Netting Crow (Blackhawks Fan-Fiction)

Chapter 4

Round 2 - 2014 Playoffs

Amanda and I watched the game against the Blues from our 300-level seats, and we enjoyed every minute of it.  I was beginning to have a better understanding of what was going on during the game, so that made it so much better.  I took part, with glee, in the goalie chant against the Blues goalie, Miller, as he continued to let the Hawks dominate the scoring.  My eyes remained on Corey for much of the game, and I absolutely loved when he tended the goal down on the side close to where we were sitting.  The Hawks won that game and continued on to take the series and move on to Round 2.

My dad was so jealous of my going to Round 1 that he offered to take my sister and I to a Round 2 game.  His only obstacle...convincing my mom to spend the money.  He did, although I am unsure how, and we were off to Round 2, game 2.  I couldn't believe it...two playoff games in less than two weeks. 

I wore only my Crawford t-shirt and made a mental note to get a Crawford jersey ASAP.  I made my dad and sister go through the same routine that I went through during Round 1:  Hawks store, warm ups, then seats.  I didn't want to mess up anything since the last time I was there the Hawks won.  Superstition was getting the best of me.

We sat down behind the net for warm-up this time.  I couldn't believe that I was at another game.  I was still awed by the whole experience.  We were sitting in row 3 from the glass, and my dad made the comment that I had been thinking the whole time.  "We should sit here some time.  Even if it's just once in our lifetime."

"Yes," I replied, "that would be awesome."

Then just like before, I heard "Here Come the Hawks," followed by the buzzer and then the Hawks were led out by Corey.  Man, I could totally fall head over heels in love with that guy...in fact I think I already was, and I didn't even know him.

Since we were behind the net this time, I got a better look at Corey through his mask instead of just seeing his backside, which wasn't too bad, but his face...I could stare at that all day.  He took some shots in the net and then skated to my right.  My eyes were on him.  I watched as he leaned over.  He seemed to be mentally preparing himself.  He gave his head a little shake and stood up.  He started messing with a puck as I continue to train my eyes on him.

He picked the puck up with his goalie stick and chucked it toward the glass.  It slipped through the netting and bounced off the seat to my right and landed at my feet.  I stared at it, not really comprehending what just happened.  That's when my sister hollered, "Pick it up!"  I picked it up and looked toward the ice.  My eyes locked with his and I mouthed "Thank you."  He nodded and went back into his net.

I am pretty sure that the Hawks won that game, but I really can't say for sure.  All I remember is making eye contact with Corey and getting that feeling that he would be my downfall.  And I couldn't wait to fall.