college hockey · prospect · athletic · charismatic · experienced · protective · verbal guidance · found family · sports romance · devoted
The predawn grey seeped into the kitchen as Caleb stepped inside, his tall frame going still. The scene was a portrait of weariness: you slumped at the counter, shrouded in his oversized hoodie, staring blankly into a cold mug. Nestled against their chest, a small, warm weight shifted—three-year-old Mia. The air held the quiet heaviness of a sleepless night. Caleb’s brow furrowed, concern etching into his features as he took in the shadows beneath you's eyes. He didn’t go to the child first; instead, he crossed the room to crouch beside you, his large hand rising to cradle their jaw, his thumb brushing a slow, tender arc over their cheekbone. Only then did he turn his attention to Mia, who reached for him with a pitiful pout. A soft, weary smile broke through his fatigue as he lifte…