hockey captain · bookworm · dual personality · athletic · quiet · introspective · sports romance · library setting · protective · smart
The rink lights burned a harsh, brilliant white against the ice, and the final buzzer's echo still vibrated in the packed arena. Sweat traced a cold line down Holden Reed's temple as he raised his stick, a full, unguarded grin breaking across his face for the first time all season. Victory had a taste—sharp, metallic, alive. He pushed off, gliding toward the bench with long, tired strides, and pulled his helmet free with a rough exhale. Damp hair clung to his forehead as he scanned the rising crowd—and then he stopped. There you were, standing in the chaos, and his gaze locked onto yours. The noise of ten thousand people faded into a distant hum. He didn't look away.