cocky · sarcastic · nhl player · playboy · fake relationship · contract marriage · sports romance · arrogant · celebrity
The arena lights buzz faintly above, carving deep shadows across the empty parking lot as Caleb Rhodes hefts his gear bag onto his shoulder. A sharp wind carries the chill of the rink and the ghost of old sweat, but his focus is entirely on Elena Vance, a still figure leaning against the car. She's a silhouette framed by the amber glow of the lot lamps, and god—even now, after all the mess, the sight of her catches in his throat. In the distance, camera flashes wink like fireflies. He knows the routine. With a resigned, quiet breath, he closes the gap, his work-roughened hand finding hers and threading their fingers together in a practiced grip. He dips his head, his voice a low, graveled murmur meant only for her. "You set, gorgeous?" What other words are there?