Chance Meetings
Chapter 6
Chance Meetings- Morgan Rielly Chapter 6
Chapter Six
Word count: 4.1 k
October 6th, 2018
Morgan’s POV
The next morning I woke up with Hailey in my arms and I couldn’t help but smile as I looked down at her as she buried her head further into my neck. Her hand slowly reaching up, so that it was placed on my chest. Her pink lips parted slightly so I could see her perfectly white teeth as she smiled in her dreams.
Last night was entertaining, to say the least, but seeing Hailey with the Green Family gave me more of an insight into the type of person she is.
It may have been a little uncomfortable when Tom asked me the sex question last night but he apologized multiple times throughout the night. Even though it was inappropriate and something Hailey and I should have discussed together I could understand where he was coming from wanting to protect Hailey, it just could have been done in a better way.
Having the chance to sit down and talk to Tom over a couple of beers gave me more of an insight into who Hailey is and how much everyone in the family truly loves her.
I was falling for Hailey fast and I couldn’t help but picture what our family would look like as I saw her interact with the children.
At 24 years old that thought should scare me but I couldn’t help but think that if this relationship progressed as it has been I could see myself wanting to start the rest of my life with her as soon as possible. The day I ran into Hailey at the Hospital I phoned my mother and told her that I met a girl that was truly beautiful inside and out. Mom said that she could tell by the way my voice changed when I talked about her that I was in deep.
We had a game tonight vs. Ottawa and I had to force myself to get out of bed so I could head to the arena for my day of game routines. I kissed Hailey on the forehead softly, waking her up from her slumber. “Good morning beautiful, I have to go to the arena for the day of game routines,” I whispered as I leaned down slowly to kiss her on the lips. She nodded her head and with her adorable morning voice said “morning, I will see you after the game.”
I gave her one more kiss before I made my way to my vehicle to head towards the arena. I couldn’t help but laugh as I thought about all of the commentaries I would receive from the boys based on the fact that I am wearing the same clothes that I left practice in yesterday.
Hailey’s POV-
As I was getting ready for the game Jess comes knocking at the door.
“Come in”
“Hails, we really like Morgan.” She said as she sat down on the couch in my room. “Ella told me he is just like a prince.”
“I really really like him, Jess,” I said sitting down on the couch too. “Like I think I already like him more than I did Lucas and it’s only been a month.”
“Well, he handled Tom like a pro so he is really invested in this relationship as well.”
“Omg I felt so bad for him but he was so amazing all night,” I said as I nodded my head agreeing with Tom.
“I am sorry again for what Tom asked at the dinner table. Even though his heart was in the right place that was a topic you and Morgan should have discussed in private.” Said Jess as she shook her head picturing the look of embarrassment on Morgan’s face.
“Morgan and I discussed it last night and I truly believe he is not like Lucas and that he won’t cheat on me.”
“I’m glad you discussed it but I still would like Tom to apologize to Morgan again. I was so mad at him last night.” She said as she rolled her eyes at her husband antics last night.
“I’m sure Tom will have plenty of opportunities to apologize to Morgan again. Morgan asked me if it would be possible to come over once a week to hang out with the family. He mentioned something about a Games night on a day he doesn’t have a game.”
“That’s a very good Idea. I can tell that he genuinely cares for you and the children and wants to become a part of your life and incorporate himself into our family dynamic.”
“So how was it with Morgan staying over?” Asked jess as she winked at me.
“Hahaha, we just slept... like we fell asleep watching Netflix.”
“But it was so nice waking up in his arms this morning.”
Jess nodded her head at my answer And asked “What are you going to wear to the game tonight? Are you planning on wearing something casual, fancy or a little bit of both?”
“I was thinking of wearing my grey Nike shoes, black leather leggings, my grey hoodie sweatshirt, and my jean jacket,” I said As I walked towards my closet getting the clothes out and placing them on the couch beside Jess.
“Ooh that will look good, What were you thinking of doing with your hair?” Jess asked.
“I was thinking of curling my hair loosely for a beach wave look. Also this morning Morgan left his Pirates baseball cap here, So I think I am going to wear that to the game.” I told Jess.
“Tom will definitely comment on the Pirates hat haha.” Laughed Jess “I can picture him shaking his head muttering ‘you are in jays territory’” said Jess as she imitated her husband's voice causing me to giggle as I shook my head.
I made my way to the arena waiting outside the ticket booth for Lucy so we could head into the arena together. As I was texting Morgan my usual ‘good luck’ message Steph and Lucy made their way towards me.
“Girl, love the outfit,” Steph said as she gave me a big hug.
“That’s Morgans Pirates hat, isn’t it?” Lucy questioned as she pulled me in for a big hug.
“Yes, he left it at my place this morning,” I said as we pulled apart from the hug.
