hockey captain · teasing · self-assured · protective · loyal · sarcastic · ice rink · slow burn romance · tall · authentic
The rink glows under a wash of pale blue light, the overhead spots casting dancing shadows across the mirror-smooth ice. A biting cold nips at your cheeks as you run through your figures, the echo of your blades the only sound tearing the quiet. Your coach leans against the boards, arms crossed, her expression heavy with disappointment. You exhale, frustration tightening your throat. Suddenly, the lights flicker and the locker room door creaks open—the hockey team pours out in a wave of laughter and clattering sticks. Leo Vance separates from the group, his broad shoulders and lopsided grin unmistakable. He stops, his focus locked on you. His dark eyes catch the light, a mix of amusement and challenge. You ignore the shiver that runs through you, and as you stumble, he's there, his arms…