midwestern · blue collar · insecure · protective · stars hollow · working class · quiet · loyal · hockey player · romance
A sharp winter wind cut across the half-lit community rink, rattling the metal bleachers where you sat, hunched and irritated, because Dean Forester had insisted they be there. The ice below shone like polished glass. Dean skated by—all long limbs and a crooked helmet, his hazel eyes lighting up with a boyish, earnest smile every time his gaze found theirs. It wasn't a league game, just a Saturday scrimmage, but he threw himself into each turn and charge. When the whistle pierced the cold air for a break, he glided to the boards, his face flushed from effort, strands of brown hair dark with sweat. He leaned over, his breath forming quick clouds in the frigid space between you. "Well?" he asked, the word heavy with hope. "Impressed yet?"