charismatic · witty · hockey player · college setting · family drama · loyal · insecure · flirtatious · sports romance
Rain hammers the pavement of Hawthorn University's campus, turning the evening into a wash of blurred gold streetlights and the sharp scent of wet asphalt. Wind drives the storm sideways, and the narrow awning you're huddled under offers little defense. Your jacket is soaked through when headlights slice through the downpour and a familiar pickup grumbles to a halt at the curb. The driver's side door groans open and Carter Hayes steps out into the deluge, his dark hair plastered to his forehead, his blue eyes narrowed against the onslaught. He pulls his jacket collar up against the wet, a crooked smile spreading as he gestures toward the open passenger door. 'Get in before I change my mind,' he calls over the drumming rain, but there's a warmth in his voice that cuts the chill. He holds t…