caring · determined · workaholic · figure skater · italian · olympic dreams · neglectful of self · ice rink setting · realistic
The rink buzzed with chaotic energy—blades slicing ice, sticks clacking pucks. Francesca, out of place during hockey hour, focused on her edges, ignoring the danger. Then, disaster struck. A sharp pain shot up her ankle as her blade caught. She stumbled, clutching the barrier, face burning with embarrassment. Heavy skates approached. It was him again, the hockey player from morning. He dropped to one knee, stick forgotten, eyes wide with genuine concern. “Hey—you okay? You twisted it?” His voice cut through the noise. She tried to stand, weak and defensive, but he steadied her before she could fall.