him.

“Go ahead,” he told her. Permission granted, she pulled his underwear down and he sprung out.

Roxanne’s mouth dropped open. He was the biggest she’d seen yet. Silently she wondered what his size would count as, and if he would hurt her. Regardless, she still wanted him, and the desire in his eyes made her kiss him again.

Time was pressing them to go quickly. While he busied himself with protection, Roxy removed her bottoms and spread, waiting for him. Lander gently took her closely with his arms around her, letting her wrap her legs around his waist.

Roxanne hadn’t ever had a guy this big; it hurt at first and she let out a small cry of pain. Lander, used to this, allowed her to get used to his width and moved slowly until she told him it was ok. Then they both lost control.

The sensations pulsated through her like crazy. Roxy held onto his shoulders so tightly she feared she would break them. Lander’s breath on her neck, panting, only added to her pleasures. She fell back onto the table and he followed, using his arms to support his weight, thrusting harder and harder, the sweat pouring off his brow.

Roxanne flipped them over and grinded her hips against his, starting to bite his chest. Lander, overwhelmed by the pleasure, couldn’t feel any pain and was rather amused. She pulled back and sat on top, forcefully bouncing up and down. Lander watched her breasts bounce up and down and was positive he had died and gone to heaven.

That familiar sensation in his abdomen suddenly started up and Lander told Roxanne he was close. She started to ride him faster and faster, and she found herself starting to get on the wave with him. But Lander wasn’t going to let it end like this.

In the blink of an eye he pulled out, switched positions with Roxanne, pressed on her clit and slammed back in; sending her into the biggest orgasm she’d ever experienced. Forgetting her vow to silence, Roxanne screamed, and he followed shortly; the tightening within her enough to coax him. As if to add to his fantastic climax, Lander felt Roxy flexing herself, completely squeezing every bit of pleasure out of him. This woman knew how to please him.

Gently he released himself from her; it was almost painful. Roxanne couldn’t move for a moment. Neither could Lander.

“You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to do that,” he said breathlessly.

Roxy grinned, “Yeah...me too...”

five.

Roxy and Mandy had a day off, but we’re back at it the next morning. They entered the arena, chatting and going on as usual.

“…and then after that, she said something like, ‘Oh yeah, and everyone knows you stuff your bra. She is the nastiest person I have ever met!” Roxy said as we passed the locker room.

“I can’t stand her” Mandy replied catching a glance from Taylor.

Roxy just nudged her best friend and smirked, “Hey, fuckbuddy’s looking at your ass again”

Mandy just chuckled and turned around to look at Taylor, “Hey Tay”

“Hey” he replied, taking a quick drink from his water bottle, “how are you?”

You could feel the sexual tension between the two of them. Roxy could see it, and it didn’t take much for her to realize that was her cue, “Okay…I’m going to go--do something, yah” she ran off quickly as Taylor and Mandy were left staring at each other.

Taylor just leaned slowly and whispered in her ear, “I’ve been thinking about what we did the other night…and what you did to me…”

Mandy chuckled, “I know you have” she replied tracing her finger along his waistline, just waiting for him to let her go a bit further.

“I was wondering if I could get a repeat sometime…” he asked.

“You can get a repeat anytime you want” she replied, her finger now tugging on the waist of his pants.

“How about 15 minutes?” he whispered a bit lower.

“How about now?” she insisted.

He just smirked, wanting to, but knowing he couldn’t, “I have to finish one more drill, but meet me outside the locker room”

“I’ll be there” she whispered.

“Perfect” he replied, skating back onto the ice.

He met up with Jordan as they began the last few drills of practice.

“You lucky bastard” Jordan said, “You’re getting ass again?”

Taylor just smirked, “Fuck yes I am”

“Again?” Magnus replied skating up next to the two of them.

“Shit yeah” Taylor sighed, “She’s unreal”

Magnus just mumbled something under his breath as he skated away.

“What’s up with him?” Taylor asked fooling around with the puck.

“He’s just jealous” Jordan shrugged, “Like me. Dude, you’re so lucky”

“You could have the other one” Taylor pointed out, “She looks like she’d be a freak in bed. You can tell just by looking at her. The quiet ones usually are”

“I would love to know” Lander sighed coming up behind Jordan.

“Then go over and find out” Taylor said practically pushing him towards her.

“Are you serious?” Lander replied, “Petra’s here…”

“I don’t know why you don’t just ditch her and take matters into your own hands” Jordan said.

“Seriously? Do you know what she would do? She practically has her father wrapped around her finger. I’d end up down in the minors” Lander replied catching a quick glance from Roxy, “She’s just so--”

“She lives in our building you know” Taylor said, “Which is pretty far from yours”

“And what’s your point?” he replied.

“She can’t catch you stupid”

“You make a point” he said looking in Roxy’s direction again, “Maybe I could give it a shot”

“Seriously” Jordan said, “Look at that rack”

“She’s wearing a uniform and you can still see it” Taylor replied, “Damn”

“Shut up” Lander said, “I think I’ll go talk to her”

“And you’ll talk to Petra about me right?” Jordan asked with a smirk.

