Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

After Jacob left Kayla for his new partner Maia, her world is falling apart. But luckily Sky is at Kayla’s side and they both skate at the halftime show and blow everyone with their moves away. Sky’s mother is so impressed and allows her daughter to train with Kayla. The two are overjoyed and Elina even offers to train the two for the next competition. On top of this all the Hammers managed to score a win. Everything is going smoothly for the first time since they moved to England. But that all changes at the family breakfast.

“You want me to do what?!” exclaimed Kayla almost spilling her cereal. Her dad said with a calm voice “It will only be for a few weeks. You see, Anton was really impressed with your and Sky’s performance, so he wants you to skate with the team, so they can get better with maneuvers and stuff.”

“Ughh it’s always Kayla do this, Kayla do that. Why isn’t anyone concerned what I want in this household.?” Kayla exclaimed in a loud voice and looked directly into the eyes of her family. Her mother tried to calm her down. “Honey, of course we care about you. But right know the team needs your help. See it as a chance that you now can spend more time with your brother and you both get to do what you love.”

“Fine. But if it interferes with my training time with Sky and Elina, I will personally march up to Anton and…oh shoot. It’s 7:30 already, gotta run, see you at the rink”, said Kayla and grabbed her skates and ran out of the door. “What’s gotten into her?” Mac asked his parents. “Sometimes even I can’t understand her.”, answered his dad.

Kayla ran as fast as she could. Dammit why can’t I never be on time? She muttered to herself. Out of breath she finally reached her goal, the rink. Sky is already waiting for her. “Hey girlfriend!” Sky said full of joy and hugged her best friend. “Wait what?!” exclaimed a confused and blushing Kayla. “That’s just a saying basically meaning, hey best friend, so calm down.”, said Sky with a smile.

“Right. Wanna go in and start warm up?” said Kayla to Sky. “Yeah let’s go. I have been dying to show you this new choreography I thought of yesterday.!” Sky said and opened the door for Kayla. “My lady.” Kayla giggled and gave Sky a small shove “Thank you my chivalrous knight”.

While the two were getting ready Sky asked Kayla about her not so perfect morning. “And how was the breakfast. Did anything interesting happen?”

“Newsflash. Because of our awesome performance I get to train with the team to show them some manoeuvres and stuff. That means sibling bonding time, according to my mum. Honestly I’d rather mop the floors of the café.”

“Oh, come on that doesn’t sound that bad. I think you're brother is quite charming.”

“Believe me I have known him my whole life and he is the opposite of charming. He is the sole reason why I can’t skate with Jacob anymore and had to abandon everything I love back in Canada.”

“I know it has been hard for you. But no matter what, you have me at your side, your awesome skating partner/best friend. I would say let’s do the rest of the talking on the ice.” said Sky and grabbed Kayla’s arms and pulled her to the ice.

“You are absolutely right, let's go. What shall we listen too?” exclaimed Kayla with excitement.

“You know the new choreography I have been talking about?”

“Yeah and?” Kayla looked confused to Sky

“It’s to this song” [proceeds to play ‘Turn the music louder’]

Kayla’s face lit up with excitement. “I remember now it’s the one you played, when I first saw you skate in the hockey uniform. Show me the choreography.”

“Okay basically we start of like this.”

Sky explains Kayla the basic idea and the moves. After a little bit of practise, they start to get the hang of it.

“Okay at the last step we do a pair spin and as the grand finale I will dip you down.”

“That sounds perfect, let’s try it out” said Kayla and placed her hands gently into Sky’s.

As they pair spin was getting faster and faster. Kayla’s and Sky’s hands intertwined more and more. When Sky proceeded to dip Kayla down, the pair looked deeply into each other’s eyes. Their faces were only inches apart and both of them could feel the others heartbeat. The room was completely silent and both of them felt that they were completely in synch. As a door crashed open, both of them broke quickly apart. Kayla looked up to see who it was. Of course, it was her brother Mac. Couldn’t she get at least one minute of peace just once, she thought.

“Hey Kayla, hate to interrupt but my mother is here. I have to help her open the café, wanna continue tomorrow.?” asked Sky.

“Yeah, yeah no problem. If you want you can watch me as I teach those hockey players how to skate properly.” said Kayla and gave Sky a smirk.

“See ya later.” Sky said and shot Kayla a last lingering look before she made her way to the café. Kayla couldn’t help but smile at her new friend and was happy that she had an ally on her side.

Chapter Text

Kayla sat on the bench and listened to the song Sky and her skated to moments prior. She glanced to the rink if the hockey team was fully assembled yet, so they could start training.

Kayla could feel a tap on her shoulder. “Nice performance you and Sky did earlier.” said a familiar voice. Kayla looked up and saw that the voice belonged to no other than Ava, Hammarströms daughter.

“Thanks for the compliment. You’re not bad yourself.” said Kayla and watched as Hammarstöm and the team slowly stepped onto the ice. Ava took a seat next to Kayla, but as soon as she sat down, Kayla got up.

“Did I do something wrong?” Ava asked flustered with a blush to her face.

“Oh no. I have to teach these so-called "hockey players" how to skate properly. You know pirouettes, maneuvers and stuff. Your dad asked me, cause he saw me how Sky and I skated at the halftime show. I gotta go or I’ll make a bad impression.” explained Kayla to Ava and gave her a warm smile.

“Oh. Well, in that case show them what figure skaters are made of." answered Ava and held her hand up for a high five.

"You bet I will." said Kayla and met Ava's hand with hers. Ava watched as Kayla slowly made her way to the ice.

“Listen up Team! Because your skating techniques were severely flawed at our last game I brought in Kayla, Mac’s sister to help you. She’s gonna work with us for a few weeks, so treat her like a teammate. Understood?” explained Anton to the team. “Yes. Coach!” the team responded in unison, except for Mac.

“Coach with all due respect, this is ridiculous. How are some pirouettes gonna help us win the next game against the Orcas?” asked Mac.

“I’m your coach, so you will not defy my orders. Or should I remind you that your sister humiliated you in front of the whole team with her skating skills last time?” answered Anton.

The team giggled at the thought of that. “No.” was all that a flustered Mac could answer. “Good.” responded Anton with a smile.

Kayla made her way towards the team and placed herself next to Bear. “Ah, Kayla. Glad that you could join us today. You will work with every mate separately and in the end, all together understood?” asked Anton with a firm voice.

“Yes, sir.” answered Kayla in a soldier like speed.

With that said, Anton moved to the side of the ring and let Kayla get to work. She turned to the team and saw a bunch of unmotivated guys in front of her. You got this, she assured herself, you have to show those wannabes what a figure skater is made of.

“Okay. Your fatal flaw is that you move to stiff. I understand that this is vital in hockey, cause you gotta protect the puck and your teammates. But with this exercise I want you to loosen up and focus on your flexibility.” said Kayla. She then proceeds to show the team some simple moves for warmup and maneuvers.

“Phew! I guess we’ve reached the end of the lesson. My final challenge for the day is: Who is faster, a hockey skater or a figure skater?” said Kayla and waited for the teams reaction.

“Really? We are waaay faster than you.” exclaimed Mac and shot his sister an annoyed glance.

“That’s why I challenge you to a race. The whole team against me. We’re gonna skate from one goal to another. Who gets here first is the fastest! You up for the challenge Hammers?” asked Kayla the whole team. The Hammers looked around each other and exclaimed “Yeah!”.

Anton stood at the side-lines and acted as the referee. The team and Kayla took their place and prepared for the signal. Everyone could feel their eyes on them. This little challenge attracted quite a crowd. Kayla’s parents, Ava and her mom and of course Sky were all watching and thrilled to see who would win. “Okay Hammers and Kayla. On your marks….Get set…GO!”

