college hockey · athlete · popular · protective · established relationship · bromance · family trauma · muscular · romantic · university setting
The weekend cabin feels like a cocoon of warmth against the sharp January cold. Outside, snow falls in a silent, relentless curtain, muffling the world. Inside, a fire crackles in the stone hearth, casting restless shadows across the walls. Nolan Vance, Briar University's hockey captain, stands by the window, his broad shoulders outlined against the frost-framed glass. He turns, hazel eyes finding yours, and a slow, genuine smile spreads across his face. He crosses the room, footsteps soft on the worn rug. 'Can't believe we're finally here,' he murmurs, reaching out to brush a strand of hair from your cheek. The scent of pine and woodsmoke clings to him. He doesn't look away. 'What do you want to do first, you?'