“This morning?” quipped lucy as she winked.
“Mitch told me something about Morgan being incredibly nervous to meet the family you work for. Even asked Mitch for advice on what flowers he should get you.” Steph stated, “I don’t know why he asked Mitch because he barely even buys me flowers.” She added as she shook her head laughing.
“Jake wouldn’t have been any help either though... I swear that since we have gotten married and had Henry he thinks he needs to stop being romantic and impress me.” Lucy said as she rolled her eyes making fun of her husband.
“Boys,” Steph stated as she looks towards a group of Leafs fans that had huge cardboard cutouts of Mitch’s face.
“The night went really good but Tom, the dad I work for made both Morgan and I uncomfortable during dinner when he asked how many girls he has slept with,” I whispered so that the fans around us couldn’t hear.
“Omg.” Gasped both Steph and Lucy “how did Morgan handle it?”
“His answer was perfect, he showed how genuine he is and what type of guy he is when he is in a relationship.”
“Awe.”
I continued to go into detail about how the night went down as we walked into the arena and made our way to our seats.
Once we got to our section Steph grabbed both Lucy and my arm to stop us from walking “we need to take a picture of the three best friends!”
She handed pulled out her phone and snapped a picture of us altogether and posted it to her Instagram story.
She looped her arm back with mine and we made our way down to the seats. I noticed that they were the exact same seats as last time. Lucy must have seen me realize the seats and whispered “Morgan gets seats in the family section during the season. He just never used them before you, Well except for when his parents came.”
‘Wow,’ i thought ‘I must be special if he is already giving me his family seats. When he could have got me tickets anywhere in the arena.’
The first period flew by as Lucy, Steph and I got to know each other better as we sipped wine, took pictures, and watched our boys.
As the boys skated a lap around the ice after the first intermission Morgan locked eyes with me and sent a wink my way causing my cheeks to flush.
I could hear Steph whisper to Lucy “they are both in deep already”
Not even A couple of minutes into the second period Morgan took a wrist shot and score his first goal of the season, Mitch getting an assist. I jumped up with the girls to celebrate as both Steph and Lucy threw their arms around me for a big hug. As we pulled away from the hug I locked eyes with Morgan who pointed in my direction he skated back to the bench.
I couldn’t help but smile as that was Morgan’s way of telling me ‘that goal was for you.’
The rest of the game flew by with the Leafs winning 5-3, Morgan picking up an assist on Mitches Goal during the second period.
After they announced the three stars, Mitch, getting the second star of the game, We made our way to the family room to wait for our guys.
Once we got into the room Christina came walking over to us pulling us in one by one for hugs.
“Morgan’s goal celebration was adorable.” She whispered as we pulled apart from the hug.
“Hailey, I know it’s last minute but tomorrow I’m hosting a watch party at my house for all of the wives and girlfriends to celebrate the first road trip of the season. I would love for you to come!” Christina said as she looked across the room to make sure her children were behaving.
“I would love to. What should I bring?”
“Morgan has been bragging to anyone who will listen about your baking skills. Would you be able to bake something for the party?” She asked as she looked toward me after seeing her boys were behaving.
“I would love to,” I replied.
“Thank god,” stated Steph “I’ve been wanting to taste your baking since Morgan told Mitch about it.”
“The cookies she made at Morgan’s place last weekend were amazing,” Lucy said as she winked at me remembering when Jake and her interrupted our date just so Jake could annoy Morgan and steal the cookies I made.
I couldn’t help but laugh, I guess my mom was right about the way to a man's heart is through his stomach.
We continued talking about the party until the boys started filing into the room. Looking towards the doorway I watched as Morgan walked into the room with his hair still wet from his post-game shower. His tie loosely around his neck as he mouthed “There’s my girl,” towards me from across the room as we locked eyes.
He made his way towards me and once he got close to me he pulled me into his arms and connected our lips for a soft but romantic kiss.
“Nice goal superstar,” I whispered as we pulled apart.
“Looks like I need to sleep with you before every game,” Morgan said winking as he did. Totally aware that Jake had heard what he said. Whispering “Also my hat looks amazing on you.” As he sent me a wink.
“You totally did do the walk of shame this morning Modaddy. Stop denying it.” Said Jake laughing and teasing Morgan.
Lucy shook her head at her husband and whispered towards me “he just fell asleep Didn’t he?”
I nodded my head in reply to her question causing her to scold him “ Jake stop picking on the happy couple... they are still in the honeymoon stage. I’m sure they just fell asleep watching Netflix as we do.”
“So they Netflix’d and chilled,” Jake said wiggling his eyebrows trying to be seductive.
Mitch and Auston quickly coming over to join in on the fun of picking on both you and Morgan.