Like a bullet everyone rushed forward to the goal. Kayla was fuelled with determination that she would win this one, but her brother was also convicted that he would. After a few seconds the race was over. Anton saw exactly who won and to his surprise it was actually a tie between Kayla and Mac.

“A tie really? Are you a hundred percent sure?” Kayla and Mac both asked the coach.

“Yes. Guess I’m gonna have to call you the Dynamic Duo from now on.” said Anton with a chuckle.

“Oh, please no!” the twins pleaded in unison.

As the training session was over everyone was sitting in the changing area. Anton came forth and graduated the team for the successful lesson today.

“So, this week we have end game of the season with the Orcas. They are gonna be here for a few weeks so treat them with respect. I expect you to give your best and apply what you have learned today. Furthermore, the Orcas will arrive today and we are going to have an icebreaker with them later.” said Anton.

“Oh. A party!” exclaimed Ava excitedly and everyone looked at her with the same excited expression.

“No my dear, this is a strict formal event. So I expect you all to behave. Training is over for today. See you at the icebreaker everyone!” with that bland statement Anton left the room.

Kayla wasted no time and went straight to Sky to tell her about the training session. But as she walked up the stairs, she saw Sky and her brother of all people sitting at a table and chatting.

She stopped in the middle of the stairs and contemplated if she wanted to actually bother those two. Because this was all too familiar to Kayla. Everyone liked her cool brother and used her to get to him. She always ended up alone, after some time she got used to it.

Okay Kayla, pull yourself together. Sky is your friend, just go up and talk to her, she muttered to herself. Kayla continued her way up the stairs till she reached the table were the two were seated.

“Hey Sky! Can we have a chat real quick?” Kayla asked.

“Sure, if you excuse me Mac, I gotta chat with my friend” said Sky and got up. She grabbed Kayla’s hand and the both walked to the counter.

“So, how’s the slushie?” asked Sky.

“Well, tastes like blue to me”, chuckled Kayla.

“I wanted to ask you if you’re at the icebreaker later this evening?” said Kayla.

“Yeah about that, I actually gotta help my mum with the café. But I’m sure I can squeeze in a dance with you.” said Sky and smiled fondly at Kayla.

She returned the smile and said “Perfect, I’ll save you a dance at the rink.”

Chapter Text

Sky let herself sink on Kayla’s neatly made bed. She thought Kayla had the better bed between the two. Hers was a single bed with not much on top but her friend had a double bed which was tinted in a pale blue and had so many pillows you could drown in them.
God it was just so soft, just like her skin, she thought.

“Ugh, thanks again that we can meet at my house I’m so exhausted after training with the team AND you. You comfortable over there?” Kayla asked as she glanced over to her friend and saw her spread out on the bed.

Sky was startled by that question and didn’t know how to answer.

“Uhh... yeah. It’s very soft!.”, she said in an unusually loud tone. Sky rolled over so she was staring at the ceiling which had glow in the dark stars on it.

“Those stars are cute! I had the same when I was a child. You know many times I’ve been in your room I've just now realised how small it actually is.”

“Unfortunately, that’s the downside when you are moving to England. You know, back in Canada my room had a higher ceiling. In here the walls are just too close together, I get the feeling their closing in on me and I just feel … trapped. On the first day in England I couldn’t sleep. So I got those stars, I know their childish but they helped.”

“I’m sorry I didn’t know it was this hard for you moving here. I bet you had to leave many friends behind.”

“To be honest, I didn’t have many back there. Sure, I had people I talked to on a daily basis but they were Mac’s pals and only did so cause they took pity on me. He was the popular one, I was just the pity party.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah, one time I even overheard them.”

*Flashback*

Kayla closed her locker and swiftly headed for the exit, she couldn’t risk getting home late again. But she stopped as she heard a familiar voice at the corner of the hallway.

“Do we really have to invite her to the sleepover?!”

“Yeah Angi, how else are we supposed to get closer to Mac!”

“But she’s just so weird Teresa!”

“Whatevs, I don’t have time for your stupid comments Angi. Come on or we’re gonna be late for our nail appointment.”

*End of Flashback*

“Does that mean you were never invited to a sleepover?”

“Unfortunately, no. What do girls even do at such a thing?” Kayla tilted her head and curiously looked at Sky.

“You know talk about fashion, braid each other’s hair and do pillow fights. Those are usually the most fun.”, Sky replied with a smile but Kayla looked at her with disbelief.

“Scientifically how could throwing cushions at each other be fun. If you ask me that’s bulls-“

A pillow hit Kayla right in her face.

“What was that for?”

“You talked to much. So do you think you got the guts to beat me McBentley?”, Sky replied with a smirk on her face.

“Oh you are so on!”

Kayla armed her right hand, which was her throwing arm, with a pillow and chucked it across the room in Sky’s direction. While Kayla was out of ammo, Sky had more than plenty. That pillow fight went on for a few minutes, miraculously they didn’t hit anything that could easily be broken.

Compared to the beginning the tables turned drastically in the end. Sky found herself on the bed without any pillows left while Kayla stood across the room with two huge pillows in her hands ready to fire.

They stood like this for a couple of seconds. Eyes trained on each other. The air was filled with suspension on what the other might attempt next. That was often the case for Kayla and Sky. It’s like a dance, both of them wondering who would have the guts to make the first move.

“Give up?”, Kayla asked with her eyebrows questionably raised.

“Yes, please have mercy on me!”, Sky dramatically gestured as she let herself fall onto the bed.

“You know that sleepover thing isn’t so bad after all. Wanna stay over so we can try out the other things.? Only if you want of course!”, Kayla quickly added.

“I would lov-“ she started but was interrupted by her phone. Sky grabbed it and looked who decided to crash this beautiful moment.

Mum: Where are you at this hour?! I’m worried, please come home.

Sky let out a scoff and annoyingly texted back.

“Sorry I can’t mum wants me to come home, you know how controlling she can be sometimes. Maybe another time?”, she asked in a hopeful tone.

“Yeah, no problem. Come on I bring you to the door.”, Kayla answered slightly disappointed.

At the door the two of them hugged and said their usual goodbyes. As Kayla wanted to get back to her room her mother approached her and put some bedding in her hand.

“Uhm excuse me what is that for?” Kayla asked her mum with a confused look on her face.

“That’s some bedding for Carson, since you’ll be going up you can drop it off in his guest room.”, her mum simply stated.

“I still think it was a terrible decision to let him stay. You know he and Mac can’t stand each other.”

“Look honey, I don’t have time for this I still got some work to do. Can you please do once as you are told?” her mom asked with an exhausted undertone.

With that statement Kayla turned her back on her mum and walked up the stairs. As she looked at the hallway filled with doors she didn't even know which one was the guestroom. Jezz I didn’t realise we have so many rooms in this tiny house of a shoebox! When she finally reached Carson’s room, she knocked on the already open door, cause you know formality and what not.

“Hey Carson, brought you some bedding.”, Kayla said in a chill tone.

“Oh, thank you. How generous of you!”

“Well, my mum made me do it so you better thank her.”, she said with an awkward smile and already wanted to walk out off the room when something caught her attention.

“No way you also listen to “The Chillers”!”

“A friend recommended it. It’s their new album “Reflection”. It’s hard to get though cause they only sell them at this –“

“little thrift store across the cat café.”, Kayla broke him off.

“How do you know that?”, Carson asked with interest.

“Cause they are my favourite band! You have to let me borrow this.” , she said as she held the CD in her hands and glanced at Carson.

“Will do, if you ask nicely”, he said with a grin. “What do you think about me staying here anyway.”

With that sudden question Kayla was thrown off guard.

“Did you hear me from before if so I’m sorry I was jus-"

“No, I only wanted your honest opinion.”

“Oh! Honestly, I really don’t care but aren’t you and my brother like mortal enemies or something?”, she asked with a curious face.

