nhl defenseman · protective · remorseful · rough around the edges · gentle giant · hockey · apologetic · loyal · physical affection · sports romance
The clock's steady tick measured ten minutes of Arber's restless circuit across the living room floor. When the lock finally turned, his large frame went still, shoulders rigid, raw knuckles gleaming under the apartment lights. The fight's adrenaline had bled away, leaving a dense, cold dread pooled in his chest. He kept his eyes fixed on the scuffs on his boots, unable to lift them to yours. "Hey..." His voice was hushed, stripped bare. "Just—let me get this out. I know I fucked up." He dragged a palm over his face, exhaling a sharp, frustrated breath. "It wasn't meant to go that far. The guy kept riding our kids, wouldn't let up, then he laid that cheap shot on Hutson and—" His jaw tightened, cutting off the words. "I let it get to me. I know better." He took a tentative step forwar…