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21skhf4 · 2 years

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5 times you wore B’s clothes on accident + the one time you did on purpose: +1, On Purpose: He asks you to wear his jersey

Ever since he’d caught you wearing his sweatshirt the first time (when you were cold), Brandon had wanted to see you wear his jersey at one of his games. But he was one of those people who believed in that meaning something. You two were roommates, but that wasn’t something a roommate did- that was what a girlfriend did. You two weren’t dating (and in fact, you were still dating that guy from your math class), so he hadn’t said anything. He’d just take the moments he could get.

And then the break up had happened. He had been there for you, getting you ice cream, and holding you as you cried. He made sure you ate and took care of yourself, even when you didn’t want to. He knew you needed time, and he gave you as much as you needed.

Things had continued as normal- you shared cooking duties, but now most weekends, you were in leggings and one of his shirts, if you didn’t have anywhere to be. You were enjoying it almost as much as he was.

Of course, he hadn’t made a move yet, still giving you your space. You finally decided you were going to have to be the one to get him thinking along those lines of boyfriend/girlfriend. Cue the sweatshirt to the game. It had the intended effect, and he had admitted he wanted you to wear his clothes to the games. He still didn’t ask you out though, so you decided it was time to take matters into your own hands.

You finally made your move a couple weeks later. You had gone with Brandon to a party after the game. You’d only had a couple drinks, but it had given you the courage you needed. “We should go on a date sometime.” You said as you two walked into your house. Saying those words quickly sobered you up though, and you’d bolted for your room, thinking you’d messed it all up. You weren’t sure what to expect the next morning; it surely wasn’t Brandon making you breakfast and asking if you were free the next weekend so you could go out. From there, you had slowly worked on a relationship; you’d played “Call It What You Want” in the car one time, and the next thing you knew, you were getting a necklace with his initial on it. (You already had one with his number- that was the first thing he’d given you, since you were wanting to wear his hockey gear in public all the time- you could deal with the teasing his teammates gave you, but sometimes you wanted to wear a dress, but still have him with you.)

Today, he seemed super nervous as he sat in the living room. You finally looked over and asked, “You ok B?”

“Yeah.” he said. You were about to ask him what had him so jumpy when he blurted out, “Wear my jersey.”

“What?” You stopped what you were thinking.

“Would you wear my jersey?” he asked. “I’m like a huge believer in the traditional ‘girl wears guy’s jersey’ thing, but only when they’re together. I wanted to ask you to do it so many times, but they never felt right, until now.” He pulled out a jersey, with his name and number on it, in your size of course. “I have one in your size, or if you want, you can wear my spare.”

“Which one do you want me to wear?” You asked, clearly knowing the answer.

“I’d like it to be mine.” He admitted.

“Then give it here. I’ll save that one for watching the away games at home.” You pointed to the one he’d bought. You put on his jersey, and gave him a kiss for good luck. “See you after the game. Good luck babe.”

They won that night (he scored the go-ahead goal), and as you went home, you couldn’t help but notice the bouncing tension in his leg. “You ok?”

“Fine.” he said. His voice was a little off, but you couldn’t place it. That was until you made it through the doorway and he pinned you to the wall.

“You look so hot in my jersey.” He said, giving you a kiss. “It was all I could think about tonight.”

“Well, come on. You did score the game-winning goal.” You said, heading towards his room, dragging him by the hand. “I think that deserves a celebration.”

The next morning, you came downstairs in his shirt and messy hair. “Good morning sunshine.” He teased, handing over a cup of coffee. “Laundry day. You gonna wear my sweats again?”

“Think you can keep your hands off of me if I do?”

“I make no promises.”

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21skhf4 · 2 years

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5 times you wore B’s clothes on accident + the one time you did on purpose: Time 5, Accident: You wore them to a game

Brandon had been asking you to go to one of his games for a couple weeks now, but your schedule hadn’t lined up. Tonight though, they were home, and you really wanted to go. You could always work on your term paper later- it wasn’t due until the end of the semester; you were just getting a head start on it.

You quickly realized you didn’t have any gear, and there was no way to run to the team store, so you decided you’d do the next best thing- steal one of Brandon’s team sweatshirts. You quickly raided his closet and were off. You made sure to get mid-row seats. That way you could still see, but that he hopefully couldn’t see you.

That game that night was fun, and he played great. You knew your way around the area, so you went and hung out near the locker room, waiting for him to come out.

He looked surprised to find you standing there. “Wait, I thought you weren’t coming. Your term paper…” he trailed off. “Wait, is that my sweatshirt?!”

“Yes,” you said, “I needed the distraction tonight. I can work on my paper tomorrow. Coming to see you play was a way better idea. Good game.”

“Thanks.” he paused for a moment. “You want to get some food? Or we can go home and make something?”

“Whatever you want to do is fine with me.” Truth be told, you just wanted to spend some time with him. You felt like you two hadn’t been in the same space in forever.

“Let’s go home. I’ll make some food while you work on the paper.”

“B,” you said, using his nickname, which made his cheeks pink, “It’s one paper. It’s ok if I don’t work on it today.”

“Write just one paragraph?” he asked, and you knew you’d give in.

“Fine.” You agreed. “I’ll see you back at the house.”

“Ok.”

When he got home, you were just getting ready to take off the sweatshirt when he said, “You can leave it one if you want.” You weren’t even able to ask the question on your mind before he continued, “I like seeing you wear my clothes.”

And there it was. Clearly he felt the same way you did. “So, you’re saying, if I want to wear this to every home game I go to, you’re ok with it?” You asked.

“Yes.” he said. “I’ll even get you one with my name if you want me to.”