“Well, times haven’t changed so we still uphold that rivalry of ours. Just to be clear he started calling me a mortal enemy not me.”, Carson held his hands up in defense.

“Relax I won’t point fingers but I see the pointers on my watch and they tell me I should go to bed or I won’t get up tomorrow for training. See you in the morning!” Kayla said but could barely hold back a yawn.

Kayla carefully put the CD back and walked to the door. As she strolled through the hallway, she could make out Carson wishing her a good night but she was already too tired to register it.

Somehow, she managed to brush her teeth and get to bed in one piece. This late she couldn’t even form a coherent thought anymore so, she just went to sleep.

- Next Morning -

Kayla was already eating her cereal on the kitchen counter as she heard the loud and obnoxious bickering from the hallway.

“Normally I’m first in the bathroom. You know cause I LIVE here!!”

“But isn’t the guest always king?”, Carson asked smugly.

She couldn’t help but chuckle at that response as the two idiots walked in the kitchen.

“Mum says we have to be ready in 10 minutes. If I were you two, I would stop talking and start eating.” Kayla didn’t even looking up from her phone as she said it.

Carson took the seat on the kitchen counter next to Kayla, while Mac preferred the table. They were two polar opposites while Mac shoved his cereal as fast as he could, Carson took is time and chatted with Kayla.

“I have to ask, is he always this grumpy in the morning?” Carson said with an exhausted look.

“Yeah, he’s always this condescending. You just accept it and learn to live with it.”, shot Kayla as response.

“You two talk about me like I’m not even here! Are you now like best friends or what?” Mac asked them both furiously and starred at them with raised eyebrows.

Carson and Kayla stared at each other and just burst out laughing. But Kayla wondered, was she really his friend? If so, he was the first person who liked her but hated her brother. But the more she thought about it, the more she began to like that thought.

“Kayla, Mac, Carson get going or we will be late!!”, Luke Mc Bentley their dad yelled from the driveway.
Well duty calls was all she thought as she made her way to the car.

- At the Ice Rink -

The hammers were already on the rink, skating around and chatting with each other. Unfortunately Mac and Kayla were the last to join, which means they were late.

“How nice to grace us with your presence!”, Hammarström said fed up with patience.

“Sorry coach”, the two said in unison.

“You can make up for it with skating. Now let’s get going!”

With that the hard training began, lucky for Kayla she only helped with the warmups and skating techniques, so she was finished early (but it was still late). On the bench she changed from her skates into her normal shoes and contemplated what to do with the rest of her day. Maybe she could chill for once?

But fate had other plans for her, cause someone took a seat next to her.

“So how is it training with the team”, asked Carson as Kayla tied her shoes.

“Fine. But they make those inside jokes I don’t really get. I may stand among the team but it still feels like I’m invisible to them. It’s almost like I’m not even here.”, as she finished her statement she turned to Carson.

Since when where we sitting so close together ?, she asked herself.

“Don’t worry that’s tradition in hockey teams. Gotta be a little tough on the newbies. It takes time till you are a part of the team cause you gotta earn their respect. Went through the same thing.”

“Wow I never really saw it that way.”, she said with surprise.

In the meantime, Kayla gathered her stuff and stood up from the bench, ready to go home.

“Uhm since I’m also finished with training I was wondering … May I walk you home?”, he asked with an awkward smile and held out a hand to Kayla. She hesitantly took his hand thus confirming the question.

They were walking in silence for a while before either of them got the courage to speak up. Kayla took a seat at a park bench and Carson placed himself next to her, of course with moderate distance between them.

“Is your home really that far away? Cause we’ve been walking for half an hour.” he remarked as he took a sip from his water bottle.

“Actually no. It’s about 10 minutes but I wanted to show you one of my favourite places here, like this park”, a smile slowly spread across Kayla’s face.

Carson just looked at her with amazement and scoffed “Mc Bentley, you are full of surprises!”

“Maybe now you won’t underestimate me! But I actually wanted to ask you something.”

“Ok. Shoot.”

“How did you and Mac become mortal enemies. You two used to be friends. What happened?”

“Well short story he dated my best friend, Christy. She started to spend more time with him than with me. We argued about that a lot and ended our friendship. I still blame him for it. They didn’t even last that long, he broke up with her when he moved here.”, as he was finished with his sad backstory he stared of into the distance.

“I can get were you are coming from. I didn’t have many friends back in Canada. They always used me to get close to Mac. Here I only have Sky but he got a whole hockey team of friends. We only moved here because of his stupid hockey, nobody even asked me if I wanted to be part of this.” , Kayla balled her hands to fist and swiftly turned to Carson.

This sparked his attention and he also turned so they were face to face.  

“Wow. I guess we both got our lives ruined by your brother.”, he stated and gave her an apologetic look.

In this moment Kayla realised how much she and Carson had actually in common. They were just to teenagers trying to deal with what life throws at them. At this point she gotten curious about him and wanted to know where this conversation would lead.

“Do you even have any siblings?”, she sincerely asked.

“Yeah. You’re lucky you only have one, I am stuck with 5 other brothers. I know how it feels when you have to compete for your parents’ attention.”

Kayla looked at him and saw him in a new light. Never had she imagined that she would meet another person who truly understood her, but now she did.

“But I’m glad about one thing.”

“About what?”, Carson asked with a grin.

“You!”, she simply said without breaking eye contact.

“Me!?”, he pointed to himself.

“Yeah! It’s nice talking to someone who gets it.”, she gave him a friendly shove with her shoulder.

“Yeah, I guess it is”, he replied with a smile.

After that conversation they starred at each other for a while, lost for words. In the end they decided it would be best to actually walk home.

-Meanwhile at the ice rink_

Nico and Mac were the last ones in the locker room. As Mac packed the last of his gear in his sport bag, he thought that this was the perfect moment to ask Nico, since they were the only ones in here. Mac slowly made his way to him.

“Hey Nico?”, he asked with a nervous tone.

“Yeah?”, Nico replied absent minded cause he was still focused on packing his stuff.

“I- erm -Would you- Ugh! Why is this so hard?!”, said Mac and ran his hand through his hair.

This finally got Nico’s attention and he turned towards him. He looked at him with anticipation and was interested in what Mac had to say.

“Okay so I’ve been thinking the whole training how to ask you but I’ve realized there is no right way so I’m just gonna say it and hope for the best. Do you wanna stay over? As in just a casual night at my house, you know to strategize for the game”

“Strategize?”, Nico repeated with a laugh and lifted his eyebrows. “I would be honoured to. You know I’ve been wondering when you would ask me that. I’ve been dropping hints, you know.”

“Really? In that case my head is a thick block of ice.”, Mac replied with a smile and gave Nico a quick kiss on the cheek. “Come on or were gonna be late!”, he said and went to the other side to grab his bag leaving a blushing Nico behind.

After some walking, they reached the Mc Bentley residence. Mac rushed forward and held the door open for Nico, as a gentlemen should. The pair took off the shoes but couldn’t overhear the laughing that came from the kitchen. So, they went inside to investigate.

As they made their way to the kitchen, they could make out a female voice.

“And then I was like What are you gonna do stab me?!”

To their surprise they found Carson and Kayla seated at the kitchen counter both hunched over from laughing so hard. Mac didn’t know what he was feeling at this moment. His mortal enemy goofing off with his sister in the kitchen is definitely all kinds of wrong.

“Hey, you two goofballs!”, Mac blurted at them.

With that Kayla and Carson quickly composed themselves and looked into the direction the sound was coming from.

“I don’t wanna keep you from whatever you doing but Coach said that the Icebreaker is moved to next week cause they need to do some repairs at the rink. Just wanted to let you know.”, as he was finished Nico walked into the room and placed himself next to Mac.

