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Taking a Shot

Chapter Seven

The next morning, I found myself dreading another two game road-trip and leaving Bella. If I could have packed her up in my suitcase and taken her along with me I would have but the reality was that she had a job to go back to also.

"Edward, I'll be fine," Bella promised.

"I know that – I'm just worried that what Garrett had to say shook you more than you want to lead on."

"I won't lie and say that it didn't bother me – it did but I can't let that rule my life, Edward. I can't do that anymore than I can let how he treated me affect how I view other relationships. Yes, I tend to be more careful – you know that. I was so scared of getting involved with another hockey player. Thank goodness you're one of the good ones and proved my theory wrong."

Bella grinned the most adorable grin and it was all I could do not to pull her into my arms and kiss her silly. I loved her more than she could imagine. She was strong in so many ways.

"Glad I could prove you wrong, baby."

I pressed a light kiss to her temple and she sighed.

"Edward … you know I'll be fine, right? Besides, it's only tonight and tomorrow night. Ali and I are driving up to your game in Jersey. We'll see each other before you know it."

"I know. I can't help but worry about you, Bella. I love you – people worry when they love each other."

Bella stood on her tip toes and wrapped her arms around my neck, kissing my lips sweetly.

"Thank you for loving me and caring so much."

I felt a little better when I flew out that afternoon headed for Toronto. I promised Bella that I'd text her the minute we arrived and again that night before I went to bed. She wasn't working until Saturday morning and then she'd be off Sunday and back on again Monday morning. She lucked out getting Sunday off to come with Ali to the game. I couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to sit in the stands and watch a game with Bella. I laughed at myself knowing that my eyes would be on her the entire time instead of on the game, but it didn't keep me from wanting it.

As soon as we landed in Canada, I turned my phone on and saw that I had a message from Bella.

Hey, handsome. I know you won't get this until you land but I wanted to tell you that I love you and hope that this little message will put a smile on your face. Don't worry – I'll be FINE! – B

She must have counted on the smile that crossed my face. She knew that with a few simple words she could put one there. I quickly texted her back.

Hey, beautiful. We're in Toronto safe and sound. I'll call you tonight before I head to bed. I love you too, baby. – E

The team went straight over to the arena. No matter how many times we played at a particular venue – for me every time I stepped out on the ice – it was like the first time. Practice went well – everyone was on point and we were hoping for a win. Our season was slowly coming to a close and we were hoping for a spot in the playoffs.

We ended up beating the Maple Leafs one to nothing. While it wasn't an easy victory – it felt good all the same. After the game, some of the guys from the team met up in the bar that was in the lobby of our hotel. Jasper convinced me to join everyone else after going to our room to change. I didn't feel like wearing a suit to a bar. Besides, the short break gave me a chance to call Bella.

Unfortunately, I got her voicemail. I suspected that she had to work a double shift at work and when I received a short text from her just after I arrived at the bar, my suspicions were confirmed.

Sorry, baby – had to work a double tonight. Not enough NICU nurses to go around right now. Call you later when I'm on break? Love you – B

I quickly turned my phone to vibrate and ring, making sure the volume was up all the way. If Bella was going to call me, I sure as hell didn't want to miss it.

"Bella?" Jasper asked as we stepped off the elevator and into the lobby.

"Yeah … she's working a double shift tonight and said she'd call me when she gets a break."

"Ali said Bella tends to run herself ragged sometimes. I guess a double shift means that she'll get off tomorrow morning and get a little bit of sleep before they leave for Newark. Ali wants to leave no later than two o'clock – she's worried about traffic."

"Yeah, she does. I can't help but wonder if she does it to keep her mind off of me being gone sometimes. I mean, I know it's not always about me – but I can't help but see the pattern. She works most of her double shifts when we're on the road."

Jasper nodded.

"Who's driving? Ali or Bella?" I asked.

"Ali, I think. But who knows with those two – they could change their minds another ten times before they actually get in the car and drive." Jasper chuckled.

I was kind of hoping that Bella would drive so that I could hitch a ride home with her. Not that I couldn't do that if Alice drove but it might be kind of awkward asking her.

Jasper and I sat at the bar and joined a few of our teammates in a celebratory shot. It wasn't the same as being at Franklin's Place, but we would have to make do.

I was working on my third beer when I felt my phone vibrate in my pocket. It had been a couple hours since Bella's text and it was all I could do not to call her. I pulled out my phone and saw that it was indeed Bella calling, so I quickly answered and stepped out of the bar.

"Hey, beautiful." I grinned.

"Hey, baby," Bella said tiredly. "You sound like you're in a good mood."

I nodded and laughed knowing full well that she couldn't see it.

"Yeah, you could say that. We won the game and I'm out with the guys having a few beers."

"So I heard. One of the orderlies was talking about the game and I couldn't help myself – I had to be nosy and see how you guys did. I'm proud of you, baby. I heard you scored."

"That I did, beautiful. I wish you were here – I miss you."

Bella giggled.