“Let’s go generic team sweatshirt,” you said, “But I will gladly wear it all the time.”

“Done.” Brandon said.

The next week, you had your own hoodie and sweatpants (he had insisted on buying the pants in your size), and you were in the stands with a “GO #22” sign. He got your eye and grinned, and threw you a puck. You had the best roommate ever.

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21skhf4 · 2 years

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5 times you wore B’s clothes on accident + the one time you did on purpose: Time 4, Accident: It was a lazy day at home

It was a weekend where Brandon had an away game and you were stuck at the apartment working on your term paper. You had decided comfort was the agenda of the day. You had a messy bun and your leggings on. All of your t-shirts kept riding up though, so you decided to steal one of Brandon’s, knowing it would be slightly too big and baggy on you. Once that was accomplished, you poured a cup of coffee, fired up your laptop, and got to work.

You stopped long enough to watch the game (thanking the opposing team’s media department for doing a student-led broadcast); you then settled in on the couch and began working on your paper again. You could pull an all-nighter; you didn’t have anywhere to be tomorrow.

Apparently, you fell asleep though, because the next thing you knew, you were being shaken awake by Brandon. “Hi Sleeping Beauty.” he teased, next words dying on his tongue as he saw the shirt. “Wait, is that my shirt?”

“I wanted something a little longer. My shirts didn’t work with my leggings.” You said, cheeks flushing. “I was going for the lazy look.”

“You nailed it.” he said, helping you up off the couch. “Come on, I’ll make us a snack and then you can work on your paper if you need to.” You didn’t miss the way he kept sneaking glances at you when he thought you weren’t looking. “I like the lazy day look.” he admitted. “You can definitely do that more often if you want to.” Your cheeks burned, and his were pink as well.

“Noted.” You said. After you two shared a quick snack, you wrote a couple more paragraphs on your paper before deciding it was time to go to bed. “Night Brandon.”

“Night.” he said.

You went to your room and switched into your PJ’s, carefully folding his t-shirt and your leggings.

In the morning, you decided to press your luck and wear the “lazy day” outfit again. It again got the same reaction from Brandon, so you determined that would be your every weekend attire from now on.

And when you found a couple new shirts in your room the next week, it didn’t take a genius to figure out Brandon was on board with the idea of lazy weekends (and you in his clothes) too. He even gave you a pair of his sweatpants, in case you didn’t want to wear your leggings.

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21skhf4 · 2 years

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5 times you wore B’s clothes on accident + the one time you did on purpose: Time 3, Accident: You Wore Them to Class

You had grabbed the sweatshirt off the door hook in your rush to get out this morning; you were running late and it was cold. You thought it felt a little baggy, but then again, you were wearing three layers of clothes. You hurriedly scraped your car and made it to campus.

It was in your math class that things all clicked together. One of Brandon’s (your roommate) friends, who you had been partnering with, said, “I didn’t know there was a women’s hockey team. And what a coincidence that you would wear the same number as your roommate.” You looked down, where sure enough, you were wearing Brandon’s team sweatshirt, the “22” staring back at you.

“Well, this is awkward,” you laughed, “See if I run out the door in a hurry again. He’s probably got my lifeguard hoodie.” That brought up a mental image that had you laughing. “Take a pic of me so I can send it to him and apologize.”

Once you received the picture, you sent it to Brandon. Sorry I took your hoodie. Your teammates are gonna give you so much crap at practice.

It’s all good. You’re worth it. He sent back with a smiley face emoji. Just, next time, warn me? Those texts from my teammates caught me off guard.

Will do. Sorry. What about the fine. I’ll help pay. You knew about the “fine” the boys got for letting a non player wear team issued gear.

I got it this time. You get next. We can split times.

So you want me to do it again? You couldn’t help the winky face you sent. It seemed like you were reading this situation right.

Yes please. I have the perfect plan. I’ll tell you when you get home. There’s pasta salad in the fridge.

Alright. Talk to you tonight.

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21skhf4 · 2 years

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5 times you wore B’s clothes on accident + the one time you did on purpose: Time 2, Accident: It Was Laundry Day

You and your roommate Brandon had done a lot of things together- baking was definitely your favorite by far, but today you were doing a new task: laundry. He had been really good about it, but you, well, you waited until you had almost no clean clothes, and then you threw them in as few of loads as possible.

All you had today were a pair of booty shorts left, and there was no way you were wearing those to the college laundry area. You were resigning yourself to having to wear a pair of dirty sweats and then stripping them off when a set was clean when a pair of sweats on the back of the couch caught your eyes. You put them on, having to roll the waistband since they were too big (clearly they were Brandon’s). He had already left for the laundromat, and you made your way down there.

He cleared his throat when you walked in; you looked down at the sweats, then at him. “I found them on the couch. It was either this or booty shorts.”

“Oh.” He said. A frat boy came in and whistled at you anyway; you ignored him, but Brandon glared at the guy until he left. “I see.”

“I’ll wash them, don’t worry.” You said, laughing. “And I won’t keep them. You’ll get them back.” You started loading the washer.

“Wait, this is how you do laundry?!” Brandon asked. “This is so wrong. Let me teach you the right way.”

Which is how you spent the whole day washing and folding clothes with your roommate. You went back while he went to hockey practice and washed his sweats. You folded them and left them on his bed with a thank you note.

When you ended up with a pair of sweats in your size with a note that said, For Laundry Day, you could only laugh.

