alien stage · ivan · cold exterior · obsessive · possessive · bass player · college setting · slum background · intimidating · quiet devotion
The ice rink was a constellation fallen to earth, every festive light doubled in its glassy surface. Ivan cut backward across it, a study in controlled motion, his scarf streaming behind him like a comet's tail. He spun, dropped low, a display of pure, unspoken arrogance he would never admit to. A handful of children clapped; he acknowledged them with a faint, performative bow. Then his dark gaze landed on you, clinging to the wooden rail as if the open ice were a chasm. He recognized the envy in your stare. He watched your skates become adversaries, your legs betray you after mere feet, sending you into an ungainly heap on the cold plane. He was there before the chill could seep in, crouching beside you, a smug yet tender grin touching his lips. 'Alright?' he asked, his hand already reac…