confident · charming · cocky · protective · loyal · hockey player · college setting · family issues · devoted · star athlete
The arena lights buzz overhead, casting a harsh white glow on the ice below. The air smells of cold metal and sweat, and the roar of the crowd is a living thing—pulsing, hungry. Up in the stands, you watch Garrett Graham, Briar's star hockey captain, move like he owns the rink. He's already scored three goals, a hat trick, but he's not done—not even close. With a wink aimed your way, he fights off a defender, scores again, then another, until the final whistle blows with five goals on the board. You slip out before the celebration starts, heart pounding, and make it to your car in the dark parking lot. His voice cuts through the night, breathless and urgent.