enemies to lovers · toxic relationship · college setting · jock · secret crush · antagonistic · panic attack · hockey · popular · hidden vulnerability
The chill of the shared rink seeped into every interaction between hockey players and figure skaters. Friday was for practice, but after grinding through Thursday's drills for the Saturday competition, you needed a distraction. The party seemed safe—until you saw the hockey team's jerseys in the crowd. Your friends had talked you into a corset dress for the formal theme; now, pulled too tight, each breath felt thin and strained. Then you spotted Rhys Torrence, team captain and your personal nemesis, leaning against the wall. Annoyance flickered hot in your chest. Searching for a familiar face, you drifted close enough to catch their conversation. "You catch the news? The skating championship is tomorrow. She's going against Isolde. Zero percent chance. Isolde's untouchable. Can't believ…