“Thanks.” Kayla replied with a smile and made eye contact with Nico. “Before you go i have a question for you two. Do you know why hockey players are so good at making new friends?”

“Uhm…no?”, Nico answered confusion written all over his face.

“Cause they know how to break the ice!”, Kayla blurted out and began to laugh again.

Everyone found the joke funny expect for Mac.

“You two are so weird.”, with that Mac turned around and took Nico’s hand and they made their way to his room.

Kayla wiped a tear away from her cheek because of all the laughing. “Thanks for teaching me that one! Now that Mac has company over I'm glad I have you to hang out with.", Kayla said and stared into Carons eyes.

He leaned himself on the counter and replied without missing a beat. “Yeah, me too.”

Chapter Text

- One week later -

“You’re late”, said Sky while she slowly made her way out of the rink.

“I know”, huffed Kayla as she tried to catch her breath and leaned on the door for support.

Quick as a fox she took a seat on the bleachers and began changing into her ice skates. To her surprise Sky took a seat next to her.

“I’m so sorry I’m late. Carson and I stayed up a tad too late watching a movie. I kind of lost track of time in the morning.”,
explained Kayla as she tied her skates.

“Losing track of time, huh? Sounds to me like you have a crush on someone.”,
said Sky with a grin and lightly shoved Kayla’s shoulder.

Kayla’s alarm bells started ringing in her head. Oh, shit she knows that I have a crush on her!!! What gave it away?
Was I not careful enough?? Is she psychic or something???

So many things were running through Kayla’s mind that she didn’t even notice Sky waving a hand in front of her.

“Hey planet to Kayla!??, asked Sky confused.

“Uhh Present!”, said Kayla in a mildly flustered voice.

“I mean I get it Carson is kinda cute.”, stated Sky.

Relief washed over Kayla; her secret was safe.

“Uhhhh I guess?”, was all Kayla managed to get out. “But let’s train we’ve already wasted enough time.”
with that the two got up and made their way to the rink.

As soon as Kayla stepped onto the ice she felt at ease.
Somehow things were always simpler on the ice be it talking, thinking or breathing.

Sky and Kayla got into their opening position. It was so silent in the rink that only their breaths and skates gliding gracefully over the ice could be heard. Kayla always liked to ice skate. Not only because she was good at it but because it gave her some sort of comfort that nothing else could. Except for Sky.

When she was skating, it felt as she was flying and no one could yank her down to reality. The only thing better than that was sharing this feeling with your partner. For an ice skater it’s as hard finding the perfect partner, you got to have the same vibe.
She was so lucky she met Sky and that she got to be her partner. The two of them were completely in sync.
Kayla could feel that with every lingering touch, gaze and pirouette. And god she hoped that feeling would never stop.

Both of them were done with the routine and in their ending pose. Which consisted of Sky dipping Kayla down. This gave Kayla the perfect angle to look into Sky’s eyes. They were a lovely shade of brown. She even noticed the one hair that always fell out of her perfectly crafted bun. Without even realizing she tucked it delicately back into place.

Unfortunately, this magical moment was interrupted as Kayla’s phone decided to ring. But neither of them moved right away, they wanted to saver whatever was between them and enjoy each other’s comforting touch a little longer.

This was of course before Sky broke the silence.

“Don’t you wanna get that?”, she asked confused.

“Yeah, I probably should.”, with that both of them skated in the direction of the bleachers.

Just as Kayla was about to get her phone, the ringing stopped. A text popped up on her lock screen.
Curious as a cat Sky was looking over Kayla’s shoulder and read what the text said.

“Carson wants to go to the Ice Breaker with you!”, said Sky in a teasing voice.

Again, Kayla was distracted and didn’t release Sky was standing so close to her.

“Are you spying on me?”, Kayla asked Sky and turned her head so they were looking at each other.

“Hey, I wanna know what’s so important that we had to lay our training on ice!”, finished Sky before she broke out laughing.

“Haha great joke cause we are ice skaters.”, added Kayla sarcastically.

“Sorry just couldn’t help myself. But I have a question, I thought we were going together?”,
asked Sky and waited patiently for a reply.

“Uhh now that you mention it, I haven’t really thought about what to text back…” answered Kayla.

“It’s okay shoot you shot.”, said Sky in a supporting tone.

“Really?! But what about our dance.”

“Kayla it’s okay we skate all the time.” and with that Sky laid a reassuring hand on Kayla’s shoulder.

She said she was busy with helping her mom so it’s no big deal right? Ugh why is it a big deal for me then? Stupid teenager brain.

“Okay sent. Wanna get ready at my house?”, asked Kayla.

“Sure. I’ll be over at six.”

“Perfect I can’t wait.”

- In Kayla’s room –

Kayla was comfortably sitting on her bed and let Sky curl her hair for the upcoming Ice Breaker. Meanwhile the different shades of blue on Kayla’s dress shimmered in the dimly lit room. This created a perfect contrast to Sky’s choice of clothing, who wore a long sleeved velvet dress with lace design on her arms.

“Annd that was the last strand. All done! Wanna take a look in the mirror?”, Sky asked with an excited voice.

She got a nod as response and Kayla slowly made her way to the suddenly tremendous mirror in her room.
Normally she dreaded taking a look into it, cause she didn’t like what she saw.

The feeling of not being good enough or being unwanted just hit her all at once when she saw her reflection in the stupid mirror. Whereas on the ice it was more blurred leaving room for her own interpretation of what she could be.

To her surprise she actually liked what she saw this time. She was just absolutely radiant, gorgeous and showstopping thanks to Sky. Her friend always has this talent in finding the beauty in ordinary things and bringing it to the surface.

“What do you think? I hope I didn’t mess up your hair.”, asked Sky in a worried voice.

Kayla turned around and just hugged Sky very tightly.

She whispered in her ear “Thank you so much.”

With that all was said and the two shared a meaningful embrace.

Slowly Sky broke apart from the hug and walked towards her bag. She pulled her polaroid camera out and walked back to Kayla.

“I think we have to capture this special moment? What do ya think?", said Sky with a smirk on her face.

“I’d really like that.”, with that Kayla got up from the bed and made her way towards Sky.

The two of them took a couple of selfies. Some were they smiled and a few were they made silly face. In the end they used up the whole film and discussed which of them came out the best. They quickly realised that this wasn’t an easy task and took quite a while to narrow it down. After some bickering each chose their favourite polaroid and placed them somewhere meaningful to them.

Kayla stuck hers on the mirror and Sky gave hers in her wallet.
As for the rest the friends decided that they should give them in a photo album so no memories would be lost.

“My gosh would you look at the time. We should get going or else we’re gonna be late!”,
exclaimed Kayla as she rushed around her room trying to shove everything important in her bag.

“You’re right. But we are not gonna be late. Everyone else is simply early.”,
stated Sky with a calm voice and smile plastered across her face.

“Girl, you really watch too much princess diaries.”, this statement was met with a pillow thrown into Kayla’s direction.

Chapter Text

As Kayla and Sky stepped into the otherwise familiar café they were instead greeted with glittery streamers, decorated tables, flashy lights and a lively music playing in the background. It felt like you were stepping right into a winter wonderland.

“Wow. You and your mum really outdid yourself this time!”

“Thanks. That really means a lot to her. I’m gonna go help and remember, safe some fun for me too!”, Sky said and squeezed Kaylas hand slightly. She then made her way behind the counter, leaving a blushing Kayla behind.

Despite the fact that the teams were rivals, everyone seemed to get along at the icebreaker.
It was a peaceful get together after all. Almost to peaceful.

From where Kayla was sitting, she had a splendid few of the room. Looking what people were wearing and
the little quirks they would do when talking to people was the most fun thing to do on such occasions.

