Chapter Twelve: Where the Heart Truly Lies

The sun glistened off the water, sending a ray of light into Diana's eyes. Raising her hand to block the sun, she looks toward her children playing in the backyard. Ace sat with his trucks splayed all around him. Eva sat next to him laughing as he tickled her over and over. Diana smiled at her children, leaning forward to grab the glass of iced tea from the table. Suddenly a pair of strong arms came around her pulling her against the chair she was sitting in. Looking up her gaze locked with her husband's playful eyes.

"Hello my darling! How was your nap?" She said as Sidney moved and sat into the chair next to her.

Smiling, he reached over to pour himself a glass. "It was refreshing! How are you my love?"

"Great! The kids are enjoying the beautiful sunny day!" They both turned their gaze to the two kids, laughing and playing on the lawn. Sid smiled and took a sip of the iced tea.

"Well, that's good! I was thinking we could take a drive out to Cole Harbour and see mum and dad."

"That's a wonderful idea! The kids would love to see their grandparents." Diana got up and stood in front of her husband. Putting his glass down, Sid reached up and pulled his wife onto his lap. She giggled as he kissed her nose.

Sidney wrapped his arms around her and kissed her softly. It was a beautiful summer day in Halifax, Nova Scotia and he thought a nice drive would be just what they needed.

"Well shall we gather up the children?" Diana said, glancing back at the kids. Ace had gotten up and had picked his little sister up. They were walking toward the deck where their parents sat.

Sid nodded, letting Diana get up and following suit. "Okay you two, do you want to go see Nana and Papa?" He called to his kids.

"YAY!!! I wanna see Nana!" Ace shouted, almost losing his grip on Eva.

Sid swiftly jumped off the deck and took his daughter from her brother. "Easy there buddy, don't drop her."

Ace's eyebrows furrowed and he frowned, "I wasn't gonna drop her Daddy!" He said defiantly.

Diana laughed and reached out her hand to her son. "Come on champ, let's go get changed into some clean clothes."

The family went into the house, Ace and Diana heading to his bedroom to get some clothes. Sidney took Eva into her room to change her. "What do you want to wear bud?" Diana asked her son, who had flopped down on his new toddler bed.

"I wanna wear my jersey!" He replied, sitting up.

Diana reached up and took his penguins jersey from the closet. She then pulled a pair of jeans from his drawer. "Alright champ. Here you go, let's get you dressed, arms up!"

Ace raised his arms for his mom to pull of his shirt. Once he was changed, she helped him on with his shoes and they went to find his Daddy and sister. They found them in Eva's room, Sid tickling her as she lay on the change table. Eva was giggling and squirming everywhere.

"I can see you've made a lot of progress." Diana teased, playfully patting Sid's ass. He grinned and gave her a peck on the cheek.

Diana picked up the little summer dress that was laying next to Eva on the table. "This is cute! Nice choice love."

"I figured it was appropriate to go see the grandparents in." Sid responded, taking the dress from his wife. Helping Eva sit up, he pulled the dress over her head and did up the buttons in the back. "There, all set!"

After getting the kids settled in their car seats, they set off for Cole Harbour. Diana stared out the window, singing to the radio. Ace and Eva sat in the back seat playing with their car toys. Letting out a deep breath, Diana turned and looked at her husband.

"I love Halifax. It's just so peaceful and beautiful. I could stay here forever." She said, running her hand through her hair.

Sid smiled at her and reached over to take her hand. "I love it too baby. I don't think I could ever stay away for very long." He squeezed her hand gently.

She smiled back, then turned to gaze out the window again. Diana had told Sid before that when he retired, she wanted to move back to Halifax permanently. As much as she loved Pittsburgh, she couldn't see growing old anywhere but Halifax. Of course, she was happy wherever Sidney was. Her place was by his side, and her heart was always wherever he happened to be, regardless of where that was.

When they arrived at Troy and Trina's home, Ace raced to the front door. "Nana! Papa!!! We're here!!!" He called as he opened the front door and stepped into the house.

"Hey son, shoes!!" Sid called, lifting Eva out of her car seat.

"Sorry Daddy!" Ace called, sitting down to take his shoes off. Troy came into view in front of Ace.

Smiling down at his grandson, Troy held out his arms. "Hey there sport!" He said.

"PAPA!!!!!" Acelin cried, jumping into his grandpa's arms. Troy laughed as he hugged his grandson.

Trina walked up behind her husband, smiling at her grandson. "Do I get one too?" She asked, holding out her arms.

Ace laughed and ran to her. "Of course Nana!!! I missed you!!!" His little arms clung to Trina's neck in  a warm embrace.

Sid handed Eva to his dad. Eva squealed with excitement as her grandpa hugged her. "How's my little princess?" Troy said, kissing Eva's forehead.

Eva responded by giving him a slobbery kiss on the nose. The grown ups laughed as they entered the house, Diana closing the door behind them. After taking off their shoes, everyone went into the living room and sat down. Trina had put Ace down and was now taking Eva from her husband.

"How are you two doing dad?" Sidney asked, leaning back on the couch and putting his arm around his wife.

"Oh we're alive and kicking. About the same as always. And how are you all doing?"

Trina sat with Eva on her lap, playing peek-a-boo. Eva squealed and laughed, causing her grandma to laugh as well. Sidney and Diana smiled at the two of them. Acelin went over and climbed onto Troy's lap.

"We're fantastic! As you can see the kids are growing fast. Eva isn't quite talking yet, we're still trying to get her to say her first word!" Diana said, her hand resting on her husband's leg.

The four adults sat talking for a while, then Trina decided she was going to take the kids and make some cookies. Sid and Troy went out onto the deck, while Diana stayed in the kitchen with Trina and the children. About an hour later, Troy came back in and told Diana she should go sit outside with her husband while he and Trina played with the kids.

"You look very relaxed and happy my love." Diana said, sitting in her husband's lap. Sidney wrapped his arms around her and smiled.

"I am. I'm always happy here. It's almost like a sanctuary for me." Lifting Diana's hand to his lips he kissed her fingers one by one.

Diana ran her fingers through his hair and down his cheek. His skin was tanned with sun, his eyes shining. It seemed that he just became more and more handsome every day. His strong jaw, dark hair and beautiful eyes making it hard not to be attracted to him.

"That's good." She noticed a distant look in his eyes, "What's on your mind darling?"

Sid shrugged, and looked out over the yard. The very yard he'd grown up in. Everything looked the same, yet different. Maybe it was because he was looking at it through a man's eyes, no longer a child's.

"I'm just thinking about what you said before. About how you could stay here forever." Looking at his wife, he kissed her hand again.

His wife stayed silent, allowing him to gather his thoughts. She knew him well enough to know he wasn't finished.

"I know that once I'm retired, you won't be happy unless you are up here in Nova Scotia. I'm a little torn I guess. I love Pittsburgh. The people, the city itself, our house. But I love you and I want you to be happy."

Diana took Sidney's face in her hands and kissed his mouth with a hard but passionate kiss. "Sid, you know that no matter where we are, I'm happy as long as I'm with you. My heart is wherever you are, my home is where you are. I belong beside you, with you, next to you! Nothing else matters!"

They gazed into each other's eyes for a moment. Then Sid pulled her tightly against him, his fingers curling into her hair. He held her tightly, her head resting on his shoulder. He inhaled, her scent filling his nostrils. He loved how she smelled, sweet like wild flowers.

"I love you so much baby girl! You don't even know how much I love you. There's no words that could ever explain it. Everything you have given me is more then I could ever ask for, more then I deserve! When I think about my life, I always think of you and those two beautiful children you've given me. I'm so blessed, and it's all because of you!"

He paused and held her away so he could take her face in his hands. He looked into her eyes and continued,

"At one time I thought hockey was all I'd ever need. But then I found you, and ever since then I've realized that YOU are all I need. You are my passion Diana, you are my love, my heart and my soul. I couldn't live without you!Whatever you want I will give you. I'd do anything for your happiness! And if retiring here in Nova Scotia is what you truly want, then it's yours! I'll be happy just as long as I have you to hold and love."

Tears stung her eyes as she stared at her husband. She could feel her heart pounding so hard it threatened to leap right out of her chest. "Oh Sidney! I know my love, I know! I feel the same about you, I always have. Everything will work out the way it's meant to! As long as we have each other, we are where we are meant to be. The heart lies where the ones we love are. I love you Sidney Patrick Crosby!"

Their lips met in a sweet, passionate kiss. "I love you too Diana Ebony Crosby! Forever!"

Chapter Eleven

Eva's cries echoed through the house, as Sidney stepped out of the shower. It had been three weeks since Diana had given birth to their second child. Wrapping the towel around his waist, Sid walked down the hall and into the nursery. Diana stood over the crib, reaching in to pick up their daughter.

"Shhh. It's okay little one, mama's here." Diana cooed as she held Eva and placed the bottle in her mouth. Turning she smiled at her husband standing in the doorway.

"How's the little princess this morning?" Sid asked stepping toward his wife, smiling down at his baby girl.

Diana smiled and kissed Sid as she headed to the rocking chair and sat down. "She's doing just fine. Hungry is all."