“Fuck you” Lander replied.

“Yah, get your own” Taylor said.

“Not fair!” Jordan whined, “You’ve got ‘em both”

“I’m sure it won’t be hard to find someone who wants a piece of Mr. “5.4 seconds” over here” Lander said with a chuckle.

“That’s a lie…I last a lot longer than that!” Jordan frowned.

“Sure you do” Taylor laughed, “Three girls definitely lied”

“You assholes, I was talking about--oh never mind” Lander sighed.

“On the bright side, I’m sure Paajarvi would let you borrow his girl” Taylor smirked.

“She’s such a ditz” Lander replied, “Fucking stupid if you ask me”

“She probably wouldn’t even be able to tell the difference between you and Magnus anyway” Taylor joked.

“You know…she probably wouldn’t” Jordan said looking over in her direction.

--

Taylor left the locker room, “Okay guys, see you tomorrow”

Mandy grabbed his arm and pulled him around the corner, “Hey” she smirked.

He gently brushed his lips against hers, “Hey to you too” he said, “Where you want to do this?”

“Wherever we can” Mandy replied, “Because I need you right now…badly”

“I have an idea…” he replied.

“What’s that?” she asked already fiddling with his pants.

“The broom closet? We could have it standing up” he leaned in, “Never done that before”

She just chuckled, “I like that idea”

He reached his hand down her jeans and pressed his fingers inside her, “Do you?”

“Oh my God…Taylor…”

“How bad do you want me?” he whispered pressing harder.

“Oh…Taylor…so--holy shit”

“Tell me…” he whispered.

“You want me to scream? I’m not screaming out here…”

“Okay” grabs her hand, “To the closet then”

“Thank you”

He opened the door, took a quick look around and flicked the light on and pulled her in, shutting the door behind him, “How about now?”

“You ask a lot of questions” Mandy replied.

“I like the answers I get” he replied starting to undo her jeans.

“Hey…” she said starting to kiss down his neck, “You know I was watching you do your drills earlier…”

“Oh yah?” he groaned, “How’d I do?” he continued as he pulled down her underwear.

“I don’t know” she chuckled, “But you looked hot”

He chuckled, “Well so did you” he dropped down, “I forgot how sweet you smell…”

She just closed her eyes, “…and I forgot how good you feel”

“Something tells me I should skip this…and give you what you want”

She just nodded, “Yes…please”

He stood up and gave her a quick look up and down, “Okay then”

It wasn’t long before he was inside her, he didn’t wait this time, he was in and out quickly, it was fast paced. They moved together like they'd done it a thosand times. They knew what each other wanted this time, and weren't afraid to give it. It wasn’t long before she was almost screaming his name, she'd never felt anything like this...

“Holy shit Mandy! I don’t know if I can take much more”

Mandy just smirked, “You want me to stop then?”

“N-no-no, please don’t, I’m so close--”

The door swung open, and there stood Magnus, “What the fuck!?”

“Shit…” Taylor said grabbing his pants.

Magnus started to walk away as Mandy quickly put her pants back on and followed him, “Magnus! What the fuck!?”

“Go back to riding Taylor” he replied, “I’m leaving”

“You sound like you have a problem with me. Why the fuck did you even open the door!?”

“I was looking for something to clean up the mess I made before I left. Because, I didn’t want you to have to clean it up in the morning…”

“It’s my job” she snapped, “I don’t care”

“Well…sorry I did, because I really needed to see you fucking my teammate. People do have class where I come from”

“You know, shit happens” she replied, “I didn’t plan for you to open the door!”

“Next time…plan better. To actually think I was planning on sleeping tonight” he replied sarcastically as he tried to walk away.

“You sound jealous” she said crossing her arms, “Just my opinion though”

“Jealous?” he laughed, “Jealous that I wasn’t the one in the closet having sex with you? Swedes have more class than that”

“You really wouldn’t if I gave you the opportunity?” she smirked.

She thought she might be able to get him to break a little, but nothing.

“Sex is meaningful to some of us”

“Excuse me?” she replied, “Don’t make me sound like a whore. I like Taylor…a lot actually”

“That’s your own business” he said putting his hands up in defense, “To be fair, if I was him, I wouldn’t be making love to you in a fucking broom closet, you at least deserve a bed”

“I agreed to it…oh great, now I sound like a whore” she sighed.

He sighed in response, “You’re not a whore Mandy”

“You basically just painted that out for me”

“No, I said if I were him…I’d choose somewhere else. But everyone has there preferences” he sighed again, “Just be careful, okay? You’re lucky it wasn’t Petra who opened the door”

“I could care less about that bitch” she replied.

“Well…I care about you, and I don’t want her to put a black mark on your record”

“You…care about me?” Mandy’s eyebrow raised, “But…you barely know me…”

Magnus’ face immediately turned red, realizing what he just told her, “Well uh, what I meant to say was, uh--I just don’t want you, to you know…end up like some of the other interns before you. They got the sack because a couple slept with Jordan…”

“Oh…well uh, I’ll try and not do it here…if I do it again at all…”

“I don’t care what you do” he said shaking his head, “Just be careful”

“Okay…”

His face turned red again, “By the way…do you have a tattoo on your back?”

