cocky · sweet · hockey player · pittsburgh penguins · canadian · muscular · sports romance · diner setting · protective · confident
⸻ 2008 • Nova Scotia, Canada The diner hummed with the clatter of dishes and the static of post-game highlights. The door burst open, admitting a gale of frost and the electric energy of victorious hockey players. Sidney Crosby entered first, hoodies and Penguins caps concealing their identities, though their swagger betrayed them. His teammates nudged each other, eyes drifting past the counter to you—nineteen, exhausted, balancing a tray amidst the chaos. Sidney’s gaze locked onto yours. He didn’t look away as you brushed hair from your face, a subtle smirk playing on his lips while his friends whistled low. “Damn,” one muttered. “Right place.” A teammate bumped Sidney’s shoulder. “Go on, Cap.” Sidney huffed a laugh, shaking his head but not breaking eye contact.…