Morgan pulled me in close and whispered: “this will shut them up.” As he dipped me and gave me a long passionate kiss as the boys whistling around us. Causing us to pull apart laughing.
I stand beside Morgan as he talks to A couple of the boys about their upcoming road trip.
“Boys, the bus is here to take us to the plane.” States Babcock as he walks into the room.
Morgan signs as he pulls me in for one more hug and kisses. As we pull apart I slip and envelope into the pocket of his suit jacket whispering “open this when you get to your hotel room.”
Morgan nodded his head and grabbed his backpack and made his way out the door and toward the bus.
“The first road trip is always the hardest,” Lucy says as she gives me a smile.
Lucy and I made our way out of the arena as we discussed the plan for tomorrow.
“So I was thinking you, I and Henry should have a sleepover tomorrow after the watch party! It will be like we are in college again.”
“Sounds good!” I replied
“The party starts at 5:30 pm so if you could come to my place around 4:30 pm that way you can drop your bag off and we can go together.”
October 7th, 2018
I woke up to the sound of my cellphone ring. I quickly grabbed the phone and saw that it Lucy phoning.
“Hailey, did I wake you up?” Lucy asked as she Heard the sleepiness in my voice.
“Well Lucy, it’s 8:30 am any person without a kid would be sleeping at this time.” I joked as I sat up in bed yawning as I did so.
“I’m so sorry. I didn’t even think about what time it was. Henry has been up since 6:30 am.”
“Jeez, that’s early.”
“Anyways the reason why I woke you up probably isn’t as important as sleep.”
“Well, I’m up now.” I replied, “what did you need?”
“I was just going to ask if you wanted to come here earlier? That way we could have some girl time and bake the cookies together.”
“Sounds good, I can be there for 1:00 pm.”
“Perfect! We can have lunch and bake the cookies while Henry is having his nap.”
“See you then.”
Thankfully I was able to fall back to sleep. I quickly packed a bag, and Around 12:30 pm I headed over to the Gardiner residence.
“Did you bring the goods?" Asked Lucy as soon as she opened the door.
“Omg, that sounds like a drug deal,” I said as I started laughing.
“Well, your cookies are addicting.... so in a way you are a drug dealer.” She said as she started laughing.
“Haha, yes I did bring some of the ingredients to make the cookies.”
“Perfect, let me take your overnight bag and put it in the guest room,” Lucy said as she grabbed my bag out of my arms. “Oh, feel free to head into the kitchen to get all the ingredients set up.” She added.
I made my way into the kitchen and saw that Lucy had a bottle of wine already on the counter ready as well as a cheese and meat board.
Lucy came back into the kitchen and poured us a glass of wine each.
We listened to music and drank wine as I started making the cookies.
“Do you mind if I ask you a couple questions about being a Leafs players girlfriend?” I asked as I watched her make us lunch as the cookies were in the oven baking.
“Of course Hails, I want you to know you can always come to me if you need anything.” Said Lucy as she was getting the ingredients out of the fridge to make a cobb salad.
“What’s it like being the wife or girlfriend of the maple leafs? When I was dating Lucas he didn’t really like me hanging out with the other girls or going to game. Which should have been a big sign that I wasn’t the only one in his life.”
“When dating a leaf player be prepared for everything to be under a microscope. From the media on the way and from the fangirls on the way you look. But the hockey wives and girlfriends are a big family. And not just within this team but within the league. No one understands the lifestyle more than them. They understand the late nights, early mornings, they understand the long road trips and the media pressure the players go through. They understand what it’s like supporting and believing in their guy and team especially when people start to doubt and criticize their abilities. They understand the criticism the WAGS get from fangirls and the messages they receive on social media. She is either too fat or too thin, players only go for models what is he doing with her? she isn’t blond or pretty so she must not be a wife or girlfriend. She is only with him because he has money. We get messages that your significant other is cheating on you ‘don’t you know that he has a girl in every city? He isn’t faithful to you.’ They will do anything possible to make you doubt your relationship.“
“Hailey, just know that I will always be here to support you as well as the other lady leafs.”
“Any advice you can give me about being a good hockey girlfriend to Morgan?”
“When you date a hockey player There dreams become your dreams. They have been dreaming about winning the Stanley Cup since they were little boys. They will push themselves and do whatever it takes in order to achieve it. It’s our job to love and support them on this crazy hockey journey. The Stanley Cup is the hardest trophy to win so the wife’s and the players become a family and teammates as we all work together to achieve our goals.”
“They are on a winning streak right now but what happens when they have a bad game or they start losing games?” I asked as I looked towards the girls.
“Each player handles a bad game or loosing different, but Jake comes home and likes to watch the game tape to see what he can do better next time. We have a glass of wine and I sit in his arms as he discusses the game. We just need to be there with open arms ready to love them and support.”