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21skhf4 · 2 years

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5 times you wore B’s clothes on accident + the one time you did on purpose: Time 1, Accident: You Were Cold

Today, you just couldn’t get warm. You had tried a warm shower, so many warm fluids and blankets, and multiple layers of clothing. Nothing had been helping. Finally, after your second warm shower of the day, you were starting to get a little warmer. You put on your layer of underarmor, you sweats and fuzzy slipper socks, and your long sleeve shirt. You grabbed the sweatshirt off the back of your bathroom door, thinking it was yours. When you put it on, you quickly realized it was your roommate’s, but you didn’t want to take it off. You made another warm mug of tea and climbed back into your blanket cocoon on the couch, deciding a nap would help.

That’s where Brandon (your roommate) found you an hour later when he got home from his classes and hockey practice. The way the heat hit him when he opened the door let him know you were having a rough day; he quickly set out making tomato soup and grilled cheese, knowing they were your comfort foods.

“Hey, sleepyhead, come on, it’s dinner. I made your comfort meal.” He said.

You slowly woke up. You were feeling less cold, but it wasn’t all the way gone. “You didn’t have to. But thanks.” You said, sitting up. You realized he realized you had his sweatshirt on when his eyes got wide. “Sorry, I was cold. I can take it off.” You hurriedly said, cheeks flaming.

“No. It looks good on you.” His cheeks were pink as well. “Are you still cold?”

“A little.” You admitted.

“Wear it until you’re warm,” he said, “I don’t mind.”

“Thanks.” An awkward silence passed between you until you said, “Food?”

“In the kitchen.”

You’d have to figure out that weird look that had crossed his face when he saw you in his shirt later. Right now, you just wanted your grilled cheese and tomato soup.

And if he pulled you in close to his side that night while you two watched TV, well, he was trying to help keep you warm, wasn’t he? It surely didn’t mean anything.

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21skhf4 · 2 years

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5 times you wore B’s clothes on accident + the one time you did on purpose: Masterlist

Time 1, Accident: You Were Cold

Time 2, Accident: It Was Laundry Day

Time 3, Accident: You Wore Them to Class

Time 4, Accident: It Was a Lazy Day at the House

Time 5, Accident: You Wore Them to a Game

+1, On Purpose: He Asks You to Wear His Jersey

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21skhf4 · 2 years

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I posted 6 times in 2021

5 posts created (83%)

1 posts reblogged (17%)

For every post I created, I reblogged 0.2 posts.

I added 38 tags in 2021

#nhl imagine - 4 posts

#hockey imagine - 4 posts

#nhl fic - 4 posts

#hockey blurbs - 4 posts

#nhl blurbs - 4 posts

#hockey writing - 4 posts

#self indulgent fic - 4 posts

#writing - 4 posts

#nhl imagines - 3 posts

#hockey fic - 3 posts

Longest Tag: 82 characters

#this was totally written based on how i felt about christmas the last few years...

My Top Posts in 2021

I posted 3 times in 2021

2 posts created (67%)

1 posts reblogged (33%)

For every post I created, I reblogged 0.5 posts.

I added 18 tags in 2021

#nhl imagine - 2 posts

#hockey imagine - 2 posts

#nhl fic - 2 posts

#hockey blurbs - 2 posts

#nhl blurbs - 2 posts

#hockey writing - 2 posts

#self indulgent fic - 2 posts

#writing - 2 posts

#nhl imagines - 1 posts

#hockey fic - 1 posts

Longest Tag: 28 characters

#you pick the player you want

My Top Posts in 2021

The Day From Hell

My first foray into the imagine writing. This was mainly self-indulgant, since I’d had a bad day at work the day I wrote it. I had a specific player in mind when I wrote it, but I left it generic, so you could imagine your favorite player. Let me know what you think (Ask box is open for thoughts, comments, etc, but not for requests). Also, I’m new to tagging, so let me know if I need to add any! :)

****** Today had been the day from hell, and all you wanted to do was go home and see your boyfriend. You needed one of his hugs before you broke down completely and went to bed. He had been texting you all day, and you could even tell by your responses that something was off- there was no way he hadn’t picked up on it.

You called to say you were coming home and asked if he needed anything; he said no, and sounded relieved to hear your voice. “Be safe, ok? I’ll see you soon,” he said as you hung up.

The car drive home allowed you a few minutes to collect your thoughts and store away things; you didn’t want to bother him with your shitshow of a day, especially when he was leaving in the morning for a road trip. Tonight was going to be a good night, even if you had to fake it. You could make it work.

That all changed when you walked in the door. You kicked your shoes off by the door, placed your purse and coat on their hooks, and placed your keys on the end table by the door. You turned around and found him standing there with a glass of wine. “Hi.”

“Hey babe.” He said, giving you a hug and handing you the wine. “How was your day?”

“Fine.” You said, taking a sip. Even to your own ears, it didn’t sound convincing. You knew he’d see right through it, which of course he did.

“Sweetheart, your texts today weren’t like you. They were shorter than normal, and when you called, things seemed off. Like you’re tired, or there’s something going on. So, what’s going on?” he asked again. His soft tone and concern was what made you break.

“I was trying to not do this tonight, since you leave tomorrow. I wanted tonight to be about you,” you said, “Not about me and my crappy day.” You felt the tears in your eyes.

“Hey, hey, none of that.” He said, hugging you tighter. “Remember, we’re in this together and we’re supposed to talk about our feelings. I’m here to listen to you, ok? I made dinner, and then I think you need a long, hot bath and lots of cuddles. How does that sound?”

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1 notes • Posted 2021-12-09 05:41:39 GMT

Coffee, Crime, and Crumpets (Apple Cinnamon Girl, part 2)

Had to write a sequel to “Apple Cinnamon Girl”. Again, my girl Tara (@shutupptara) is the inspiration for this. :)

You and Brandon had kept up your routine of you going to visit him on your afternoon break. You had been texting a lot too, and you found yourself falling for him. You just hadn’t been brave enough to bring up the topic; work had always come first for you, and you didn’t want to get your heart broken if he didn’t feel the same way about you.