"Let me go get dressed, I'll change her after she's done eating." Sid bent forward and kissed his wife, then head back into their bedroom. Once he was dressed, he joined the girls back in the nursery. Acelin was also there, sitting on the floor watching his mommy and baby sister.

Sid ruffled his hair, causing Ace to jump up and latch onto his waist. Sid laughed and lifted his son into the air. Ace squealed and laughed. After setting him down again, Sid took Eva from his wife and laid her on the change table.

"Who's got a wet bum? Do you want a diaper change angel?" Sid gooed as he unsnapped the buttons on Eva's sleeper. Eva smiled and cooed up at her daddy. While he changed her, Sidney talked to her and tickled her making her squirm and giggle.

The Crosby's headed into the kitchen, where Diana started breakfast. Ace sat at the table with Sidney, who held his daughter in his arms. Eva giggled as her big brother made silly faces at her, their daddy joining in the fun laughing as his children played. Diana watched out of the corner of her eye, a smile spread on her face.

Today was an off day for Sid, with practice being optional. Sidney had opted to stay home with his family. He tried to take advantage of any days he could spend with his wife and children. Especially since Eva was still a newborn, Sid felt it was so important to spend as much time with her as he could. After all she was daddy's little girl!

"Acelin, please stop playing and eat your breakfast." Diana said calmly, reaching over and wiping Ace's chin with a napkin.

Ace leaned back in his chair and sighed, "Sorry Mama." Eva sucked on her pacifier as Sid held her in one arm and ate with the other.

Just a nice sunny morning and a happy breakfast in the Crosby household. It was how Sid and Diana liked it. These times spent together at the table with each other and their children were precious. Diana almost dreaded the next few days, when Sid would be back to practice and heading off on a road trip.

She hoped things would work out alright, with her being alone with the children for a few days. It was the first road trip that was more then a day or two since Eva was born. Sid had been home most of the time in the last few weeks, and Diana wasn't looking forward to him being gone for that long. As always, she just had to remind herself that it wasn't forever and if she kept busy, Sidney would be home before she knew it.

"What's on your mind love?" Sidney's voice broke into her thoughts and she turned to smile at him.

"Oh nothing important honey. Just thinking." Diana smiled again and stood up to put the dishes in the dishwasher.

Sidney playfully swatted her butt as she walked by, making Ace giggle behind his hand.

"Daddy gave you a spanking Mama!" He said giggling.

His parent's laughed and Sid ruffled his hair. "He sure did Ace."

"So little man, what shall we do today?" Sid asked, shifting Eva to his other arm.

Ace rested his chin on his hands. "Hmm, toy store!!!!" He said eagerly, jumping up from his chair.

Looking over at his wife, Sid raised an eyebrow. Diana laughed and placed the dish towel back on the oven door handle. "Well, I think that's a splendid idea!"

"Toy store it is! Just let me get Eva ready then we'll go. Go get some socks on buddy." Sid stood up and headed to the nursery to get his daughter ready for the outing.

Once the kids were dressed in their coats and Eva was buckled into her car seat, the family got in the Rover and headed off for the toy store. Acelin chattered happily to his baby sister, who in turn cooed and gooed back at him. Sidney reached over and took his wife's hand, squeezing it gently. She smiled and squeezed back. They were still very affectionate, always holding hands and showing their affection all the time. Even after two children and years of struggles, they were still very much in love. Diana felt that their love would only grow stronger as the years went on.

When they arrived at the toy store, Sidney helped Ace out of the Rover and began to set up the stroller for Eva. Diana took Eva out of the Rover and snapped her car seat into the stroller. Then they headed off into the store. Ace immediately ran over to the toy truck section, squealing with excitement.

"Oooo! They have a new one Mama!" He cried, pulling a truck from the shelf.

It was the latest truck in a set that Ace was collecting. He already had the first three and was anxious for this one to be in stores. Diana sighed and shook her head in defeat.

"Ask your daddy little man." She answered, leaning forward to place the pacifier back in Eva's mouth.

Acelin looked up at his daddy, his eyes pleading. "Please Daddy?? I already have the other three!!"

Sidney stayed quiet for a moment, then finally sighed, "Alright buddy, you can get it."

Ace screeched with excitement and clutched the truck under his arm. While he and Sidney continued to look at the toys, Diana slowly wandered over to the baby clothes section. She casually looked through the girl clothes, while Eva slept soundly in the stroller.

After spending an hour in the store, Diana suggested they go out to eat. Ace jumped up and down excitedly.

"Yes Mama!! Can we have chinese food? Can we, can we?" Ace jumped around as Diana place Eva into the Rover.

"I don't see why not, but you better ask daddy if that's alright." Diana lifted Ace up so he could get into his car seat. Then she buckled him in.

Sid got into the driver's seat and turned to look at his son. "So bud, where do you want to go?"

Ace grinned and clapped his hands together. "PF Changs Daddy!!!!" He replied with excitement.

Sid grinned and turned back around, putting his seat belt on as Diana got in and buckled herself.

"P.F. Changs it is!"  Diana and Sid talked while Ace played with his new truck and Eva slept. It was a great day so far and they were happy to spend a family day together.

Dinner was great, their waitress even brought Ace a free bowl of ice cream. She told him it was because he was such a handsome little boy, which made him grin from ear to ear. Eva slept most of the time, except for a half hour in which Diana fed and burped her. After dinner, they headed home to make popcorn and watch movies until it was bedtime for the kids.

Once the kids were in bed asleep, Diana and Sid quietly slipped into their bedroom for some cuddle time and much needed sleep. It had been a great day together as a family. Tomorrow it would be business as usual and Sid would once again be leaving on a road trip. But for that night, Diana had him all to herself.

Chapter Ten: Daddy's Girl

Sid awakens to his wife gently nudging his shoulder.  Turning over and propping himself up on his elbows he looks at Diana. "What's wrong baby?"

"It's time Sid. The contractions are coming every 4 minutes and they're really strong." Diana manages to whisper as she grasped her belly and winced in pain.

Sidney jumps out of bed and throws on his clothes. Moving to her side of the bed, he reaches down and pulls her up into his arms.

"Can you walk love? Or should I carry you?" He asks softly, as she leans against him.

"I..I think I can walk. We have to call Natalie to come over to watch Acelin." Diana grunted and gripped Sid's shoulders as another contraction hit her.

Sid led her to the couch and sat her down. "Sit here for a second while I call Natalie." He said, grabbing the phone and dialing the Lemieux's number.

After hanging up, he went to get Diana's bag from the bedroom. Sitting next to his wife he rubbed her back as she moaned through the contractions. "Natalie is on her way. We'll leave as soon as she gets here. Are you alright?"

"Yes, I'm fine. The contractions are really strong." Diana whispered, leaning her head against Sid's shoulder.

Minutes later, Natalie Lemieux arrived. After giving her brief instructions and thanking her for watching Ace, Sidney helped Diana out to the Rover and they headed to the hospital. On the way, Diana's contractions became much stronger and more frequent. Sid kept glancing over at his wife, as she groaned through them here head resting on the headrest and here eyes closed. As excited as he was to be a father again, Sidney hated seeing Diana in so much pain.

Once they got to the hospital they were immediately brought to labor and delivery. It wasn't long before Dr. Mayan came into the room to check Diana's cervix and see how far she was. Sidney continued to rub her shoulders and softly whisper encouragement in her ear.

"Well, You're 9 cm. So I think it will be soon. You're doing great Diana!" Dr. Mayan said after checking her.

Diana smiled weakly and thanked him. She then turned and looked up at her husband. "Are you ready love?"

"I sure am, are you?" Sid replied.

Five minutes later, Diana screamed as she pushed down, the baby's head now visible. Thick curls of black hair crowned the baby's head and both Diana and Sid smiled with joy. Tears streamed down Sidney's face as their daughter came tumbling out and was laid on his wife's belly. The baby's screams like music to their ears.

"She's gorgeous! You did fantastic baby! I'm so proud of you! I love you!" Sid gushed, wiping the tears from his face and kissing his wife.

Diana smiled through her own tears as she looked from her daughter to her husband. "I love you too. We have a beautiful little girl!"

After the baby was cleaned up, and mother and baby were settled in their room. Sidney was on the phone calling his parents. Then he called Mario and Natalie, letting them know they could bring Ace in the morning after breakfast, to see his baby sister. Diana then called her father, to let him know he had a granddaughter.

About 10:00 am the next morning, the Lemieuxs arrived with Ace to meet the new addition. Ace hugged his parents and stared curiously at the little dark haired bundle in his mother's arms.

"What did you name her?" Mario asked, gently brushing the baby's head with his finger.

"Eva Taylor-Marie. We decided on Taylor after Aunt Taylor." Sid beamed with pride as he looked lovingly at his wife and children. He was so blessed. Not only to have a beautiful, loving wife but also two amazing children. He was truly a lucky man.

"What a beautiful name! Fits her perfectly! She truly is gorgeous, congratulations!" Natalie gushed smiling at the beautiful baby.

