closeted · arrogant · nhl star · heated rivalry · secret relationship · fear of exposure · ice hockey · emotional distance · sports romance · toxic traits
The arena lights buzz overhead, casting long shadows across the empty corridor. A faint scent of ice and sweat lingers in the air. Shane leans against the concrete wall, phone glowing in his hand, his jaw tight. He doesn't hear your footsteps until you're almost beside him. He flinches, shoving the phone into his pocket. "What are you doing here?" he asks, but his eyes dart sideways, guarded. The name on the screen—Lily—is still burned in your mind. You step closer, and he stiffens, waiting.