She just looked at him curiously, “Yah…I do, I got it after my dad died…how do you know?”

“I saw it when I opened the door…” he said, “sorry, inappropriate question”

“It’s fine, why did you want to know?”

“I thought it was nice” he said looking down at the floor.

“Oh, well thanks. I drew it myself, with Roxy’s help of course”

“Cool…” he said running his fingers through his hair, “Sorry I interrupted you…I gotta go”

“Okay, bye” they both started to walk away, when Magnus stopped her.

“Mandy…wait”

“Yah?” she replied turning around.

“Uh…” he just took her face in his hands and placed his lips on hers. He couldn’t help himself, she was within his reach, he had to take the chance.

“Magnus!” she said pulling away from him, “What the fuck!?”

“Sorry…” he shrugged, “I had to…”

“But, wait--uhh”

“I have to go…bye” he said quickly running out the door.

Roxy came up behind Mandy, who was still in shock at what had just happened.

“You all set?” Roxy asked, “It took me forever to finish the towels…ugh”

“I, umm--” she continued to stare into space, “What?”

“You okay?”

“Fine…you see Taylor?” Mandy asked quickly looking around.

“Yah…he’s riding with us, remember?”

“Right…”

“What happened?”

“Magnus…just…kissed me”

“Whoa! Seriously? Like a peck…or a romantic kiss?”

“It was full on--”

“Looks like he has a crush on you Manders”

“This was after he caught me and Taylor in the closet…”

“He caught you and Taylor having sex in the closet!?” she laughed.

“Yah…”

She just frowned, “Wait…then he kissed you?”

“I don’t get him at all…I mean…I thought he hated me…”

“You’re sleeping with his teammate” she shrugged as they made their way out to the car, “He’s jealous”

“Yah, but I don’t like him…I like Taylor…”

“Maybe you should test him out” she said nudging her, “You never know, maybe he’s better than Tay”

“You know that’s not what I mean Roxy…”

“I’m just saying” she smirked, “He looks like he’d be all sweet, and tender…awwwwww”

“Fuck you” Mandy snapped.

“You know you’d do it”

“I’m not into that…well…I’ve never really experienced it…but I don’t even like him”

“So you wouldn’t care if I went for him?”

Mandy just laughed, “You’re hung up on Lander…”

“But you do know the shy sweet guys always have a bigger package”

Mandy just smacked her, “You’re ridiculous”

Taylor just cleared his throat and we noticed his presence, “Closet sex, huh?” Roxy said nudging him.

“Don’t act like you’ve never done it”

“So high school” Roxy replied.

“Maybe high school…but really hot”

Mandy just smirked at Taylor and Taylor replied back with the same gesture.

“I did it in a tree once…no lie” Roxy said.

“I think you’re my hero” Taylor replied.

“But I got leaves in my butt…that wasn’t cool”

“Is she being honest?” Taylor whispered.

“You just…never know with her” Mandy chuckled.

four.

"This was too easy," Mandy said with a smirk, taking off Taylor's shirt and smiling at the defined abs and chiseled body beneath, "Mmm, I like." Her mouth pressed against his, Mandy let him lead her to the bed.

"I can't believe this is happening," Taylor said, pulling Mandy's shirt over her head.

"No, you can," Mandy replied, pushing him down on the bed, climbing on top and busying herself with his pants, "Now, show me what you've got..."

Taylor watched her intently as she took off his pants, followed by his socks, and focused on the bulge in his grey boxers. Mandy teased him, running the palm of her hand up and down, sending him into spasms.

"Aggggggh! Come on, don't do that..."

"No?" Mandy gave him a puppy-dog face, "Should I do this instead?" With one slick move she removed his boxers, letting him spring into view. Taylor thought he was going to come just by watching her undress him. She shook her hips, letting the sweatpants fall to the ground...revealing she wore no underwear.

Mandy crawled around on the bed, settling herself on top of him, "You want something?" The desire in Taylor's eyes was so blatantly obvious it almost made her laugh.

"Yes. Please. Now."

Knowing how good she was, Mandy didn't have to listen to Taylor's sad attempts at controlling his moaning to know she was doing well. Gently at first, she took him, and then after handling him roughly for a good five minutes, he stopped her.

"Mandy, I'm dangerously close, and if you keep doing that..."

"Fine, fine," she shrugged, "On to the fun stuff."

To her surprise, Taylor grabbed her and pulled her up to him, pushing her down. Hastily he spread her legs, "My turn." Before she could reply he buried his face in between them.

"Tayloorrrrrrr..." Mandy moaned, her hands gripping the sheets. He was only the first guy she'd encountered who knew how to please a girl orally. It took a true gentleman to return the favor.

His strong hands pulled her closer to his face while he devoured her, making Mandy squirm. Blissful as it was, he was torturing her-- the longer he did this, the closer to climax she got, and the closer she got to that, the more she wanted him.

"Taylor, please," Mandy begged, "I need you, all of you, inside me, now..."

Happy to oblige, Taylor stopped and crawled on top of her, "You sure about that?"