Like for example, she saw Bear constantly fidgeting with his hands as he was taking to this girl. Seems as if the normally oh so confident Bear also had a soft side. But Kayla also saw someone from the Orcas clearly spiking the punch.

Boys will be boys, I guess.

“Hey Kay! How do you like the party?”, asked Ava who Kayla didn’t notice was suddenly sitting across from her.

Maybe she should have paid more attention to people approaching her instead of random strangers.

“Hey Ava! I didn’t notice you I was lost in…thoughts. Sorry.”, said Kayla in a flustered voice.
I’m good but according to your dad it’s a get together and NOT a party.”

“Ah don’t take him that seriously. Underneath all that trainer talk he’s actually very sensitive. Also, according to me
music, decoration and cute hockey players equal party to me.” Ava said slyly and wanted to take a sip from her punch cup.

“I wouldn’t drink that if I were you.”

“What. Why?!”, she asked nervously.

“I saw someone from the Orcas spike it.”, Kayla stated unfazed and took a sip from her slushy.

“Really? I don’t think they would be THAT immature. I’m sure it’s fin-“

Ava’s hands swiftly tore the frozen slushie from Kayla’s hands and took an enormous sip from it.

“Hey! I was drinking that!”

“Sorry but that punch was truly ugh… revolting!”, exclaimed Ava and eyed the punch cup with a death stare.

“Let me guess, living your rich and sheltered life Ms. Hämmerstorm never tasted alcohol before?”,
said Kayla with a chuckle and took a sip from the punch.

“You’re not wrong. But I didn’t think you were such a rebel Ms. McBentley?”, shot Ava as a quip reply.

“What can I say I live for the thrill.”, she gave as answer and made an exaggerating hand gesture.
After the two composed their laughter they continued their conversation.

“You don’t mind me asking, why the heck are you sitting alone at this table? I thought you and Sky were going together to the icebreaker?”

“Well…Turns out she has to help her mum and then Carson also kind of asked me if I wanted to go and I … agreed.”

“But Sky asked you first, what made you change your mind? I mean you two go together like hockey and ice.”

“She actually encouraged me; I mean Carson is sort of cute and really nice.
But if you put it that way I don’t know if I made the right choice…”

Unfortunately, the two girls couldn’t continue their conversation as they were being interrupted
by the very person they just conversed about.

“Yoo Kayla wanna hit the ice? Ya know join me for dance?”, asked Carson and joined the two chit chatting gals.
He held an inviting hand out to Kayla and gave her a wink.

This is what she wanted after all, right?

She looked over at Sky who was to her surprise talking with none other than…Mac?!
The two of them seem to enjoy each other’s company. She look so…happy.

Well, if she’s having fun why can’t she?

“Yeah, I’ll join you on the ice. Let’s go.” She grabbed his hand and they made their way to the bleachers to put on their skates.

“Did you see that before Kayla?”, Carson said in an undermining tone.

“See what? You mean someone of your team spiking the punch?”, she questioned him with a judging glare.

“What?! Ugh…I bet it was Richy. That dude always pulls stuff like this. Anyway, I actually meant how Mac made total heart eyes at Sky.“

“Really? I guess I didn’t really notice. It just seemed they were talking to each other.”,
she said softly and so quiet it seemed like she only said it to herself.

“Trust me. I have an eye for something like this. But come on let’s forget those two. Now it’s only you and me on the ice.”,
he softly said and grabbed Kaylas hand leading her onto the rink.

For a hockey player he had an unexpectedly graceful skating style. But his hands felt rough, clearly from all the playing and training. Skating with him felt very different. He obviously was leading and Kalya only followed his movements. The two of them were dancing without a flaw, perfectly even, but she couldn’t help but feel something was missing.

“Hey, I wanna show you something. Ready?”, he said with a mischievous grin plastered across his face.

“I guess?”, she mustered, a little unsure of herself.

Carson let go of one of her hands and spun her so that she safely landed in his arms.

“So this is how you bedazzle the ladies, am I right?”, she asked him while she turned her head towards his.
The were now practically pressed to each other.

“You caught me red handed. But you gotta confess, it works right?”, with that he spun her around once more
and they were in their starting position again.

“Well wouldn’t you like to now weather boy?”, Kayla gave as her answer and skated backwards away. She definitely left Carson speechless for a minute but he wasted no time catching up to her.

- Meanwhile at the café bar -

“So now that you’re caught up, what do you think I should do?”, asked a desperate Mac Sky and buried his head in his hands.

“Well, I suggest you do what every other forbidden couple does. Do it in secret. After the icebreaker is over you and Nico got the rink to yourself. Problem solved.”, said Sky and continued to polish the glasses like an old-fashioned bartender.

“That’s…perfect! You’re the best Sky, has anyone ever told you that?”

“As a matter of fact, you’re the first one who appreciates my vast Rom-Com-knowledge.”

“If you’re such an expert, why aren’t you on the ice with my sister? I may not be that smart but I’m not blind.
I see the way she looks at you.”, he said with a hopeful undertone and eagerly awaited her response.

“As you can see, I unfortunately had to jump in to help my mom. But don’t worry Kaylas not alone, after all Carson asked her out.
And to your information I don’t think she likes me in that way. She’s better off with him.”, she slowly said and kept staring at the already spotless glass that she continued to polish.

“Wait Carson asked her out? I guess I haven’t been paying that much attention but isn’t it suspicious how often they hang out?
Honestly after the incident I never trusted him again.”, he angrily grumbled to himself.

“What do you mean after the “incident”?”, she asked concerned.

“Well in short, I briefly kinda “dated” one of his best friends, Christy. After we began spending more time together, he got really upset and obsessive of her. She told me that he completely changed and she didn’t recognise him at all. He was very controlling of her wanting to decide with whom she could and couldn’t hang out. In the end that destroyed their friendship and he still blames me for it. She was actually the first person I came out to and was very supportive.”, he told Sky with a smile on his face.

“So, does this mean you haven’t told Kayla? Your own TWIN sister?”

“We aren’t as close as we used to be. In High School people often used her to get close to me and then we moved across the country for my hockey training. It’s just been hard talking to her.”, he told her in a defeated voice.

“I know… she told me about that high school stuff. But you have to promise me, you got to find a way to reconcile. She’s really important to me and I think it would help her.”, Sky laid a comforting hand on him.

Meanwhile Mac looked down at the ice rink and couldn’t believe at what he saw.
He immediately made his way down there to get a better look at the situation.

- At the ice rink ( 5 minutes earlier) –

Kayla and Carson were slowly skating next to each other. After chasing each other they were pretty exhausted and wanted to chill a little.
As Kayla’s eyes caught the glittery red streamers, they reminded her of her best friend’s beautiful velvet dress. Her mind wandered to Sky and she looked up at the café who was still talking to her brother.

Why are the two still talking to each other? About what could they possibly talk? At least she knew one thing, she didn’t like it one bit.

“Everything alright Kayla? You look distraught.”, Carson asked in a concerning voice and
gently slid his hand in hers to reassure her that he was there for her.

“It just reminds me of the many times in high school. I know Sky wouldn’t abandon me but it still hurts and
I’m afraid that feeling will never go away…”, she huffed defeated.

“I get it buuutt I have an idea on how to get back at your brother and make him freak out.”, he said mischievously.

Like on que the music changed to a slower and more gentle tone. Everyone on the ice paired up and so did Kayla and Carson.

It was like before they skated together but this time it as unlike before; she could feel there was an almost romantic tension in the air.
She felt herself tensing up.

Why was she all of a sudden so nervous? What had changed?

She looked up at Carsons eyes and suddenly released how close they were standing to each other. His perfect brunette curly hair was mostly messed up from all the skating, but Kayla decided it suited him.

As her eyes gradually shifted to his face their eyes met and shared a glance.