Diana turned to her son, who was still observing Eva with quiet fascination. "Would you like to hold her Ace?"

Acelin's face lit up as he nodded eagerly. "Yes please Mama!"

Sid took Eva from her mother, and waited until Ace had settled down in the chair beside the bed. "Okay just be careful and make sure you support her head okay bud?" He said as he gently laid his daughter in Ace's arms.

Everyone smiled, as Ace beaming with pride held his newborn baby sister. Leaning forward, he kissed her forehead. "Hi Eva. Do you know who I am? I'm your big brother Ace!" He whispered to Eva, a smile spread across his face.

Sid sat on the bed and took his wife's hand kissing it. They both sat and watched their children bond. Ace looked up at his parents and grinned.

"She's really pretty! I love her Mama!" He gushed to everyone's gentle laughter.

Chapter Nine

Diana placed her hand on her swelled belly, feeling the baby move and kick vigorously. Smiling, she turned her attention back to the freezer of frozen goods. Staring at it for a moment Diana decided on corn and pulled a bag off the shelve and tossed it into the cart. Ace giggled as he kicked playfully in the front of the cart. "Having fun little man?" Diana said, tousling his curly brown hair. She was amazed at how quickly he was growing. Eighteen month old Acelin was looking more and more like his daddy every day, with his dark, curly, brown hair and hazel eyes. He was handsome just like Sidney and every time she looked at him, Diana could feel a flutter of butterflies in her stomach.

She was so proud of her family. Everything she'd ever wanted or dreamed of was right there. Sid was the love of her life and every day she loved him even more then the day before. Acelin was a gift that she was so thankful to have been given. He was strong, healthy and handsome; the best son any mother could ask for. Walking down the grocery store isle, Diana felt the baby kick again. Her due date was getting closer, and she was anxious to finally be able to see her baby.

"Mama, can we get fruit loops?" Ace asked as they turned into the cereal isle.

"I guess we can buy a box of them today." Diana smiled at her son, as she grabbed the box of fruit loops off the shelf. Just then her phone went off. Tossing the box of cereal into the cart, she reached into her purse. It was Sid.

"Hello love."

Sid's voice was soft and gentle on the other end of the line. " Hi beautiful, how are you feeling?"

"I'm alright, just grocery shopping right now. How are you? What time is your flight?" Diana asked, leaning against the cart.

"I'm good. Anxious to get home to you and the little man. Our flight leaves at 11:45, so I'll be home late."

Diana sighed and continued down the isle, pushing the cart. "Okay, Ace will be disappointed but oh well. Please wake me when you get in though okay honey?"

"I will, I promise love.  Je t'aime mon ange!" Sidney said gently.

"Je t'aime trop, Sid." Diana placed the phone back in her purse and looked at her son. "Daddy won't be home until after you're in bed. Sorry buddy, I know you really wanted to see him."

Ace looked at his mommy with a frown. "That's okay Mama."

When they finished shopping, they left the store and Diana started putting the groceries in the Rover. She smiled at Ace as she buckled him into his car seat. Handing him his snack, she closed the door and climbed in behind the wheel. Her belly had grown so big, that she had to have the steering wheel higher then usual. On the way home, Ace sang along to the radio and Diana laughed as she watched him in the rear view mirror.

After putting the groceries away and figuring out what to make for dinner, Diana settled down on the couch and turned on the T.V. Soon she was fast asleep. Ace quietly pulled the throw blanket over her and kissed her cheek.

"Sweet Dweams, Mama." He whispered, then went and played quietly in his room.

Diana awoke with a start a few hours later. Sitting up she wondered how long she'd been asleep. Slowly she got up and walked toward Ace's room to see what her son was up to. Opening the door, she found Ace fast asleep on the floor clutching his stuffed penguin. She smiled and quietly shut the door. She walked into the kitchen and poured herself a glass of orange juice. Glancing at the clock, she decided to start dinner. On days like this, when Sid was away it seemed almost pointless to make dinner. She longed for him to be at home every evening with her and Ace, sitting at the table eating and laughing together.

Of course, she had known the sacrifices she would have to make long before they married. It had been no surprise to her, yet it was still difficult to take. Even after all these years, it still hurt for him to be gone. Diana was so deep in her thoughts that she didn't hear Ace come in and sit on a chair. He watched her silently for a few minutes, before his little voice brought her back to reality.

"Whatcha thinkin' Mama?" He asked softly, his legs swinging over the edge of the chair.

Diana turned and smiled, "Oh, I was just thinking about your Daddy is all."

Ace sat quietly for a moment, then jumped up and threw his arms around his mommy. " I wish he was already home, Mama. I miss him!"

Leaning slightly to hug him back, Diana kissed the top of his head. " I know honey, I miss him too. But he'll be home before you know it!" It seemed like a long way off to her, but she said nothing.

The best thing to do, was to keep Acelin distracted. Diana tried her best to keep his mind off the fact that Sidney was away. It was just as tough on the little guy as it was on her. She was grateful that she had Acelin to keep her company while Sid was gone. Diana didn't know what she'd do without her little boy.

Later that evening, after dinner was done and the kitchen cleaned, Diana and Ace cuddled together on the couch with a big bowl of popcorn and watched a movie. How she loved those precious moments with her son. Just the two of them, spending time together and strengthening the bond between mother and child. Diana felt blessed to have such a smart, beautiful son and couldn't wait to hold their second child in her arms. While they watched their movie, they laughed and played. Acelin laid his head on his mommy's tummy to listen to the baby. The baby kicking in response to Ace's voice.

"I think she knows it's me Mama." Ace said looking up at Diana, his eyes shining with excitement.

"You know what? I think you're right!" She replied, smiling and running her fingers through his curly brown hair.

Ace pursed his lips together, as though he was pondering something. " Ya know what Mama? I think it's a girl."

Diana smiled, "You think so huh? Well you might be right! I guess we'll find out soon enough." She kissed his head as he layed against her, putting his hands on her belly so he could feel the baby moving.

Late that night, Diana was awakened by a gentle hand on her shoulder. Opening her eyes, she looked up into her husband's beautiful eyes looking down at her. She smiled, as she sat up and turned to him.

"Hello my darling. I'm home." Sid said softly, smiling as he kissed his wife.

"I'm glad! I missed you, my love." Diana's arms wrapped around his neck, her lips smothering his face with kisses.

Gently she pushed him onto his back. She then climbed on top of him, her legs on either side of his hips. Sid looked up at her smiling, his hands pulling her gown up over her head. He slid his fingers gently down her arms, then across her swelled belly. Diana leaned forward, her mouth hungrily capturing his.

After getting undressed, they lay there kissing softly. " I love you Diana." Sid whispered against her neck, as his lips grazed her skin.

As they made love, Diana moaned, how much she loved him softly into his ear. Then they lay close together, Diana curling her body into his.

Chapter Eight

James  Neal laughed as Acelin Crosby peeked out from underneath his helmet. "Looks a little big for you there buddy." Jordan said, smiling at 14 month old Acelin.

Acelin giggled and tried to tilt his head up to look at Jordan. The helmet slid backward of his head and onto the floor. "UH OH!" Acelin cried, bending over to pick up the helmet. "Sowwie, Unle Nealer!"

The room erupted with laughter as James scooped him up and hugged him. "It's okay little buddy. No harm done." Acelin was in the Penguins locker room at the Consol visiting his dad. He spent a lot of time there, always interested in what the team was doing and wanting to try on everything.

Sidney walked up and took his son from his team mate. Kissing him on the forehead, Sid sat down on the bench and pulled a penguins hat from behind him. "I got you something little man." He said putting the hat on Acelin's head. Acelin smiled and took the hat off to look at it. It had all the player's signatures on it. Acelin's smile spread into a huge grin.

"Awww Daddy!!!!" He squealed throwing his arms around his dad's neck. Sid grinned as he hugged him back. It was these special moments that Sidney cherished. Time with his son, where he could be with him and share his love for hockey with him. Acelin already had a hunger for hockey that impressed Sid. Even at the tender age of 14 months, Acelin had developed a taste for the game and everything to do with it.

Just then Mario walked into the locker room and came up to the two of them. "Well Ace, I have to bring you back to your mama and let your daddy get ready for the game okay bud?" He said, using the nickname everyone gave the young Crosby.

"Okay, Unle Maio!" Acelin replied reaching his arms up for Mario to take him. "WAIT! Me kiss daddy!" He screeched, leaning over to give Sid a kiss.

Sidney smiled and waved at his boy as he left. "I'll see you later little man!"

After his son had left, Sid went about getting suited up for the game. Smiling he thought of his wife, Diana who was probably sitting up in the owners box with Natalie and Mario. She wasn't showing yet, but just the thought that she was carrying his second child made Sid smile. Diana was due in May and they were both excited about having another baby. Sidney had been so thrilled to announce her pregnancy to everyone, he'd wanted to shout it from the rooftops.

As he stepped onto the ice, Sidney tried to drowned out the loud cheers of the crowd. His thoughts focused on the game, he ran the last practice over in his mind. As always Sid wanted to win. He hungered for victory. He could hear a faint, familiar voice shouting above the crowd, "LET'S GO PENS!!! YOU CAN DO IT!!! GO SID BABY!!!" Smiling Sidney looked up toward the owner's box. Sure enough, Diana was there waving to him with Natalie Lemieux standing beside her.