One day, your boss told you to leave early. You didn’t have anywhere to be, so you went over to the coffee shop and decided you’d hang out there for a few. You greeted Jaden and Jordan, who told you Brandon was out, but he should be back soon. You told them it was fine- you just needed a place to hang for a couple hours. They got you set up in a nice cozy corner of the shop; you pulled out your book and started to read, sipping on the Mocha latte Jaden had whipped up for you.

That’s where Brandon found you a short time later, engrossed in your book. “Wait a minute, you like the Hannah Swenson mysteries too?” He asked, laughing as you squeaked in surprise. “Sorry Apple Cinnamon. Didn’t mean to scare you.”

“Hi.” You said, your heart still pounding in your chest. “Yes, I do.” You paused for a minute. “You like them too?”

“Yeah. Hannah’s the best baker, and I love how she always finds herself involved in solving the crimes.”

“I like her cat.” You chuckled.

“Yeah, Moishe is the best.” Brandon admitted. “Tell me though- who do you think she should end up with: Norman or Mike?”

“I need a muffin for this discussion.” You chuckled.

“Well, come on back.” He reached out his hand to you. “Jaden, Ebs, take 10.”

Once you were settled in the back, muffin and coffee in hand, you gave him the rundown on your theory for who Hannah’s husband should be.

“I see you’re on Carrot Cake Murder.” He said. “That one is pretty good.”

“Which one are you up to?” You asked.

“Plum Pudding Murder.” He said. “Only a couple ahead of you.”

“What do you think about starting to read them together and talking about them? You asked.”

“Like a book club?” He asked.

“Yeah, like a book club. But it’s just two friends reading the same book and discussing things.”

“That would be nice.” He agreed. “I’ll finish the one I’m on and then wait for you to get caught up. What do you think about catching up like one night a week? We can have food and then talk about the book.”

You took a minute and thought it over. You didn’t want to read too much into it, but it almost sounded like a weekly date. It sounded nice actually; you didn’t have a lot of friends outside of work, and it would do you some good to get out of your house once in a while.

“Yeah, that would be fun.” You said, smiling. Your smile got wider as he grinned back.

“Awesome. Let me know when you get through Plum Pudding Murder and we’ll set things up. It won’t be anything fancy. Maybe like coffee and a dessert?”

“That sounds nice.” You agreed. “And I expect to contribute to the food as well. Can’t have you always spoiling me with desserts-as much as I love them. I can cook too.”

“I’d like that.” He said as Jaden came back to tell Brandon there was a customer. “Text me later?”

“Of course. Thanks for the muffin and coffee.” You knew better than to ask him how much you owed-he’d just tell you it was on the house. You just stopped by the front counter, handed Jaden a $10, told him to keep the change, and were gone. Thankfully, it was heading into a weekend, so you were going to have plenty of time to read your book this weekend.

When you got home, you got into your Amazon account and ordered the rest of the books in the series; you texted Brandon and asked him if he had them. When he said no, you told him you were buying them for him. When he tried to protest, you told him that if he was going to always insist on you not paying for your food at the bakery, you were going to buy them. It ended up being a slightly heated text exchange, but by the end, you won. You had the books shipped to the bakery.

You managed to get all caught up over the weekend; when you texted him to tell him that, you got a smiley-face emoji and a text me your work schedule and we’ll have our first book club meeting.

How about I stop by tomorrow after work and we can do it in person? You sent back.

Only if you let me buy you a muffin and coffee. :)

Sold! LOL. You wrote back. He knew you hated Mondays at the office. See you tomorrow.

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5 notes • Posted 2021-12-27 06:25:12 GMT

All I Want For Christmas Is You

I had a specific player in mind when I wrote it, but I left it generic, so you could imagine your favorite player. Happy Holidays all if you celebrate! :)

********

Christmas had always been one of your favorite holidays growing up. There was just something about decorating the tree, and seeing all the houses decked out in lights. It was something you looked forward to every year growing up.

As you had gotten older though, your perspective had shifted. Sure, you still enjoyed the trees and the lights, but it wasn’t the same. Especially when you had started working. In your line of work, there was no such thing as a holiday, and the first time you had to work on Christmas and miss out on the experience with your family, you bawled so hard for the next day. It wasn’t the same doing the gifts on the day after Christmas.

The next year, you were working night shift and worked Christmas day. You drove home and did Christmas with your family on Christmas Eve, but it still wasn’t the same. You had left your job after that Christmas, and at your new job, you only worked until noon on Christmas Eve (and sometimes got the whole day off) and you got Christmas off. Things still felt off though. You’d take yourself around for a drive to see the lights at night after you got off, but it still didn’t have the magic it did when you were a kid. You tried to pinpoint it, but you couldn’t.

Finally, this year, you felt like getting in the Christmas Spirit. You knew what had changed. It was the goofball who was currently dancing around in the Santa hat while Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” was playing in the background.

You started laughing at him. “Babe, seriously?” You asked, chuckling as he about ran into the tree you were setting up. You had always had an artificial one, and it was pre-lit, so it was a win-win.

“It’s a classic!” He said, grinning, reaching out a hand. “Come on, dance with me.”

You took his hand and let him spin you around. The song then switched to Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song” and you swayed around the living room. When the song finished, you said, “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“This.” You pointed to the boxes and tree. “Thank you for getting me back in the Christmas spirit this year.” You tried not to, but you felt the tears start.

“Oh, sweetheart.” His arms tightened around you and he kissed the top of your head. “You’re welcome.” You stayed there for a minute before he pulled back. “Let’s decorate that tree, eh?”