We arrived at Christina’s House just before 5:30. Christina’s answered the door and pulled us in for a big hug welcoming me to her house as It was my first time.
“I’m so glad you were able to come over on such short notice Hailey,” Christina stated as she looped her arm with mine and guided me into the television room. “I can tell we are already going to be best friends.” She whispered.
Once we got into the room I saw that a bunch of ladies were already here. Instantly the nerves started to set in, ‘i really hope they like me’.
“Ladies this is Hailey, she is Morgan’s girl.” Christina’s announced as we walked into the room.
Instantly the lady’s stood up from their seats and gave me big hugs welcoming me into their family.
I had a chance to talk to all of the ladies before everyone found a seat to watch the game.
I sat between Lucy and Steph as they waved me over and patted the seat in between them.
Throughout the game we eat snacks and drank wine, talking about everything the WAGS do throughout the season.
Tavares scored 2 goals and Morgan got both assists. Aryn looked at me from a couple of seats over and we both stood up and high fived each other.
The game was tied going 6-6 going into over time. I was sitting beside both Steph and Lucy so we grabbed each other’s hands squeezing them for support.
As the boys skated around my eyes were glued to Morgan as he skated around the ice. The puck came to Morgan and he took a wrist shot scoring. As Morgan celebrated his goal on the ice with his teammates I celebrated with my teammates. We jumped up screaming as we all gave each other big hugs and high fives.
“Dam Hails, ever since Morgan asked you to be his girlfriend he has been on fire!” Joked Lucy “I mean come on, 2 goals and 4 assists in 3 games.”
“I have a feeling Morgan is going to have a record year now that he has his good luck charm,” Lucy stated as she put her hand on my shoulder sending me a wink.
We watched as the boys celebrated their overtime win. The rest of the lady leafs thanked Christina for hosting the party and headed home.
Lucy, Steph and I started cleaning up the television room so that Christina didn’t have to do it.
“Oh my god, thank you for tidying up. You really didn’t need to do that.” Christina said as she walked back into the room after saying goodbye to everyone.
While Steph was tidying up the coffee table she knocked the remote and it changed the channel. We looked at the TV and saw that the movie Mean Girls was on.
“Mean Girls.” Exclaimed Steph as she sat down on the couch.
“Oh, that’s one of my favourites.” Agreed Christina as she joined Steph on the couch. Lucy and I joined the girls on the couch and we all watch Mean Girls.
“OMG, what if we did a girls costume for the Halloween party instead of with our guys?” Asked Steph after she took a sip of wine. “Like what if we didn’t tell them what it was and we just showed up the party together.”
“What costume should we do then? It has to be a costume that has four people.” Stated Christina as she took a cookie off of the coffee table and took a bite.
“Mean Girls.” Stated Steph just as the Halloween scene of the movie Mean Girls played on the Television in front of us.
“Yes!” Exclaimed Lucy.
“I love that Idea!” I exclaimed, “I just hope Morgan isn’t mad that we aren’t doing a couples costume seeing as it’s our first Halloween together.”
“He will get over it.” Joked Steph “I’m sure there will be plenty more Halloween parties in your guys future.” She added as she sent a wink in your direction.
“So Hailey can be Cady, Lucy can be Regina George, Christina can be Gretchen, and I’ll be Karen!” Steph stated as she grabbed a pen and paper from the coffee table and started writing things down.
“Oooh Yes, we can dress up in their Halloween costumes from the movie.” Stated Christina as she pulled out her phone to look up possible outfits on Pinterest.
“We should totally have some fun with this and dress up sexy to drive the boys crazy.” Stated Lucy as she looked around the room at all of us girls.
“We can go shopping later this week for our costumes,” Christina said as she took another bite of the cookies. “God Hailey, Morgan wasn’t lying about your baking abilities. That has got it to be one of the best cookies I have ever had.”
It was like Morgan had heard his name because my phone started to buzz in my pocket. I pulled it out and saw that it was Morgan, quickly picking up the call and walking into the front hallway.
“Good game superstar.”
“Thanks, babe. How was hanging with the girl?” Asked Morgan
“It was really good Mo, they are all so nice and welcoming.”
“I’m glad babe, god I wish I could have you in my arms right now,” Morgan said whispering the last part as he didn’t want the other guys to hear him as they were walking into their plane.
“This week will fly by and before you know it I will be in your arms again.”
“What are you doing the day after we get home?” Asked Morgan as he sat down in his seat on the plane.
“Well, I planned on seeing you.” I joked into the phone.
“I’m glad haha, a couple of the guys wanted to go out for dinner with you, Lucy and Steph. Is that okay with you?”
“Sounds like a plan Mo, I can hear you’re on the plane. Have a safe flight and text me when you are in Dallas.”
“Okay, Goodnight Babe.”