“Do you trust me?”, he asked her in his low husky voice.

What was he about to do? Omg was he about to kiss her?

Kayla kissed people before but why did the thought of kissing Carson slightly freak her out. I mean sure he’s nice-looking, empathetic and courteous. Nothing could go wrong, right?

She couldn’t bring herself to say anything but just nodded in agreement.
Carson lightly tipped her chin up so their eyes met once again and kissed her.

Her eyes fluttered shut and she consciously leaned into it. It felt good kissing Carson but she didn’t experience those fireworks they talked about in the movies. He moved even closer; one hand supported her from slipping away and
the other cupped Kaylas face and he proceeded to deepen the kiss.

“What the Frick are you two doing?!”, exclaimed a very angry Mac who was skating towards them.

This broke the two immediately apart and all their attention wandered towards the person who interrupted them.

“What’s gotten into you Mac?”, Kayla asked her brother with annoyance in her voice.

“Yeah, what’s gotten Mac Attack all upset?”, Carson threw quickly in to make him even more upset.

“Oh, you know exactly what I mean. Kayla, he does this only to get back at me!”, shouted Mac and pointed to him.

“God you’re so pretentious not everything has to be about you Mac! Thanks for ruining this nice party. I had enough of you tonight and am gonna leave before you decide to make another scene.”, she glared daggers at her brother and left the rink together with Carson.

“Kayla wait! I didn’t mean it like tha- urghh!”, he balled his fists in frustration unable to get his sister to listen to him.
He definitely didn’t think the icebreaker would go like this. Could their sibling relationship now forever be broken?

Chapter Text

As Hammerström signalled the end of the training session with his iconic whistle, everyone was relieved, exhausted and utterly tired.
It didn’t help that the day before was the ice breaker.

“Man, you would think the coach would go easier on us, since we partied yesterday but that man is ruthless when it comes to training. Right Mac?”, asked Nico as the two of them headed of the ice for the day.

Instead of a reply his friend answered him with silence.

Well, that’s also a reply, right?

But Nico knew the reason for his friend’s quiet demeanour.
His sister refused to talk to him since the ice breaker incident and it drove him nuts.

“Well, she’s gotta talk to you at some point. I mean you live together in a house. Surely, she can’t avoid you for all eternity. Right?”,
he said with a light chuckle and placed a reassuring hand on his mate’s shoulder.

Since they skated in secret together at the rink last night, they sure got closer. Nico knew Mac needed a person he could confide in and he wanted to be that person for him more than ever.

But he was just so stubborn as ice and wouldn’t let anybody in.
Good thing he was a hockey player and knew a few things about how to break the ice.

Nico spotted Kayla at the bench next to the locker room and thought maybe he could talk to her.

“Hey, I forgot something at the rink. Go ahead without me I’ll catch up.”, he said to Mac but he didn’t pay attention to Nico’s words.

“Hey Kayla! Everything alright?”, asked Nico with concern.

“If you too wanna convince me to talk to my brother, I can already tell you, it’s a dead end.”,
she coldly said while taking of her skates.

“I’m not here because of that. I was just concerned about you. You looked pretty down at practice.
Like a hockey player would say, you’re head wasn’t in the game.”

“Well…Thank you. But you’ve got nothing to worry about. I’ve got it covered.”, she answered him in a convincing tone.

“If you say so. But a word of advice, whenever I can’t focus at practice, I spend time with friends, play video games
or meet up at the mall. Maybe it’ll help you too.“

As he went away Kayla began to think.

When was the last time I was at the Mall with friends? Maybe I should try it.

- A few hours later at the mall –

Kayla sat by the water fountain in the middle of the mall and waited for Sky and Ava to arrive. Somehow it was relaxing sitting by it and hearing the trickling sound of water which contrasted the busy mall atmosphere.
Water just put her at ease whether it was frozen or not.

She began to think. Were things always this complicated with my brother?

Ever since high school she was overlooked but not now she was tired of being player two.

“Did you make a wish yet?”, a warm familiar voice asked her. Of course, she knew that this voice belonged to none other than Sky.

“Not yet, but I’m afraid I’m all out of coins.”, she said back with a grin.

“You’re in luck. Thankfully your knight in shining amor has come to the rescue. Here.”
With that statement Sky placed a small gold coin in her palm.

The touch only lasted a second but Kayla still felt a tingling sensation in her hand.

“What would I do without you, my knight. But…I’m not sure what I should wish for.”

“Just close your eyes and dig deep.”, she said in a reassuring voice.

Kayla thought for a moment. Back in high school she desperately wished to not be alone. To have someone she could call her friend.
In a way her wish had been fulfilled when she met Sky. Things changed since then and she had new challenges to deal with
like her feud with her brother.

So, what should she wish for?

If I could wish for anything I would wish for…. Ah got it!

With a little splash the coin landed smoothly in the water.

“I see you’re already spending money without me?” said an approaching an Ava, who was almost at the meeting spot.

Sky and Kayla quickly got up to meet her friend. As they closed the distance between them, they saw the fashionable getup Ava sported. It was a yellow flowy dress that shimmered in the bright mall lights complete with a pair of bejewelled sunglasses resting on her head.

“Woah. I’ve never seen you so dressed up. Usually, I’m used to seeing you in hockey uniform.”,
commented Kayla and couldn’t take her eyes off of her.

“Thank you, Darling. So, shall we hit the stores or what? I saw the cutest top at the new boutique that would totally fit your vibe.
Plus, I’ve been dying to go shopping since my mum grounded me for secretly using her credit card.”,
explained Ava while grabbing the girls’ hands.

The three of them headed from one store to the next. Testing out new scents in the perfume Parlor, checking out the latest trends at the magazine stand and finally grabbing a bite to eat the café.

“Ahh there’s nothing better than a cup of hot tea after a successful mall day.”, said Ava as she sipped from her cup.
“And they have cute waiters here.”, she proceeded to say with a grin.

The two of them couldn’t help but laugh at the statement. Typical Ava.

Meanwhile Sky and Kayla happily drank their refreshing berry smoothies. They insisted on a break since Ava wouldn’t stop moving from store to store. She was like a hockey player strategizing the best route and looking for the goal.

Kayla was sure of one thing, if it came to shopping nobody could beat Ava.

“Let me guess the waiters were the only reason you insisted we come here.”, said Kayla with a raised eyebrow and smile.

“Not...entirely. The also have the best chocolate muffins!”, added Ava while trying not to blush but failing miserably.

In front of them were an assortment of muffins on a cake stand which complimented the nicely decorated table.
Meanwhile the floor was filled with the numerous shopping bags from the girls. Which might be considered a tripping hazard.

It was truly a splendid ending to a perfect Shopping day.

“I can’t remember the last time I had such a nice day with friends.”, said Sky.
“I always help my mum out but I forget I’m also a teenager in need of a break.”

A Mall was truly a magical place full of fun and adventure.
The only downside to malls would be that you tend to run into people you would normally like to avoid.

“I see the ladies enjoy themselves without my company. You don’t mind if I join in, right?”

Carson took a seat on the empty chair next to Kayla and laid his arm casually over her shoulder.

“First, that was a bit rude don’t you think?”, said Kayla while giving an apologetic glance to her friends.

Meanwhile Ava was sipping her tea and glaring daggers in his direction.

“Fine I apologise. But I had a good reason for coming over.
I just wanted to ask you if you wanted to accompany me to the cinema later?”, Carson said with a grand charming smile.

Kayla was suddenly conflicted.

Is he asking me out on a date?! On such a short notice?!!

The thought hit her like a sucker punch.

She can’t let him down now, can she?

They kissed and the next logical step would be to go out…And she already spent the majority of the day with Ava and Sky
so they shouldn’t be too mad at her.

