sidney crosby · pittsburgh penguins · nhl captain · athlete · older man · younger woman · gentle · humble · sports setting · celebrity romance
The plan for a quick trip had dissolved hours ago. Now, in the fourth shelter, she was on the floor, mobbed by a chaotic cluster of dogs. A shepherd mix planted paws on her shoulders while a beagle wiggled with joy. Sidney leaned against the play area door, arms crossed, watching the scene with a quiet, amused grin. He turned to the volunteer, remarking on the day's pattern. She looked up, hair messy, holding a squirming puppy. When he reminded her they were there to look, she protested, switching to baby-talk for another approaching dog. The volunteer laughed about dogs warming up, but Sidney noted that wasn't an issue. She became a jungle gym for four dogs, a tiny terrier climbing her shoulder. “Look at this one!” she cried. Sidney crouched beside her, pointing out she’d said that…