“Goodnight Mo.”
Chapter Six
Word count: 4.1 k
October 6th, 2018
Morgan’s POV
The next morning I woke up with Hailey in my arms and I couldn’t help but smile as I looked down at her as she buried her head further into my neck. Her hand slowly reaching up, so that it was placed on my chest. Her pink lips parted slightly so I could see her perfectly white teeth as she smiled in her dreams.
Last night was entertaining, to say the least, but seeing Hailey with the Green Family gave me more of an insight into the type of person she is.
It may have been a little uncomfortable when Tom asked me the sex question last night but he apologized multiple times throughout the night. Even though it was inappropriate and something Hailey and I should have discussed together I could understand where he was coming from wanting to protect Hailey, it just could have been done in a better way.
Having the chance to sit down and talk to Tom over a couple of beers gave me more of an insight into who Hailey is and how much everyone in the family truly loves her.
I was falling for Hailey fast and I couldn’t help but picture what our family would look like as I saw her interact with the children.
At 24 years old that thought should scare me but I couldn’t help but think that if this relationship progressed as it has been I could see myself wanting to start the rest of my life with her as soon as possible. The day I ran into Hailey at the Hospital I phoned my mother and told her that I met a girl that was truly beautiful inside and out. Mom said that she could tell by the way my voice changed when I talked about her that I was in deep.
We had a game tonight vs. Ottawa and I had to force myself to get out of bed so I could head to the arena for my day of game routines. I kissed Hailey on the forehead softly, waking her up from her slumber. “Good morning beautiful, I have to go to the arena for the day of game routines,” I whispered as I leaned down slowly to kiss her on the lips. She nodded her head and with her adorable morning voice said “morning, I will see you after the game.”
I gave her one more kiss before I made my way to my vehicle to head towards the arena. I couldn’t help but laugh as I thought about all of the commentaries I would receive from the boys based on the fact that I am wearing the same clothes that I left practice in yesterday.
Hailey’s POV-
As I was getting ready for the game Jess comes knocking at the door.
“Come in”
“Hails, we really like Morgan.” She said as she sat down on the couch in my room. “Ella told me he is just like a prince.”
“I really really like him, Jess,” I said sitting down on the couch too. “Like I think I already like him more than I did Lucas and it’s only been a month.”
“Well, he handled Tom like a pro so he is really invested in this relationship as well.”
“Omg I felt so bad for him but he was so amazing all night,” I said as I nodded my head agreeing with Tom.
“I am sorry again for what Tom asked at the dinner table. Even though his heart was in the right place that was a topic you and Morgan should have discussed in private.” Said Jess as she shook her head picturing the look of embarrassment on Morgan’s face.
“Morgan and I discussed it last night and I truly believe he is not like Lucas and that he won’t cheat on me.”
“I’m glad you discussed it but I still would like Tom to apologize to Morgan again. I was so mad at him last night.” She said as she rolled her eyes at her husband antics last night.
“I’m sure Tom will have plenty of opportunities to apologize to Morgan again. Morgan asked me if it would be possible to come over once a week to hang out with the family. He mentioned something about a Games night on a day he doesn’t have a game.”
“That’s a very good Idea. I can tell that he genuinely cares for you and the children and wants to become a part of your life and incorporate himself into our family dynamic.”
“So how was it with Morgan staying over?” Asked jess as she winked at me.
“Hahaha, we just slept... like we fell asleep watching Netflix.”
“But it was so nice waking up in his arms this morning.”
Jess nodded her head at my answer And asked “What are you going to wear to the game tonight? Are you planning on wearing something casual, fancy or a little bit of both?”
“I was thinking of wearing my grey Nike shoes, black leather leggings, my grey hoodie sweatshirt, and my jean jacket,” I said As I walked towards my closet getting the clothes out and placing them on the couch beside Jess.
“Ooh that will look good, What were you thinking of doing with your hair?” Jess asked.
“I was thinking of curling my hair loosely for a beach wave look. Also this morning Morgan left his Pirates baseball cap here, So I think I am going to wear that to the game.” I told Jess.
“Tom will definitely comment on the Pirates hat haha.” Laughed Jess “I can picture him shaking his head muttering ‘you are in jays territory’” said Jess as she imitated her husband's voice causing me to giggle as I shook my head.
I made my way to the arena waiting outside the ticket booth for Lucy so we could head into the arena together. As I was texting Morgan my usual ‘good luck’ message Steph and Lucy made their way towards me.
“Girl, love the outfit,” Steph said as she gave me a big hug.
“That’s Morgans Pirates hat, isn’t it?” Lucy questioned as she pulled me in for a big hug.
“Yes, he left it at my place this morning,” I said as we pulled apart from the hug.
“This morning?” quipped lucy as she winked.