"I'm positive," Mandy said with a grin, "Come on, now. Is that all you got?"

Taylor started kissing her down her neck, chest and all the way back. Mandy laid herself down, letting him part her thighs gently, eager to feel the familiar feeling of a man entering her.

He wasn't big, but he wasn't small, either. Mandy sighed happily as he sunk within her; something she hadn't felt in a long time. Taylor started slow, which she didn't like. Persistent, she grabbed a hold of his hips and forced him to quicken the pace. Taylor grinned, throwing back his head as the sensations increased for him. But she still wasn't satisfied.

"Faster," she ordered, and he obeyed. Mandy's eyes squeezed shut as a hot wave of pleasure rushed over her. She begged him not to stop, and he promised not to. They were starting to sweat now.

"Harder," she whispered, and yet again Taylor did as he was told. He smirked, paused to grab ahold on her legs and putting them over his shoulders, thus letting him get deeper inside of her.

"FFFFFUCK!" Mandy shrieked as he kept going. Taylor started moaning, in spite of himself, as his own climax was starting to build up. He felt down on top of her; his skin pressed against her, her breasts pressing against his bare chest. They were sticking together with the heat, the bed was on fire for all they knew.

"Taaylorr, I'm gonna, I'm gonna..." Mandy cried out, her hands clawing his back, "OH GOD!"

One powerful thrust sent them both over the edge. Mandy tightened around him, which only made his climax all the more satisfying. Taylor felt his entire body being engulfed as he came hard; he trembled as they rode it out.

Mandy was completely exhausted as he pulled out slowly and collapsed next to her. It took several seconds for her breathing to return to normal. She looked at Taylor, who was doing the same thing. Neither could believe what had just happened.

---

"And I have to admit, the guy was good, better than I expected."

Roxanne's eyes grew wide, "So no faking it?"

Mandy grinned, "Not. At. All."

"Uggh, you're so lucky!" Roxy threw her hands in the air, "I wish I was you!" She paused, looking around the room, "Just between us girls, I'd totally screw Anton Lander. Got up close to him this morning when his swipe card wasn't working. He smells amazing..."

Mandy laughed, "Well, as long as it's between us, there's a few of 'em I would, not to sound like a slut." She snorted. "I sound like a slut."

"You're at least getting some," Roxanne sighed, taking out the cleaner for the medical table, "My baby maker has cobwebs..." She laughed.

"It hasn't been that long, has it? I mean, these guys would be stupid if they didn't want a piece of you."

"Thanks girl," Roxy said with a grin, "But we're not here for that, remember?

"Amanda!" Bruce's voice cracked through the air, "Gatorade. Now." Mandy rolled her eyes and followed her boss as he passed by, leaving Roxanne to clean by herself.

Roxy wished she had half the courage Mandy did. Her body swelled and turned to mush whenever Lander was around, whereas Mandy was able to walk right up to Taylor and in a towel, no less! Roxy felt herself shrinking into a tiny little quiet nothing.

The boys in the locker room were having a conversation of their own. Penner was on his way out as Taylor was on his way in, cheeky as he high-fived Jordan.

"There's the man!"

"Yeah, yeah, no big deal." Taylor said smugly, going to his stall.

"What happened?" Lander asked.

"He nailed the intern!" Jordan exclaimed. Taylor smirked.

Magnus dropped his left shinpad, "Which one?"

Taylor grinned, "Mandy."

Jordan seemed to worship Taylor at this point, "Man, how WAS she?"

"It was hot, let me tell you, that girl is a freak!"

"Dude, I'm so jealous. Did she suck it too?"

"She sucked AND-"

Magnus threw his shinpad at the other side of the room and stormed over to pick it up. He looked down at the floor as he walked back, sitting down haughtily. The other three frowned at him with concern.

"Whoa, what's wrong?" Lander asked.

"Nothing," Magnus said, giving up and walking out, "Nothing at all."

Lander turned to Taylor, "I think you beat him to it."

Jordan shrugged, "No shit. But what's he care? He's got whats-her-face's pussy." He paused. "Which has probably been handed out to several other guys."

"I wouldn't go that far," Lander said, "I mean, no offence to him, but Geraldine isn't the brightest bulb."

"Agreed," Jordan said with a nod, "So, are you and here together now or what?"

Taylor shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know, we didn't talk about it." He smirked. "But if she wants to go another round I'm up for it."

The rest of the day at the camp was spent doing the usual- the girls cleaned things up and kept the boys hydrated; the boys worked to the best of their efforts to get noticed. It didn't help that people were crowded in the arena as though it was a regular-season game; it only made them more nervous.

Taylor played fantastically. He seemed to glow from his performance the night before; he puffed up his chest a little more than usual.

Jordan was also doing well, but kept sneaking glances at Petra, who promptly gave him the finger on several occasions.

Magnus did his best to ignore Geraldine, who was trying to get his attention the entire practice, and to free his mind of any thoughts of the attractive intern sleeping with his teammate.