“Ok.” You laughed.

He grabbed the box of ornaments. “What do you want to start with?”

“The boxes of icicles and balls.” You said. He handed them to you, raising his eyebrow and laughing when he saw the colors.

“What can I say? I was a Kraken fan long before I met you. Plus, those were my junior hockey team's colors. And Team USA colors.” You laughed. “And we are putting blue on that tree this year. We can do a Team Canada tree next year.”

“I can work with that.” He said. Together, you placed the icicles and balls in an even blend, laughing and dancing around each other. Once that was done, he looked at the other box. “Do you want to put some of these other ones on?”

“Ok. Yeah, a couple.” You said. There were a few important ornaments you always had on your tree. “Do you have any you want to add?”

“Just one,” he said, “But it has to be the last one we place on the tree. It’s tradition to do it last.”

“Alright.” You started digging through the box, picking up the ones you wanted. He made you tell the stories behind them as you did; you found yourself laughing at some of them, and crying at others. He listened and added an ornament to the tree (one with the Kraken logo on it). He told you some stories of Christmas at his house growing up too.

Finally, the tree was decorated, all except for the last ornament he said he wanted to put on. He told you he’d be right back and went down the hallway. As he started coming back, he yelled for you to close your eyes. You did as you were told; you could hear his footsteps get closer and then his hand was on yours. “Open your eyes.”

You did, and found him holding an ornament that said “The Best is Yeti to Come”. You couldn’t help the giggles that escaped. “That is perfect! Find a spot,” you said, listening as he explained the family tradition behind the ornament. Then he paused for a minute. “I actually have one more, if that’s ok?” He asked.

“Of course. It’s our tree. You can put as many as you want on there.” You looked at him. “You want me to close my eyes again, don’t you?”

“Please.” You did, and you felt something being placed into your hand. You waited until he told you to open your eyes, and when you did, a fresh batch of tears hit your eyes. “Babe.”

“I wanted to do something special for our first Christmas together.” He said, “I saw this one and thought it was perfect.”

“It is,” you agreed, looking at the couple tangled together in the Christmas lights, with the “Our First Christmas” and the year below it. “Come on, let’s find a spot to put it.

Somehow, it managed to end up right front and center and drew the most attention. It was perfect though, and you had a feeling as long as the two of you were together, Christmases were going to be a lot of fun.

Especially when you went driving and wandering through the neighborhoods looking at all the lights. The magic had returned; you felt like the giddy kid going “ooh” and “aww”. He would laugh at you and hold your hand, and it was like the piece that was missing.

7 notes • Posted 2021-12-09 06:41:06 GMT

The Day From Hell

You called to say you were coming home and asked if he needed anything; he said no, and sounded relieved to hear your voice. “Be safe, ok? I’ll see you soon,” he said as you hung up.

“Hey babe.” He said, giving you a hug and handing you the wine. “How was your day?”

“Fine.” You said, taking a sip. Even to your own ears, it didn’t sound convincing. You knew he’d see right through it, which of course he did.

“I was trying to not do this tonight, since you leave tomorrow. I wanted tonight to be about you,” you said, “Not about me and my crappy day.” You felt the tears in your eyes.

“I think that sounds like a good plan.” You agreed, letting him lead you to the kitchen, where dinner was waiting. “You didn’t have to do this.”

“I know. I wanted to. It’s nothing special really.”

“It’s perfect. Thank you.” You said, sitting down at the table. As you ate, you talked about “the day from hell” (mostly being able not to cry). You listened too as he talked about his day too, and you had to admit- this was probably the most functional relationship you’d been in in a long time.

After dinner, you both put the dishes into the sink. You allowed yourself to be led down the hall to the bathroom.

“Bubbles? Candles? Super warm water?” he asked, looking over at you.

“All three,” you agreed, smiling. “Really, thank you.”

“Of course.” He said, “I’m going to take care of a couple of things. Holler when you’re done and I’ll bring you a warm fuzzy towel and warm pjs.”

“You don’t,” you started, but looking at him, you stopped. “Thank you.”

“There’s my girl.” He smiled. “Now get in and relax. You deserve it.”

You sank into the warm water, letting it wash away the stress of the day. Finally, when you were ready, you called out and he came with the warm towel and pjs as promised.

“Ready for bed?” He asked. You nodded. “Come on.” He grabbed your hand.

You arranged yourselves in the bed so you were practically tangled up in one another, and he started rubbing your back. “I know I don’t tell you this nearly enough, but I am so proud of you. The way you take care of everyone else and make sure everything’s ok. Just, you gotta let yourself be taken care of too, and ask for help if you need it, ok? You can’t take care of others if you’re not 100% yourself.”

“I know. It’s just hard to ask for help.” You admitted, eyes slipping closed.

“I know it is hon,” he said, “But, try it, ok? For me?”

“I will.” You promised.

“Good. Now get some rest and we’ll talk in the morning before I leave.”

“Ok. Thank you again.”

“Anytime babygirl. Anytime.”

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9 notes • Posted 2021-11-07 06:56:25 GMT

Apple Cinnamon Girl

For my girl Tara (@shutupptara). Hope you like it!!

You were settling into Seattle well enough, once you’d gotten over the initial feeling of betrayal by your company. Things had been working out great, and the best part was there was a bakery right next to your office. You always went there for your midday break, and you were in love with their apple cinnamon muffins. You had met the baker- Brandon- one day, and told him that the apple cinnamon ones were your favorite, and now every day when you came, he had a hot cup of coffee and one waiting for you. He always insisted that the cashiers take their break when you came in too, and if you didn’t know any better, you’d think he was trying to flirt with you and woo you with food (which was totally working). You had promised yourself work came first and you didn’t have time for anything else, but each time you went in, the more you found yourself enjoying talking with Bradon and that you looked forward to your break.