“Mitch told me something about Morgan being incredibly nervous to meet the family you work for. Even asked Mitch for advice on what flowers he should get you.” Steph stated, “I don’t know why he asked Mitch because he barely even buys me flowers.” She added as she shook her head laughing.
“Jake wouldn’t have been any help either though... I swear that since we have gotten married and had Henry he thinks he needs to stop being romantic and impress me.” Lucy said as she rolled her eyes making fun of her husband.
“Boys,” Steph stated as she looks towards a group of Leafs fans that had huge cardboard cutouts of Mitch’s face.
“The night went really good but Tom, the dad I work for made both Morgan and I uncomfortable during dinner when he asked how many girls he has slept with,” I whispered so that the fans around us couldn’t hear.
“Omg.” Gasped both Steph and Lucy “how did Morgan handle it?”
“His answer was perfect, he showed how genuine he is and what type of guy he is when he is in a relationship.”
“Awe.”
I continued to go into detail about how the night went down as we walked into the arena and made our way to our seats.
Once we got to our section Steph grabbed both Lucy and my arm to stop us from walking “we need to take a picture of the three best friends!”
She handed pulled out her phone and snapped a picture of us altogether and posted it to her Instagram story.
She looped her arm back with mine and we made our way down to the seats. I noticed that they were the exact same seats as last time. Lucy must have seen me realize the seats and whispered “Morgan gets seats in the family section during the season. He just never used them before you, Well except for when his parents came.”
‘Wow,’ i thought ‘I must be special if he is already giving me his family seats. When he could have got me tickets anywhere in the arena.’
The first period flew by as Lucy, Steph and I got to know each other better as we sipped wine, took pictures, and watched our boys.
As the boys skated a lap around the ice after the first intermission Morgan locked eyes with me and sent a wink my way causing my cheeks to flush.
I could hear Steph whisper to Lucy “they are both in deep already”
Not even A couple of minutes into the second period Morgan took a wrist shot and score his first goal of the season, Mitch getting an assist. I jumped up with the girls to celebrate as both Steph and Lucy threw their arms around me for a big hug. As we pulled away from the hug I locked eyes with Morgan who pointed in my direction he skated back to the bench.
I couldn’t help but smile as that was Morgan’s way of telling me ‘that goal was for you.’
The rest of the game flew by with the Leafs winning 5-3, Morgan picking up an assist on Mitches Goal during the second period.
After they announced the three stars, Mitch, getting the second star of the game, We made our way to the family room to wait for our guys.
Once we got into the room Christina came walking over to us pulling us in one by one for hugs.
“Morgan’s goal celebration was adorable.” She whispered as we pulled apart from the hug.
“Hailey, I know it’s last minute but tomorrow I’m hosting a watch party at my house for all of the wives and girlfriends to celebrate the first road trip of the season. I would love for you to come!” Christina said as she looked across the room to make sure her children were behaving.
“I would love to. What should I bring?”
“Morgan has been bragging to anyone who will listen about your baking skills. Would you be able to bake something for the party?” She asked as she looked toward me after seeing her boys were behaving.
“I would love to,” I replied.
“Thank god,” stated Steph “I’ve been wanting to taste your baking since Morgan told Mitch about it.”
“The cookies she made at Morgan’s place last weekend were amazing,” Lucy said as she winked at me remembering when Jake and her interrupted our date just so Jake could annoy Morgan and steal the cookies I made.
I couldn’t help but laugh, I guess my mom was right about the way to a man's heart is through his stomach.
We continued talking about the party until the boys started filing into the room. Looking towards the doorway I watched as Morgan walked into the room with his hair still wet from his post-game shower. His tie loosely around his neck as he mouthed “There’s my girl,” towards me from across the room as we locked eyes.
He made his way towards me and once he got close to me he pulled me into his arms and connected our lips for a soft but romantic kiss.
“Nice goal superstar,” I whispered as we pulled apart.
“Looks like I need to sleep with you before every game,” Morgan said winking as he did. Totally aware that Jake had heard what he said. Whispering “Also my hat looks amazing on you.” As he sent me a wink.
“You totally did do the walk of shame this morning Modaddy. Stop denying it.” Said Jake laughing and teasing Morgan.
Lucy shook her head at her husband and whispered towards me “he just fell asleep Didn’t he?”
I nodded my head in reply to her question causing her to scold him “ Jake stop picking on the happy couple... they are still in the honeymoon stage. I’m sure they just fell asleep watching Netflix as we do.”
“So they Netflix’d and chilled,” Jake said wiggling his eyebrows trying to be seductive.
Mitch and Auston quickly coming over to join in on the fun of picking on both you and Morgan.
Morgan pulled me in close and whispered: “this will shut them up.” As he dipped me and gave me a long passionate kiss as the boys whistling around us. Causing us to pull apart laughing.
