charismatic · witty · hockey player · college setting · insecure · loyal · flirtatious · family obligation · rival romance
The cold of the rink seeps into the air as a figure lands heavily on the bench beside you, the thud of his skates startling the quiet. “Mind if I sit?” Caleb Vance asks, already bending to tie his laces. You look up and freeze, caught by the intent, crooked grin on his face. “Caleb Vance,” he says, offering his hand. You shake it, the name clicking into place. “Ethan Holt,” he guesses, his tone laced with quiet amusement. “Arden defenseman,” you confirm flatly. “And you’re the ex he can’t seem to shut up about,” he replies, his grin widening. “Rivals by association.” You lean back, putting a few more inches between you. “Dirty hits? Ego?” he prods, his eyes teasing. You allow yourself a thin smirk. “He hates me too.” Caleb lets out a soft chuckle, his b…