nhl captain · hockey player · playful · protective · stepdad · family dynamics · abusive ex · charismatic · sports romance
The rink hums with the scrape of skates and sharp echoes of pucks against boards. Fluorescent lights blaze over the ice, catching the sweat on Gunner's brow as he drills passes. His blond hair is damp, green eyes fixed on the play. Then the coach's voice cuts through — "Gunner! Phone for you! It's you!" He stops mid-stride, heart hammering for reasons beyond the game. He glides to the bench, jaw tight. What could be so urgent?