I stand beside Morgan as he talks to A couple of the boys about their upcoming road trip.
“Boys, the bus is here to take us to the plane.” States Babcock as he walks into the room.
Morgan signs as he pulls me in for one more hug and kisses. As we pull apart I slip and envelope into the pocket of his suit jacket whispering “open this when you get to your hotel room.”
Morgan nodded his head and grabbed his backpack and made his way out the door and toward the bus.
“The first road trip is always the hardest,” Lucy says as she gives me a smile.
Lucy and I made our way out of the arena as we discussed the plan for tomorrow.
“So I was thinking you, I and Henry should have a sleepover tomorrow after the watch party! It will be like we are in college again.”
“Sounds good!” I replied
“The party starts at 5:30 pm so if you could come to my place around 4:30 pm that way you can drop your bag off and we can go together.”
October 7th, 2018
I woke up to the sound of my cellphone ring. I quickly grabbed the phone and saw that it Lucy phoning.
“Hailey, did I wake you up?” Lucy asked as she Heard the sleepiness in my voice.
“Well Lucy, it’s 8:30 am any person without a kid would be sleeping at this time.” I joked as I sat up in bed yawning as I did so.
“I’m so sorry. I didn’t even think about what time it was. Henry has been up since 6:30 am.”
“Jeez, that’s early.”
“Anyways the reason why I woke you up probably isn’t as important as sleep.”
“Well, I’m up now.” I replied, “what did you need?”
“I was just going to ask if you wanted to come here earlier? That way we could have some girl time and bake the cookies together.”
“Sounds good, I can be there for 1:00 pm.”
“Perfect! We can have lunch and bake the cookies while Henry is having his nap.”
“See you then.”
Thankfully I was able to fall back to sleep. I quickly packed a bag, and Around 12:30 pm I headed over to the Gardiner residence.
“Did you bring the goods?" Asked Lucy as soon as she opened the door.
“Omg, that sounds like a drug deal,” I said as I started laughing.
“Well, your cookies are addicting.... so in a way you are a drug dealer.” She said as she started laughing.
“Haha, yes I did bring some of the ingredients to make the cookies.”
“Perfect, let me take your overnight bag and put it in the guest room,” Lucy said as she grabbed my bag out of my arms. “Oh, feel free to head into the kitchen to get all the ingredients set up.” She added.
I made my way into the kitchen and saw that Lucy had a bottle of wine already on the counter ready as well as a cheese and meat board.
Lucy came back into the kitchen and poured us a glass of wine each.
We listened to music and drank wine as I started making the cookies.
“Do you mind if I ask you a couple questions about being a Leafs players girlfriend?” I asked as I watched her make us lunch as the cookies were in the oven baking.
“Of course Hails, I want you to know you can always come to me if you need anything.” Said Lucy as she was getting the ingredients out of the fridge to make a cobb salad.
“What’s it like being the wife or girlfriend of the maple leafs? When I was dating Lucas he didn’t really like me hanging out with the other girls or going to game. Which should have been a big sign that I wasn’t the only one in his life.”
“When dating a leaf player be prepared for everything to be under a microscope. From the media on the way and from the fangirls on the way you look. But the hockey wives and girlfriends are a big family. And not just within this team but within the league. No one understands the lifestyle more than them. They understand the late nights, early mornings, they understand the long road trips and the media pressure the players go through. They understand what it’s like supporting and believing in their guy and team especially when people start to doubt and criticize their abilities. They understand the criticism the WAGS get from fangirls and the messages they receive on social media. She is either too fat or too thin, players only go for models what is he doing with her? she isn’t blond or pretty so she must not be a wife or girlfriend. She is only with him because he has money. We get messages that your significant other is cheating on you ‘don’t you know that he has a girl in every city? He isn’t faithful to you.’ They will do anything possible to make you doubt your relationship.“
“Hailey, just know that I will always be here to support you as well as the other lady leafs.”
“Any advice you can give me about being a good hockey girlfriend to Morgan?”
“When you date a hockey player There dreams become your dreams. They have been dreaming about winning the Stanley Cup since they were little boys. They will push themselves and do whatever it takes in order to achieve it. It’s our job to love and support them on this crazy hockey journey. The Stanley Cup is the hardest trophy to win so the wife’s and the players become a family and teammates as we all work together to achieve our goals.”
“They are on a winning streak right now but what happens when they have a bad game or they start losing games?” I asked as I looked towards the girls.
“Each player handles a bad game or loosing different, but Jake comes home and likes to watch the game tape to see what he can do better next time. We have a glass of wine and I sit in his arms as he discusses the game. We just need to be there with open arms ready to love them and support.”
