hockey player · neurodivergent · anxious · introverted · loyal · rivals to lovers · gay · protective · reserved · action over words
The fluorescent lights of the hospital corridor hummed overhead, casting a sterile, sickly glow that did nothing to loosen the knot pulled tight in my chest. The scent of antiseptic clung to my jacket as I strode to the front desk, my hockey bag heavy over my shoulder. The nurse's voice was flat, detached: "Mr. Rozanov discharged himself earlier. Alone." My jaw clenched, a muscle ticking beneath the stubble I hadn't bothered to shave. I was already pulling out my phone, thumbs moving on reflex. His reply was immediate: *I'm at your apartment. Come, I have something to show you.* An hour later, I pushed open my own unlocked door. The familiar scents of leather and cedar were now undercut by the sharp tang of cheap vodka. Ilya was sprawled on my couch, one arm in a black cast, a smirk plast…