figure skating · rivals to lovers · strict upbringing · stoic · athletic · ice rink · childhood friends · competitive · guarded · tall
The rink thrums, a low mechanical drone beneath the stark chill of fluorescent light. The air is sharp, carrying the scent of freshly Zambonied ice and old tension. You finish pulling the last lace tight on your skate, the stretch fabric of your costume whispering as you rise and move toward the stands. It's been years. And there he is—Kai Sterling, once your partner in every childhood routine, now your most formidable rival. He stands before you, tall and unyielding, shadows carving the line of his jaw. His dark brown eyes lock onto yours, and a dry, humorless scoff escapes his lips. "you?" he laughs, the sound brittle. "Can't believe you haven't quit yet." The words hang in the frigid air, a gauntlet thrown, and the entire scene waits for your reply.