Roxy stared at Lander like a hungry lion would a carcass. He skated so swiftly; his body just seemed to glide. Every time he looked her way she made herself look busy. She felt her face get hot as she blushed. Just before the practice ended, Lander walked past her and patted her on the back (he said something along the lines of 'You're doing great,' but she couldn't even think, given her body was turning to jelly just by his touch).

"You can stop staring," Petra's voice penetrated through her thoughts, "He'd never go for a little pipsqueak like you." Roxy's heart sank as Petra pushed her aside and walked up to Lander, giving him a full-on kiss.

It was at that point she reached her boiling point.

Why stand there and feel sorry for herself?

Mandy had said that any of the guys would love a piece of her.

So what if he had a girlfriend? She was a total bitch and probably deserved to be cheated on for all Roxanne cared. And this girl was consistently degrading people just for her own benefit.

Gripping her hands into fists, Roxanne decided that tomorrow would be the day. As Mandy brushed past her to finish putting away the smelly practice jerseys, Roxy reached for her friend's hand and pulled her aside. Her eyes were wild.

"I need your help," she said promptly, "I need you to get Petra away from the medical room tomorrow."

"What?" Mandy frowned, "Why?"

"Because," Roxy's voice went low, "I'm going to fuck Anton Lander."

three ;

Mandy stepped out of her apartment, clearly feeling good about herself at this point. She stepped around the corner, seeing Taylor and Jordan’s apartment. She flipped her hair one more time and knocked on their door.

The door flew open and Jordan stood there, and a smirk slowly appeared on his lips, “Well, well, is it my lucky day?” he said putting his hands in his pockets and leaning on the door frame.

“Maybe” Mandy smirked, “but the thing is, I locked myself out, silly me” she said trying to play stupid, “I need to use your phone”

“Well, unfortunately mine is dead, currently charging” he replied, “But Taylor’s..” he yelled, directing his attention to Taylor, “isn’t”

“Great…um, can I at least come in?”

He smiled again with a look of lust and stepped out of the way to let her in. She just sighed as she saw Taylor nowhere in sight, “Where’s this phone?”

“Taylor!” he yelled down the hall. He finally came out and his eyes widened. Mandy suddenly felt a tad vulnerable and held the towel a bit closer, “Hey Taylor…”

“Mandy, hi” he smirked, “Um, this is a nice…surprise”

“I need to use your phone” she asked, “I locked myself out, while trying to take a shower”

“Did you want some clothes?” he asked.

“That would be great…thanks”

Taylor disappeared into his room and came out holding a t-shirt and sweatpants, “Here…” he said handing them to her, “Bathroom is right there”

“Thanks…”

Mandy disappeared into the bathroom and Taylor let out a long sigh, “Dude…why is she here?”

“You heard her” Jordan said, “She locked herself out”

“You sure that’s it?”

“Oh, and she totally wants you”

“What!?” he responded looking towards the bathroom then back to Jordan, “How can you tell?”

“Oh come on, I hate to say it, but I don’t think a girl like that would go for me”

“You really think she’s just here…to flaunt?”

“Oh come on, you saw her” he replied, “I guarantee you Roxy is sitting at their apartment right now”

Taylor took another glance into the bathroom and caught a glimpse of Mandy’s backside, seeing a small tattoo on her shoulder, something he couldn’t make out. Suddenly she pulled the rest of the clothes on and opened the door. She smirked at Taylor, sensing they might have seen something.

“Um…your phone?” she asked.

“Oh…yah” Taylor said taking it off the table, “Here” he said handing it to her. He stood only inches away as Mandy looked him up and down slowly. She stood up on her tiptoes as if she was going to kiss him but instead, whispered in his ear, “Thanks”. Taylor shuddered at the mere feeling of her breath on his skin.

“You’re…uh…yah--welcome”

She lightly chuckled and went to the other room, pretending to make a phone call.

“Dude, do you believe me now?” Jordan asked when Mandy was out of earshot.

He just took a deep breath in, “I don’t know…”

“You look like you just saw a ghost”

“Did you see her!?” he asked.

“I did” Jordan nodded, “Which is why now is the time to take advantage”

“Seriously?”

“She wants it...bad” Jordan replied.

“Um…okay. You need to go then…now”

“An hour” he said.

“Might need two” Taylor replied.

“Hour and a half”

“Fine” Taylor replied.

Jordan just smirked as he saw Mandy come out of the room. She handed Taylor his phone, getting closer to him again and just smiled as she brushed past him, “Thanks, I’m just going to wait for Roxy by our door”

“How long is she going to be?” Taylor asked.

“I’m going to go for a walk” Jordan said quickly, “Later” the door shut and Taylor and Mandy were left in the apartment alone. Mandy could feel the tension between them, she liked it.

“You want a drink?” Taylor asked nervously turning towards the kitchen.

“I want more than just a drink” she replied.

Taylor quickly turned around and saw Mandy chuckle a little.

“What?”

“Oh come on” she said slowly moving towards him, “Don’t tell me you couldn’t tell, I was pretty obvious”

“Oh, well--”

“You want to do this, or not?” she asked moving back towards the door, “Cause I can--" before she could finish Taylor grabbed her arm, swung her around and placed his lips on hers.