He quickly waved back, then went back to warming up. Diana was in his mind, his number one fan. She rarely missed a home game if she could help it, and cheered louder then all the rest of the fans in the building. Diana was always supportive, and never failed to encourage Sid in everything he did. Sid loved that about her. He loved her never ending faith in him, as well as her unwaivering support.

Sid stopped next to his team mates and took of his helmet. Resting his helmet on the end of his stick then, laying his forehead against it, he stood silently as the Anthem was sung. Once it ended, he replaced his helmet and snapped the strap in place. Another day, another game and he was loving every second. Winning the faceoff, Sid dropped the puck back to the rookie Beau Bennett. Away they went charging into the opponents zone. Putting the pressure on early, Sid let of two shots on net getting his own second rebound and passing it to Beau. With one swift shot, the rookie put it up over the goalie's shoulder and into the back of the net.

They screamed and celebrated, Sid shouting "great job!" to his winger. Less then 1 1/2 minutes into the first period, and the Penguins were leading the Rangers 1-0. 'This is going to be a great night!' Sid thought to himself as he jumped off the ice and sat on the bench after his shift.

The first period seemed to fly by. With few whistles and no penalties, the Penguins ended the first period leading 3-1. In the locker room, the boys were bustling with excitement. They could feel the energy radiating from the fans and felt confident that they could go out in the second and build off the momentum from the first. Sidney wiped his forehead with a towel and took a long drink of water.

Sid, himself had finished that period with one assist and a goal. The team was strong, and it was still fairly early in the season. If they could keep this power and momentum, the rest of the season looked promising. Sid was confident in his team mates and in himself. They had a great team, with a healthy mix of vets like himself, Evgeni Malkin and Marc Andre Fleury and rookies such as Beau Bennett, Conner Stark and Roman Shanahan. Sidney was happy with the group of players on the team.

They had lost a couple vets, like Zybnek Michalek and Jordan Staal in the last trades but with the new guys they'd picked up, Sid felt confident in their abilities as a team. The system hadn't changed and with Dan still head coach, they adjusted well. Of course they missed their boys. Sid missed Staalsy the most. Those two had been close to them,  like family. It was tough when players got traded, especially when they'd been on the team for as long as Jordan had been. They'd won two cups with the Pens and it was sad to see them go. But life goes on, and they team had to focus on the present.

As the second period began, Sid was feeling pumped. His adrenaline was rushing through his body and he felt strong. Two minutes into the second, Jordan ended up in the box for two minutes on a hooking penalty. The rookie Conner Stark was on the ice for the penalty kill. He had been number one in the juniors for pk and had an uncanny ability to get in the way of the puck and block shots. Conner also had unbelievable speed and agility. Sid had liked him instantly, and kind of taken the young center under his wing. Conner admired and respected Sidney. It was an honor to play with the greatest player in the world.

Sidney could feel his heart begin to race as Kris passed the puck up to Conner after blocking a shot. Conner shot up the ice, Chris Kunitz right behind him. The two of them broke into the Ranger's zone, Chris feeding the puck across to Conner, winding up Conner shot the puck quickly a loud roar rising from the crowd as it blew past the goalie and into the back of the net. Sid jumped up screaming as his teammates hugged on the ice. Conner's smile spreading across his face. It was his second goal of his NHL career; 4-1 Penguins.

By the third period the Penguins were leading 5-1 after a sweet power play goal by Sidney. With under two minutes left in the third, the Rangers had become really frustrated, making rookie mistakes and taking another penalty. Sid jumped out on the ice for the power play.

"Hey Captain, get the hat trick!" Beau said, tapping his Captain on the shoulder. Sidney smiled and nodded. He'd love that, if he could get one, it'd be the 12th of his career. Winning the face off, Sidney passed the puck back to his winger Chris. Racing down the ice, Sid and his wingers, Chris and Beau flew into the Rangers zone passing the puck between them as they went. Sid danced around behind the Rangers' net feeding the puck up to Beau at the point. Spinning off a check, Beau fed the puck back to his Captain who had settled himself in front of the net. The puck bounced from Sid's skate to his stick, and with a quick flick of his wrist he sent it sailing between the goalies legs and into the net.

The crowd roared and rose to their feet, as hats came flying onto the ice. He'd done it, Sidney had achieved his 12th career hat trick. The crowd went crazy as his teammates congratulated him. Sid looked up to see Diana grinning from ear to ear, their son in her arms clapping and cheering for his daddy. Sidney grinned up at his family, beaming from pride. But no matter how many goals or hat tricks he had, his greatest pride came from the beautiful wife and son he had been so blessed to have. When the final buzzer sounded at the end of the game, the Penguins had won the game 6-1. A great end to a very hard played game. Victory was certainly sweet.

Chapter Seven

Acelin squealed and splashed water on Sid as he jumped around in the water. They were at the beach near Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia. It was a beautiful, warm, sunny day. Diana was kneeling behind her son in the shallow water, making sure he didn't fall. Sid was sitting in the water in front of Acelin playing with him.

"Spash me Daddy!!! Spash me!" Acelin giggled, as Sid gently splashed a little water on his son. Acelin's little arm floaters bobbing as he flailed his arm excitedly.

"Sim, Daddy!!!" Acelin reached out his arms for Sid. Sidney took him by the midsection and held him tummy down on the water, as Acelin kicked and splashed. Acelin laughed and kicked his legs behind him. Diana laughed as she watched her husband and son.

Suddenly she felt a wave of nausea rush over her. Her smile quickly faded, and her face went white. Sidney looked at her concerned and picked Acelin up out of the water. "Honey, are you alright?" He asked, gently touching her forehead.

"Yes, I'm fine. I just felt a little nauseas for a second." Diana smiled softly.

"Maybe we should start packing up and head home. You should lay down for a bit." Sid stood up and helped his wife to her feet. Acelin clung to his neck as they walked back to their beach stuff and started drying off. Acelin grabbed his towel and started to play peek-a-boo. Sidney and Diana laughed and tickled him.

After changing out of their bathing suits, the three of them headed to the truck. After buckling Acelin into his car seat, Diana got into the passenger side and buckled her seat belt. Just then another wave of nausea hit her, she groaned and leaned forward putting her head in her hands. She felt Sid's hand touch her shoulder.

"Yeah, baby let's get you home. You really need to lay down." Sid pulled out onto the highway and headed back to Halifax and home. Diana kept her head down, trying to force the nausea back down.

Once they had pulled up into the driveway, Diana burst out of the truck, ran into the house and straight into the bathroom. Sidney could hear her vomiting as he sat his son down on the floor. Sammy and Hali came up to Acelin and started giving him kisses. Acelin giggled and climbed onto Sammy's back. "gi'ye up Sammy!" He said, as Sammy started to walk into the living room, Acelin hanging onto her collar like reins.

Sid headed down the hallway and into their bedroom. Stopping at the bathroom door, he could hear his wife inside. "Baby, are you okay? Can I come in?" He asked gently.

"Yes, you can come in." Came the muffled reply in between retching sounds. Sid opened the door and stepped into their ensuite bathroom. Diana was kneeling in front of the toilet, trying to hold her hair. In one quick step, Sid was kneeling beside her, holding back her hair. After a couple seconds, she lifted her head and slumped against him. A quiet moan escaped her lips, as she closed her eyes.

"Jesus baby, you've been sick a lot lately. I think you should go see Dr. Mayard." Sid helped Diana up and leaned against the counter as she washed out her mouth and gargled some mouth wash.

"You're right Sid, I do. I think I know why I've been so sick though." Diana turned and looked at her husband. He held out his arms, and she enveloped herself into them. They stood silently for a minute, while Sid kissed the top of her head.

"Why do you think your sick baby girl?" Sidney asked as she looked up at him. Diana smiled and pursed her lips.

"I think I'm pregnant." Her smile widened as she watched her husband's face. Sid grinned and gave her a gentle squeeze. Kissing her mouth hard, he squeezed her again.

"God that would be wonderful! I'd love to have another child. But, are you going to be happy if you are?" He looked at her, his smile fading slightly. Diana laughed, standing on tiptoes and kissing his nose.

"Of course silly!! I'd be overjoyed." Just then Diana got an idea. "Wait, Sid why don't I run down to the drug store and get a test?"

Sid nodded as they headed out of the bedroom and went to find out what their son was up to. As they entered the living room, they saw Sammy walked around in circles, Acelin still on her back hollering at her to go faster. Diana laughed and put her arm around Sid's waist. He responded by wrapping his arms around her and giving her a little squeeze. Acelin looked at his parents and grinned. "Mama, Daddy look me!!"

"We see you little man." Sid said laughing. Diana went and grabbed the keys and her purse then kissed her husband.

"I'll be right back." She called as she headed out to the truck. At the drug store, she walked over to where they had the pregnancy tests and picked up one. After paying for it, she hopped back into the truck. Diana smiled to herself as she thought about the possibility of being pregnant again. She and Sid had talked about having more children. They hadn't expected it to happen this soon, but they would be thrilled anyway.

