Chapter 3

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During the months that followed Auston and I embraced the early stages of our connection, cherishing the moments we had together. He kept things fun and interesting. We explored Totonto together. Once the season started he still made time for me, stopping by whenever he could or meeting me for coffee.

I had put aside everything that Tyler had said to me, but I was also keeping this part of my life a secret from him. I could not even imagine what he would say if he found out about Auston and I. But I was happy and was going to tell him when I was ready, especially when Auston and I decided to make things official.

Auston came over to watch Stranger Things. It was our new addiction. We waited to watch the episodes with one another. After being cuddled up on the couch and making it through two episodes Auston got up to head home because he had a game tomorrow.

He looked at me like he had something to say before he left, his hand scratching his head

"Hey I was just wondering if you wanted to maybe come to the game tomorrow night" he said shyly and sounded scared that I would say no

"Of course I would love to" I replied

He pecked my lips and then left for the night

Auston was on his way to pick me up for the game. He was going to be here in 15 minutes. I had no clue what to wear, I only own Bruins and Stars stuff because of Tyler. Conflicted, I decided on the most basic outfit possible black jeans and a white T-shirt. Auston texted me that he was outside and I made my way down to the car.

"You look beautiful as always!" Auston said smiling and placing a kiss on my cheek

"Thank you, sorry i'm not very team spirited I just so happen to no be a leafs fan" I laugh making a sassy remark

"Oh so you're saying there is no chance you will wear this?" he says with a smirk on his face pulling out a royal blue jersey with Matthews on the back

"I mean I'm not a leafs fan but I definitely am a Matthews fan!" I say wiggling my eyebrows at him causing us both to laugh

Once we got to the arena Auston navigated me through the maze of corridors to the backstage. We arrived in the family area outside of the lockerroom where I was met with some friendly faces.

"Mitch this is Brooklyn" Auston introduced, a smile gracing his face

Mitch swoops me into a hug "So you are Brooklyn THE Brooklyn that Mats can't seem to stop talking about! It is go great to finally meet you"

He playfully banters Auston until a pretty girl walks behind him "This is my girlfriend Stephanie"

As we engaged in conversation, the camaraderie and genuine bond among the group was evident. They welcomed me into their circle immediately sharing stories and laughs making me feel like part of their hockey family.

I sat in the stands with Stephanie. She led the way showing me where to go. During the warm ups we got to know each other a little more, she was warm and welcoming and easy to talk to. I had a stigma against NHL girlfriends based off of the ones Tyler would bring around but she was the total opposite. She was real and sweet.

As I watched the game against the Chicago Blackhawks unfold, I experienced the thrill of the game that I loved. The passion that radiated from the players on the ice was contagious and I couldn't help but to be captivated by the intensity of the game. This is the first time I have watched a NHL game my brother wasn't in, in a long time. It felt weird but it was also thrilling.

During intermissions Stephanie and I would continue to talk, she told me all about her and Mitch and the journey they have had as a couple within the hockey world. She told me some of the highs and lows they have experienced.

Through this conversation I gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of navigating a relationship in the hockey world. As complicated as it already sounded I thought about how much worse it is to have a brother who is also in the NHL who disapproves of who you are with. That sounded too complicated to me so I shoved it in the back of my head.

As the game was at the end of the 3rd tied 2-2 Auston scored. His name echoing throughout the stands. In that moment I felt an overwhelming sense of pride and admiration for the man I was growing to love... wait did I just say love

Stephanie and I took a picture that she posted on instagram

@StephanieLaChance: Hockey has given me the best friends ☺️💙3,478 likes| 27 comments Tagged: @BrooklynSeguin

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@StephanieLaChance: Hockey has given me the best friends ☺️💙
3,478 likes| 27 comments
Tagged: @BrooklynSeguin

@BrooklynSeguin: First hockey night in Toronto and I make a best friend ❤️

@MitchMarner: Where's my friendship bracelet

@AustonMatthews: 34 never looked so good 😍

@BrooklynSeguin: I'll make them tonnight what colors do you want @MitchMarner

@WilliamNylander: I want one too🥲

@BrooklynSeguin: I don't know I think that guy @AustonMatthews wears 34 pretty well😏

@MitchMarner: No @WilliamNylander you can't sit with us😤

After the game the crowd dispersed and Stephanie helped me get back to the family room where we waited for the boys to get done their interviews with the press

Auston and I began to walk back to the car as we reached it he stopped before opening the door for me

"I'm glad you came tonight Brookly" Auston said, his voice filled with affection. "It means a lot to have you here supporting me"

I smiled, intertwining my fingers with his. "I wouldn't have missed it for the world"

He leaned in, his forehead resting on mine, "I'm grateful to have you by my side"

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