We arrived at Christina’s House just before 5:30. Christina’s answered the door and pulled us in for a big hug welcoming me to her house as It was my first time.
“I’m so glad you were able to come over on such short notice Hailey,” Christina stated as she looped her arm with mine and guided me into the television room. “I can tell we are already going to be best friends.” She whispered.
Once we got into the room I saw that a bunch of ladies were already here. Instantly the nerves started to set in, ‘i really hope they like me’.
“Ladies this is Hailey, she is Morgan’s girl.” Christina’s announced as we walked into the room.
Instantly the lady’s stood up from their seats and gave me big hugs welcoming me into their family.
I had a chance to talk to all of the ladies before everyone found a seat to watch the game.
I sat between Lucy and Steph as they waved me over and patted the seat in between them.
Throughout the game we eat snacks and drank wine, talking about everything the WAGS do throughout the season.
Tavares scored 2 goals and Morgan got both assists. Aryn looked at me from a couple of seats over and we both stood up and high fived each other.
The game was tied going 6-6 going into over time. I was sitting beside both Steph and Lucy so we grabbed each other’s hands squeezing them for support.
As the boys skated around my eyes were glued to Morgan as he skated around the ice. The puck came to Morgan and he took a wrist shot scoring. As Morgan celebrated his goal on the ice with his teammates I celebrated with my teammates. We jumped up screaming as we all gave each other big hugs and high fives.
“Dam Hails, ever since Morgan asked you to be his girlfriend he has been on fire!” Joked Lucy “I mean come on, 2 goals and 4 assists in 3 games.”
“I have a feeling Morgan is going to have a record year now that he has his good luck charm,” Lucy stated as she put her hand on my shoulder sending me a wink.
We watched as the boys celebrated their overtime win. The rest of the lady leafs thanked Christina for hosting the party and headed home.
Lucy, Steph and I started cleaning up the television room so that Christina didn’t have to do it.
“Oh my god, thank you for tidying up. You really didn’t need to do that.” Christina said as she walked back into the room after saying goodbye to everyone.
While Steph was tidying up the coffee table she knocked the remote and it changed the channel. We looked at the TV and saw that the movie Mean Girls was on.
“Mean Girls.” Exclaimed Steph as she sat down on the couch.
“Oh, that’s one of my favourites.” Agreed Christina as she joined Steph on the couch. Lucy and I joined the girls on the couch and we all watch Mean Girls.
“OMG, what if we did a girls costume for the Halloween party instead of with our guys?” Asked Steph after she took a sip of wine. “Like what if we didn’t tell them what it was and we just showed up the party together.”
“What costume should we do then? It has to be a costume that has four people.” Stated Christina as she took a cookie off of the coffee table and took a bite.
“Mean Girls.” Stated Steph just as the Halloween scene of the movie Mean Girls played on the Television in front of us.
“Yes!” Exclaimed Lucy.
“I love that Idea!” I exclaimed, “I just hope Morgan isn’t mad that we aren’t doing a couples costume seeing as it’s our first Halloween together.”
“He will get over it.” Joked Steph “I’m sure there will be plenty more Halloween parties in your guys future.” She added as she sent a wink in your direction.
“So Hailey can be Cady, Lucy can be Regina George, Christina can be Gretchen, and I’ll be Karen!” Steph stated as she grabbed a pen and paper from the coffee table and started writing things down.
“Oooh Yes, we can dress up in their Halloween costumes from the movie.” Stated Christina as she pulled out her phone to look up possible outfits on Pinterest.
“We should totally have some fun with this and dress up sexy to drive the boys crazy.” Stated Lucy as she looked around the room at all of us girls.
“We can go shopping later this week for our costumes,” Christina said as she took another bite of the cookies. “God Hailey, Morgan wasn’t lying about your baking abilities. That has got it to be one of the best cookies I have ever had.”
It was like Morgan had heard his name because my phone started to buzz in my pocket. I pulled it out and saw that it was Morgan, quickly picking up the call and walking into the front hallway.
“Good game superstar.”
“Thanks, babe. How was hanging with the girl?” Asked Morgan
“It was really good Mo, they are all so nice and welcoming.”
“I’m glad babe, god I wish I could have you in my arms right now,” Morgan said whispering the last part as he didn’t want the other guys to hear him as they were walking into their plane.
“This week will fly by and before you know it I will be in your arms again.”
“What are you doing the day after we get home?” Asked Morgan as he sat down in his seat on the plane.
“Well, I planned on seeing you.” I joked into the phone.
“I’m glad haha, a couple of the guys wanted to go out for dinner with you, Lucy and Steph. Is that okay with you?”
“Sounds like a plan Mo, I can hear you’re on the plane. Have a safe flight and text me when you are in Dallas.”
“Okay, Goodnight Babe.”
“Goodnight Mo.”