Once she got back to the house, Diana set down her keys and purse and headed to the bathroom. While they waited, She played with Sid and Acelin on their bed, tickling her son until he squealed. Returning to the bathroom, she picked up the test. Suddenly she shouted for Sid to come. He raced into the bathroom, to see his wife in tears.

"It's positive! I'm PREGNANT!!!!" She screamed throwing her arms around Sid's neck. Laughing, he picked her up and spun her around.

"That's fantastic news baby girl! We're going to have another baby!" Sid put her down and found her mouth with his, locking their lips together in a passionate kiss. He looked down when he felt a gentle tug on his pant leg. Acelin looked up at him curious. Laughing he bent down and picked up his son. They both kissed him on his cheek and looked at him lovingly.

"So Acelin, what do you think about getting a brother or sister?" Diana asked, brushing a curl away from his forehead.

"Bodder or sisser?" Acelin repeated, his little head cocking to one side.

"Yup, do you think mama and daddy should have another baby?" Sidney said kissing his son gently

"Baby? like me? Ya!" Acelin smiled and started jumping in Sid's arms. "Other baby!" He squealed, making his parents laugh.

They left the bathroom and went to the living room. After deciding they would order Chinese food for supper, they settled down to watch a movie. Less then five minutes into the movie and before the food had even arrived, Acelin was fast asleep on the floor next to Sammy and Hali, who were also asleep. Sidney quietly picked him up and took him to his crib. Kissing him on the forehead, he whispered, "Sweet Dreams little man. Daddy loves you."

For the rest of the evening, Diana and Sid ate and watched movies. Soon they were both asleep on the couch, Sid's arms wrapped tightly around his wife.

Chapter Six

It was a warm, July evening as Diana sat on their private deck overlooking the water in Halifax, Nova Scotia. They Penguins had been fighting hard in the playoffs, but had lost the third round to the Vancouver Canucks. She was recovered from her accident months before and felt great. Of course, there had been times when she was tired and in pain. It had been a long journey. She looked up from her book, as Sid walked out to join her. He was wearing shorts and no t-shirt, his bare chest strong and starting to tan.

Smiling she set down her book on the table beside her and beckoned for her husband to come to her. Diana felt as though she had neglected him over the last few months. They hadn't made love since before her accident, and she felt guilty. Sid sat on the edge of her chair and kissed her.

"Hey beautiful. Enjoying the weather?" Sid asked, placing his hand on her knee.

"Yes I am. For once it's not raining." Diana laughed. Sid turned and looked out over the water. It was beautiful and still. There didn't seem to be a single soul around, except for him and his wife. Turning back to Diana, he smiled mischievously. Cocking an eyebrow, she looked at him with curiosity.

"What are you thinking about my love?" She asked, a hint of teasing in her voice.

Again Sid smiled, his hand slowly crawling up her leg, as he slid closer to her. Diana sat up and swung her legs over the side of the chair. Once he was sitting close enough their shoulders were touching, he reached behind her head to cup her neck and pulled her into a heated passionate kiss. She groaned against his lips and wrapped her arms around him, pulling him closer to her. As they kissed, his hand slid down to undo the strings on her bikini bottoms. The bottoms slid off her effortlessly, as Sid picked her up and laid her down on the towel laying on the floor of the deck. Diana moaned and arched her body against him as his hand caressed her body, his fingers grazing the scars from her surgery.

At the touch of his finger on her scars, Diana froze. Sid looked down at her questioningly. "Baby, what's the matter?"

"I...I just feel ugly with those scars." Diana said turning away from his gaze. Sid reached down and took her chin in his fingers. Turning her back to look at him, he smiled and kissed her lips.

"Baby, you know you aren't ugly. Tu es belle!" Sid slowly began kissing her again as he took her bikini top off. His hands softly caressing her skin. His lips moved down her neck, then her chest. His tongue playing with her nipples as he kissed her breasts. She groaned at his touch, her body writhing against him. When he reached her scars, Sid kissed each one individually making sure to take extra time with them. He wanted his wife to know she was beautiful no matter what. 

As his mouth hungrily found hers, their tongues dancing together with passion, Diana reached down and yanked off his shorts, revealing his erect cock. Sid moaned  against her lips as she took him in her hand and began to caress him gently. Diana then wrapped her arms around him and pulled him down on her. Arching her hips upward, she coaxed him inside her. They both groaned as his cock slid into her nest. 'God it feels so damn good to be inside her again!" Sid thought to himself as he thrust gently. 


Diana clung to him, her legs coming up to wrap around his waist as he made love to her. "God Sid! I missed this! You feel so good!" She moaned, pulling him tightly against her. Sidney pulled out and sat back on his knees, pulling Diana on top of him. As she straddled him, he slid back inside her, his arms wrapping around her body and pulling her against him. 


His pace became faster and harder as he thrust deep into her nest, causing her to cry out in pleasure. Her nails dug into his skin as she clung to him. Their tongues and bodies intertwining together in ecstasy. "Oh Diana! God this feels damn good! Fuck!" Sidney Cried out, slamming his cock deep into her nest, her juices spilling down his shaft and onto his legs. Diana was cumming over and over again, her cries of pleasure getting louder and echoing through the bay. 


Suddenly, Sidney cried out one last time, as his orgasm exploded inside her. He clung tightly to her body as she squeezed her vaginal muscles against his cock, sending sparks of pleasure through his body. He quivered at the feeling, his mouth once again devouring hers in hunger. Then they both collapsed on the deck, exhausted. Their breath staggered and hearts beating furiously in their chests. 


An hour later, Diana came out of the kitchen to see Sid laying on the floor throwing Acelin up in the air and catching him as he came down. Acelin was laughing and squealing at his daddy. Diana smiled and sat on the arm of the chair, content to watch her boys playing.  Sid was an incredible father, always making time to play with his son. The older Acelin got, the more he looked like Sidney. 'God he looks more and more like his father every day.' Diana thought to herself. 


Sidney looked over at her and smiled. "Hey baby girl. What'cha up to?"


"Just watching my two favorite men." Diana replied smiling. Acelin looked over at his mother, a smile spread across his sweet little face. "Mama up!" He said, reaching his arms out for her. Diana laughed and scooped him up into her arms kissing his cheek. 


"You are so darn cute! How did you get so cute?" She said, playfully tickling his neck. 


Acelin squealed and laughed trying to avoid her tickling. "Are you going to Papa and Nana's tonight? Huh bubbie?" Diana said, sitting on the couch with Acelin on her lap. 


"Nana! Nana, cookies!" Acelin screeched as his parents laughed. Just then the doorbell rang. 


"It's probably dad." Sid commented as he headed to the front door. Sure enough, Troy Crosby stood on the front step waiting for Sid to let him in. 


"Hi son. How are you today?" Troy said, as Sid shut the door behind him. The two men walked into the living room, Diana standing up to greet her father-in-law. 


" I'm good dad." 


"Hi Dad, someone's really excited to go see you and Nana tonight." Diana smiled as Acelin reached out for his grandfather. Troy grinned and took the boy into his arms.


"Well hello little guy. You're sure excited to see me." 


They all laughed as Acelin bounced in his grandpa's arms and shouted "Papa, COOKIES!!"


After Troy had left with Acelin, Sid gathered his wife in his arms. "Well now, what ever are we going to do with ourselves?" He grinned, and patted Diana's ass playfully.


His wife smiled and kissed the tip of his nose. "I have a few ideas." She said slyly. Taking Sid's hand she led him toward the bedroom. Once there, she yanked off his shirt and shorts, leaving him naked. Diana stood there for a moment admiring her sexy husband. Then she stripped slowly and sensually in front of him, giving him a good little show. Sidney licked his lips as he watched his wife's strip tease. 


Sensuously, Diana walked toward him, her finger tracing down his body as she slowly sauntered past him toward the bed. She crawled slowly on her hands and knees onto the bed, her eyes never leaving Sid. Once again he licked his lips, as she growled and made a biting gesture with her teeth. "You want me tiger?" She growled roughly. 


"Oh God baby yes!" Sid moaned, stepping toward her. He stood at the edge of the bed looking down at her. 


"Then take me. Ravage me, I'm yours to do what you please!" She hissed, smiling. 


Grabbing her roughly by the back of the neck, Sid spun her around so she faced the wall. Diana was still on her knees, but now she was kneeling at the edge of the bed, her ass level with his pelvic area. Sid placed one hand on her shoulder, while wrapping her hair around his other hand. Suddenly he slammed his cock deep inside her roughly. Diana cried out with surprise, "God Damn! Oh ya Sidney Fuck me hard and rough baby!" 


Gritting his teeth, Sidney fucked her violently, her body rocking back and forth with the force. His cock hammered inside her like a jackhammer on concrete. Diana's cries were loud and filled with ecstasy. "Jesus Fucking Christ!" Sid growled loudly, his teeth still gritted tightly together. He moved his hands to her hips, thrusting harder and harder. Diana gripped the bedspread tightly, his cock fucking her so hard, it felt as though he might rip her in half. 