Today was not that day though- work had been a shitshow, and your boss had yelled at you for something that wasn’t even your fault. You found yourself bailing out the door for your break and making a beeline for the bakery.

“Miss Apple Cinnamon is here,” Jaden, one of the cashiers, called back as the bells on the door jingled with your arrival. Normally, you would laugh at the nickname, but today, it was the thing that made you fly off the handle.

“I have a name, you know,” you spat out as Brandon came up to the counter. Jaden put his hands up and backed away slowly. “Sorry.” He said, looking at you.

“Go take ten.” Brandon told Jaden, who nodded and left. Brandon looked over to you. “Come with me.” Brandon looked over to the other cashier, Jordan. “Ebs, you got this?”

“Yes sir!”

“Holler if you need something.” Brandon said. Brandon motioned for you to come behind the counter and into the kitchen with him.

“Figured you needed somewhere more private today.” Brandon said, handing you the muffin and coffee. “Rough day?”

“Yeah.” You said. “Wait, I’m not interrupting you, am I?”

“Nah, just got to make some banana nut muffins. You ok if I work while we talk?” he asked.

“Brandon, I can come back. You have more important things to do.” You got up, only to have him come over and give you a hug and stand there for a moment with you.

“No. Stay. I’ve waited all day to talk to you.” he said. “I like it when you come in,” he added. “Makes my day a bit brighter.”

“I like coming in too,” you said, a smile playing on your lips.

“And there’s my smiley girl.” He grinned. “What’s going on? You’re not your bubbly self.”

You took a bite of the muffin (which was amazing as always), and told him all about your day as he made his banana nut muffins.

“That sounds like a rough day,” he said.

“It is.” You admitted, “But it’s almost over. Two more hours and I get to go home.”

“Positives, right?” hes smiled, and you found yourself smiling in return, bad mood gone (at least for a few moments).

“Yeah, positives,” you agreed. You looked at your watch. “I gotta go back. I’ll pay Jaden on the way out. Thanks for the muffin and coffee, and for listening to me.”

“You’re welcome. You don’t have to pay for it,” Brandon said.

“I do.” You insisted.

“It’s on me.” He said, but when you fixed him with a look, he conceded. “Alright. Next one's on me.” He grabbed a piece of paper and scribbled a number down. “Here’s my number. Text me if you ever want to talk outside of bakery hours.”

You blushed as you took it. “Ok,” you said, putting it in your pocket. “Thanks again.”

“You’re welcome. See you tomorrow.”

“Yeah.” You walked out, paid for the food (and apologized to Jaden). You made it back to your desk. You sat there for a few minutes before deciding to go ahead and text Brandon your number. Hey. It’s apple cinnamon girl :)

Hi. Came the instant reply. Get back to work. LOL.

Yes Brandon. You giggled as you texted back. Suddenly, Seattle didn’t seem too bad after all.

15 notes • Posted 2021-11-25 07:54:35 GMT

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21skhf4 · 2 years

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Coffee, Crime, and Crumpets (Apple Cinnamon Girl, part 2)

Had to write a sequel to “Apple Cinnamon Girl”. Again, my girl Tara (@shutupptara) is the inspiration for this. :)

“Hi.” You said, your heart still pounding in your chest. “Yes, I do.” You paused for a minute. “You like them too?”

“Yeah. Hannah’s the best baker, and I love how she always finds herself involved in solving the crimes.”

“I like her cat.” You chuckled.

“Yeah, Moishe is the best.” Brandon admitted. “Tell me though- who do you think she should end up with: Norman or Mike?”

“I need a muffin for this discussion.” You chuckled.

“Well, come on back.” He reached out his hand to you. “Jaden, Ebs, take 10.”

Once you were settled in the back, muffin and coffee in hand, you gave him the rundown on your theory for who Hannah’s husband should be.

“I see you’re on Carrot Cake Murder.” He said. “That one is pretty good.”

“Which one are you up to?” You asked.

“Plum Pudding Murder.” He said. “Only a couple ahead of you.”

“What do you think about starting to read them together and talking about them? You asked.”

“Like a book club?” He asked.

“Yeah, like a book club. But it’s just two friends reading the same book and discussing things.”

“Yeah, that would be fun.” You said, smiling. Your smile got wider as he grinned back.

“Awesome. Let me know when you get through Plum Pudding Murder and we’ll set things up. It won’t be anything fancy. Maybe like coffee and a dessert?”

“That sounds nice.” You agreed. “And I expect to contribute to the food as well. Can’t have you always spoiling me with desserts-as much as I love them. I can cook too.”

“I’d like that.” He said as Jaden came back to tell Brandon there was a customer. “Text me later?”

You managed to get all caught up over the weekend; when you texted him to tell him that, you got a smiley-face emoji and a text me your work schedule and we’ll have our first book club meeting.

How about I stop by tomorrow after work and we can do it in person? You sent back.

Only if you let me buy you a muffin and coffee. :)

Sold! LOL. You wrote back. He knew you hated Mondays at the office. See you tomorrow.

Have a good day at work!

You too. You wrote back.

You had just made it over to the bakery when the Amazon delivery guy showed up with a big box. You and Brandon grinned, knowing it was the books you had ordered. Jaden took the box. “Brandon? What did you order this time?”

Brandon’s cheeks flushed a little. “Some books.” He answered. “Come on,” he said, grabbing the box with one hand and taking your hand with the other. “Hold down the fort you two.” He pointed at Ebs and Jaden.