“Yeah I’d be…delighted. But I have to be home at 9 cause Hammerström pushed in an extra training session.”,
she said and took a long sip from her smoothie.

“Sweet. I’m glad we can spend some time together. But seriously I think Hammerström pushes you to hard.”

“Well says the guy who lost to the Hammers in the training match last week. So, it has to have some effect.”, countered Kayla.

“If you say so, I still blame the ice on that day.” Carson looked at his watch.
“We should get going if we don’t want to miss the film. Shall we?”, he got up and held his hand out for her.

Kayla hesitated for a moment. Starring at the familiar hand before her.

She shouldn’t keep him waiting and placed her hand into his.

With a quick goodbye they made their way hand in hand to the movie theatre.

Sky couldn’t take her eyes off of the odd couple and watched as they slowly vanished in the distance.

The silence was broken by Ava as she said to Sky:
"I don’t trust that guy one bit. On the other hand you and Kayla make a great team. I see the way she looks at you.”

“What?! You must be imagining things. Anyway, she’s now with Carson.”, gave a flustered Sky as answer.

“Maybe, but the truth always comes out in the end”, said Ava with a mischievous grin and continued sipping her tea.

Chapter Text

- A few days before the game -

“So let me get this straight, you want me to pretend to be Nico so you can practice your poem you wrote for him?”,
asked Sky a bit in disbelief as she leaned against the kitchen counter of the McBentley residence.

“Yes. Since you had such good advice last time, I thought you’d help me once more and give me advice if it sounds too corny.”,
answered Mac and rubbed his neck flustered.

Normally Mac was confident in himself and the things he did. When he played hockey, he kept a cool head under all the pressure.

But when it came to Nico, all logic seemed to literally fly out the window.

“Fine. But we have to hurry. I have a meetup later planned with Kayla. We’re gonna decorate something in her room.”, spoke Sky.

“Okay, here it goes. I know we haven’t known us for long but since you entered my life, I’ve grown happier than ever before.
To celebrate this, I wrote a poem for you.”

I was flying solo all my life

That changed the day I saw you on the ice

We may have had a rocky start as enemies

But I quickly learned that we played for the same team

Next was your genuine smile that caught me off guard

Right then and there I thought I’ll give you my heart

I searched my feelings and I knew it was true

That I am utterly in love with you!

“Wow… That was beautiful I’m truly at a loss for words.”, said Sky in a daze and starred at Mac.
She didn’t know he could be so sensitive. To show her support she layed a hand on his shoulder.

“Well, me too!”, said suddenly an all too familiar voice. It belonged to none other than Kayla who returned early with Carson.

“Kayla it isn’t what it looks like I-”, but Sky couldn’t even finish her sentence.

“I can’t believe my best friend wouldn’t tell that she’s in love with my dumb brother!”, shouted Kalya in a furry.

“What?! You’ve got it all wrong!”, Sky tried to explain.

“Then why were you two all cozy at the ice breaker together? And didn’t I also see you at the ice rink together?”,
accused Carson defensively and crossed his arms in front of him.

“What are you even talking about? That never happened. Kayla he’s obviously lying to you!”, yelled Sky frustrated.

“So, who are you gonna believe her or your boyfriend?”, said Carson in a demanding voice.

All eyes were on Kayla. The three of them passionately waited for her answer.

In that moment she felt more like prey that was surrounded by her enemies. Unable to escape. Trapped.

Hearing the clock on the kitchen wall that counted the seconds to her inevitable doom didn’t help.

So, she did what any animal would do. She fled.

Without saying a word, she turned around and ran up the stair to her room.

As she leaned on the closed door, she felt herself losing the strength to stand and slowly slid down
till her body reached the bedroom floor.

Somehow, she knew this day would come again. She let her guard down and got hurt again.

Why do I never learn from my foolish mistakes?

A knock on the door brought her back to reality.

“Kayla open the door, please.”, pleaded Carson in a gentle voice.

That reminded her, at least this time she wasn’t alone. The door opened much to his surprise before it swiftly shut closed again.

Carson joined Kayla on the ground and laid a comforting hand over her shoulder.

“I’m here for you. I can’t believe Sky would do such a thing to you. I guess it takes one to know one.”, he said to her.

“I’m just so conflicted. I can’t tell the difference between what’s right and wrong anymore.
Maybe I should just go down and let her explain herself.”,
she wanted to get up but Carsons weight pulled her down again like an anchor.

“Or we could take it out on the real culprit. You brother. Think about the many times he already hurt you.
Has he ever apologized? No.
So it’s time to return the favour. And I even got the perfect idea.”, Carson proclaimed with a wicked smile.

Kayla was a little intrigued. She was angry after all with her brother and curious what he had to say.

“What…did you think about?”, she asked curiously.

“Easy. We get him were it hurts. We sabotage the skating gear so they’ll lose the game.
Think about it, he will be devastated and crushed. Finally, he will know his place.”,
he said excited and grabbed Kayla by the shoulders.

Kayla thought about what she just heard.

Sabotage her brother? Sure, he hurt her but did he truly deserve this in return?

Would taking revenge truly solve her problem?

“So, what do you say. Are you in? You know I can’t do it without you. You’re the key. Cause you have it. Literally.”,
he said and lovingly gazed into her eyes. Hoping Kayla would help him in his endeavour.

Carson has been by her side all this time. She kind of owed him, right?

“I’ll help you.”, Kayla answered in an expressionless tone.

Chapter Text

- The day before the big game -

Kayla was alone skating her regular routine in the rink after she and Carson sabotaged the gear.
It was as easy as he said, a few loose screws would decide the Orcas win. But she couldn’t bring herself to go home afterwards.

Somehow, she still felt guilty. Her heart and mind were at war.

As she looked at herself in the reflection of the ice, she didn’t like the face starring back at her.

Did she truly make the right decision? In a way she now betrayed the Hammers by helping sabotaging the gear.

She became the very thing she despised. Is it too late to change her mind?

As she made another mistake in her routine, she decided to cut the training short.

Defeated she made her way to the bleachers and was about to change into her shoes.

“That was a weak performance, even for you.”, said an approaching Ava and took a seat next to her friend.

“I guess my head isn’t in the game today…”, she muttered as response and focused on her shoes.

“As your friend I know that’s not the real reason. I heard what happened between you and Sky.
Why don’t you just talk to each other and work it out? Take it from my experience avoiding issues never solves anything.”,
stated Ava as she leaned back casually.

“I’m scared of talking to her. In a way I wasn’t a very supportive friend. I just stormed of and didn’t let her explain herself.
Would she still be my friend after my behaviour?", Kayla uttered defeated and let her head fall into her hands.

“Oh Kayla. Trust me. Healing after an argument takes time, persistence and patience. And maybe a really good cry.
But you gotta talk about it, only then can you move forward. Or do you wanna be stuck all your life?”,
said Ava and hugged Kayla tightly.

“You’re right Ava. I just have to take a leap of faith and talk to her.”, announced Kayla and broke free from the hug.

“That’s my girl. Now go get her! I mean reconcile with her!”, she declared in an excited voice.

Kayla was busy texting Sky to meet her at her house. Determined to set things right.

After saying goodbye to Ava, she was on her way home.

Unfortunately, she had to go back to the Ice rink because she forgot part of her skating gear in the haste.

Now Sky had to be waiting at the McBentley residence.

Off to a great start.

Kayla stopped at the doorway because she heard familiar voices from the kitchen.

As she took a peak around the corner, she saw Sky and…Mac?!

Without making a sound she returned to her hideout and remembered what Ava said. Patience.

She decided to stay hidden and listened what the two were talking about.

“I just really wanna get close to Kayla again. Ever since high school we’ve drifted apart from each other.
It’s just...I wish I could tell her everything I see. Like how she’s everything to me.
But we’re million worlds apart and I don’t know how I would even start.”, said Mac in defeat.