"GOD YES!! OH FUCK SID!! FUCK ME!!" She cried out again. "Cum inside me baby! Cum for me!!!"


His breath heavy and scattered, Sidney grunted loudly again, thrusting his cock as deep as he could inside her nest as his seed exploded, filling her. "OH GOD!!!" He cried out, his legs starting to go numb. He slumped down onto the bed next to his wife, trying to catch his breath. His body was was shimmering with sweat, as he turned to look at Diana. 


Diana laid down next to her husband and took his face in her hands. "Wow! You're incredible my love. Je t'aime Sidney!" She said kissing his mouth. 

Chapter Five

The next week seemed to drag on. If Sid wasn't at practice or playing a game, he was at the hospital with Diana. Mario and Natalie had taken Acelin to give him freedom to come and go without worrying about his son. Diana's Doctors had kept her under heavy sedation in a semi-induced coma, that she had yet to wake from. Every moment he was with her, Sid talked to her. He told her how much he loved her and begged her to come back to him. Her Doctors continued to encourage him to keep talking to her. His heart was breaking that she still wasn't waking up.

Sid leaned against the boards by the bench, trying to gather himself. It seemed that he couldn't focus lately, his mind always on his wife lying in that hospital bed surrounded by machines and tubes. Taking a quick swig from his water bottle he adjusted his helmet and started to head back toward his team mates. he hadn't gotten far when Dan came up to him and took his arm.

"Sid, you shouldn't be here. This has been a very stressful week for you, and you are no good to the team if you can't focus. You need to go be with Diana. We can manage without you. Right now, your place is by her side. Please Sid, take some time off. Get yourself together, take all the time you need."

Seeing the look of concern in his coaches eyes, Sid sighed and nodded. He knew Dan was right. He couldn't focus on hockey right now, his mind and heart always at the hospital with Diana. Reluctantly he skated off the ice and went to change. He was torn between his duty as Captain to the team and his loyalty and love for Diana. Everything he loved was falling down around him. He couldn't focus on hockey, which made him more of a burden to the team then a help. Sid couldn't stop thinking about the love of his life laying in that bed, in a state of never ending sleep. It hurt so much, that no injury he had ever endured could compare to the pain within his heart.

As Sid headed to the hospital, his mind replayed the last week. He had spend all his free time by Diana's side. He barely slept and barely ate. His chin was rough with the beginning of a beard, from lack of shaving. Sidney was tired, but he didn't care. All he cared about was getting his wife back. At this point, she was all that mattered. Diana was all he thought about.

Once he arrived, Sid went straight to her room, the nurses greeting him as he passed their desk. As always, Diana lay silently in her bed, her chest rising and falling gently with every breath. Sidney sat down on the edge of the bed and gingerly took her hand. She was pale, but beautiful. The tube that had been in her mouth had been removed and the bruises had slowly begun to fade. Staring at her face, Sid studied the lines around her mouth and eyes. Her olive skin soft and smooth to the touch as he caressed her cheek.

Sidney sat there quietly for a moment. he bent down and kissed her mouth. "Diana, I'm here. This time I'm not leaving until you wake up. I promise you baby girl, I am not going anywhere this time." He whispered gently against her lips, kissing her once more. Just as he did so, he felt a slight tug at his hand. Snapping his head back, he looked down at Diana's hand in his. Sidney was sure he felt her try to squeeze his hand.

"Baby? Diana do that again! If you can hear me, squeeze my hand again!" Sidney said, a hint of excitement in his voice. He sat there completely still watching her face. Then ever so slightly, her fingers tightened around his hand. Jumping up Sid ran to the door and called for a nurse.

"She squeezed my hand! I think she's trying to wake up!" He told the nurse excitedly, as he ran back to his wife and took her hand once more.

The nurse rushed out of the room to call the Doctor. Sidney, caressed Diana's face again leaning forward to kiss her mouth over and over. Tears filled his eyes, as he begged her to wake up. "Baby, wake up please! Diana wake up, WAKE UP!" He said urgently.

Diana's eyelids began to flutter as deep groans started to escape her lips. Her hand tightened around Sid's as she groaned, trying to force herself awake. Then her eyes snapped open, her gazing resting on her husband's face. Sidney smiled as tears spilled from his eyes and down his face. His hands cupped her face, "Diana! Thank God!! Je t'aime, Je t'aime!!" He cried repeatedly as he continued to kiss her face.

Just then the Doctor burst into the room followed quickly by a nurse. He came around to the other side of the bed, and took Diana's wrist in his hand. "Mrs. Crosby, it's good to finally see you awake. How are you feeling?"

Diana, turned to look at the Doctor, her movements slow and weak. "I...w..what happened?" She managed to whisper, her voice dry and cracked. Sid reached and grabbed the thing of water sitting on the tray and placed the straw on her lips. "Drink some water baby." He encouraged, as Diana sipped through the straw. Her mouth felt so dry, as though it was full of cotton. Smiling weakly, she thanked her husband.

After checking her over, the Doctor told them she looked like she was well on the road to recovery. She would have to be watched closely for a while, but he was hopeful. Sid thanked him as he and the nurse left them to be alone. Sid turned as Diana reached up and touched his cheek. He took her hand and kissed the palm. "How is Acelin?" Diana whispered weakly. She felt tired and weak, but that was to be expected.

"He's just fine. Mario and Natalie have him. He misses you though." Sidney replied, looking deeply into Diana's eyes. It felt so good to look into those eyes again. He smiled as he bent forward to kiss her once more. Diana kissed him back, somehow finding enough strength to reach behind his head and pull him closer.

His lips felt good against hers. While she had been unconscious her mind was filled with visions of their life together. She had dreamed about all the times they'd made love. Every moment they'd had together was so precious. Diana realized just how much she truly loved Sidney. He was her everything and nothing could ever change that. Seeing him there, and knowing he had stayed by her side and talked to her made her feel that nothing could harm her.

Sid smiled at his wife as she ran her fingers along his face. Everything was going to be okay. He knew it. She was going to get better and come home, and they could be a family again. Diana laid her head back against the pillow and sighed. "I'd like to see our son, Sid." She said gently. Tears welled up in her eyes at the thought of her young son. Sidney nodded and told her he'd be right back.

When he returned, he sat back on the edge of the bed and took her hand. "Mario and Natalie will bring him down right away. They just have to get him ready. They told me to tell you they are very glad you are awake."

Diana nodded and smiled, closing her eyes for a second. She was excited to see her baby boy. Oh how she'd missed him and Sid. Her boys, her world. Opening her eyes once again, she smiled at her husband. 'God he's even more handsome then before.' She thought to herself. He had developed lines under his eyes, from the stress of her being in the hospital. Somehow he looked older, yet handsome and distinguished.

Sid and Diana turned as the door opened and Natalie walked in with Acelin in her arms. The moment he saw Diana, he reached out his arms "MAMA!!!" Acelin cried out, trying to escape from Natalie. Diana held her arms out, tears spilling down her cheeks as she enveloped her son in her arms. Acelin laid his head on her shoulder as she kissed him over and over. "My boy!!! Oh it is so good to hold my little man again!" Diana mumbled in between kisses.

The other adults smiled as they watched the tearful reunion between mother and son. Natalie hugged Sidney and smiled. "Je suis heureux qu'elle est éveillé. Comment allez-vous Sid?" Natalie asked, looking over at Diana. 


"Je suis mieux maintenant, merci" Sidney replied, smiling as his son looked up at Diana and wiped a tear from her cheek. 


Mario came up and patted Sid on the back, then he walked over to Diana and bent to kiss both cheeks. "Bonjour, comment vous sentez-vous?" He asked, shifting so that Sid could sit on the edge of the bed. 


"Je vais bien, merci." Diana replied. It was so nice to see the Lemieux's. They had been so wonderful to her and Sidney. They were like second parents, and both Diana and Sid loved them dearly. 


They visited for a while, then announced they should be going. Acelin needed a bath and supper before bed. Diana and Sid kissed their son good bye and thanked Mario and Natalie for everything.


"Merci de prendre soin de Acelin. Nous l'apprécions. Vous êtes merveilleux! Je vous remercie." Diana said hugging Natalie. 


"Vous êtes les bienvenus. Avoir une bonne nuit." Mario replied. 


"Avoir une bonne nuit." 


After the Lemieux's and Acelin left, Diana motioned for Sid to lay on the bed with her. He gently laid down beside her and put his arm around her. Turning her head to look at him, she kissed him softly. "Je t'aime Sidney." She said caressing his cheek. 


Sid smiled at his wife, kissing her nose. "Je t'aime trop Diana. Forever." Smiling once again, Diana lay in her husband's arms. They held each other talking about the next few weeks. It was going to be a long road to recovery for Diana, but with Sid by her side, she knew she'd be just fine. All she needed was her husband. With him she could get through anything. 

Chapter Four

The sound of the ticking clock seemed to pound through Sid`s head as he sat in the private waiting room. Natalie sat across from him in a chair holding a sleeping Acelin. Sid rubbed his eyes and sighed. He had been here for nearly two hours and still hadn't heard any news on his wife. Leaning forward, he placed his head in his hands. Tears began once again to stream down his already tear soaked face. Mario gently patted his back.

