Reflection (Artemi Panarin)

Revealing Character

Lesson 22: Sports doesn't build character, it reveal it.

-Taylor's POV-

My alarm went off at 7 am sharp and I jumped out of bed. I flew Artemi's grandparents out and got them tickets for the awards tonight. I hope Artemi hadn't caught on yet but I don't think he has. I quickly throw on jean shorts and a black tank top and rush out the door. Somehow Art didn't wake up throughout my hectic running around so hopefully he'll be awake by the time we're back.

I get to the airport the same time they land and I quickly grab their stuff and hop in the car we rented. "How was your flight? I hope all is well" I said driving off to the hotel.

"It was great, slept the whole time. Thanks again for the opportunity to see our grandson get recognized. It means the world" his grandad Vladimir said giving a warm smile.

"I did it because I miss you guys too, honestly" I chuckle and they join me.

After small talk we pull up to the hotel and I lead them up to the room. I walk through the door and Artemi was freaking out. "Oh my god Tay where did you go? I was so worried about you, you scared me half to death" he says pacing the living room.

"Artemi" I say trying to calm him down. This actually happens a lot.

"You don't understand I thought-" he stops to look up and he came face to face with their grandparents. He becomes over joyed and hugs them both. "What on earth are you guys doing here" he says not trying to contain a ounce of excitement.

"Taylor flew us out here and got us tickets to be with you tonight" his grandma replies putting a hand on my shoulder. I beg they don't give me all the credit. I had them come because they deserved to. Artemi pulls me into his famous hug and quickly kisses me. I let them catch up and I texted Amanda about plans for today.

I went to lunch with Amanda and had a great time. She was super sweet and had beautiful long brown hair. She was on the taller side, kinda looked like a model. Had brown eyes like Jonny and was a tiny little thing. We talked about our futures and what we liked about Chicago. I really enjoyed myself.

"What do you mean you don't get mad? Aren't you around Pat all the time" she asks.

"I just understand how things work. Like that everyone is different but still important. I don't let things bother me. Years of practice I guess" I shrug and sip my drink.

"Pat told me all about you and you're everything he said and more" she accuses.

"Why was he talking about me" I chuckle.

"As a part of the interview I asked who had the biggest impact on him and he said you. He said you teach lessons that can't be learned in school. That you're the strongest person he knows" she explains.

I cringed so hard. I hate people speaking so highly of me because those are such great expectations to live up to. I'm glad they think so highly of me but it's just not true. "He's a sweetheart. He thinks with his penis sometimes, but he means well. As far as me, don't believe everything you heard. I'm just trying to make a difference in people's life so they can see the great things I see in them" I say trying to not seem like an ass. She nods and continues to eat.

After lunch we decide to find a dress for tonight. I for one, shop like a man. I only did it when I had to but when I did I always knew what I wanted so I can get in and out as fast as possible. But I enjoyed Amanda's company. She reminded me a lot of myself. She found a stunning black two piece set that fit perfectly and had the shoulders cut out. I decided on a simple red full length dress that wraps around the neck and is tight around the chest then flows from there. I despised dressing up but it was beautiful.

The awards start and I'm in between Art and his grandma. I could tell he was nervous so I grab his hands and start rubbing circles on his hand. His award was first so the night got started really soon. The boy announcing the Calder trophy was adorable. Everything went slow, all the sudden and the suspense was killing me. But then the kid says Arts name and we all let out the breath we were holding in. He gives us all a hug and heads to the stage, after a moment with Pat of course. He gives his speech then heads to the back for interviews and pictures. I stay back to watch Pats categories while his grandparents and Brian go back to inspect his new trophy. Pat won the Ted Lindsey and gives Art a shout out then accepts the Hart trophy as well. I was so proud of what he accomplished. What he did for America and its hockey program. He was a game changer. They say sports doesn't build character, but reveals it. And I couldn't agree more. It shows how much someone really cares, how they handle themselves in tough situations, how they react, it says it all.

After they announced Pat for the Hart trophy I went back to join Artemi. I was glad to see his hard work recognized. He had a amazing season and now he has his recognition. We took a bunch of pictures with the trophy and jokers around with pat and his people before going back to the hotel and knocking out.