"That's the alcohol talking handsome … exactly how much have you had to drink?"

"Not enough to be drunk, baby. I've had a couple shots and I'm on my third beer."

"Please tell me you're taking a cab back to the hotel, Edward."

Bella's voice was full of concern and I could picture the worried look on her beautiful face.

"We're at the hotel, Bella. I only have to take the elevator up to my room so don't worry, okay? How is work?"

"Busy. We had a couple preemies come in with pneumonia. Bottom line is that we're understaffed. The scheduling nurse feels bad that she has had to ask me to take on so many extra shifts but until she hires a couple new nurses, it doesn't look like that's going to happen - especially because there isn't exactly funding for two more NICU nurses."

"So what does that mean? Do you have to work tomorrow night too?"

"No, baby," Bella laughed. "I'm still off tomorrow night. In fact, I don't have to go into work until Tuesday morning. The scheduling nurse rearranged some things and gave me a little extra time off."

"What about Tuesday night's game?" I asked, worrying my lip because I really wanted her there.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world, handsome. I hate to say it, but I need to get going baby. I need to get back to those preemies. I was only supposed to run into the break room to grab them some formula."

"Okay, beautiful. Have a good rest of your shift and try to get some rest, okay? I love you."

"I love you too, Edward. I'll call you tomorrow afternoon."

We ended our call and I felt much better after talking to her. She did sound tired, but she always did when she was working. I couldn't imagine having a job like hers – yeah being a hockey player, I had a lot of bumps and bruises but as a nurse – Bella's battle scars were in the patients she lost; her Stanley Cup was the patients that survived and thrived in their lives. Each and every one of those patients were lucky to have Bella as their nurse because it takes a special person with a huge heart and love for others to do that job, and I realized how lucky I was to have Bella in my life. I pulled out my phone once again and sent off a quick text.

Baby, you're amazing and I'm so lucky to have you in my life. I love you. XX –E

A few moments later, I received a text back.

Silly man – I KNOW that's the alcohol talking but I love you anyway. Be safe. XX – B

The next morning I woke up with one hell of a headache. I had ended up having two more beers and another shot after the last text I sent Bella. In retrospect that wasn't such a great idea, and as much as I wanted to stay in bed all day that wasn't an option. We had a plane to catch and another game that night. Maybe I could catch some rest on the plane.

I couldn't complain because Jasper was in as bad of shape as I was. He had stumbled to our room the night before while he drunk dialed Ali. By the one sided conversation, it hadn't seemed like she minded at all. He had me thinking of Bella and wishing I could have talked to her too.

After a warm shower, I dressed in my suit and packed up my bags. I sent Bella a quick text while I waited for Jasper to finish getting ready.

Hey, beautiful. Can't wait to see you tonight. I love you. XX–E

Almost instantly I received a text back.

Hey, baby. How're you feeling this morning? Love you. XX – B

I may need a sexy nurse to take care of me ;) –E

I think that can be arranged. – B

Just then Jasper walked out of the bathroom fully dressed. He slung his bags over his shoulders and grinned.

"Bella?"

"Yeah."

"We better get going. You ready to head out?"

I nodded. "Let me send a quick text and grab my bags."

I'm getting ready to leave for the airport. I'll text you when I land. Love you, baby. –E

Be safe. I love you. XX – B

Jasper and I grabbed a juice and bagel before meeting the rest of our team on the bus. After checking my bags and boarding the plane, I leaned my head back and closed my eyes for the two hour flight. It felt like I had just closed my eyes when I heard the announcement we were preparing to land.

I casually scoped out the stands as I stood next to my teammates while the National Anthem played. I was acting like a little kid waiting for their parents to come to their show. Except this wasn't my parents and I just wanted a glimpse of the beautiful brunette who had my heart.

The song ended and I had to get ready for the game but before I turned to my position, I caught sight of Bella and Ali a few rows behind the bench. I plastered on a goofy smile directed at them, then cleared my head and got into position.

Once the puck dropped the game was in high gear with plenty of hard hits and shots on goal by us. The Devils were off their game tonight which only benefited us. We moved the puck up the ice fast and within the first two minutes we were up one to nothing.

The game was fast paced but mostly one-sided. The Devils never managed to get the puck out of their zone before a Flyer was on their ass taking possession of the puck. Voracek put us up two nothing in the second period when he fought for the puck in the crease and flipped it past Brodeur. We were on fire and the Devils were left in our dust.

Late in the third period the Devils pulled their goalie trying to put any points on the board. We used that to our advantage and Briere put another point on the board for us when he scored on an empty net.

Our goalie, Bryzgalov, outplayed the Devils' goaltender, Martin Brodeur and denied the New Jersey goalie his 651st career win while added another shut out to his career. In the end we won three to nothing putting us higher in the standings and closer to our goal of the playoffs.

After a quick shower, I got dressed and grabbed my bag and went in search for Bella. When I walked out of the locker room my heart jumped at the sight of her. She had on a Flyers shirt with my number and it made me giddy like a school girl to know she was mine and here to support me and my teammates.

