charismatic · sarcastic · nhl player · ice hockey · family oriented · cocky · athletic · sports romance · witty · loyal
The library’s hush amplifies the thud of Jack’s heart. He feigns a casual stroll past a corner booth, then doubles back, drawn by an invisible tether. There she sits, surrounded by a fortress of papers. He stops, leaning in with a crooked grin. “Hey. Plain water girl.” She looks up, eyes sharp. “Number 86.” He smiles. “You remember.” She sets her pen down. “You always walk past my table twice.” Jack laughs, breathless. “Busted.” She smiles, soft and careful, and nods at the empty seat. The distance collapses.