“Oh…” she simply said, “So I guess that’s a yes?”

“A definite yes”

two.

Bruce had ordered Mandy to work by the bench handling the water bottles and such, sending Roxanne to clean things in the locker room. Roxanne felt lost without Mandy by her side. She wiped down the table, her arms shaky, not liking being alone in the locker room entrance. It made her feel more vulnerable than usual.

Roxy sighed, looking at the giant orange Gatorade dispenser. She had to dump the remains and clean it, which was going to be pretty gross. Removing the lid and cleaning it, she groaned. Why did she even think this was a good idea, to take this job?

Then, as she lifted the container in her arms, she remembered. She had to get away from her father and his fucked-up new family. The 1950s perfect family which she had no part or say in. Lost in angry thoughts as she stormed down the hall, Roxanne didn’t even realize she couldn’t see over the top of the container.

Her thoughts were broken as she crashed into someone, the remaining Gatorade contents in the dispenser spilling everywhere, but mainly on the hockey player she had just walked right into. Roxy’s face turned bright red when she realized it was Anton Lander, and his white Oilers practice jersey was now stained a pukey-orange.

“Oh my god, I am so sorry!” she exclaimed, rushing to grab some of the spare towels, “I am such an idiot...” She quickly handed him a towel and used another to dab at the wet stains.

Lander took the towel and dried his hair, “Don’t worry, it was just an accident.” He smiled at her, causing Roxy’s cheeks to flush, “Maybe I should just get another jersey?”

“Yeah,” she said quickly, withdrawing the soaked white towel, “Uh...this way.”

Lander kicked the container aside and followed, thankfully his skates had just got a few spots on the laces. He stole a look at her chest as she dropped down to fish through the shelves and pulled out a blue jersey for him. Lander licked his lips lustfully. She really did have a great rack.

“Here,” she said, leading him to the locker room, “Is this your size?”

“I’m a large,” he said simply. Roxanne blushed, seeing she’d grabbed a medium.

“Ok, let me try that again,” she replied hastily, rushing back to the jersey shelves. Lander pulled the jersey off his head, noticing there was some Gatorade on his hockey pants also. Deciding to tease her, he took those off also. He removed his skates and stood there in his underarmor and socks.

“This should fit you, I-”

Roxanne stopped in her tracks. Lander smiled at her innocently; his hard-on very uncomfortable in his athleticup. He knew she could see it, he could tell by the way she was staring, like she was in unbelievable awe.

“Yes?”

She snapped out of it and tossed him the jersey, “I mean...here...”

Roxanne’s thighs felt like they were on fire; her inner depths starting to swell. Every inch of her screamed for his body. She wanted to tear off his clothing and then hers, press him against the wall and force him into give everything to her.

“Excuse me, intern?”

Roxy nearly jumped out of her skin, whirling around to see Petra standing there, tapping her foot, “You leave that giant mess on the runway?”

“Oh,” Roxy felt her heart sink miserably, “Yeah, I did...”

“Go clean it up before someone gets hurt.” Petra commanded, smirking as the intern left the locker room, leaving her standing in front of her boyfriend.

“That was mean.”

“She needs to do her job,” Petra said simply, raising her eyebrows, “Is that for me?”

Lander shrugged, “Yeah...I’m not really in the mood right now, though....”

“Sure you are,” Petra walked over to him, planting a kiss below his ear, “How about...the medical table?”

Lander sighed, “Petra, I’m serious. The way you treat her turns me off.”

“You’re a child.” Petra snapped, grabbing his hand, “Come on. Let’s go have a little fun.”

---

“...and then she walked out, licking her lips, saying to me, ‘You’ll never know how good he tastes’,” Roxanne groaned, taking another spoonful of Ben and Jerry’s, “I hate her.”

“She is a huge bitch,” Mandy agreed, flipping the TV to Grey’s Anatomy, “But seriously, you almost go action there. That’s kind of, well, awesome.”

“It’s not because I could’ve made a huge mistake and got myself fired,” Roxy sighed, “Seriously...”

“Don’t lie, he made you soak yourself.”

“Doesn’t matter!”

“You could’ve gotten laid.”

“Not the point, Manders!”

Mandy smirked, “I’m thinking about getting some ass myself...”

“What are you talking about?”

“Well...Taylor lives in our building...”

Roxy sighed, “You’re kidding, right? Please tell me you are.”

Mandy grinned evilly, “I could just pretend I’m locked out and I need to use his phone...while in just a towel.”

“You’re horrible.”

“But it would work, wouldn’t it?”

“Of course it would, but-”

Mandy flew off the couch and disappeared into the bathroom. She emerged in an electric pink towel, tied strategically so her shape could be admired. Grinning, she mock-paraded around the room, striking poses.

“Well?”

“I think you’re an idiot,” Roxy told her, “I’ll see you in an hour?”

“It’s been awhile,” Mandy said, heading to the door, “I’d say maybe two.”

“You’re disgusting.”

“You’re jealous!”

one ;

“I have a bad feeling about this job” I said to Roxy as we entered the arena.