You chuckled as you let yourself be led back to the kitchen. “I take it you order lots of things from Amazon too.” You grinned.

“Yep. Have them shipped here because I’m here most of the time.” He said.

“I do the same thing. I ship most of my stuff to my office.” You said. “This one I felt was easier to ship here so we could both have them here.”

“That was smart thinking.” He said, handing you an apple cinnamon muffin and coffee.

You set up a date for next week for your first “book club meeting”; as you left with a book under your arm, Jaden said, “See you later Apple!”

“Bye Jaden! Bye Ebs!”

You showed up a few minutes early on the day of your first book club meeting; you didn’t know why you felt so nervous, it was just Brandon.

Jaden was just leaving for the night. “Here, let me get you a cup of coffee.” You tried to insist it was fine, but Jaden insisted (and he could be almost as persistent as Brandon), so you let him make you one.

“Thanks.” You said, taking a sip.

“You’re welcome. Have fun.” You didn’t have time to process his words before Brandon was coming out to greet you.

“Hey.” Brandon said.

“Hi.” You smiled. There was a moment of awkward silence before you both broke into laughter.

“Come on, I’m trying one of the recipes from the book. They should just be done.”

The two of you sat down and talked about the book while eating the dessert. Before either of you knew it, it was almost 11 PM.

“That was fun. We should do it again.” You said, laughing.

“Yes, we should. Same time in a couple weeks?” He chuckled, handing you the next book.

“Sounds like a plan to me.” You got up to leave.

“Here, let me walk you to your car.” He said.

“B, you don’t have to.”

“I want to, Apple. Please.” You couldn’t say no to that pleading face.

You made sure to text him that you made it home safely.

The next time you had book club, Jaden already had coffee waiting for you. “I made it just the way you like it.” He said, handing it over.

“Thanks Jaden. You’re the best.”

“You better not let Brandon hear you say that.” He chuckled. On cue, Brandon walked out and said, “Better not let me hear what?”

“That she likes me best.” Jaden said, ducking out of the swat you tried to give him and laughing as you chased him towards the door.

“I only said that cause he makes a great cup of coffee.” You said, feeling the need to explain yourself.

“He does,” Brandon admitted, “but I make better food.”

“Touché.” You laughed. “I brought these cookies. They’re definitely not as good as ones you would make, but they’re a secret family recipe.”

“Gimmie.” Brandon opened the container and pulled one out. “Oh my, these are good.”

You blushed a little. “Thanks.” You said. You weren’t used to being complimented on your cooking.

Book club that night was fun; you spent more time giggling and eating cookies than you did discussing the book. You decided to have another discussion next week on the same book.

The next week, when you showed up, Brandon was at the counter with Jaden (Jordan had left early that day). “Hey Apple Cinnamon.” They both said. Brandon went to get a muffin and his book, while Jaden got you a coffee.

“Alright, B, I’m taking off. You and Apple have fun with Coffee, Crime, and Crumpets.”

“What?” You and Brandon both looked at Jaden.

“You needed a name for your little thing you have going here. Since it’s a baker murder mystery, I figured that was a good name for it.”

You and Brandon looked at each other, then at Jaden. “Do you want to stay?” Brandon asked Jaden.

“No, I’m good. But thank you. You two have fun. There’s a pot of coffee already made.” With that, Jaden was out the door and it was you and Brandon.

You talked about the book, and then Brandon looked over at you. “Hey Apple?”

“Yes B?”

“Not that I don’t love doing book club here with you, but what do you think about going out to dinner and then doing book club over at my house next time?” He looked super shy, and it was endearing.

“Are you asking me out on a date?” Your own voice was soft. “Because, if so, the answer is a yes.” You raised your voice a little on yes, watching him grin.

“I was hoping you’d say that.” He said. “I was so nervous to ask you.”

“I was hoping you’d ask. I didn’t want to seem too forward by asking you out first.” You said.

The next week, when Brandon said they were closing early so he could get to his Coffee, Crime, and Crumpets meeting, Jaden could only grin. “Have fun! Don’t stay up too late!” Jaden said, grinning as Brandon flipped him off on the way out the door.

Dinner was nice, and when you made it to Brandon’s place, it was a little smaller than you thought it would be, but it was perfect.

As you sat on the other end of the couch from Brandon reading, you suddenly were struck with the feeling this is what you had been missing since you moved to Seattle.

“I’d like to do this again next week, book club or no book club.” You said as you left that night.

“I'd like that a lot too.” Brandon grinned. “Stop by when you’re free next week.”

That started a weekly dinner date with Brandon. As time went on, you found yourself falling more and more for him, and you were spending most of your free time with him or at the bakery.

You were on the couch with Brandon, reading Wedding Cake Murder- you were leaning against his side and he was absently running one hand through your hair and down your upper arm as he read-when he asked you, “Would you like to move some stuff in and be my girlfriend?”

Your book fell to the floor and you turned around and crushed him in a hug. “Yes please!” You grinned.

“You have to stop by the bakery tomorrow so we can tell Jaden. He’s been asking me for weeks now if we’ve figured things out yet.” Brandon laughed.

“I can do that.” You grinned. “I better get back home. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Ok.”

Brandon was at the counter talking with Jaden and Jordan when you came in the next day. They barely were able to get out a hello to you before you were grabbing Brandon in a hug and placing a kiss on his cheek. “Hi.”

“Hi.” Brandon said, cheeks flushing, clearly not expecting that welcome. You both turned around as you heard a “Ow!”

Jaden was grabbing his hand where he’d hit it on the coffee pot; Jordan was cackling with laughter.

“You good there Jaden?” You couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Yep.” He shook his hand out.

