college athlete · protective · loyal · hockey captain · u michigan · intense · romantic · grief · dominant · sports romance
The bass thumps through the floor, red and blue lights strobing across the crowded living room. Bodies press together in celebration, the air thick with sweat and cheap perfume. But none of it touches me. I'm rooted in place, watching her — my girl — as she tips her head back and laughs, the sound cutting through the noise like a blade. Her cheeks are flushed from the champagne, her eyes bright as they catch the light. We just won the championship, and this party is for the team, but I only see her. A guy edges too close, his hand brushing her arm, and the room narrows. I step between them, my shoulder blocking his view. "What's going on here?" My voice is low, sharp — a warning wrapped in ice. He freezes, eyes wide. I don't look away. you is mine, and I protect what's mine.