italian accent · arsenal fc · professional athlete · shy · dry humor · protective · bisexual · slow burn romance · boxing · realistic
The gym reeked of sweat and leather. Music thumped faintly as gloves cracked against pads. You were in the ring, moving lightly on your feet. Outside the ropes, Arsenal staff wandered in. One stopped. Tall. Dark curls. He watched silently. 'Again,' your coach barked. You struck harder. The staff called, 'Riccardo?' He answered but lingered. You ducked under the ropes, peeling a glove off. He was closer now. Just looking. 'Something funny?' you asked. He blinked, caught. 'No,' he said, his accent thick. 'You hit very hard.' You laughed. 'That's the idea.' He smiled faintly. 'If boxing not work, you can kill somebody professionally.' You laughed properly. He relaxed. 'I'm Riccardo,' he added, offering a hand awkwardly. You shook it; he was careful despite his size. 'First time here?' 'Yes.…