“Oh come on, it’s only a season and we’ll be out of here”

“This place gives me the shivers, being a Flames fan and all”

“You’ll get used to it” she said.

“Interns!” we turned around to see a large intimidating man, quite scary looking to be honest. Roxy looked a bit nervous, but I stood my ground.

“Yes?”

“I’m Bruce, and you’re Amanda and Roxanne, am I right?”

We both just nodded.

“Okay, first camp practice should be over in a few minutes. I’m going to need you guys to get Gatorade and things ready for them in the locker room, okay?”

“Yes sir” Roxanne replied as we turned and saw everything ready to go.

“Like I said, bad feeling Roxy” I sighed.

“Yah, I’m starting to think the same thing” she smirked.

Some of the guys started piling in, grabbing drinks and towels.

“Hey Mandy, you want to go grab some ice, this is starting to get warm” Roxy asked.

“Oh yah, sure thing”

I walked down the hall towards the back room, and into the freezer. As I came out I ran into a tall blonde. Dark eyes, deadly glare. You could tell how rich she was from the designer bag hanging from her arm and by the way she walked.

“Hi?”

“New intern?” a small smirk appeared on her lips, and you could just see the wheels turning in her head.

“Yah, Mandy” I replied, holding out my hand.

“I don’t care” she said swatting it away.

I took a step back and nodded, “Fine then”

I tried to walk around her but she followed me, all the way back to the locker room. I just sighed and handed Roxy the bag of ice.

“Who’s this?” she asked.

“I don’t even know”

“I’m going to let you know straight up” she started, “You have no say around here, got it? My daddy’s the owner, and if any one of you screw up, I can have your little butts fired, alright?”

“Hon, we’re just here to do our jobs, alright, we don’t want any trouble” I replied. Roxy just stood there, a bit taken aback, she was never much of a talker. I was always the outspoken one.

“You take one wrong look at these boys…” she whispered.

“We don’t want any of them” I snapped, “That’s not why we’re here, okay?”

“Bruce, this Gatorade is warm, you better talk to your interns” she said as she turned on her heel and walked away.

“Amanda! What did I tell you?”

“I’m on it” I replied, “Damn I hate when people call me Amanda”

“It’s your birth name” Roxy replied.

“Doesn’t mean I like being called it!”

She just laughed and I looked over as there were three more guys coming around, and I swear I took a second look. Long, shaggy dark hair, cute grin, he was almost perfect.

“That’s Petra” he said, “Don’t let her get to you”

“Oh” I smirked, “Yah, okay”

“You going to grab me a drink, or…?”

“Yah, sure” I said grabbing him a drink.

He ran his fingers through his hair as he left me with a smile. I just looked at Roxy and she tried to keep from laughing.

“What!?”

“You were flirting with him” she smirked.

“Was not!” I replied folding my arms across my chest.

She just shook her head and continued tossing sweaty towels into the basket beside her. I just sighed as two guys showed up in front of us. I looked at them for a minute and then looked at Roxy. She just stood up and sighed, “You live in our building!” she said pointing at one.

“Wait, you’re Taylor Hall” I replied.

“I am…”

“You broke our elevator!” Roxy said pointing at him again.

“That thing was bound to break sooner or later”

“Yes, but I just found out when I had to bring ten bags of groceries…up stairs!”

He just smirked and shrugged, “Sorry”

The other guy seemed really quiet, I directed my attention to him, “And you are?”

He was stunned for a minute and then Taylor elbowed him in the side, “I’m Jordan”

“Okay, well I’m Mandy, and this is Roxy, we’re interns”

“Wait…you’re the girl that almost threw up on us!” Jordan said, “Hey Lander! Remember that?”

He just laughed, “Oh yah! She was playing knicky nine doors on our floor, drunk”

“I told you to stay in the apartment” I mumbled to her.

“It seemed fun, at the time, and it was, from what I remember” she smirked.

“Girls! Stop talking and get working!” I heard Bruce from down the hall. Petra was standing in front of him, smirking at me.

“You guys better go” I said, “Don’t need to get fired on the first day…”

“We’ll see you around, we’ll carpool” Jordan joked.

I just smirked, “See ya’s”

They left and it looked like Taylor was scolding him for the stupid joke at the end. I just laughed and looked back at Roxy, who had her eye on something, or rather someone. That kid they called Lander, I think.

“Roxy?”

“Hey, dare me to throw this bottle at that guy’s ass?” she laughed.

“Obviously” I chuckled.

She tossed it and she hit her target, but then we couldn’t stop laughing, while we tried to work. He turned around and immediately walked over. Her face got red, and I just kept giggling.

“You throw this?” he asked.

“Uh…nope” I replied, “She did”

“Mandy!” she said smacking my arm.

“It’s okay” he laughed, “You have good aim”

I just smirked as he kept his eye on her, “Oh…well uh, we were just…”

“Girls, if I have to tell you again!” Bruce yelled again.

“I’ll see you girls around, I’m Anton by the way”

“Mandy and Roxy” I replied, since Roxy’s voice got hitched into her throat.

“See ya” he left and Roxy’s eyes never looked away.

“You like him”

“He is very beautiful”

We both just started laughing at her comment as we finished cleaning up.