"She's going to be alright, Sidney. You have to have faith. Don't give up hope." Mario glanced at his wife, who was staring at Sid with saddness in her eyes. They both hated seeing him so upset. It pained them that Sid and Diana were going through this. They were like family and they felt helpless. Mario kept his hand on Sid's back as he wept. His heart was breaking, knowing how much Sidney was hurting and not being able to do anything to stop it.

Suddenly the door opened and a surgeon in scrubs stepped into the room. Sidney and Mario stood up, looking at the surgeon with hope in their eyes. "I'm Dr. Pantan, I'm the surgeon who operated on your wife. Mr. Crosby, your wife had some pretty serious injuries. We had to remove her left kidney which was crushed in the accident. Fortunately her right kidney sustained no damage. We also removed her appendix and a small portion of her liver. She has 3 broken ribs, a fractured pelvis, collar bone and two fractures of the tibia. She's stable now. We managed to stop the internal bleeding and repair the damage to some arteries. They're going to be moving her to private room right now, if you'd like to see her."

Sidney slumped against Mario, his legs turning to jello. Fresh tears began to pour down his face as he repeated the injuries in his mind. 'My God! My beautiful Diana.' He thought to himself. finally he managed to nod at the Dr. After letting them know an orderly would be there to take Sid to his wife, the surgeon left the room. Sid stood there crying against Mario for a few minutes. Every breath was sharp and it felt like he couldn't breathe. Finally, the orderly came into the room to escort Sid to see Diana.

He quickly managed to collect himself and followed the orderly out of the room and down the hallways to Diana's room. Sid stood outside the door for what seemed like hours, trying to control his composure, unsure of what he was about to find on the other side. Finally he opened the door and stepped into the dimly lit room. Sid's heart caught in his throat as his eyes rested on his wife laying in the bed. Diana was surrounded by machines and tubes. One tube was taped to her beautiful lips, entering her mouth. Another tube placed in her nose to help her breath. An IV was taped to her hand, pumping several medications into her veins.

In two quick steps, Sidney was beside her. His body slumping into the chair as he grasped her hand and held it to his cheek. Once again he sobbed, his tears tumbling onto his wife's skin. Leaning forward he placed his head on her chest, the sound of her heartbeat calming him slightly. "Oh my love. My darling Diana! Why did this have to happen to you? I love you baby, I love you! Please come back to me!"

He cried for several minutes, his head laying gently on her chest as he stroked her hand and kissed it repeatedly. Finally he sat up, his body quivering. His heart hurt so much to see his beloved wife that way. Reaching up Sid gently brushed a strand of hair from her face. Even with all the tubes, cuts and bruises, she was still beautiful. Sidney leaned forward and gently kissed her lips. Oh how he wished she'd wake up and smile at him. He ached to see her smile and look into those beautiful eyes.

"Diana, baby, if you can hear me, please come back to me. I can't live without you! I would be so lost without you by my side. Baby girl, I need you! Acelin needs you!! Come back to us my love, please come back to us!!! Je t'aime Diana, Je t'aime!!" Sid kissed her mouth again, a tear falling from his face and onto her lips. Gently he placed her arm across her belly, then silently and softly he crawled onto the bed and lay beside her, placing his arm around her. Once again he kissed her, then before he knew he fell into a deep dream filled sleep.

Chapter Three

The phone rang just as Diana stepped out of the shower. Wrapping a towel around herself, she went over to the bed and picked up the cordless phone on the side table. "Hello, Crosby residence." She answered, sitting on the edge of the bed.


"Mrs. Crosby, this is Margaret Connor from Dr. Mayard's office. Dr. Mayard would like you to come down today if you can for a couple blood tests. Are you available?"


Diana sighed and adjusted the phone on her shoulder. "Yes I can come down in about half an hour, is that okay?"


"Certainly Mrs. Crosby. We'll see you in a half hour or so then. Thank you."


After hanging up, Diana got dressed and dried her hair. Once she was ready she walked down the hallway to Acelin's room. He'd been down for a nap and should be up. Slowly Diana opened the door to his room, smiling as she saw him standing up in his crib chattering away to himself.


"Hi little man! Did you have a good sleep?" She cooed as she walked over and plucked him out of the crib. Acelin smiled as his mom picked him up. "Mama!" He chirped as he gave her a sloppy wet kiss on her chin.


Diana laughed and kissed her son's forehead. Walking over to his dresser, she opened it to see what she could dress him in. After changing and tickling the baby, she strapped him into his car seat and grabbed her purse and keys. He was growing so fast, she figured they'd have to buy a new car seat soon. Acelin cooed happily in his car seat as she carried him to the truck.




As she proceeded through an intersection Diana was watching Acelin in the rearview mirror. He was making faces at her. All of a sudden she heard the loud, frantic honking of a horn and turned just in time to see the SUV run through the red light straight at her. Fear gripped her as she thought of her 8 month old baby in the back seat. Diana quickly jerked the wheel of the truck and spun it so the impact of the collision would miss her son. Closing her eyes she braced herself as the SUV slammed into the truck sending it spinning and flying across the highway. A painful scream escaped her lips, then everything went black.


Diana awoke to the sounds of sirens and people's voices. Bright flashing lights stung her eyes and she tried to focus. She was laying in the middle of the road, paramedics and emergency crews all around her. Something warm and wet dripped into her eye. She wiped it away as she instantly remembered the accident. Trying to sit up she became frantic, "my baby!!! WHERE"S MY BABY!!! Oh God please!"


Two strong hands held her down, as a gentle voice reassured her, "Ma'am, your son is just fine. He's got a couple minor scratches but he's just fine."


Diana laid back down and closed her eyes. Pain shot through every part of her body. Opening her eyes again, she focused her gaze at the person who had just spoken to her. He was a fairly young man, around 25 with sandy blonde hair and gentle green eyes. She tried to speak again, but couldn't find the strength. Tears stung her eyes as she fought the pain within her body.


"We're going to get you into an ambulance and to the hospital. We tried contacting your husband but couldn't reach him. We found a business card for Mr. Lemieux in your purse so we contacted him. He and his wife will meet us at the hospital to get your son. He assured us he would get a hold of your husband."


Diana nodded weakly. Her mind raced as she thought of Sidney. She wanted him by her side. All she wanted was to see his handsome face. As they gently loaded her into the ambulance, Diana once again slipped into unconsciousness.


Sidney laughed as the rookie Xavier Riley missed the puck and fell backwards onto his ass. The boys were on the ice for their morning practice. Xavier skated over to his Captain and playfully threw his hip into him. "You think it's funny huh captain?" He said laughing, as Sid gave him a gentle shove.


"Yup I do. Don't worry kid, we've all had our moments." Sid laughed again, as he caught Dan skating toward him with a solemn look on his face.


"Sidney you need to get to the locker room and change. I'll meet you in there." Dan said, a serious tone in his voice. Sid looked at him curiously but shrugged and skated off the ice and headed to the locker room. Once there he began to change out of his gear. Dan quickly joined him and sat down on the bench next to him.


"Sidney, I want you to try to stay calm. There's been an accident. Diana was driving somewhere with Acelin when an SUV ran a red light and hit her. They've taken her and the baby to Allegheny General. You need to head there asap."


The room began to spin, as Sid slumped onto the bench. 'God no! Not again please!' He thought to himself, fighting to stay calm. His mind raced, and his thoughts turned to his wife and son. As he finished changing and raced out to his Rover, he prayed they were alright. Not even worrying about how fast he was going, he sped toward the hospital. Fear gripping him with icy cold fingers.


He entered the hospital, rushing up to the nurses station. "Where's my wife and son? What's going on?" He almost shouted, his body shaking with fear. The nurse came around the desk and gently took his arm, leading him to a chair. "Mr. Crosby, your son is just fine. He's with Mrs. Lemieux in a private waiting room on the second floor. Mr. Lemieux and his wife are waiting for you, just sit here for a moment and I'll have someone escort you to them."


Sidney, sat there trying to contain his composure. Within seconds an orderly came up to him and walked with him to the elevators to bring him to the second floor. Once there he was lead to a private room, where Mario was waiting with Natalie and Acelin. Sid instantly went straight to his son who was playing on the floor and scooped him up into his arms. Tears poured down his face as he clung to his son, kissing him over and over.


Mario silently came over and put his arm around him. Sid looked up questioningly. "How bad is it Mario?" He asked, pain choking his words. "She's in surgery. All I know at this point is, she has several broken bones and  internal bleeding. They're doing everything they can Sid."


Natalie took Acelin from him, as Sid seemed to lose all the strength in his body. He weakly slumped against Mario, who wrapped his arms around him and held him tightly. Sid buried his face in Mario's shoulder, his body shaking violently from the racking sobs. Diana's smiling face flashed in his mind, beautiful and soft. At that moment, Sidney had never prayed harder. He was pleading with God to save his wife. He couldn't lose her. God could not have her, not yet.