“Good, cause you might be seeing that type of greeting more often. I make no promises.” You chuckled. “I don’t want you to have to fill out a worker’s comp form. I’m sure Brandon doesn’t want all the paperwork either.”

“Nope.” Brandon agreed.

“Took you two long enough.” Jaden grinned. Jordan nodded. “We’re happy for both of you though, really.”

“Yeah.” Jordan echoed. “We knew from the first time you two met that you were made for each other.”

You looked up at Brandon, who still hadn’t let go of your hand. “All it took was a love of baked goods, coffee, and the Hannah Swenson mysteries to get us together.”

“Right.” Brandon said. “I have an apple cinnamon muffin and coffee for you if you want it.”

“Bring it out here? We can all eat together?” You asked. “Jaden and Jordan have become like family too. You know those annoying brothers you have that you love?” You chuckled.

“Hey!” Jaden squawked, laughing. “Love you too sis.” He got you in a hug. Jordan just smiled at you and said, “You’re the best not-sister I’ve ever had.”

“Ok.” Brandon went into the kitchen and came back with the food. The four of you ate at the counter and then you looked at Brandon. “I have some stuff that you can take over to your place to start moving it in.”

“Yeah. Let me walk you out to your car.” Brandon said. When you got out to the car, Brandon said, “I have something for you too.” He pulled out a key. “You’re welcome at my place anytime. Come over whenever you want. You can stay as much or as little as you want.”

“Thanks.” You said. His place was actually closer to your office, but you didn’t want to move things too quickly. You figured staying one or two nights a week would be a good start. You would stay after book club, and on either Friday or Saturday. Then you’d work your way up to more nights.

You and Brandon had been texting all day and you could tell something was up; you went over to the bakery after you were done with work and looked at Jaden. “What’s up?”

“I don’t know. He won’t tell us.” You moved past Jaden and made your way to the kitchen, where Brandon was putting cookie sheets on the counter with a lot more force than was necessary. You hadn’t seen him this way before and you were a little hesitant to approach him.

“B?” You asked. “What’s going on?”

“Nothing.” He said, looking up. “Don't worry about it.”

“Brandon.” You said, a little firmer this time. He looked at you, a little wild-eyed. “Here’s what we’re going to do. You are going to tell Jaden and Jordan to handle the rest of the shift and you’re going home. I’ll be there shortly. You don’t have to talk about it if you don’t want to, but we’re having dinner and cuddling on the couch and reading a book together.” Your tone left no room for argument. He had taken care of you so many times when you were having a bad day, and now it was your turn to do the same for him.

“Fine.” He looked defeated, but he walked by you and did as you told him. You told Jaden and Jordan you’d take care of him and then you were on your way to his place. They nodded at you.

You got home to find him in the kitchen, pulling out ingredients for dinner. He said he was making spaghetti. You knew that was one of his comfort foods; you didn’t mind spaghetti (it wasn’t your favorite), and tonight was all about him, so you let him take control of the menu, pitching in to help when he’d let you.

You made dinner in silence; it was weird, but you were letting him come to you. You ate and he still hadn’t said anything. You went and got your pajamas on and laid on the couch, waiting for him. You were expecting him to take his normal spot on the couch so you could lean into him. Instead, he came to stand by you and asked if he could put his head in your lap.

“Of course, B. Whatever you need.” You started running your fingers through his hair, smiling as he relaxed. “There you go.” You said. “You still don’t have to talk if you don’t want to, but let me take care of you, ok?”

“Thanks.” He said. He never did tell you what was going on, but he finally fell asleep. You pulled a blanket over the two of you and fell asleep as well.

In the morning, he was the first one up. You woke up to the smell of breakfast. “Mmm, smells good.” You said, coming over to the table.

“Good morning sunshine.” He said, all traces of yesterday’s moodiness gone. “Thank you for last night. I’m sorry.”

“You’re welcome. But, you never have to apologize for how you feel. I’m always here. Plus, that’s what a relationship is. Taking care of each other in the good- and bad-times. You’ve taken care of me so many times when I’ve had a rough day, and I wanted to return the favor. Anytime you need me to do that, let me know, ok?”

“Ok.” Brandon gave you a hug. “Let’s try one of the recipes from the Lake Eden Cookbook.” He said. “We can take them to Jordan and Jaden and see if they think we could sell them in the bakery.”

“Ok.” You queued up a 70’s music mix and the two of you started dancing and baking, laughing a lot. This was nice, and you definitely wanted to do this a lot more.

“We can do it anytime you want Apple Cinnamon.” Brandon said; you hadn’t realized you’d said your last thought out loud. You blushed a little and said, “Ok.”

When you and Brandon showed up that morning with the cookies, Jaden and Jordan inhaled almost all of them before you and Brandon could even get through your first one. “Clearly, I think we have a winner,” you said.

“Yep.” Brandon said. “Thanks for making them with me.”

“Anytime.” You said. “I’m gonna go back to the house. I’ll see you when you get home?”

“Ok. Have a good day Apple.”

“You too B.”

Jaden and Jordan told you goodbye and you went back to Brandon’s place. You cleaned up the mess you two had made and then laid out on the couch. You were only planning on closing your eyes for a few minutes; the next thing you knew, Brandon was waking you up. “Hi sweetheart.”

“Hi. Sorry I slept so long.”

“You needed it. Feel like dinner and a book?”

“Sure.” You grinned. Dinner and a book was the new going out.

#brandon tanev imagine #hockey fic #hockey imagine #hockey blurbs #nhl fic #nhl imagines #nhl imagine #hockey writing #nhl blurbs #writing #Apple Cinnamon Girl Series #part 2 #Self Indulgent fic #for my girl Tara

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