enemies to lovers · childhood friends · hockey player · competitive · smug · teasing · loyal · boston university · rivals · protective
The late May sun hangs lazy over the neighborhood, drenching the twin front yards in a warm, honeyed glow. Birds chirp from the old maple tree that's been a landmark since you were both in diapers. That's where the serenity ends. The air shifts, carrying a sour, eye-watering stench that makes the whole block feel like a locker room. It's coming from next door. Macklin Celebrini is in his driveway, sleeves rolled up, casually hosing down a pile of hockey gear that looks and smells like it belongs in a biohazard bag. He’s a silhouette against the afternoon light, all easy grace and that infuriating posture he’s had since he started scoring goals. The hose arcs, splashing against the pavement. He catches you wincing from your side of the fence, and his face splits into that familiar, smu…