I walked over to her dropping my bag at my feet and pulling her in my arms. I pulled back to take her in again.

"Hey."

She grinned. "Hey … I hear you need a nurse to take care of you."

I pulled her in my arms taking in her lavender and vanilla scent. "Mmm … I did say that. But, she can only be a sexy brunette with a beautiful smile and milk chocolate eyes that I get lost in."

"Oh, really?"

"Really."

"Does this mean I fit the bill?"

"Oh you most certainly do." I kissed her lips sweetly.

"Well then handsome, let's go home so I can properly take care of your needs."

Alice had driven to Newark but she extended an invitation to both Jasper and I to ride home with them. Coach wasn't happy about it but he let us go. I don't know if his hesitation was because he somehow knew about Alice's horrible driving skills or he really was a stickler for protocol. I do know that I've never been so happy to sit in a backseat in all my life.

When we pulled up in front of Bella's building, I couldn't get out of the car fast enough. Bella laughed as I offered her my hand and pulled her out of the car.

"In a hurry, handsome?"

"Yes!"

Alice popped the trunk and I retrieved my bag quickly and told Jazz I'd see him the next day at practice before Bella and I made our way up to her apartment.

"Do you go places with Alice often?"

"Sometimes, but usually I drive." Bella smirked.

"I think I have whiplash," I whined, rubbing my neck.

"Oh, well good thing the nurse is on duty … I think I can take care of that for you."

Bella shot me a mischievous look before letting us into her apartment. I closed and locked the door behind me before stopping in the kitchen, then following her into the bedroom. When I stepped into the bedroom, Bella was sitting on the bed wearing only her scrub shirt. How she'd changed so fast I'd never know but there she was – and she looked beautiful.

"Come here, handsome. Let me take care of you."

I shed my clothes quickly, setting them on the chair.

"Uh uhh … take the boxers off too, handsome," Bella instructed.

I pulled my boxer briefs off and crawled onto the bed beside Bella.

"Lay face down, baby."

I reluctantly did as Bella asked and I heard some rustling beside me before I felt her straddle my legs.

"Just relax, Edward," Bella said softly.

She reached over to the bedside table and I felt the softness and warmth of her skin against my back. She must have taken off her top before climbing on top of me. Bella began to rub my shoulders – her hands were slick with oil as she worked on the knots in my back. Her touch was gentle but firm in all the right spots as she made her way down my back. She applied a little more oil to her hands before massaging my ass – which I thoroughly enjoyed. I was so turned on by that point and I wanted nothing more than to flip her over and worship her beautiful body.

Bella worked her way up my back again, focusing on my neck. She was quiet as she worked – the only sound I heard was her elevated breathing. As she rubbed my neck, I could feel her breasts against my back and I knew she was just as affected as me. Bella placed a kiss between my shoulder blades and then her weight was gone.

"Bella?" I asked quietly.

"Shh … I'm here. Just relax, I'm not done with you yet."

Bella placed a soft cotton sheet on top of me and asked me to roll over carefully.

"I don't want to get that massage oil on my bed."

When I was fully on my back, I glanced over at her kneeling next to me and she smiled softly at me.

"Feel okay?"

I nodded and reached out for her.

"C'mere."

Bella straddled me and leaned down to kiss me. I grasped her ass and pulled her to me – her slick core sliding against my throbbing cock. We both moaned at the contact and I deepened the kiss before raising her up and lowering her down onto me.

"Jesus …."

Bella felt so good wrapped around my cock. If I could have crawled inside the incredible woman looming over me I would have. She cupped my face as I kissed her and worked our bodies against and with each other.

"Ugh … Edward, you feel so good."

"Yessss," I hissed. "You feel amazing, Bella."

She raised up enough that I could pull a pert nipple into my mouth and suckle on it.

"Fuck that feels good," Bella panted.

I smiled against her luscious breast.

"You like that huh?"

"Fuck yes."

Bella began to move her hips a little faster, searching for friction and chasing the release we both wanted.

"Bella, baby … we didn't use a condom … is this okay? I sure as fuck hope so because I want to come inside you so fucking bad," I breathed.

"It's okay," Bella whimpered, never breaking her rhythm.

"Fuck!"

Bella's muscles fluttered around my cock before she clamped down on me and I could feel her come all over me. I thrust my hips up a few more times before I spilled my own release into her. She clamped down on me again lost in another orgasm of her own and she milked me for everything I had and would gladly give her.

I looked up in my own post coital haze to find her eyes still tightly closed and her chest heaving. Her skin was damp with the evidence of our exertion and she had never been more beautiful in that moment.

I ran my hands up and down her arms, hoping to soothe her before she laid down on me and nuzzled her head into my chest.

"I love you, Edward."

"I love you too, Bella."

I spent the night wrapped around the precious woman in my arms and I realized that no matter how many games I'd won – being loved by her was the biggest victory of all.

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