“Well maybe tell her that you DO pay attention. What is she like from your perspective?”, Sky asked curiously.

“For example, I noticed that she still puts whipped cream on stuff she doesn't like so it's easier for her to eat.
And she hums the melody of the song she currently likes, thinking no one can hear her.
I also wondered how she learned to skate like the rest of the world isn’t there.”

“That’s pretty good for the start.”, commented Sky.

“On another note, I couldn’t help but notice that you like my sister. I may be her dumb brother but not blind.
So, tell me what do you like about her?”, Mac asked curiously.

“Well…You kind of put me on the spot when you say it like that”, Sky said all flustered and tried not getting all red.
But continued, nonetheless. “There’s nothing like her radiant smile.
Whenever she smiles at me it feels like my world is set aflame. She gives me courage in a way nothing else can.”

“I get what you mean. I feel the same way.”, stated Mac.

She couldn’t believe her ears. She got it all wrong! They weren’t in love with each other. They were talking about HER!

How could she let herself be blinded by Carson? That’s the moment Kayla realised she had to correct her mistake.

Slowly like a marmot she stepped out of her hiding place.

Steps filled with uncertainty she gradually moved forward towards the light.

“Kayla! We’ve been waiting for you. What took you so long?”, Sky said with concern in her eyes.

Kind of Ironic if she thought about it. Really what took her so long to see the truth?

“I kind of eavesdropped on your conversation. Which made me realise some things.
I really need your help to fix a mistake that I made.”, Kayla slowly began to explain.

After a hot beverage, the three of them caught up on and were able to unravel their misunderstanding.

Surprisingly talking can solve a lot of problems, who knew?

“That cunning little weasel. To think he would pull a stunt like that!”,
Mac said while shaking his head in disbelief and clenching his fist.

“I’m sorry I rode you all into this. I thought that I owed him for the kindness he showed me.”,
Kayla finished with slight tears in her eyes and feeling ashamed of herself.

She felt a warm touch on her shoulder and next thing she knew she was pulled into a warm hug by her brother.

She missed this.

Chapter Text

The day had finally arrived where the Hammers faced off against the Orcas.

The bleachers of the ice rink where filled with a large and loud crowd. The excitement was noticeable from every angle.

Ava, Sky and Kayla came to support Mac and the Hammers.

With front row seats they could see how the game would play out perfectly.

Before the start Kayla had one last thing to do. She made her way over to the Orcas, specifically to Carson.

“Hey Kayla! I guess you’re here to wish me luck. I’m truly honoured to have a girlfriend like you.”, he said with a self-absorbed smile.

Kayla just smiled and placed a quick kiss on his cheek.

“About that I think we have to have a little talk.
You see, after a chat with my brother yesterday some puzzle places finally fell into place and I realised that you are an
egocentric, self-centred and manipulative person. To be crystal clear it’s over between us.
Oh, and we fixed the skates, so good luck winning now.”, Kayla stated with a satisfying smile.

God, she wished she could have photographed the pathetic look on Carsons face after she told him all that. It was just priceless.

“I’m gonna get you for this! Just you wait Kayla.”, he said in an angry voice.

“I’d like to see you try.”

With the conversation being over she returned to her friends.

“Wow you said all that to him?”, Sky said with excitement. “I’m so proud of you.”

“I knew from day one that something about him was off. I have a sense for that kind of thing.”, Ava commented.
“But I’m glad you took him of off his high horse and showed him were he belonged. In the trash.”

The three of them hugged. Kayla saw that she was surrounded by people who actually cared about her.

It only took her longer to recognize that.

When it was Halftime, the Hammers were leading with 3:1. It looked like they were going to win the game.

Kayla was on her way to the locker rooms because Mac forgot something in his bag.

What would my dear brother only do without me?

Lost in thoughts she wasn’t aware that she was being followed.

Someone grabbed her from behind and pulled her into the locker room.

She turned around and it was none other than Carson.

“What was that for?!”,shouted Kayla at him demanding an answer.

“I now it’s hard to believe but I forgive you. But the love between us is real.
Loving you is the best thing that ever happened to me Kayla. Can’t we just start over?”, he said pleadingly.

He took a few steps in her direction so that she was pressed against the wall. He affectionately cupped her cheek in his hand.

“You know Carson. Trust is like a mirror; you can fix it if it’s broke but you can still see the cracks in the persons reflection.
Basically, what I’m getting at is that I see you for who you truly are and nothing what you do will ever make me trust you again.
I’m done letting you control me. So back off!”, Kayla shoved him with all her strength away from her.

“Together with Mac I already told the coach you pressured me into sabotaging the gear with you.
I think this is the end of your so called glorious career! You’re such a--”

A harsh slap cut the insult short.

Kayla slightly touched her crimson red cheek with her trembling hands.

Just the faintest touch burned. She directed her gaze towards the ground and stayed silent.

She never thought he would be capable of such a thing.

“Did you think there were no consequences to your words? I’m sorry but I can’t let you go that easily Kayla.”

He slowly closed the distance between them. Her back suddenly clashed against the cold cement wall.

Carson forcibly grabbed both of her wrists.

Kayla new she should do something. Anything. But why can’t I move?

She closed her eyes and desperately wished for someone, anyone to save her.

Like on command the door to the locker room opened in one swift motion revealing
Sky and Mac accompanied by Ava and the whole Hammers team.

Mac full of anger charged towards Carson and punched him right across the face.

Sky and Ava rushed to her side and asked what had happened.

After the explanation Ava stormed towards Carson and wanted to tackle him to the ground.

Luckily Mac quickly got ahold of her and prevented her on going on a rampage.

“Thank you Mac, for coming. How did you even now I was here?”, asked Kayla slowly.

“Well Ava told us you hadn’t returned for a while and Carson was also late. So, we followed her.”, he explained.

Kayla was staring at Ava with tears in her eyes. “You really are the best!”

“I told you I had a sense for things like this.”, she stated and smiled proudly.

Kayla was sitting at the bleachers with Ava and Sky who brought some ice for her cheek.

Together they watched the demise of the Orcas.

Somehow it felt surreal what happened. Kayla could never have imagined things would turn out this way.

Sky was sitting next to her holding her hand and an ice bag to her cheek.

Given the situation and what had happened earlier. Kayla gained the courage to talk to Sky about what had been long on her mind.

“Sky, I’ve got to tell you something. The thought that I want to express to you I actually had many times before.
And it’s the thought that I like you very very much. The way that we synch up when we skate, how you make me laugh,
the way you know me inside out, Carson could never make me feel that.
He may have fooled my mind but you always had my heart. What I’m trying to say is that I…I…”

“I love you too Kayla.”, finished Sky.

They looked into each other’s eyes and felt the sincerity of the words they just had spoken.

As the horn signaled the end of the Game the Hammers won with a glorious 5:2!

To celebrate the two of them closed the distance between them and shared their first kiss together.

A little clumsy but full of love. 

As Mac looked upwards to them, he was glad that they finally found each other.

He knew it was also time for him to be true to himself.

With the courage from his sister, he skated towards Nico and hugged him tightly.

Nico starred at him all flustered and asked, “Are you sure about this?”

“Definitely.” The two of the locked lips and shared a long kiss.

The team was taken aback for a moment and stayed silent.

But Bear cheered them on, and the others of the team quickly followed suit.

“By the way Kayla, what did you wish for at the fountain by the Mall?”, asked Sky out of curiosity.

“Well, I wished for everything to work itself out. In the end I’m glad my wish came true.”

“Me too.”, finished Sky.

“By the way what happened to Carson?”, questioned Ava.

The three of them looked down at the rink and saw as he angrily broke his hockey stick out of frustration.

In the end everyone got what they deserved.

The End <3