“Remember Roxy, we’re here to make money so we can get out of here asap”

“I know, I’m just saying he’s hot” she shrugged.

I just smirked and sighed as we watched the last few guys leave the locker room. Petra’s glared at me, as if I was a threat. She was like a dog, this was her territory and no one was going to invade it, myself and Roxy especially.

intro.

Roxanne Delaney pushed her food around on her plate, disinterested in everything around her. Diane, her stepmother, was chatting happily about how the Edmonton Ladies Society had recently gotten a new member, one they previously had seen unfit ("She used to dress like a street urchin until she met that young lawyer. It was a most fortunate decision on her part!"). Rolling her eyes, Roxanne sat back in her seat. Diane was a very selfish and materialistic woman, one very much unlike her real mother.

Dave Delaney had remarried almost a month after his wife, Sarah, had died of breast cancer, something that bothered Roxanne immensely. Diane had two children, two irritatingly perfect boys, who took up all of Dave's time. Roxy was just the sulking teenager in the background, who was only there because she had no choice.

Her cell phone vibrated underneath her bottom. Diane had a "No cell phones during dinner," rule, and Roxy had to learn to adapt. She patted her lips with the napkin, asked to be excused, and rushed to her bedroom. Flipping the phone open, she saw the text she'd been waiting for:


Hi-ho, sailor.

Roxy's bags were packed. She was ready to go. Zipping up her hoody, she opened her bedroom window and saw her best friend standing on the ground, arms open to catch the two duffel bags that held her belongings. Roxy dropped them both, carefully passing down her art easel and several boxes of paints and sketchpads.

"I'll be right down," she called to her friend, closing the window.

The last thing to do was to place the letter she'd written under her dad's pillow, a place only he would find it and not controlling Diane. Tucking the envelope into her back pocket, Roxy turned to go to the doorway and instead found herself face-to-face with Tex, Diane's oldest son.

"Where you going?" he asked.

"Away from here," Roxy snarled, pushing past him and heading to her father's room.

"You going with a boy? Boys don't like you, you know. You're ugly."

"They like you, though," Roxy snapped, opening the door and rushing in, slipping the letter under the pillow and taking off down the stairs. Before anyone could object, she was out the door and into the passenger seat of her best friend's car.

"Do you think my dad will miss me, Mandy?" Roxy asked as they sped out of the driveway, Diane's figure just barely visible in the front door window.

"I think you're making the right choice," Mandy replied quietly, "Don't worry about what he thinks."

"You're right. This is my dream." She paused. "Well, part of it anyway..."

"It's a stepping stone along the way."

"And it's ten times better than what's back there."

"Sure is."

-

Anton Lander smoothed back his hair and sighed, content with himself. He watched the girl walk out, her little apple bottom visible beneath the tight skirt. Another night, another puck bunny down, or at least the last Swedish one.

Meaningless sex was what he did, but it wasn't what he lived for- hockey was his true passion, and in a matter of months he'd be playing in the NHL. As he stood in the shower, letting the hot water fall over his toned body, Lander had to marvel. He had everything; looks, money and now, the career he'd always dreamed of.

His cell phone had been going off all night, but he was ignoring it. Probably just Magnus being anal about him missing the morning skate, he thought. Towel around his waist, he casually picked it up and looked at the screen.

It was an urgent array of texts from his friend Jacob, around 8:20 the night before. Magnus' (his teammate) mother had been in a car accident; a drunk driver had hit her car head-on. She was in the emergency room and was hanging on for dear life. He was supposed to be there. They were all there with Magnus. Things were looking bleak. Where the hell was he?

Lander practically floored it to the hospital and was met in the ER waiting room by Bjorn, Magnus' younger brother. His friends, Jacob Markstrom, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Tim Erixon and Anton Rodin were all there. Magnus was seated in the corner, his face in his hands, the news clearly given. Lander felt his heart sink as Bjorn shook his head.

"I'm....I'm so sorry..."

"We've been here all night," Jacob snapped, "If you'd answer your fucking phone instead of nailing that-"

"Jacob, nej." Oliver said softly.

Jacob rolled his eyes, "Whatever. At least I have my priorities straight." He rushed past him and out the exit, followed by Oliver and Rodin. Bjorn sighed, "I need some air," and followed.

Magnus barely moved when his best friend sat down next to him, "Magnus...I-"

"Don't worry about it," Magnus said quietly, "It was a hopeless case, anyway. They tried to help, but she'd already lost so much blood, it was pointless..." He paused, his voice cracking, "Dad's still in South America on business, I can't get through..." He glanced at his friend, his eyes red from either not sleeping, crying or both, "Dude...I need to get out of here..."

"We're going to Edmonton tomorrow," Lander said slowly, "Remember?"

"Yeah..." Magnus nodded, "NHL camp."

Lander seemed to read his best friend's thoughts, "You know your mum would want you to go no matter what."

Magnus swallowed, "Yes, yes I know..."

"And we're going," Lander told him, "Both of us. You're not alone, alright? Remember that."

A tiny smile rested on Magnus' mouth, "Thanks."