Chapter Two

The noise in the building was deafening. The crowd could be heard chanting all the way from the locker room, as the Pittsburgh Penguins were getting ready to step on the ice for their game against the Washington Capitals. As always, the room was full of laughter and chatter. Sid looked around at his team mates, excited about the game ahead. It was still early in the season, but the boys had already been on fire, winning their last eight games in a row. Sid was on a streak, scoring at least one goal in those games. Averaging 2-3 points every game so far, Sid was hot and he wanted to keep it going as long as he could.


His wife, Diana had told him she'd like to see him beat his streak record of 26 games. He had laughed, and told her he'd do his best. Smiling he thought about his wife and son. The two most important people in his life. They were his world, and he wanted them both to be proud of him. Sidney had always strived to be the best he could, always raising the bar and pushing himself to the max. That became even more important when he married his best friend Diana and she gave birth to Acelin. Instead of just striving to be the best for himself, he strove to be the best for his family. Not just as a hockey player, but as a friend, husband, lover and father.


As the boys headed down the runway to the ice, Sid focused on the work ahead. As always this would be a high octane game. The rivalry between these two teams was legendary. The crowd jumped to their feet and cheered as their Pittsburgh Penguins took to the ice. Sidney looked up and smiled when he saw Diana watching from the VIP holding Acelin in her arms. After the warm-up, they stood silently while the Anthem was sung. With his head bent and eyes closed, Sid thought about the task at hand. 'Let's make it 9 in a row.' He thought to himself as the Anthem was finished and they took their places for the puck drop.


By the end of the second period, the score was tied at 2. Sidney had assisted Jordan Staal on the first goal of the game. As he sat in the locker room, he contemplated the third period. As always the game was fast paced and physical. The Penguins needed to get to their game quickly in the third and try to keep the Capitals at bay. Their biggest advantage was the Caps new goalie. He was young and inexperienced which gave the boys an edge. If they could just keep the Capitals out of the Penguins end, they'd have this game in the bag. Sid guzzled down some water, then began to get his gear back on. They could do this and he was going to go back out there and prove it.


Halfway into the third period, Sid found himself wide open with the puck on his stick. He maneuvered quickly around the Capital trying to block his lane, and shot down the ice. Realizing he was all alone he looked up at the goalie sitting low in his crease. Just as he halted to a stop, Sid released the puck watching as it sailed up over the shoulder of the goaltender and into the back of the net. The crowd went crazy as he and his team celebrated the goal. It was now 3-2 for the Pens. Forty seven seconds later, Sid would surprise the Capital's goalie with a quick release shot through the five hole to make it 4-2.


With just under three minutes to go in the final period, the Capitals were showing their frustration. Alex Ovechkin the captain of that team, picked a fight with Evgeni Malkin. The two scared off and it ended with Alex laying on the ice, Geno's fist held up above his head ready to strike. The fight fueled the crowd, and the Penguins fed of the energy they were putting out. They were keeping the Caps offense at bay, taking away time and space and creating turnovers in the neutral zone. As the clock wound down, the crowd got louder and louder, cheering on their team "LET'S GO PENS! LET'S GO PENS! LET'S GO PENS!" They boys celebrated and hugged each other as the buzzer sounded. A great victory at home in the Consol Energy Center.


Sidney came out of the locker room after showering, changing and talking to the media. He looked up to see his wife and son waiting for him. Smiling he walked up, kissed Diana and picked his son up in his arms. "How's my little man?" He said kissing Acelin's forhead. Acelin squealed and grabbed Sid's nose. "Dadda!" He shouted, smiling. The Crosby's then headed out to the Rover. As Sidney buckled Acelin into his car seat, Diana got into the passenger seat and turned to look at her husband.


"Great game out there hun. You guys played very well! I'm really proud of you." Diana said smiling at her husband as he once again kissed Acelin's forehead. Sidney shut the door then walked around to the driver side. After buckling up and starting the rover, he turned onto the road and headed for home.  "Thank you baby girl. It always means so much to me, that you are proud of our accomplishments."


Reaching across the center console, Sid gently squeezed his wife's hand. Glancing toward her he smiled and winked as she smiled back. He couldn't imagine what he'd do without her. Diana had given him so much happiness. Sidney loved her more and more everyday, and he knew the feeling was mutual. They were soulmates and it was beautiful.

Chapter One

Mario laughed as 8 month old Acelin Crosby grabbed his ear and squealed. He and his wife Natalie were sitting in the living room of Sidney and Diana Crosby, visiting their good friends. Diana looked over and smiled as her son played with his 'uncle' Mario. Everytime he'd grab Mario's lip, Mario would pretend to nibble is fingers causing Acelin to squeal and jump up and down on his lap. He was a happy little boy, with chubby arms and legs and beautiful hazel eyes. Full of energy and crawling everywhere, he kept his parents on their toes.


Diana was sitting on the couch, Sid next to her with his arm around her shoulders. Natalie sat in the armchair chatting with Diana about the new pant suit she had purchased the previous day. Sid was watching his son, enjoying the time at home with his little family. It was in the midst of pre-season and he was excited about the upcoming regular season. They had a good team, and after winning the cup the previous season, they needed to work hard to try and get into the next playoffs and defend their title.


He glanced at his wife and smiled when he saw his second championship ring hanging from a chain around her neck. He had given it to her as a gift after winning the cup. Because it was so large, she had to wear it on a chain. But that didn't seem to matter to her, she loved it and wore it nearly every day. It was a sentimental gift from her husband, which was priceless.


"We really should do a shopping trip sometime, Diana. It's been a while, and I'd love to be able to spend some time with you and little Acelin." Natalie said, watching her husband as he bounced the baby on his knee. Both women smiled, when Mario made faces at Acelin causing him to giggle and coo.


"You are so cute little man! I wish I could take you home with me." Mario said kissing Acelin's forehead. Acelin babbled loudly and grabbed Mario's ear again.


"Be my guest! You're more then welcome to take him off my hands for the night Mario!" Diana laughed, looking over at her son. The other three laughed as well, all of them watching the bouncy baby boy as he pulled on Mario's ears.


"Really? Oh Mario could we? I'd love to have him for the night! Besides I think it'd be good for Sid and Diana to have a night to themselves!" Natalie gushed, turning to her husband a hopeful look on her pretty face. Mario gazed at her for a minute then sighed.


"Alright, we can take him for the night. I have to admit I think I'd like having a baby boy around for a night anyway." Mario stood up and handed Acelin to Sid. "Here, you may as well play with him for a bit before we go."


Sidney smiled and took his son. Acelin squealed and laid his head down on Sid's shoulder, promptly sticking his thumb in his mouth. "I guess you wore him out, Mario." Sid said with a laugh, patting his son's back. He then turned his head and kissed Acelin softly. Sidney was so proud of his little guy. He couldn't have asked for a more precious child.


Sid stayed in the living room with the Lemieux's, while Diana went into the nursery to gather Acelin's things. After packing a few sleepers and other items he'd need in a backpack, she rejoined her husband and friends. Handing the pack to Natalie, she said "His car seat is in the front entrance closet on the floor. There are a few bottles in here with formula you just have to add water, and there are also a couple jars of food and spoons."


Mario nodded, smiling at Diana. He always thought she was a great mom, so caring and always putting her little boy first. He had a lot of love and respect for her. Turning toward Sidney, Mario held his arms out for Acelin. The little boy, stared at him not moving his head off his daddy's shoulder.


"Come on buddy, time to go. You're gonna sleep over at our house tonight and give mommy and daddy a night to themselves." Mario said, taking him from Sid's arms. Sidney kissed his son and patted his head gently.


"Behave yourself little man." He said softly.


After Diana had said her goodbyes and given her son kisses, Mario strapped little Acelin into his car seat and they walked out to their car. Sid and Diana watched them as they drove away, then shut the door and turned to each other. Sid wrapped his arms around his wife and kissed the top of her head. They stood there silently for a couple minutes just holding each other.


Finally Diana looked up at her husband and smiled. "So Mr. Crosby, what do you propose we do with this night to ourselves?"


"Well Mrs. Crosby, how does ordering in some food, opening a bottle of wine and watching a couple movies sound for starters?" Sid smiled as he brushed a strand of hair from Diana's face.


"Sounds wonderful! I'll go pick out a couple movies, while you order the food and grab the wine."


A short time later they were cuddling on the couch, eating and watching a comedy.  It felt really nice to be able to just cuddle and enjoy each other's company without worrying about the little guy. They hadn't had a lot of alone time since he was born so it was a nice treat. Sid leaned back and put his arm around Diana's shoulders as she laid against his chest. She smiled at the sound of his heartbeat. Giving her a gentle squeeze, he kissed her head.


"It's so quiet, I like it." Diana said laughing lightly.


"Yes, it is very quiet. It's nice. I'm enjoying this time with you. We never get this anymore." Sid looked down at his wife as she turned to look up at him. Their lips met in a gentle yet passionate kiss, Sid's arms tightened around Diana and pulled her onto his lap. The movie was forgotten as they made love, their bodies shining in the light from the TV. Then, they lay naked together cuddling and talking.