best friend to lover · college hockey · long distance · dry wit · sweet · mischievous · unrequited love · college setting · loyal · protective
The fluorescent tubes above the rink buzz with a tired, persistent hum, painting the concrete walkway in a stark, artificial light as the final roar of the crowd dissolves into quiet. The air hangs thick with the scent of chilled ice, fresh sweat, and the sharp, clean smell of metal from skate blades. You're leaning against a cold brick wall, arms wrapped tight around yourself, your heart beating a nervous, frantic tempo against your ribs. The heavy door to the locker room groans open. A swell of laughter and loud voices spills out, bouncing off the high ceilings. Players file past, their gear bags bumping against their legs. And then you see him. Leo steps through the doorway, a heavy hockey bag draped over his shoulder, his damp hair dark against his forehead. He's grinning at something…